10 Cultural Taboos to Avoid When Visiting Australia

Known as "Down Under" by a lot of people, Australia is one of the more popular places for people to travel. But, unfortunately, there are good, respectful tourists and then there are bad, disrespectful tourists. You can usually tell which group tourists fall into depending on what they say or do. According to MSN.com page Crazy Nomad, here are 10 cultural taboos to avoid when visiting Australia

Also, when in doubt, ask the locals. They are a treasure trove of useful information. By asking them what to do and what not to do, while explaining to them that you want to ensure you do things accurately and respectfully, you're showing respect for the cultural customs of that country and you're being a responsible, respectable tourist

This is on my travel bucket list. There are so many things I want to do and see if I get the chance to go to Australia

1. NEVER mock / make jokes about Aboriginal culture

-It's important to remember this: Remember whose country you're in. Making fun of / mocking the local Aboriginal culture is not just wrong, it's plain offensive. Aboriginal culture is a massive part of Australian culture and history, and as such, it would be bad to mock this. They have endured social injustices over the years, including "The stolen generations." This refers to Aboriginal children who were taken from their families. These children were put into households with non-indigenous people and denied access to their culture, language and more. When visiting Australia, ask questions about the culture, show a genuine interest in the history. For example, when visiting Ayers Rock, also known as Uluru, don't touch the rock or climb on it. When you take time to ask curious questions, this shows you are taking an interest in the culture and showing an appreciation for the locals

2. Don't assume that everyone drinks alcohol or likes to casually party

-Australia does have a vibrant party scene, depending on where you're at. It's not safe to assume that everyone will be drinking at all hours of the day or partying. This can create stereotypes and make for some awkward situations. Many people in Australia refrain from drinking due to religious, cultural and personal reasons. Simply respect these choices that those individuals. Just because you're on vacation and want to drink does not mean you need to pressure someone into drinking. If you're unsure, ask that person. When you show that you are sensitive and understanding of various lifestyles, this will work out to your favor. It will put you in a good light with the locals and ensure that all interactions are open, inclusive and respectful

3. Don't mock / criticize Australia's love of sports

-In Australia, there are various sports that are widely loved by the population. Aussie Rules Football, known as AFL (Australian Football League) is one of the most popular sports. In addition to Aussie Rules Football, there's also cricket and rugby. Together, these sports hold a special importance to most Australians. Mocking them and/or criticizing them is wrong. Instead, engage in a conversation about said sports, ask questions. This shows that you are genuinely curious about the inner workings of that sport and shows respect for that sport. Even if sports are not your thing, asking curious questions to learn more about that sport shows you are respecting something that someone is passionate about. It helps you connect better with the locals and understand their traditions better

4. Avoid tipping excessively - it's not usual

-Australia is one country where tipping is optional. Workers earn good wages, so gratuities are not usually expected, like they are in the US. You can leave a small tip, which is appreciated. If you tip excessively, this will show that you are unfamiliar with local customs. Make sure to understand these local customs and respect these practices. By respecting these unique practices, your dining experience will become better. And, if in doubt, ask a local. The local residents provide a wealth of useful information that will result in success!!

5. NEVER confuse Australian and British cultures

-Their accents may sound similar, but they are not the same. Never, for one second, assume that Australian culture and British culture are the same. Yes, they do share historical ties, but that's where the similarity ends. Australia has a wonderfully unique cultural identity that the residents take high pride in. Simply assuming that the cultures of both Britain and Australia are the same shows you are dismissive and unaware. Australia has its own slang, traditions and a unique laid back way of life. Knowing the difference between British culture and Australian culture will help you build a rapport with the locals and, thus, earn their respect while also avoiding insulting their national pride

6. NEVER makes jokes about deadly wildlife - it's a hot button issue

-People do make frequent jokes about the deadly wildlife that exists in Australia. "Everything that can kill you lives in Australia." Australia does have wonderfully diverse and, yes, deadly wildlife that is native to this large country. But, deadly wildlife can live anywhere, not just Australia. Making jokes about it will come off as insensitive, offensive and just plain wrong. Those who live in areas where these deadly creatures live might be offended by the jokes; they have to contend with these creatures on a daily basis and know what risks they pose. Instead, ask curious and respectful questions about these forms of dangerous wildlife. Adopting this mindset will not only keep you from making a major cultural faux pas, it will also help give you an education into the unique biodiversity of the land known as "Down Under." And if you're still curious about the unique wildlife, visit any one of the fantastic zoos in Australia. The staff will provide a wealth of information about the interesting insects and animals that call Australia home

7. Do not discuss hot button issues like immigration or politics

-Politics, religion and immigration are hot button issues to avoid at all costs, no matter where you go. It's especially wise to avoid discussing these issues in Australia. If these topics do arise in conversation, keep an open mind. Be open to different points of view. Don't make assumptions or pass judgement. By keeping an open mind, you are showing respect to that other person and making them feel their opinion is also valued. It also helps show that other person that you understand the diverse social and political landscape of Australia

8. NEVER litter / disrespect the environment

-Australia is known for its rugged landscape and beautiful environments, which provide homes, food and more to the wonderfully diverse animal and insect life. Those in Australia take deep pride in their gorgeous landscape. By littering, you are disrespecting the environment. It's not only frowned upon to litter, but illegal. Dispose of your litter in proper ways, such as waste baskets or bins. Take part in eco-friendly ways of disposing of litter, such as recycling and avoiding single-use plastics. This shows you are being a responsible tourist, helping to keep the environment clean and also helps you show respect for the local values. Not only that, you will make a positive impact

9. Avoid being overly informal in professional settings

-While it's known that a laid-back lifestyle is common in Australia, there's a time and place to be laid-back and there's a time and place to not to be laid-back. It can come off as disrespectful if you're being overly casual in what seems like a professional setting. Until you are told / invited to use first names, it's better to address someone by their title or surname. Ensure you dress appropriately and maintain a polite, professional form of communication in the workplace. This will show that you respect / understand their professional requirements. This will help you build relationships and show awareness of the unique culture of Australia, especially in formal settings. And, if you're unsure, ask. Ask how someone would like to be addressed. Let them know that the reason you ask is to ensure you do things the right way. Asking always works and shows you want to ensure you do things respectfully

10. Avoid mocking / overusing Australian slang

-Australia is known for its unique slang. Mocking it or overusing it can be seen as disrespectful. Listen to how the locals speak and adopt the slang occasionally. This gentle hand approach shows you respect the locals culture without looking as though you're trying to fit in too hard

Reasons to Visit Japan

Each person who visits Japan has a different reason in mind. Some are total foodies, people who love food, and want to eat the local cuisine. Some are history buffs, fascinated by the history of the area, such as the story of the 47 Ronin, 47 masterless samurai who committed seppuku (ritual suicide by disembowelment) after avenging the death of their master. Others want to see the local sights. According to the site Conde Nast Traveler, here are some of the reasons it's thought that people should go to Japan, according to travel blogger and food connoisseur Tokyo Halfie

There are other sights and things to experience. You just have to know where to look on the internet to find out how to access these sights

1. The massive restaurant scene

-The diversity of restaurants is staggering. They range from casual walk-in places to Michelin five-starred rated places. The chefs take extreme pride in their work, and when guests truly appreciate the food they prepare, it makes them feel worthwhile

2. The wide array of cuisine

-This country offers a mind blowing amount of diverse foods. They can range from the traditional foods, such as sushi, kaiseki and tempura to more modern fusions. They strongly appreciate the change in seasons and adjust food to each season. Vegetables and fruits vary according to season. Each region will have their own unique specialty

3. The excellently brewed sake

-When you think of Japan, sake might come to mind. This strongly brewed "rice wine" is a staple of Japanese culture. Some sake can be light and sweet while others far stronger. Originally brewed in Shinto shrines, this beverage has a strongly sacred place in Japanese culture. The mountainous areas where the ingredients to make sake are grown are watered with nutrient-rich water. This often determines the character and flavor of the completed drink

4. The spring blossoms

-Spring in Japan represents new beginnings. After a long, cold winter, the delicate blossoms start blooming and there is a sudden explosion of color from the various cherry blossom trees planted throughout the country

5. The wide array of summer activities

-Summer is the busiest time of year in Japan. There are dozens of festivals to be celebrated. It's the matsuri festival season, with these festivals featuring food vendors selling things like ringo ame (candy apple), yakisoba (a type of noodle dish with soy or other sauces)

6. The explosion of color in autumn

-When autumn rolls around, there is an explosion of beautiful colors with the changing of the foliage. Mid-September marks the beginning of the fall season in Japan. Many visit the Buddhist temples and view the stunning colors of the traditional and iconic momoji (Japanese maple trees)

7. The beautiful and refreshing winter weather

-Contrary to popular belief, Japanese winters are not as harsh as other winter time periods in other countries. There is a wide array of wintertime activities that can be practiced in Japan, including snowboarding, skiing and hiking. The onsens or "hot springs" are also popular during the winter. Many Ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), offer hot springs. And there is even a location called the Jigokudani Monkey Park where snow monkeys or Japanese macaques, can be found bathing with people

-Just a warning though: if you have tattoos, exercise special caution. There is a strong cultural connection between tattoos and the Yakuza (Japanese Mafia), who are known for extensive tattooing all over their bodies.  A lot of onsen owners are hesitant to see tattoos and it might upset their clientele. Find out ahead of time what the policy is on on tattoos at hot springs just to avoid invoking the wrath of the owner and offending the customers. Finding out ahead of time will not only save you trouble, but will earn you respect from the owner, because it will show you are respecting their wishes. Although, in years past, restrictions on tattoos have relaxed. But it's still good to find out ahead of time. After all, you are a guest in Japan and, as such, you need to respect the wishes of the locals, including covering up tattoos if that is what they wish

8. The combination of loud and chaotic with serene and peaceful coming together in perfect harmony

-Japan is the definition of oxymoron-the clean, organized chaos of the Scrambler Crossing in Shibuya with the Meiji-Jingu Shrine, with its beautiful tranquility, being nearby show that chaos and tranquility can coexist peacefully. Tokyo is said to be the City That Never Sleeps

9. Stunning history in Kyoto

-This was once Japan's capital city, for over 1,000 years. It includes over 3,000 Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines. 16 of these Shinto shrines are listed as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites. There are many things to see in Kyoto

10. A nature lover's paradise in Hokkaido

-If you're a nature lover, Hokkaido is a must! The diversity in landscapes and nearby oceans provide a wealth of fresh seafood and vegetables. There are flower fields which provide a tranquil stroll to skiing in the mountains on powder-soft snow. There are ramen noodle restaurants where slurping noodles is an everyday thing to local hole-in-the-wall restaurants which provide the best food. These "hole-in-the-wall" restaurants are the best places to go because they are off the beaten path and will be less crowded, because not everyone knows about them

11. Crafts galore in Hokuriku

-If you love handicrafts, you simply must travel to Hokuriku. Located on the northwest side of the country along the Sea of Japan, this region provides some of the best unique Japanese handicrafts, including handmade steel knives, pottery and stationery

12. Ramen noodle lovers unite in Kyushu

-On the southern coast of Japan is Kyushu. The Hakata district is iconic for its food restaurants. The local ramen here is served with a pork-based broth. Other local delicacies include mizutaki (chicken hotpot), gyoza (dumplings), mentaiko (spiced pollock roe)

13. Naoshima is where art lovers go

-Located in the Seto Inland Sea, this fishing village is an art lover's paradise. They were transformed into "art islands", over the years. Museums and art displays are everywhere and these museums and art displays have something for everyone

14. The beautiful rainforests of Yakushima

-Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the rainforests of Yakushima have that typical tropical rainforest climate. There is a tree there that is said to be a few thousand years old. This forest is also said to have inspired the iconic Studio Ghibli film Princess Mononoke. This iconic studio also produced My Neighbor Totoro. 

15. The tropical destination of Okinawa

-This tropical island has beautiful white sand beaches that have you thinking you are in the Caribbean rather than Japan. There is a wealth of summer activities that can be done here, including scuba diving and snorkeling. Here, you can encounter manta rays, turtles and even sharks. In the urban areas, castles and fortresses are scattered. This island is also home to a US Air Force base called Kadena Air Force Base. So it won't be too surprising to find a lot of US military running around and hear a lot of US English being spoken

16. The beautiful Mount Fuji

-This is the first thing that comes to mind when someone is asked what they think of when they hear Japan. This beautiful mountain can be seen clearly from Tokyo on a clear day. It's strong spiritual presence can be enjoyed all year round. There is a lake nearby, called Ashinoko Lake in the Hakone region that provides opportunity to get picturesque views of the mountain. There are even ways of climbing the mountain by taking hiking trails

17. The calm, serene and relaxing hot springs

-This country has over 100 active volcanoes, and as such, there are tons of hot springs, or onsens, located here. They range in quality from rustic town bath houses to elaborate spa-like locations to luxurious ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). Visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters that contain a wealth of minerals that can aid in healing various conditions, from aches and pains to various skin conditions. Remember to shower and clean yourself thoroughly prior to entering the onsen. It's important to enter fully unclothed, as swimsuits are prohibited due to sanitary reasons

-Just a warning though: if you have tattoos, exercise special caution. There is a strong cultural connection between tattoos and the Yakuza (Japanese Mafia), who are known for extensive tattooing all over their bodies.  A lot of onsen owners are hesitant to see tattoos and it might upset their clientele. Find out ahead of time what the policy is on on tattoos at hot springs just to avoid invoking the wrath of the owner and offending the customers. Finding out ahead of time will not only save you trouble, but will earn you some respect from the owner, because it will show you are respecting their wishes. Although, in years past, restrictions on tattoos have relaxed. But it's still good to find out ahead of time. After all, you are a guest in Japan and, as such, you need to respect the wishes of the locals, including covering up tattoos if that is what they wish

18. The wide array of architectural styles

-There is a combination of traditional architecture with modern architecture in Japan. Various styles blend together easily to form a unique type of architecture not found elsewhere. Temples and shrines dating back 1,000 years or more can be found nestled next to high-rise buildings

19. Contemporary art found no place else

-Japan is home to many forms of contemporary art. Some of the names becoming well known as international artists include Yayoi Kusama, Takashi Murakami and Yoshitomo Nara. Their unique art can be found at the various galleries and museums located all throughout Japan. Kusama is known for polka dots and infinity rooms defining perception. Murakami takes pop culture and traditional Japanese art and motifs and blends them together with vibrantly and flowery characters. Nara takes a wide-eyed character, like one found in traditional anime (animation) or manga (cartoons) and gives them both innocence and a bit of rebellion with a charm that makes them irresistable

20. The many festivals going on during each of the four seasons

-The calendar year in Japan is jam packed with festivals celebrating one thing or another. Springtime brings about festivals celebrating the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Summer brings about festivals where people hang tanzaku paper on bamboo stalks during the Tanabata Star Festival. Autumn brings about festivals where offerings of Mochi are made during the Tsukimi Autumn Moon Festival. Winter brings about festivals showcasing ice sculptures

21. The public transport is top quality

-Japan is a nation that takes strong, deep pride in its efficient public transportation. It's known for not only being reliable, but punctual. The Shinkansen bullet train runs frequently, taking passengers where they need to go at 300 km per hour. The various subways and trains arrive at the stations frequently on time. Those who want to travel outside the city can apply for the Japan Rail Pass, which allows them use trains to access cities like Hakone, Hokkaido and more

22. Cleanliness is of the highest priority

-Japan is a nation that prides itself on top notch sanitation and cleanliness. It's considered respectful to be clean and tidy. There is a deep seated sense in the community to keep things neat and tidy. It's even customary in Japanese homes to remove shoes prior to entering. Travelers will be baffled at the lack of public trash bins. This is due to the custom of taking one's trash home to dispose of

23. Safety is incredibly important

-Japan is said to be one of the safest countries in the world. Like most countries, it will have the occasional crime, but Japan has eyes and ears everywhere and police respond with lightning fast efficiency. Police have even asked local taxi drivers to assist in preventing crime, through a program called the Takusha Crime Prevention Program, where taxi drivers act like the eyes and ears of the streets. There is also koban, police boxes where officers will be readily accessible. Any cash found on the street is handed over to police. This is done out of goodwill and respect. It's not uncommon to see children commuting by themselves to school or other places. The sense of community trust is shown through a program called Old Enough! It's a program showing kindergarteners going on errands alone for the first time

24. Customer service is of the highest priority

-It's considered a high priority to provide top notch customer service in Japan. Politeness and attention to detail are strongly important. There is a word for this, called omotenashi. This culture takes the concept of hospitality and ensures that those who practice it anticipate the needs of guests. This can range from hotel concierges to shopping mall staff. Visitors are welcomed and provided warm, friendly service and tended to with top level care. Bowing is the ultimate form of respect and humility, this is the way that those in Japan show respect. It's also important for visitors to know to bow to show respect

18 Quirky British Christmas Traditions That Could Confuse Other People

Not surprisingly, Britain does have a very unique culture not found elsewhere. There are traditions that are practiced there that are held with the utmost respect. These traditions have been going on for years and they are very much a part of the Christmas holidays. According to MSN.com and writers Ann Schmidt and Erin McDowell, here are 18 quirky British Christmas traditions

Also, you might see put in my two cents on them. First and foremost, I wouldn't ever think them weird. Quirky, yes. But weird, no. I would most likely enjoy them very much. It's creating memories, laughs and good times to celebrate.

1. Pantomimes or "pantos" are performed around the Christmas holidays in the UK

-This is family entertainment. This is silly little plays or music played by someone, sometimes featuring men in drag. These little pantos are sometimes based on fairy tales or books, such as "Cinderella", "Peter Pan" or "The Wizard of Oz"

2. Yorkshire Puddings are great with gravy, but those from outside the UK may not be familiar

-In the UK, things are quite different around the holidays compared to those from the US. Yorkshire Pudding is a popular meal. They closely resemble what some Americans would call a popover because of the hole in the middle. While they are popular year round at Sunday dinners in the UK, they're eaten around the holidays as well. They will often be eaten with gravy, which might repulse a person or two

3. Santa Claus is the US name for the man who brings gifts while Father Christmas is like Santa's British cousin

-In the UK, "Father Christmas" is the British equivalent of Santa Claus. If you're in England or any part of the UK, make sure to refer to the man in the red suit as Father Christmas. It's his proper title there

4. Children in Britain hang their stockings on the end of their beds

-In America, it's tradition to hang stockings over the fireplace because that is where Santa Claus is believed to enter the house, to bring gifts and goodies for good kids and leave coal for bad kids. In Britain, however, it's believed Father Christmas fills the stockings of children while they sleep

5. Christmas Eve is the perfect school friend reunion time

-In Britain, it's not uncommon to nip off to the local bar or pub to meet up with friends from school on Christmas Eve. In the US, something similar is done, only it's done at Thanksgiving. So it's not surprising that if you were in the UK around Christmastime, most if not all of the pubs and bars will have a highly Christmas-y festive vibe and you'll hear plenty of laughs and memories being shared

6. Christmas Pudding is the popular choice of dessert during the holidays

-This popular and yet traditional British food is one of the most iconic traditions of the British Christmas season. It's made weeks or months in advance, it consists of a dense fruit cake soaked in alcohol that is poured into it. During Christmas, it's set alight and on top, one usually puts brandy butter, rum butter, lemon cream, ice cream, custard. It can also be sprinkled with powdered sugar. It's even been said that Queen Elizabeth II gifted many of her staff with a Christmas pudding from the local grocery chain Tesco

7. Another choice for dessert is Christmas cake, a fruit cake covered in icing and marzipan

-If Yorkshire Pudding or Christmas Pudding is not to your liking, then there is Christmas cake. Fruit cake in many parts of the world is considered an unwanted, uneaten gift. The Brits seem to have made it actually good by adding icing. There are sometimes even festive decorations added that make it so beautiful you almost don't want to eat it, for fear of ruining its beauty

8. Mince pies are another option. These miniature pies are filled with fruit and spices and consumed around the holidays

-According to the BBC, the first reported mince pie recipe dates back to the 1830s, from an English cookbook. Around the mid 17th century, people began equating these pies to the holiday season. At that time, they were traditionally made with pork or other meat, sage and other spices. Now, they are filled with fruit and powdered sugar

9. Desserts in the UK are often enjoyed with brandy butter

-Rum or brandy butter is, you guessed it, butter laced with rum or brandy. Most in the UK consider this a perfect complement to a perfect dessert. It's served cold, which is something people in the US might call "hard sauce"

10. Instead of "Merry Christmas", it's "Happy Christmas"

-If you've seen the first Harry Potter film, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Philosopher's Stone in the UK and other parts of the world), there is a scene showing Harry waking up on Christmas morning and going to the Gryffindor common room to find his friend Ron opening presents. He looks up at Harry and says "Happy Christmas, Harry" and he replies "Happy Christmas, Ron.". In the UK, it's customary to say "Happy Christmas." It might sound strange to a person from the US, but it's not as strange as one would think. It's the British equivalent of a person in the US saying "Merry Christmas"

11. Christmas crackers are small tubes wrapped at both ends, in a cardboard tube, and two people pull at both ends to reveal a prize within

-Often done at the start of a meal, Christmas crackers often contain hats that are worn throughout the meal. Also contained within is a "banger", which often makes a loud pop when pulled, along with a joke and prize as well. The jokes are usually cheesy, dad-joke types, such as "Why did Santa's helper go to the doctor? Because he had low elf esteem!" If you plan on going to the UK for the holidays and have to travel there by airplane, don't pack them in your luggage. TSA will confiscate them. TSA knows that Christmas crackers are popular in the UK and they know these items contain bangers, which could set off panic if they go off

12. "Top of the Pops" is a highly popular music television program featuring the year's most popular songs

-Around the Christmas holidays, the BBC will have Top of the Pops running a holiday special. This program ran from 1964-2006, when it was cancelled and no longer aired. People became so enraged at this legendary show being cancelled that the BBC decided to keep airing the Christmas special, which airs late into the morning of December 25

13. Millions tune in for the King's televised Christmas Day speech each year

-Every year, millions of families in England gather around the television (telly in British English) to hear the Royal Family give their heartwarming and inspiring Christmas Day speech. It's known informally as the King's Speech or the Queen's Speech. A newspaper in England, The Telegraph, reported that the first Christmas Day speech was only 251 words long. Later on, when Queen Elizabeth II did her speeches, they averaged 656 words each time. It's one of the most heavily watched programs on TV on Christmas Day in the UK

I had to add the Queen. She was a lovely, inspirational person

14. Christmas commercials are very similar to Super Bowl commercials in the US

-In the UK, people talk about Christmas commercials with the same hype and excitement as those in the US talk about commercials for the Super Bowl. It's a common tradition to see the John Lewis ad (advert) and now supermarkets and clothing brands are trying their hand at getting a talked-about holiday commercial going

15. People in Britain also anticipate what the No. 1 Christmas single will be

-In Britain, the "Christmas No. 1" has been a long-held tradition for over half a century. Appearing in 1952, the number one song on the British singles chart had been a widely coveted spot every year around the holidays. Christmas No. 1 albums include The Beatles, Queen, Ed Sheeran and many more. While some have had the irony of being Christmas songs, they do not have to be Christmas-related

16. School nativity plays are a widely held tradition in UK primary schools

-While religious schools in the US may focus on nativity plays, this is far more popular and part of the Christmas holidays in Britain. It's not uncommon for most UK primary schools to put on a nativity play. They've even made it into pop culture. In the Christmas rom-com Love Actually, the characters featured even attend a nativity play

17. There are after-Christmas sales on Boxing Day

-In Britain, Boxing Day is the British equivalent to the American Black Friday, where shoppers can score massive deals and discounts on various items. There are some differences, however. Boxing Day is the day after Christmas and originated in the mid-1600s. It was to be a day off for servants. They would receive a "Christmas Box" or gift from their master. With these "Christmas Boxes" in tow, they would go home to spend the day with their families

18. It's considered bad luck to keep your Christmas decorations up for more than 12 days after Christmas in the UK

-A lot of people believe in leaving up the Christmas decorations for at least 12 days afterwards, for the Three Wise Men in the US. But in the UK, it's customary to remove your decorations 12 days after Christmas. The twelfth day is known as Twelfth Night, and the reason it's customary to remove the decorations is to avoid bad luck in the new year. In the Anglican faith, Twelfth Night is also known as Epiphany Eve. It's the day before Epiphany, celebrating the Magi (Three Wise Men, depending on the faith you follow) coming to see the baby Jesus and marking the end of the 12 days of Christmas

11 Phrases / Terms to Avoid Using in England

It's an obviously known fact that there are two types of English: British English and American English. There are similar words and phrases, but with different meanings in both countries. According to MSN.com page Insider Lifestyle, by someone named Kerwin, here are 11 phrases / terms to avoid using in England, especially if you don't want a look of confusion or a funny look

-For some reason, MSN.com always has articles that catch my eye or interest

-My question is this: first and foremost, who is asking these questions or assuming these things?!?!?!?!?!? I would NEVER ask or use any of these terms or phrases with someone from England. I would try and be as respectful as possible when conversing with them. Because, if anything, I would find it endlessly fascinating to converse with someone from another country. To learn what makes them unique. Learn their likes and dislikes.

-A great example. While on vacation (holiday) in the Dominican Republic one year with my family, we started talking with these three ladies from England. They were super sweet and somehow we got onto the topic of Top Gear UK. These ladies were surprised to hear that we, being from the US, actually preferred the British Top Gear over the US one. They all told us that they were actually from right around the same regions as the guys on that show. One woman was from a village two miles down the road from where Jeremy Clarkson lives. Another said she was from Bristol, where James May is from and the other said she was from Birmingham, where Richard Hammond is from. We all went from one topic to another and it was so fascinating to learn about these ladies and their unique lives and learn what makes them unique

-On the one about the feeling right at home in England from having ancestors from there, I would, first and foremost, never be of that mindset. It's probably a very common thing that a lot of people have ancestors from England. I do. I found that out when I did the DNA test Ancestry.com is always advertising. As a result, I found out I have British in my heritage. Pretty cool. I got a tattoo to commemorate that. It's a skin rip tattoo showing the English Flag (Union Jack) underneath. I thought it was really cool to find out I have that in my heritage

1. Soccer

-For the love of all that is absolutely holy, when in England, refer to the sport that people from the US call soccer football. In England and other parts of Europe, it's football. The people who play it are "footballers". If you want to make connections, brush up on the local teams, go to a pub and watch a football on the televisions that are bound to be there. Showing that you know at least a little something about the local teams will open a world of possibilities, including making new friends and learning about a new culture. It also shows you respect the local culture, putting you in the good graces of the locals. Calling football "soccer" will earn you some funny looks and have the locals immediately asking if you're from the US and earn you some kind corrections

2. "What's with the weather?"

-It might seem like a stereotype, but the British weather forecast seems to be a popular area of discussion. Complaining about the weather like an outsider would is compared to criticizing a member of someone's family-only they can do that. If you want to talk weather with a local, do it with a nod and smile and you'll fit right in. Or speak of it in a friendly, complimentary, kind way. See if talking about it kindly works as well

3. "Fanny pack"

-In the US, "fanny pack" is a bag worn around the waist to keep items in. It's a stereotypical item used by tourists on vacation. In the UK, however, this term has a completely different meaning. In fact, it's quite embarrassing, as it refers to a certain part of the anatomy. If you want to describe this particular accessory in the UK, the proper phrase is "bum bag". It might sound strange, but if you use it, you won't get any funny looks. The key is to talk like the locals

4. "I love your accent"

-It's not surprising that a lot of people find British accents to be attractive or interesting. But it can come off as patronizing or even annoying. It's like complimenting someone on their handwriting - nice, but not something they can control. Instead, just focus on getting to know that person or talking to them. Don't focus on their accent

5. "Are you an Aussie?"

-First things first, NEVER do this. Mixing up the English, Australian and New Zealand accents are a big DO NOT DO EVER!! Despite the fact that these countries do speak English, there are subtle ways of telling whether someone is from England, Australia or New Zealand. Their accents are unique, some might be broader on vowels than others, some use specific terms and there's a sense of national pride attached. To keep it positive, let the person tell you what country they call home if it comes up in conversation

6. "Do you know the Queen?"

-This is a forehead slap moment. Never ask someone from England if they know the Queen. Assuming someone from England knows the Queen or current monarch is like asking someone from the US if they know the President personally. While the Royal Family is an interesting topic for discussion, avoid asking this to avoid sounding like a tourist

She was such a good person. Did a lot of good for others. So inspiring

7. "My ancestors were British, so I feel right at home."

-Many people have British ancestry, but this statement might come off differently than what you intended or thought. It might come off as trying to hard to fit in. It's like claiming you're a native local after a short time in Paris because you had a relative who was French. Let the connections come in their own time over conversations. Those kinds of free-flowing, natural conversations make for stronger connections

8. "Why do you drive on the wrong side of the road?"

-To many people from Britain, they drive on the correct side, and it's everyone else who is driving on the wrong side of the road. Questioning this tradition is incredibly disrespectful. It's like asking people why they celebrate certain holidays. Just don't ask it. Accept it as a unique part of the culture, adapt to it and even enjoy the uniqueness of it

9. "You must love tea"

-While tea is a popular drink in England, not everyone is a fan of it. Making assumptions to someone based on their preferences for a drink can be considered highly irritating. It can also be considered offensive or stereotypical, assuming that someone from England will automatically like tea. It's like assuming that all people from the US like coffee and drink it from the time they get up in the morning until they go to bed at night. Simply appreciate the culture for all the uniqueness it offers

10. "Do you celebrate the Fourth of July?"

-First and foremost, who is asking these questions?!?!?!?

-If you are looking to bond with someone from the UK over holidays, the Fourth of July question is the LAST question you want to ask. If you paid attention in history class in school, you'll do good to remember the Fourth of July marks the day that the people of the US separated from British rule-not the thing you want to bring up with someone from England. Instead, ask them about unique holidays they celebrate, like Guy Fawkes Day or Boxing Day or any of the unique holidays they celebrate. Ask about the significance of them and this will show that you are taking a genuine interest. Tell them you're curious and it will come off as respectful and friendly

11. "Cheerio, mate"

-This is a stereotypical phrase and hardly used in modern day conversation. It can come off as offensive or seem like you are mocking someone from England. It would be the equivalent of someone saying "Howdy, partner!" to you if you're from New York. Learn how the locals greet each other before greeting someone with this outdated phrase

10 Habits That Stand Out to Americans

When Americans travel to Europe, they will often get their eyes opened to new things. Things they thought only existed back home are considered commonplace in many parts of Europe. According to MSN.com writer Sarah Norman, here are 10 habits that stand out to Americans.

1. Smoking

-Many European countries see a higher smoking rate than the US. Smoking in public places is also more readily accepted than the US

2. Dining etiquette

-There is a particular etiquette when it comes to meals in Europe. Different utensils are used, longer breaks are taken during meals or eating meals at later times are all considered completely normal in many European countries

3. Etiquette on public transportation

-Public transportation is heavily used by many Europeans. There may be different lines, seating and even noise levels on many of the trains or buses

4. Attitudes towards alcohol

-In the US, there is a law stating that alcohol can be consumed in public only at designated places in times, often called Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas or DORA. Or they can be consumed at music festivals or sporting events. And in some states in the US, it's completely against the law to consume alcohol because of strong religious beliefs. In some European countries, consuming alcohol in public parks is considered completely normal

5. Sensitivity to local cultures

-Many European countries have interesting cultures, traditions and even languages that great emphasis is placed on. Americans notice how strongly aware the locals are of respecting these topics

6. Tipping

-This is a somewhat hot button issue in many countries. Not all countries practice tipping for good service. Americans are often the only ones who tip, to show gratitude for good service. Many businesses across Europe have different standards when it comes to tipping

7. Language use

-While many Europeans do speak English fluently, there will be times when Americans may encounter a person whose primary language is not English. In smaller towns and rural areas, proficiency in that language is preferred

8. Shopping habits

-In the US, it's common to hit up the local grocery store or supermarket to get everything you need. In many countries in Europe, the common thing to do is hit up the local market, specialty shop or bakery to get what you need

9. Fashion

-This is one thing that definitely stands out. Many European countries have different fashion styles. Fashion is often prioritized in many European countries

10. Observance of cultural events

-Many European countries observe cultural events that relate to events in history, etc. There are different holidays celebrated in Europe and it's often fascinating to see how the locals celebrate

Subcultures in the US Some Have Never Heard Of

The US is certainly an interesting place. There are so many many little facets of this large region of the world that many don't know. There are even subcultures within the vast culture of the US. According to MSN.com writer Mary Apurong and page Only Earthlings, here are subcultures in the US some may never have heard of.

Urban Explorers

-It's apparently a new thing to go into abandoned locations and explore, whether to debunk rumors of hauntings or something else. These "urban explorers" will enter off-limits or abandoned locations to photograph and document these places, forgotten by the public. These places can include old hospitals, drainage tunnels, closed factories and more. This culture places high value on the architecture of the location and the history behind it. It can often be highly dangerous and highly illegal, so the practice of urban exploring is often done in secret. But it's not so much a secret anymore when the people doing it videotape it and put it on the internet

Ironically, this location was featured on the television program Mysteries of the Abandoned. This location is in England, at the start of the estuary leading to the River Thames. It was used as the first line of defense to protect England from enemy aircraft

Freegans

-These people try to reduce their participation in the economy. They will foods and other necessities by dumpster diving or foraging for food. They have strong anti-consumer beliefs and environmental beliefs. This can also include hitchhiking, sharing with a community and living in abandoned buildings. Most people would call these particular people hitchhikers or squatters

Straightedge

-This subculture originated from the punk rock scene. Members of this culture abstain from the use of alcohol, tobacco and recreational drugs. They may be vegetarian or vegan. They use an X to symbolize themselves and / or their beliefs

Juggalos

-This weird name applies to those who are fans of the rap group Insane Clown Posse. They have their own slang, fashion and even an annual gathering called The Gathering of the Juggalos. They face misunderstanding and discrimination from those not familiar with this subculture. They are diehard fans and are loyal followers to this subculture

Steampunk

-This is a widely popular subculture. This is a combination of Victorian England fashion and Industrial Revolution. You'll see a lot of the Industrial Revolution present in the forms of cogs, gears and other industrial machinery along with the Victorian England fashion of leather, lace, suede. Of long coats and top hats on men, bustiers, corsets and even top hats for women and welding goggles for both. There will also be walking sticks for both men and women. This unique culture also combines futuristic technology as well.

-I actually wore a Steampunk costume to work this past Halloween. A lot of the people in the building loved it. I love it for the fact that the clothing looks like Victorian England. I definitely like the Steampunk stuff

Burners

-The people who are part of this subculture take part in Burning Man every year. Burning Man celebrates art, self-expression and a sense of community. This culture has its own fashion, language and even events outside of the festival

Rainbows

-This subculture focuses on peace, love and connection to nature. They hold annual gatherings in national forests. They believe in trying to create a utopian society. The rainbows are not to be confused with the rainbows that are normally associated with the LGBT communities

Primitive skills enthusiasts

-There are those who believe that the basic, primary skills used by the cavemen will still be useful in today's day in age. Members of this culture engage in the same type of activities used by the cavemen, such as fire-making, foraging for supplies, building shelters using primitive methods. Most who belong to this culture are interested in anthropology or archaeology. This often runs with wilderness survival communities

Hardcore Gamers

-This community is centered around online gaming. They take it seriously and compete in online game tournaments. They spend hours each day practicing and strategizing together, as if they are a military planning an assault. There is a unique language, hierarchy and even social norms within this world

Freight train hoppers

-Some people might call this group of people hobos, but there is a unique culture of hopping freight trains to see the world beyond. This practice is known as freighthopping. They are modern day nomads who are known as freighthoppers who, illegally, hop the freight trains passing through and has strong roots in Great Depression-era travel. They have their own symbols of communication, but is considered dangerous and illegal. Most who participate in this culture love the sense of freedom and adventure

44 Travel Hacks to Make Travelling Easier Pt. II

"Hacks" is often a term used to describe unique tips to help you do something easier and more affordably. Here are 44 travel hacks

You also might see me add a few of my own. You might also see me add some info to each one if I have done it or seen it. My takes on each item will be listed after "Pro tip" because I have done that item and it works for me.

Save space by avoiding overpacking

-Overpacking is something we've all done at least once in our lives or it's something we know is done by someone we know. To avoid overpacking, leave out bulky items and consider where you are going, what you'll be doing and what the weather is like. This will ensure you don't overpack and risk those pesky overweight bag fees

-My stepdad does this EVERY TIME we go on vacation. I only overpacked once and it was when me and my family went on vacation to the Dominican Republic. I had never been there, and was unsure what the climate was like. I packed one too many shirts and there were a couple I didn't even wear

21. Mix and match clothing

-When packing, pack clothes that are of neutral colors that can be worn with multiple items. This will not only make it easier to choose clothing, you can also be stylish

22. Limit the amount of jewelry you wear

-Choose a few pieces of jewelry that goes with your outfits. Wear the larger items during travel to save space in your carry on

-Pro tip: if you bring a lot of jewelry on vacation, this just means more you have to put into a hotel room safe. And if the safe is not working, invest in a luggage lock that only you have the key to. Put your valuables into the suitcase and lock it. Sometimes maids will take items from tourists because they think tourists are rich. Hide anything you don't want stolen by the maids

23. Pack reusable travel bottles / tumblers

-Don't pack full size bottles. Instead opt for reusable bottles or tumblers. You can fill these bottles with your favorite drink. They not only save space but they also comply with airport security liquid rules. If you need to wash clothes where you are going, bring a small container of laundry detergent

-Pro tip: taking a reusable bottle or tumbler with you, especially if you are going to a tropical destination with a bar, will be easy for you. You can take your tumbler or bottle to the bar and ask them to fill it with the drink of your choice, even if it's juice or water. The steel tumbler will keep it cold for hours. When going through security, just get the tumbler or tumblers (if you plan on taking more) out of your carry on and put them in the bin you put your other items in. Security will see that there are just metal tumblers and nothing suspicious. And if they do ask about why they are in the bin, inform them that you are making their job easier by showing them that they are just metal tumblers, nothing more or less. They appreciate people making their job easier

24. Leave room for souvenirs

-Save some space in your luggage for souvenirs. Compression bags can shrink down clothes and save more space

-Pro tip: if you don't want your souvenirs broken, my suggestion would be to put them in your carry on. I've seen the way airport staff handle luggage. They don't care. Their mindset is "not my luggage, not my problem." They certainly wouldn't like it if someone did that to THEIR luggage. So they carelessly throw luggage into the airplane, not taking a second to consider that someone has souvenirs they don't want broken. Keep your souvenirs in your carry on. Prior to going through security, get the souvenirs out so that security knows they are souvenirs and not suspicious items. Also, if you buy something that is made of organic material, such as wood, you might get stopped by security only so they can examine the item. This is to check for any sort of invasive species of insect that might be hitching a ride into the country you're returning to. These invasive species of insects can mix with other insects and do massive damage to the local agriculture

25. Make a list before you pack

-This is the most important thing you can do. This ensures that you have everything you need. This prevents overpacking. Make a list of everything you will need for the destination you are traveling to. This includes clothing, sunblock, sunglasses, whatever you'll need for the trip. Triple check prior to your trip to ensure you have everything you need in case you need to make any last minute trips to the store for necessary supplies

-Pro tip: Start making a list at least 1-2 months ahead of time. Start getting items out and mark it off the list each time you collect an item. Triple check each item to confirm you have it so that if you are missing something, you'll have time to get that item before your trip. Once you have said item, put it in the correct bag or spot in your luggage. It's always good to have peace of mind knowing you have everything you are going to need. In the case of my parents, who take medication, my mother, who is probably the most organized person in the world, brings a list of medications for both her and my stepdad. She does this so that security knows the reason why they are bringing so many medications with them. They can look at the list and know they are legitimately needed

26. Use the "Last In, First Out" Method

-Put the items you'll use last at the bottom of your suitcase while the items you'll use first go up top. This will keep you from rummaging through your suitcase and making it look like security has already gone through it

27. Make your entertainment digital

-Instead of packing bulky books or magazines, go digital. Download your favorite movies, magazines or books on to a tablet. This is not only a space saver, but will keep you entertained once you are able to turn these devices on

-Pro tip: ensure any digital device is in Airplane Mode. This safety mode will not affect the electronic measurements on the airplane. Only turn on your devices when told it's safe to do so

28. Limit gadgets

-Bring only the gadgets you know you will use. Put cables and chargers in clear plastic bags to keep them together

Get the best deals for travel

-It always pays off, no pun intended, to get the most for your money. Look for discounts anywhere you can. If you are a retired person, and are eligible for AARP (American Association for Retired People), see if they have travel discounts. Seniors do get a lot of discounts on things. Look for any travel discount you can utilize.

29. Enable price alerts for flights

-Prices for flight and travel can change in a heartbeat. By setting up price alerts on the travel sites out there, you can know when a price gets to what you want and can afford. You'll know when the time is right to go. Google Flights or Skyscanner can help you with good, quick price alerts

30. Travel during the off-season

-It's always good to travel during the off-season. This ensures you beat major crowds and it's often cheaper to fly during the off seasons. There will be deep discounts on everything, from flights to accommodations and even local shops might offer you some savings. Local shops offer deep discounts when tourist numbers are low. September-November seems to be the off season for a lot of places, as there is not a lot of people traveling unless they are on vacation. Kids won't be travelling with them, as they will be in school, unless they are homeschooled. This time period tends to be incredibly affordable on flights, accommodations and more.

Pro tip: Do not travel around the holidays. Christmas, Thanksgiving, Memorial Day tend to be the busier holidays, according to most travel companies. Airports can be busy. The roads will be backed up with traffic if people are driving. Also, do some research into local holidays where you are going. If you are going somewhere and there happens to be a local major holiday, you might run into a lot of people. But that's not a bad thing; it's interesting to see how the locals celebrate holidays. It's more of a "put it on your radar" type thing so you know. Also, travel during the summer tends to be busy because a lot of kids are on summer vacation, so you'll see a lot of kids at the airport. Just be patient when around kids. They are just as excited as you are to travel and it's always incredibly rewarding to see just how excited kids can get when they know they are going somewhere they've never been to. And they're cute as ever when they are excited about travel

31. Use the incognito mode for booking

-What you may not know is that sometimes prices can fluctuate based on your search history. To keep prices from changing, put yourself into Incognito Mode. Use this when booking hotels or flights. This keeps the search history relatively clean and prices reasonable. This ensures that online activity does not have an impact on the costs you're seeing

32. Join a frequent flyer program

-These programs offer great discounts to those who travel a lot. Airlines offer frequent flyer programs that can offer the chance to earn miles and points to use towards international travel or other benefits. When on the airplane, staff aboard will tell you about frequent flyer programs that you can join if you plan to travel frequently. They will hand out applications to those interested

33. Get accommodations with built in kitchen facilities

-Some people prefer to get accommodations with built in kitchens. Others do not. It's all down to what you personally prefer. The idea behind accommodations with built in kitchens is that it will save on food costs. It will allow you to prepare and cook your own food rather than eat at a restaurant every day

Pro tip: I did this when I went on vacation with my mother, stepfather, his sister Jeananne and her son Noah when we went to Florida one year. They all rented a condo with a kitchen that was right there on the beach. It, for us at least, was more trouble than it was worth. It was not much of a vacation when we had to hit up the local grocery store, Publix, and get food. Every night, we prepared food and had to clean the dishes that were available for use in the cabinet. All the stuff you can do at home with the expense of a vacation rental right on the beach.

-It didn't work for me. That's not to say everyone will feel the same way. It might work for some and that is fine. It simply didn't work for me. Not only that, that vacation was boring. All we did was hang by the pool and walk on the beach. I had to be extremely careful because back then, I burned incredibly easily (luckily my skin is a lot tougher now; I don't burn anywhere near as easily as I used to). We didn't go to any of the major theme parks like Busch Gardens in Tampa (we were in Tampa Bay, by the way), Universal Studios Orlando or Walt Disney World in Orlando. The only major thing we did was go mini golfing at a course two miles up the road in an area called Indian Rocks Beach. I was glad to go home.

34. Explore Local Tourist Passes

-There is such a thing as local tourist passes. These allow tourists to visit destinations at a deeply discounted price. They also offer savings on public transportation, which helps you get around

35. Eat like the locals

-Instead of hitting up the touristy spots, go to the local market or local restaurants. Eat and drink amongst the locals. Not only will this help immerse you in the local culinary scene, but you can also save money too. An added perk is that you might get the chance to talk to some of the locals and meet interesting people and you can heighten your travel experience

-This is what I plan to do if I get the chance to visit London. Nothing would fascinate me more than eating amongst the local residents. Getting to know their interesting stories. Seeing all of the unique architecture. And if I see locations from various films I've seen, I will have to exercise extreme self control from getting excited at seeing something in real life from a film I saw. For example, if I see the building that was used as the MI-6 headquarters in the film Skyfall, I will definitely be taking a picture

36. Use public transportation

-Learn the local public transportation. They are far more affordable than taxis or rideshare services. It's a great way to travel around like the locals do. You can find some great things that taxis or rideshare services might miss. You can save money by using public transportation and use that money elsewhere. Not only that, you might meet some interesting locals while using public transportation

Maintain health and safety and various other needs

-It's strongly important to make sure you are prepared. "Hope for the best, prepare for the worst" is usually a good phrase to live by. When traveling, there might be unexpected situations that pop up. It's always good to be prepared

37. Make photocopies of important documents

-Make copies of your most important travel documents. This includes your photo ID, passport, travel itinerary. Keep these copies separate from the originals. This is with the idea that if the originals get lost or stolen, you'll still have all of your crucial information

38. Learn some basic phrases

-It's always important to learn basic phrases in the local language prior to traveling to that destination. It's not only respectful, but it will help you in the long run. Learn some vital words such as "help", "emergency", "doctor", "hospital", "allergy". Also, learn some basic greetings, like "Hello", "How are you?", "thank you", "you're welcome". If you need police / emergency assistance, learn what the local number is. In England, it's 999 for emergency services

-Pro tip: get a travel book. There are plenty out there. My suggestions would be Fodor's Travel, Rick Steves', Lonely Planet. They have everything broken down by price. 1 $ means affordable. 2 $$ means moderately priced. 3 $$$ means expensive. I have quite a few books by these companies and people at home about travel. I have one on England, one on London, one on Japan, one on New York, one on Australia and one on Hawaii. They're informative, helpful and offer helpful tips and hints about what to do, what to see, where to eat, where to stay, all based on your budget.

-Sadly, I've made a list of everything I would love to do / see when visiting these destinations. And it doesn't help when a British friend of mine from college told me about Alton Towers, a theme park in Stoke-on-Trent, England and how much fun he had there. He said if I got the chance to go there, I should. One ride he recommended was Oblivion because not only was it fun, but the concrete area around it was designed to look like a supervillain lair. It was designed by a production designer who worked on at least five of the James Bond films. I told him that now I have to go there and see it for myself. Of course, he sent back a bunch of laughing face emojis because we were chatting on Facebook

39. Check your travel insurance

-Verify that your travel insurance is up to date. Check that it covers your destination of choice. It should include coverage for accidents, illness, loss / theft. It will provide peace of mind as you enjoy your trip

40. Notify your bank prior to travel

-This will bring you peace of mind as well as that of your local bank. Notify your local bank about your intention to travel. Let them know when you are leaving, when you are coming back, where you are going. They will red flag any suspicious activity on your card and will even block / freeze your card from use in case of foreign transactions

-Pro tip: carry cash and / or cards. Depending on where you are going, if you plan on taking your card, do the above-mentioned advice. Not only will you have peace of mind, your bank will too. My mother worked in credit card fraud for a local bank for 10 years. She would block / unblock cards for the account holders for their protection. And, of course, they would always call and yell at her for this. She would kindly explain to them that she did this for their protection and explain that they should have notified the bank prior to travel

-A great example. A lot of former New York / New Jersey residents live in the Cincinnati, Ohio region. A woman who was from New York, but living in the Cincinnati, Ohio area had called in to complain that her card was blocked. She had planned a three week trip to the Far East, seeing places like China, Vietnam and Japan. My mom had blocked her card and this woman had called in, very angry, demanding to know why her card was not working. My mom had to educate her about the high risk of identity theft and credit card fraud that was prevalent in the Far East. That she should have notified the bank prior to travel. When my mom finished, the woman was deeply apologetic and appreciated what my mom had done. My mom had explained that it was her job to block cards from suspicious activity that is not normal for the account holder. My mom asked that, to prevent this from happening again, the woman needs to contact Card Services at the bank and let them know when she is leaving / coming back and where she is going. The person will put a travel advisory with this information on her account so that people will know that it's the card holder making those charges

41. Pack a doorstop

-For additional security, bring a doorstop. It sounds strange, but bringing a doorstop to use in your hotel room will keep unwanted guests from coming in

42. Check for Free Wi-Fi

-See if the hotel you're staying at offers Wi-Fi for free. It will help you stay connected and saves on expensive international data roaming charges

43. Carry reusable shopping bag

-Have a reusable shopping bag in your luggage. This will offer a convenient way of carrying items, such as souvenirs and it's eco-friendly

44. Research local customs and etiquette

-It's incredibly important to do research on what local customs and etiquette is. This will avoid not only cultural mistakes, but it will heighten your travel experience when you do what the locals do. Like the old saying "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." This phrase translates into "when in a city or country, do as the locals do." They will respect you when they see you are making a genuine effort to respect their laws and customs

Travel smarter, not harder

-These tips are designed to make packing for a trip a breeze. Use these tips to make your trip go more smoothly, not more stressful. Following these tips will heighten your travel experience and garner you respect from the locals