13 Things to Never Say to Strangers When Traveling Solo
Traveling solo gives you the perfect opportunity for some albeit forced introspection and growth. It also involves finding your way through social landscapes in new lands. What you say to strangers (or more importantly, what you don’t say) can mean the difference between a trip with fond memories and moments you will forever cringe at. Every interaction is important when you’re on your own, and a misstep in conversation can sometimes leave you in awkward or risky situations.
The trick for exploring new cultures and meeting new people is communicating respectfully and safely. To avoid misunderstandings and oral faux pas, don’t say these.
“What’s a Cheap Place to Stay?”
Asking a stranger for their recommendation of budget accommodations might be a good ice breaker, but they could also inadvertently give away the fact that you have cash or valuable items. Before you go, try asking staff at trusted dining places or look up resources online.
“I’m Here by Myself”
By letting people know you’re traveling alone, you become a target for scams and worse. If it’s not true, it’s better to imply that you’re meeting someone later or to talk about friends in the area. It may make you seem less vulnerable so any ill intentions are deterred.
“What Dish Should I Avoid Here?”
It’s great to get culinary tips from locals, but asking what to avoid can seem disrespectful toward their cuisine. It’s better to ask them what their favorite dishes are or what they suggest that you try. It makes the conversation positive and indicates that you’re interested in their culture.
“I’m Lost, Can You Help Me?”
It makes you feel vulnerable to admit you’re lost. Instead, just ask for directions in more general terms or use your phone to navigate with as little notice of your confusion as possible. Say For instance, “Do you mind pointing me to the museum?”
“I Don’t Want to Buy That, No”
Firmness is important, but sometimes, if you refuse outright, they will keep at it. It’s better to be polite but not to commit, like, “I’m not shopping today, thanks.” It often works out to finish the conversation more smoothly.
“How Much Money Do You Make?”
In many cultures, it is taboo to inquire about personal finances, and people find themselves uncomfortable when you ask. If you want to know about economic terms, maybe a better place to start would be to talk about the general cost of living.
‘I Think That’s a Silly Tradition’
Someone’s cultural heritage could be what seems unusual to you. Instead of wondering why, try to develop curiosity and ask about the history and role these customs and traditions played in local contexts.
“I Don’t Like Your Accent”
It’s just rude to comment on someone’s accent negatively, but it also diminishes their experiences and identity. If you don’t understand, then ask them to talk slower or repeat what they said.
“Back Home It Would Be Like This!”
Trivializing the unique parts of their culture can be done by comparing their home to yours. Differences aren’t something to be feared — show excitement for new experiences without highlighting how there different from what you know (and what you expected).
“Can I Stay With You?”
It can be imposing and uncomfortable to ask someone you’ve just met if you can stay with them. Arranging your accommodations is better because it keeps you independent and respects each other’s boundaries. This way, you have a place to stay and interactions with new acquaintances are positive and pressure-free.
“Do You Believe In That?”
It can be confrontational to question someone’s beliefs, if they are of a religious, political or cultural nature. Don’t be pushy and force your values on them — if they would like to share their own beliefs with you, let them do so.
“I Usually Tip Very Little”
Talking about tipping habits, and especially if they involve skimping, can be taken the wrong way. Know the place’s culture around tipping and abide by local expectations of how much and when to tip.
“Why Do You Wear That?”
It’s normal to wonder about such clothes or symbols, but it’s perceived as intrusion to ask about them directly. Keep your questions framed in a respectful, open ended manner; you don’t want to be nosy and put the person on the defensive or force them to share what they’re not ready to say yet.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
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