There is a lot of talk about the etiquette that surrounds traveling - especially abroad. I have noted this more recently here, but as any good travel writer knows, there is no limit as to how much stress you can put on being respectful. Crossing paths with locals in a negative way can lead you down some unfortunate roads...literally.
Aside from my own personal experiences and stories of this either going really well or really horribly remember this; do your research and wait for a clear invitation. This can be an invite into someones home, a dinner, an outing or a hike, or simply an invitation to conversation. There is also a sense of personal space and privacy that often cannot be crossed. While I like to chat with the locals and be invited into their space, you will never see me putting my nose in other people's business until it is clearly ok and allowed by both parties.
As a traveler yourself make sure you are trying your best not to miscommunicate. In the most recent post, I touched on the topic about getting signs tangled up. As foreigners to other lands we must be respectful to not only the individual, but their culture as well. This is huge in a number of ways, but no matter where you are from you are representing a certain demographic to others while you roam about. Try to keep that in mind.
Some of the best experiences you can have while you travel are when you can connect with locals. It's up to you how these encounters unfold.
-CS
A little reading for information and local guides. Click the images below to find out more.
If any of this was inspiring or you find yourself itching to travel I encourage you to check flights and deals to make it happen. Best of luck and happy traveling!