Travel like you belong

My name is Alexa Young

A little cultural awareness goes a long way.

• Learn the basics before you arrive. Hello, please, thank you, excuse me and “Do you speak English?” in the local language can completely change an interaction.

• Research tipping customs. Twenty percent may be expected in one country and completely inappropriate in another.

• Don't assume your dress is appropriate everywhere. Religious sites and culturally conservative destinations may require shoulders, knees or heads to be covered.

• Ask before photographing people. Especially children, religious ceremonies, markets and local communities.

• Remember that you're visiting someone's home. The charming alley, quiet village or beautiful neighborhood in your Instagram feed is where somebody actually lives.

• Learn a little history. You don't need a degree. Understanding even a few chapters of a destination's story can completely change what you see when you're there.

• Don't complain that things aren't done the way they're done at home.
  That's rather the point of leaving home.