Is Now a Smart Time to Travel?

During this period of uncertainty and unrest, many people are wondering whether or not it’s smart to travel. The news is filled with stories of protests against tourists and in some cases, assaults. Locals fear overcrowding, that tourists are stampeding the places where they live, harming the environment and defacing landmarks. Giant cruise ships are banned from ports due to concerns about pollution. Short-term rentals are blamed for reducing affordable housing for local residents. Politics also comes into play. They say that when America sneezes, many countries catch a cold. How welcoming will they be when we reach their shores as visitors?

We are about to find out. We will be spending nearly seven weeks in Europe this summer at the height of the tourist season, visiting many landmarks and popular places. How should we, or any other tourist, prepare ourselves?

There is no easy answer, but there are some steps we can all take to maximize the quality of your travel experiences. First, learn a few phrases in the local language. Even if you mangle the pronunciation, locals will appreciate your attempt to respect their culture. Don’t start off on the wrong foot assuming everyone speaks English or expect that tourist destinations should all speak your native tongue. Second, shop owners take great pride in their businesses. Acknowledge them when you enter with a polite hello and thank you when you leave. Small gestures can go a long way.

If you are staying in a short-term rental, be courteous to the neighbors and respect the neighborhood. Just because you are on holiday doesn’t mean the rest of the neighborhood is, so keep the noise level down after hours.

Don’t assume that every landmark is there only for your Instagram shot. Using a monument as a set piece or a wild animal is a prop for your social media moment is not only disrespectful but can be dangerous. As content creators we understand that our viewers like to see our travel experiences, but don’t let those experiences overwhelm other people’s enjoyment.

Be open to new experiences, new cultures, new ways of seeing things. What’s the point of traveling if you expect everything to be the same way it is for you back home? Have a little patience if shops are closed for the afternoon or if restaurants are not open at your usual dining time. Embracing local customs allows you to immerse yourself in their culture and makes your travel experiences more meaningful.

Use common sense. Research where you are going, secure your valuables and use the same safety precautions you would employ at home. Visit Travel.State.Gov to learn about updated travel advisories before you leave.

Finally, don’t forget the power of a smile and a thank you. We have found that locals will go out of their way to help when you can’t find the platform for your train, or you don’t know the word for chicken on a menu, if you offer a smile and an acknowledgement of their help. Even in trying times, a little respect, a little courtesy, a little humanity can go a long way toward making you feel like a welcomed guest and not just another paying customer.

Be sure to pack a little humility in your carry-on bag along with a sense of humor and a willingness for adventure. remember, it’s not a question of the best time to travel, but of the best mindset to have when you travel!