Buddha Statues, Ayuthaya, Thailand
Understanding local cultures and customs / Traveler’s Code of EthicsTraveling is a wonderful privilege and a fantastic way to enrich our lives. For many though, especially when traveling out of the US and especially to third world countries, our "comfort zone" is often pushed a bit. Also, customs vary greatly from country to country. So what is acceptable here, for example, may not be acceptable in Bali.
In a lot of Asian Destinations, people get into trouble when it comes to customs of the head and feet. For instance, in Western Societies, rubbing or patting a child on the head is a form of endearment or play. However, it is very frowned upon in Asia and particularly Buddhist countries where touching someone’s head, resting place for the soul, is definitely not acceptable.
Another area that can get us in trouble is the fee! Most of us are are not accustomed to sitting on the ground much or with our legs crossed behind us (as is custom in Asia). The feet are considered very dirty and to point them at someone, even just sitting with your legs out in front of you is an insult. I was on one of our group trips once where we went inside a Buddhist temple, all sat down on the floor in front of Buddha, and a woman in the group literally started stretching and doing calisthenics saying her joints were to creaky to keep her legs folded behind her – completely oblivious her legs and feet were stretched out and pointed right at Buddha to the dismay of the locals there paying homage.
Years ago I found this "Traveler's Code of Ethics" and now share it with my HoneyLuna clients as few simple "rules" or thoughts before, during and after you travel.
(We didn't write this but we think it's great!)
Travel in a spirit of humility and with genuine desire to meet and talk with local people.
Be aware of the feelings of the local people; prevent what might be offensive behavior.
Cultivate the habit of listening and observing rather than merely hearing and seeing or knowing all answers.
Realize that other people may have concepts of time and have thought patterns which are different than yours.
Instead of seeing the exotic, discover the richness of another culture and way of life.
Get acquainted with local customs; respect them.
Remember that you are only one among many visitors; do not expect special privileges.
When shopping through bargaining, remember that the poorest merchant will give up profit rather than give up his/her personal dignity.
Make no promise to local people or new friends that you cannot implement.
Spend time each day reflecting on your experiences in order to deepen your understanding. What enriches you may be robbing others.
If you want a home away from home, why travel!
