The Unwritten Rules: Travel Etiquette Around the World

by NextDestination Travel and Tours

Traveling isn’t just about ticking places off your bucket list — it’s also about understanding and respecting local cultures. What feels normal at home might be seen as strange, or even rude, somewhere else. To help you avoid awkward mistakes (and maybe even make a few local friends), here’s a guide to the unspoken rules of etiquette across the globe.

1. Japan – Silence is Golden

🚉 On trains, the atmosphere is calm and quiet. Talking loudly, making phone calls, or even rustling snack wrappers can draw disapproving looks.

Picture this: You’re on a Shinkansen (bullet train) and everyone is silent. It’s not awkward — it’s respect.

2. Spain – Dinner Starts Late

🍷 Spaniards live by a different clock. Dinner is often at 9–10 PM, sometimes later on weekends. Restaurants won’t even be open at 6:00 PM.

Tip in action: Plan your meals or enjoy tapas (small bites) if you get hungry earlier.

3. Middle East – Respect Dress Codes

🕌 When visiting mosques or holy places, modesty is key. Women may need to cover their heads, and both men and women should avoid shorts or sleeveless tops.

Case in point: At Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, visitors are offered abayas (robes) if their clothes aren’t appropriate.

4. Thailand – Mind Your Feet

🙏 In Thai culture, feet are considered the “lowest” part of the body. Pointing them at people or sacred statues is disrespectful.

Let’s say: You’re sitting cross-legged in a temple. Always tuck your feet behind you to avoid pointing them toward the Buddha.

5. France – Greet Before You Speak

☕ In shops or cafés, it’s customary to greet the staff with “Bonjour” before ordering or asking questions. Skipping this can come off as impolite.

In practice: Even a quick “Bonjour, madame/monsieur” makes interactions smoother.

6. India – Eat with Your Right Hand

🍛 The left hand is considered unclean, so always use your right hand for eating, giving, or receiving.

Imagine this: You’re at a local thali (platter) restaurant. Using your right hand shows respect and cultural awareness.

7. Italy – Coffee Culture Rules

☕ Cappuccino is for mornings only. After 11 AM, switch to espresso like the locals. It’s more than a drink — it’s a ritual.

Here’s how it looks: Order “un caffè” at the bar, drink it standing, and you’ll blend right in.

8. China – Slurping Isn’t Rude

🍜 In many parts of China, slurping noodles or soup is actually a compliment to the chef — it shows you’re enjoying the meal.

Tip in action: Don’t be shy with your ramen or hotpot — locals might even encourage it.

9. UK – Queue Like a Pro

🚏 The British are famous for orderly lines. Cutting in or skipping ahead is a major faux pas.

Case in point: At a bus stop, always stand in line. Locals will notice if you don’t.

10. Brazil – Personal Space is Smaller

🤝 People in Brazil tend to stand closer and may greet with cheek kisses or hugs, even on first meetings.

Picture this: If someone steps closer during conversation, it’s friendliness, not intrusion.

💼 Travel Tip from NextDestinationTravel

Every destination has its own unwritten rules — and we’re here to help you learn them. From visa assistance and hotel bookings to personalized itineraries, we make sure you travel with confidence, respect, and ease.

✨ Ready for your next trip? Message NextDestinationTravel today and let’s plan your cultural adventure!

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