Don’t Commit These 7 Travel Sins
As a follow-up to Monday’s article about proper hostel etiquette — a must-read for first-time travelers — BootsnAll has this list of the “7 Deadly Sins of Travel,” which, I guarantee, even the most seasoned travelers have partaken in the past. (Given to any beggars during your trips?)
Regarding #1, “Taking budget travel too seriously” — something I definitely tend to do (bread for dinner anyone?) — the article points out that the little extra you spend is helping to go into a local economy that likely depends on travelers like yourself.
I like #5 too, “Getting carried away with the culture,” an affliction that happens all too-often in Asia. “You know the type – they don kimonos, saris or robes to go about their daily affairs, would never dream of eating a hamburger and cringe at the very notion of socializing with one of their countrymen.”
I’m a little mixed about #7, “Judging other travelers.” I understand there’s no need for travel snobbery by someone who’s lucky enough to be in their 9-month around-the-world voyage, or who has discovered the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination. But isn’t it kind of fun (and somewhat justified) to be able to look down your nose at the fanny pack-wearing, tour-bus cramming, unfolded map in the middle of a busy sidewalk gazing tourist?