Travel tip: Use common sense to avoid the 'ugly American' label
Want to blend in with the locals while traveling abroad? Here are a few tips for avoiding the dreaded “ugly American” stereotype:
• Leave the athletic wear, sneakers, fanny packs, white socks and sandals at home.
• Learn a few essential phrases in the language of the country you’re visiting.
• Shhhh! Americans are known for their exuberance, and also for their loud voices (especially when trying to get a point across to non-English speakers).
• Don’t bemoan the lack of burgers and fries — explore the local cuisine.
• Respect the local culture — and never say, “In America, we do it (or don’t do it) this way.”
Source: smartertravel.com
Shirley McMarlin is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Shirley by email at smcmarlin@triblive.com or via Twitter .
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