Phase 06
Arrive Ready
Arrive as a prepared traveler, not simply a tourist.
Leave America in America. That does not mean forgetting who you are. It means remembering where you are.
Culture and etiquette
Local customs. Greetings, gestures and social norms differ, and a gesture that is friendly at home can be offensive elsewhere. Learn before you arrive.
Cultural expectations. Service may be different. Time may be viewed differently. Infrastructure may be different. Different does not automatically mean wrong.
Clothing. Religious and community sites often expect covered shoulders or heads. Confirm expectations in advance. This is respect, not restriction.
Photography. Ask permission before photographing people, particularly children and community members. Respect a decline. Some sites prohibit photography entirely.
Tipping. Customs vary widely. Follow the guidance provided for your experience and bring small bills for it.
Food and dining. Communicate allergies in writing and in advance, with severity stated. Ask about the water and follow the guidance given.
Time and jet lag. Set your watch on boarding. Get daylight on arrival day. Stay awake until a reasonable local bedtime.
Staying connected. Monitor the group communication channels for departure times, meeting points and changes. Do not assume someone else will tell you.
Ask before taking the picture
A great photograph is not worth disrespecting another human being. People are not props for our social media. Travel with dignity.
Pack your patience
Traffic happens. Food may take longer than expected. A road may be closed. An activity may have to move. You can spend your experience fighting every difference, or you can recognize that sometimes the unexpected becomes part of the story.
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