Travel Resources

12 Things NOT to Say or Do When Traveling

Every country has its own customs and practices. It’s important to make sure you are aware of what NOT to do, so you do not inadvertently offend someone. I put together this list of 12 things not to say or do when traveling in France, Spain, or Italy when my family took a western Mediterranean cruise that stopped in these three countries. Remembering these 12 tips can help you avoid faux pas on your trip!

Things Not to Say or Do When Traveling in France:

1. Jokes are not appreciated by the French as they are in America. The French prefer real-life stories that are funny over the “three priests walk into a bar…” jokes.

2. In France, slapping your open palm over a closed fist is considered a vulgar gesture.

3. The French are more formal in conversation. Do not use someone’s first name unless you have been invited to do so.

4. French conversation does not typically include discussions of money or religion. Both subjects are considered private and taboo for public  or casual conversation.12 Things Not to Say or Do When Traveling includes being aware that the French start counting with their thumbs, so they may mistake your index finger as wanting 2, not 1.

5. French begin counting with their thumbs, so an American holding up their first finger for “one” may appear to be signaling “two.” Be careful when using your fingers to indicate how much you want to order.

Things Not to Say or Do When Traveling in Italy:

6. As in France, the Italians also do not use someone’s first name without being invited to do so. Instead, use their title and surname.

7. In Italy, stroking your fingers under your chin and then thrusting them forward is seen as an act of defiance.   La Passeggiata is a custom you should respect and participate in when traveling in Italy.

8. Italian conversation does not typically include discussions of personal matters, such as family issues, income, and occupation. Also, in Italy, never discuss politics, taxes, religion (even The Vatican), the Mafia, or World War II.

9. Don’t forget to embrace the culture. Around 6:00 PM each evening, many Italians take part in La Passeggiata. This ritual includes a stroll around the town ,to see and be seen by other people and catch up with friends before dinner.

 Things Not to Say or Do When Traveling in Spain:

10. Like their French and Italian counterparts, Spaniards also avoid certain topics in conversation. In Spain, you should avoid conversations about politics, religion, and the Civil War in Spain.

11. In Spain, a person making the “ok” sign (index finger and thumb forming a circle) is considered obscene.One of the 12 things not to do or say when traveling is order too much food. In Spai, it is considered rude to leave food on your plate.

12. When eating in Spain, it is considered rude to leave food on your plate. So, you should be careful not to order too much.

 

 

 

 

From my experience, most Europeans are pretty forgiving of tourists’ ignorance of their customs.  However, remembering these 12 things not to say or do when traveling can help you avoid awkward situations and ease your travels.