Mannered Gentleman
Show some respect
Finding the right words
So how do we go about changing the image
of the Brit abroad? The first tip, as always, is
respect, and in this case, respect is grounded
in understanding. Make sure that you have
done enough research about the countries
that you are visiting, to understand what the
local culture is. Only if you know what the
local norms of behaviour are, are you able to
show them proper deference and respect so
that you don't offend, or stick out like a sore
thumb.
Try to learn a little of the local language.
Remember that anywhere you are in the
world, English is not likely to be the native
language. It is not, or should not be expected
that everyone in the world speaks English, so
it is up to you to make a little effort to aid
communication. Talking louder and slower if
the person you are talking to if they didn't
understand you the first time is not
acceptable, nor has it ever been.
Umbrella or Sunglasses?
Having a drink is all part of relaxing for
many Brits, whether in the UK or abroad, but
being drunk is very ungentlemanly, and
being so drunk that you are falling over and
being sick is unacceptable almost anywhere
in the world. Everyone wants to have a good
time on holiday, and everyone wants
holidaymakers to have a good time, and a
good impression of where they live, but no
one wants to have to deal with those who
have drunk so much that they become loud,
ill or aggressive. Have a good time, but
everything in moderation.
Know the show stoppers
This research also applies to any sites that
you might visit, be they historical or cultural.
If you accidentally stumble into one of the
900+ World Heritage Sites, then you have
missed an opportunity to appreciate the
story of that site's history and cultural
significance. In the same vein, any historical,
cultural or social events that are going on in
the place you are visiting could well be the
highlight of your trip. If you were visiting
Mexico at the end of October, and were
unaware of the Día de Meurtos, you could be
missing out on a fabulous experience.
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Learn about the climate of the place you are
visiting. If you are looking for a holiday in a
hot sunny country, make sure that you have
not booked in the rainy season. If you are
looking for that spot of sunshine, take sun
cream with you, and use it, break yourself
into the sunshine gently. Depending on your
skin type, it can take as few as 10 minutes for
unprotected skin to start burning if the UV
index is high enough, so make sure that your
skin is always protected. Keep applying your
sun cream, and moisturise well. Your skin
will tan, but not burn as long as you don't
over do it.
Dress for success
Keep your tanning to the beach, or the pool.
At all other times, you will need to dress
appropriately. If you are in a culture that
normally covers the body or the head, make
sure that you are covered appropriately.
Cover your head when visiting places of
worship, and keep the Union Jacks to the
minimum.