IN A NUTSHELL 🌍 European travelers are avoiding American destinations, signaling discontent with U.S. policies.

are avoiding American destinations, signaling discontent with U.S. policies. 📉 March 2025 saw a 17% decline in European tourists visiting the United States, impacting the economy.

visiting the United States, impacting the economy. 🏨 Travel industry leaders like Accor and Voyageurs du Monde report significant drops in bookings from Europe.

from Europe. 🤝 The downturn is largely attributed to Trump’s policies, which are perceived as hostile by many Europeans.

The return of Donald Trump to the White House has sparked significant diplomatic and social reactions, notably affecting one of the United States’ economic pillars: tourism. Increasing numbers of Europeans are choosing to avoid American destinations, signaling a silent yet profound rejection of the current administration. This trend not only impacts travel but also raises questions about international relations and the U.S.’s image abroad. As we delve deeper into this phenomenon, we’ll explore the data, the voices of travel industry leaders, and the potential long-term effects on the U.S. economy.

The Decline in Tourism: 17% Fewer European Visitors in March

The statistics are undeniable. In March 2025, the number of tourists from Western Europe who spent at least one night in the U.S. dropped by 17% compared to the same period in 2024, according to the International Trade Administration (ITA). This decline is particularly concerning as the tourism industry contributes approximately 2.5% to the U.S. GDP. The decrease isn’t limited to Europeans; overall, the total number of foreign visitors to the United States fell by 12% in March, marking the largest decline since the post-pandemic period of 2021.

This troubling downturn indicates a shift in global travel preferences and reflects broader economic implications. As fewer international tourists visit the U.S., the ripple effects touch various sectors, from hospitality to retail, potentially stifling growth in these areas. The contraction in tourist numbers underscores the challenges the U.S. faces in maintaining its position as a top global destination in an era of shifting geopolitical landscapes.

European Tour Operators Sound the Alarm

French hotel group Accor, with a significant presence in the United States, reported a 25% drop in summer bookings from Europe. This alarming trend is echoed by Voyageurs du Monde, which also observed a 20% decrease in bookings since Trump’s inauguration. Many travel agencies, particularly in Spain, are witnessing a declining interest in U.S. destinations, with travelers opting instead for countries like Canada, Egypt, or various Latin American destinations.

These shifts in travel patterns reveal a growing disinterest in U.S. tourism among Europeans, reflecting a broader sentiment of dissatisfaction. Travel industry leaders are voicing concerns, urging for a reassessment of policies that may be contributing to this downturn. The shift in European travel preferences highlights the importance of addressing international perceptions and rebuilding confidence in the U.S. as a welcoming and diverse destination.

A Direct Reaction to Trump’s Policies

The primary cause of this declining interest in U.S. travel? President Trump’s policies, perceived as hostile by many European citizens. The tense geopolitical climate between Washington and Brussels, concerns over the treatment of foreigners, and a general perception of America as an unwelcoming territory under the new administration are significant contributing factors. As Accor’s director explains, this trend likely stems from “anxiety about entering an unpredictable territory.”

The impact of these policies extends beyond immediate travel choices, influencing long-term perceptions and relations between nations. The current administration’s approach has sparked debates about global cooperation and the importance of fostering positive diplomatic ties. This sentiment is not just about travel; it is a reflection of broader geopolitical tensions that are shaping the future of international relations.

A Sector in Distress

In response to this situation, forecasts for the American tourism industry have been adjusted downward. Tourism Economics, which had initially predicted a 5% decline for 2025, now estimates a 9.4% drop. This abrupt shift raises questions about the United States’ ability to sustain its international appeal amid such a polarized political climate. The silent yet effective boycott taking root in Europe, though less visible than a commercial embargo, could nonetheless weigh heavily on a key industry for the country.

Tourism, often a mirror of geopolitical tensions, is becoming a political expression tool for citizens. As the industry grapples with these challenges, stakeholders must consider innovative strategies to rejuvenate interest and restore international trust. The sector’s recovery will depend on addressing the underlying causes of this decline and actively working to rebuild the United States’ reputation on the global stage.

As the United States navigates this challenging period, the implications for the tourism sector and the broader economy remain significant. The current trends underscore the interconnectedness of politics and travel, highlighting the need for careful consideration of international relations. Will the U.S. be able to reclaim its status as a top international destination, or will these political dynamics continue to shape its tourism landscape for years to come?

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When you think of an Italian vacation, what comes to mind? Perhaps you picture Rome’s historic attractions, Tuscany’s idyllic vineyards, or Milan’s fancy hotels and shopping. No matter what part of Italy you want to experience, though, you’ll need to know the best times to visit. Spring and fall are generally regarded as the sweet spots for fewer crowds, better weather, and shoulder season deals, but each season has benefits and drawbacks. While some regions have their own peak and off-seasons, here’s a general breakdown of the tourism calendar:

High Season: May to September

May to September Shoulder Seasons: March to April and October to November

March to April and October to November Low Season: December to February

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best (and worst) times to visit Italy, covering all the angles from climate to crowds.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Best Times to Visit Overall

Summer in Italy is the stuff that dreams are made of, but it’s also when temperatures, crowds, and prices are highest, especially in popular spots like Rome. For a “best of all worlds” trip, mid-to-late spring (April and May) or early-to-mid fall (late September through October) are ideal, with pleasant weather, lower prices and foot traffic, shorter lines at top attractions, and more availability at hotels. If you do plan to visit in summer, book accommodations and activities well in advance. The best time to visit also varies by region, and some visitors may want to plan a trip around specific festivals, like Venice’s legendary Carnival (usually in late February and early March), or heading to wine country for the fall harvest.

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Not long ago, Italy’s busy season only lasted around three months from June to August, with low or moderate traffic for most of the year. But now, it’s become such an in-demand destination that its high season stretches all the way from May to September.

Because of this, winter is the best time to avoid crowds. Many visitors to Italy are seeking a warm, sunny Mediterranean vacation, and the country’s winter climate—with temperatures in the 40s and 50s in the south and snowy conditions in the north—isn’t conducive to those plans. Unless you’re headed to a Dolomites ski town like Cortina D’Ampezzo, a winter trip to Italy will likely mean uncrowded hotels and piazzas with plenty of elbow room.

If you want to avoid the winter weather and don’t mind some crowds, spring and fall are ideal times to visit as well, especially for popular destinations like Rome and Florence. During these shoulder seasons, museums and historic sites usually have shorter lines and more availability than in the summer.

Chelsea Exton/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit for Good Weather

“Good weather” generally refers to bountiful sunshine and balmy temperatures, which Italy delivers in spades during the warmer months. But Europe’s evolving climate is having an impact on Italian summers. Certainly, sun-seekers will still find plenty to enjoy, with warm, largely rain-free weather, but soaring temperatures can make July and August uncomfortable in some regions. Temperatures above 100 degrees are increasingly frequent in southern cities like Rome and Naples, so heat-sensitive travelers may want to avoid the peak of summer in these areas.

For fair weather and sun-bathed beaches without sky-high heat indices, Italy’s best seasons are late spring and early fall. Months like May and September offer temperatures in the 70s and 80s throughout much of the country’s south, making conditions ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and taking walking tours through historic towns and cities.

In northern Italy, conditions typically remain pleasant for the duration of the summer, particularly if you’re near water or at a high elevation. A getaway to Venice or Lake Como, for instance, can see temperatures in the 60s and 70s, even during June, July, and August.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit for Lower Prices

Prices in Italy tend to move in tandem with the seasons. When there are lots of visitors, prices are high, and when tourist numbers taper off, so do the costs of airfare and accommodations. If you hope to score a deal on flights or hotel rooms, aim for the quieter period between October and April. This is especially true in popular cities like Rome and Florence. While these urban areas can be pricey and packed at any time, things do slow down in winter.

Of course, there are other ways to save money on your Italian vacation besides just aiming for the off-season. Keep an eye out for flight deals, or check out cruise packages that can help you avoid expensive hotels and flights. Finally, consider traveling off the beaten path to the small towns, quaint villages, or overlooked regions and areas like Molise that most tourists skip—even during busy periods, these can make for affordable vacations.

Best Times to Visit by Region

Best Times to Visit the Italian Coast

Spring, summer, and autumn are often heralded as the best times to head to the beach in Italy. But late spring and summer can be especially crowded as schools let out for summer vacation and Italians take time off in August. Umbrella and beach chair rental prices are exorbitant, and the beaches, especially along the Amalfi Coast and in Cinque Terre, can get congested and noisy. Look instead to lesser-known coastal destinations like the island of Elba or smaller villages near the sea, like Terlizzi in Puglia, for access to quieter beaches with warm waters.

Evgeniya Vlasova/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Italy’s Wine Country

Early spring and early fall can be ideal times to visit Italy if you hope to explore wine regions like Tuscany. The grape harvest occurs each September and October (exact dates vary from year to year), so this can be a fun time for wine lovers, especially with harvest festivals like Tuscany’s Expo Chianti Classico.

In the spring, the rolling hills are bright green, and many festivals celebrating seasonal foods take place throughout the region, like the Artichoke Festival in the town of Chiusure near Siena, or Terricciola’s Strawberry Festival. Just be aware that the towns can get crowded the week before Easter when religious parades and celebrations take over.

Best Times to Visit the Dolomites

If you dream of seeing the stunning Dolomites in northeastern Italy, we have good news. The destination is worth visiting year-round, with plenty of things to do. Hit the ski slopes in winter, tour historic castles, or spend summer hiking and taking in the mountain views on soaring cable car rides. However, many of the hotels and resorts in the Dolomites close during the spring and fall shoulder seasons, so prepare in advance if you plan to visit during those months.

JaCZhou 2015/Getty Images

Worst Times to Visit

Italy is a beautiful destination year-round, but if you want to avoid packed tour buses, long museum lines, and extreme heat, you probably don’t want to plan a summer getaway to Rome, Venice, or Florence. Venice hosts one of the best Carnival festivals in the world, but the celebration—typically in late February and early March—also brings premium-priced hotels and swarms of mask-wearing revelers.

Tuscany can also be tricky for solitude-seeking travelers, given its mass popularity. Cities like Siena and medieval hilltop towns like San Gimignano can be full of tourists in the summer and autumn, so try planning your trip for the winter or spring to see slightly smaller crowds.

No matter where you’re going, be sure to take note of any major local holidays planned during the dates of your visit. For example, Christmas is a beautiful time to explore Italy thanks to charming holiday markets and festive decor, but some shops and attractions will be closed or have restricted hours. Easter pilgrimages, meanwhile, are beloved among Catholic travelers wanting to see the Vatican—but their popularity also means that prices will be higher and crowds larger during Holy Week.

Many businesses shut down for vacation around the Italian holiday of Ferragosto, celebrated on August 15. Italians tend to take their own vacations during August as well, so you’ll need to be flexible if you plan to travel then, as businesses can be closed.

miodrag ignjatovic via Getty Images You should treat a visit to another country as you would a visit to a friend’s house — meaning, you wouldn’t spend time criticizing their cooking or traditions.

Traveling abroad is an exciting yet stressful endeavor that can result in long days in unfamiliar places, which can make the chance of saying something rude, whether unknowingly or knowingly, a reality.

While most people don’t go on a trip with the intention of offending people in the country they’re visiting, it does happen, and experts told HuffPost they’ve seen it firsthand time and time again.

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Below, a travel professional and etiquette expert share the rudest things people say when traveling abroad.

1. “The customer is always right.”

“Something I actually heard: I was in London last week, somebody was arguing with the front desk of the hotel, and they were saying, ‘Well, the customer is always right,’ and it’s sort of like, that’s actually a very American approach to customer service,” said Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and host of the “Were You Raised by Wolves?” podcast.

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It’s not a globally-shared thought pattern. “And very often, the customer is not right,” Leighton added.

“In a lot of places around the world, a business is happy to push back on that,” he said. Meaning, you may not get the outcome you’re hoping for.

“You sometimes hear stories [where] somebody’s in a restaurant in Italy and they ask for Parmesan cheese to put on their fish, and the restaurant’s like, ‘No, we’re not gonna let you do that,’” he said. This often results in an upset customer who utters a phrase like “the customer is always right” or “I’m the customer” only to be met with further refusal from the restaurant.

So, before you assume you can do no wrong as a patron of a business, remember that this is an extremely American idea.

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2. Referring to a country as “Third World.”

According to Chelsea Glass, the founder and CEO of Heart of Travel, an ethical travel tour company, the use of the term “Third World country” is another no-no, especially when it’s just as easy to say “developing nation” or simply refer to the country by its name.

“Third-world country has negative connotations and is also just an inaccurate term,” Glass said.

3. “How much is it in real money?”

This should go without saying, but just because you’re visiting a country that uses a different currency doesn’t mean their money is any less “real” than the U.S. dollar.

“The U.S. dollar is a very popular currency around the world, but Mexico pesos are also real money. Euros are also real money,” Leighton said, “and I think people are not saying the phrase ‘real money’ in some sort of way that’s commenting on the dollar standard, but it does come across as like, ‘Oh, our money is real and everything else is not real.’”

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It’s also not a good idea to comment on how “cheap” something is when visiting a country with a weaker currency.

Or, oppositely, to complain about how “expensive” something is in a place where you didn’t expect to pay top dollar.

“I think people have this gross overestimation that the U.S. dollar is so powerful in these countries and it goes so far,” Glass said. “When, in reality, if you look at the cost of living, look at the labor involved, people are still underpaid in these places.”

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People often have a false idea of just how powerful the U.S. dollar is when that isn’t really true in the global economy, Glass noted.

Lorado via Getty Images When traveling abroad, it’s helpful to learn a few phrases in the language of the country you’re visiting.

4. Referring to people as “exotic” or romanticizing certain situations as “authentic.”

Calling people “exotic” is condescending, said Leighton, even if you mean it in a nice way.

“Anything down that road, this is not great,” he added. Similarly, “Anything where we’re starting to romanticize, especially poverty — ‘Oh, this place is so authentic.’ This is also not great,” he said.

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“I think anywhere you might be traveling, even poorer areas in the United States, if you find it charming and authentic that people have different living conditions, I think that can come across in a way that maybe you don’t intend,” Leighton noted.

5. “Can you just speak English?”

“I think one obvious one is when people angrily demand that people in the country they’re visiting speak English when English is not the native language of that country,” Glass said.

She added that she’s seen this on multiple occasions. “I’ve seen travelers be rude to waitresses inside cafés in Mexico City because they’re not speaking English,” Glass added.

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Instead, you should take time to learn a few key words in their language.

“Making a little effort with the local language, even if it’s just as simple as learning ‘hello,’ ‘please’ and ‘thank you,’ that shows a lot to the people in that country that you’re trying,” Glass said.

6. “I can’t believe they still do that here.”

Traveling abroad can bring you face-to-face with customs that are unfamiliar, whether you’ve never seen them before or the habits haven’t been part of American life for some time. Either way, “It’s not your place to comment on someone’s culture … that’s their tradition,” said Leighton.

So if you’re surprised to see certain behaviors or habits, you shouldn’t utter a phrase like, “Oh, I can’t believe they still do that here,” whether referring to the use of plastic straws or a specific cultural tradition, he added.

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“I think the broader theme is just assuming the way that you do something is the way that it should be done, or is the only way to do something, or is the best way. I think this often gets us into trouble,” said Leighton.

“And I think the more you travel, the more you realize, ‘Oh, the way we do it back home is actually not the way,’” he said.

7. Making comments about “criminals” in certain Latin American countries.

Recently, Glass said she’s noticed an increase in folks questioning the safety of Latin America and referring to those who are being deported to countries like Guatemala from the U.S. as “criminals.”

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Talking about “criminals” as you visit a new Latin American country is misinformed and rude.

“First of all, not all the people who are getting deported back to Guatemala are criminals. Most of them, their only, if you want to even call it crime, is that they are existing in the United States without paperwork,” said Glass.

“These are not murderers or rapists, and really, oftentimes, have zero criminal record,” she noted.

“And also … do you think that they’re just going to deport hundreds of criminals and then let them loose onto the streets in Guatemala? That’s not how it works. The ignorance and the lack of understanding of how the whole process works,” she said.

Overall, remember that you are a guest in another country.

If you go into an international trip with the attitude that you’re a guest in another country, you’ll be more likely to act in a way that honors the locals and respects the traditions, said Leighton.

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“As a guest, I want to do all the guest things. We would never go to a friend’s house as a guest, and then start criticizing everything,” Leighton noted. “So, why do we do that when we’re traveling abroad?”

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The high cost of vacations and the few PTO days most companies give people combine to make people feel like they’re entitled to a certain experience, he added.

“But, I think because of that, we feel entitled to act however we want and feel like, ‘Oh, there aren’t consequences,’ but etiquette still applies,” Leighton said.

6. “I was in Myrtle Beach the week of July 4th a few years back. There were signs everywhere that fireworks were not allowed on the beach, and there were also cops in golf carts everywhere. That night, I was on the beach by the ferris wheel with my kids to enjoy the city fireworks display. It was magical — until everyone around me started setting off their own fireworks. I watched multiple dads set up fireworks and then let their toddlers and little kids wander over and look down into them after they were lit. And I saw a mom trying to light a paper lantern light her sleeve on fire.”

“So many people just walked away from hot, burning firework garbage in the sand for other people’s kids in flip-flops/bare feet to step on.

The golf cart cops did absolutely nothing.

It was the most stressful, dangerous couple hours on the beach I’ve ever had. Absolute brazen selfishness and stupidity on full display.

I kept thinking, Wow, Americans really love to blow shit up, even if it’s themselves. For people who have to pay for healthcare, they sure are reckless.”

—Different_Nature8269

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The experience of COVID lockdowns and border closures over the past couple of years has given many Americans a newfound appreciation for the privilege of international travel. In recent summers, the tourism industry saw a huge rebound in the form of “revenge travel” to far-off places.

Unfortunately, Americans don’t have the best reputation as tourists abroad. But that doesn’t mean you have to add to the “ugly American” stereotype as you reenter the international travel game.

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“It is imperative to avoid an egocentric view of the world while traveling,” travel blogger Rocky Trifari told HuffPost. “You should always mind your manners abroad because etiquette can differ from one country to the next.”

Though the intricacies and nuances of every culture may feel intimidating, there are some fundamental etiquette principles that can guide each trip. An easy way to approach etiquette abroad is to think about what not to do.

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With that in mind, we asked etiquette experts and travel professionals to share some common rude behaviors they’ve observed from tourists in foreign countries and lend their advice for avoiding these faux pas.

“While specific etiquette rules may differ around the world, good manners is universal,” said Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and co-host of the “Were You Raised by Wolves?” podcast. “Treating people with kindness and respect translates into every language.”

Assuming Everyone Will Speak English

“Do not presume that everyone you encounter will speak English,” said Jodi R.R. Smith, president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. “Know a few phrases in the local language. Do not speak louder hoping that the other person will suddenly understand you.”

Before your trip, try to learn a bit of the local language and customs to ensure a more pleasant experience.

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“Whether you’re in a restaurant or shop, saying ‘thank you’ and ‘please’ in the local language can go a long way,” said Jessica van Dop DeJesus, founder and editor at The Dining Traveler. “I also love using Google Translate to communicate while traveling. It’s a great tool to bridge communication in a foreign country. I recently traveled to Japan, and being able to write what I needed in Japanese at restaurants helped me get around much better.”

Not Doing Your Research

“You’ll have a better time if you know what to expect, so best to brush up on the local etiquette rules before you set sail,” Leighton said. “These etiquette rules are definitely not a secret, and there’s virtually no corner of the globe that hasn’t been covered online somewhere. Just look it up!”

You can avoid awkward or frustrating situations by just doing a little research before your trip.

“Learning about a culture’s etiquette is part of the fun of travel, and you’ll have a richer travel experience if you fully participate,” Leighton added. “A few fun international tips: Don’t cheers with beer in Hungary, be sure to say ‘bonjour’ when entering a shop in France and always hand out your business card with two hands in Japan.”

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Being Loud And Rowdy

“One of the things I see a lot, especially living in Europe, is U.S. citizens speaking loudly on the phone, and the whole restaurant or bar can hear the conversation,” van Dop DeJesus noted.

Avoid adding to negative stereotypes about Americans by taking phone calls outside or being mindful of your volume, especially while you’re speaking English. Try to avoid making noise in other ways, like slamming car doors or stomping around.

“Practice vocal level control,” Abbott echoed. “It doesn’t matter your age, be it youth to well-seasoned, ‘thou shalt not yell’ or be obnoxious in any way no matter how tired you are, no matter what ‘everybody else is doing,’ no matter how much alcohol you’ve had.”

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She also urged against drinking too much alcohol in a foreign country.

“This isn’t just about turning into that proverbial ‘ugly American’ but also about the increased risk of turning into just another visiting foreigner victim,” Abbott said, noting that drunk tourists are often targets for petty crime. “You would do well both in proper etiquette and keeping yourself out of bad situations to dial it back a bit on the alcohol if you’re so inclined.”

Grace Cary via Getty Images Different cultures have different standards for tipping at restaurants, so do your research ahead of time.

Ignoring Local Tipping Culture

“Know that tipping varies greatly around the world,” Smith said. “Some countries thrive on tips while others will find a tip insulting.”

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If you don’t know the tipping protocol in another country, do your research or ask a trusted source to find out the cultural norms before ordering a meal at a restaurant there. Although tipping is standard practice in the U.S., that isn’t the case everywhere.

“Under most circumstances, it would be considered rude to pay for a meal without leaving a supplemental tip in the U.S.,” Trifari said. “In some countries, a tip is only left for exceptional service. It can be a token amount, perhaps one or two dollars in the local currency, if the service is outstanding. In other places, leaving a tip may even be perceived as offensive.”

Forgetting You’re A Visitor

“Perhaps the best way to make sure you are a respectful traveler is by having the mindset that you’re just a visitor in a foreign land,” Lau said. “You’re not there to change things or to do things the way you would do them at home. You’re there to experience the local culture and learn about new customs.”

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Rather than insisting things be done your preferred way or complaining about unfamiliar experiences, be polite and humble.

“Don’t expect that a whole country is going to adapt to you,” said Claire Summers, the travel blogger behind Claire’s Itchy Feet. “I’ve seen so many tourists with an extreme sense of entitlement, and it’s so uncomfortable to witness. So rather than getting frustrated and demanding, try taking a breath and adapting to a slower pace for a while. Who knows, you may like it!”

Think of yourself as a guest in a stranger’s home. And remember that your behavior reflects on yourself and the U.S. as a whole.

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“The beginning and end of proper behavior, be it in the U.S. or most other countries popularly visited by U.S. citizens, be respectful, be gracious and keep in mind that you are ambassadors of this fine country,” Abbott said.

Failing To Adhere To Facial And Spatial Norms

Smith emphasized that cultural differences often manifest in faces and spaces, so do your best to understand the norms around things like eye contact and personal bubbles.

“Some countries have smiles at the ready while others only smile with their nearest and dearest,” she explained. “Eye contact is also culturally specific. The more egalitarian cultures tend to have more eye contact. The more rigid cultures tend to have less eye contact.”

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Trifari recommended thinking about common gestures or movements like nodding as well.

“In Athens, I learned that Greeks typically do not nod or shake their heads to communicate the same way Americans are accustomed to,” he said. “In Greece, this gesture can be considered impolite. To indicate ‘no,’ Greeks tilt the head backward once; nodding the head forward to signal ‘yes.’ If you find yourself uncertain, using the local language to communicate ‘yes’ or ‘no’ can help avoid any confusion or fears of sending the wrong message.”

Westend61 via Getty Images Don’t forget you’re a visitor in a foreign land, so there might be different norms around things like greetings, personal space and more.

The typical amount of touch and distance between people in public places can also vary.

“Many cooler climates tend to have larger body-space bubbles, whereas many warmer climates tend to have smaller body-space bubbles,” Smith explained. “Even standing in line is culturally specific. Pay careful attention to how others queue before taking your place.”

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Dressing Disrespectfully

“Travelers need to make sure they wear something appropriate for the religious sites,” Lauderdale noted. “We all want to look our best on vacation, but something revealing might not be welcomed in a religious place of worship.”

In addition to preparing for different temperatures, take respect for local culture into account when you pack for your trip. Your favorite sneakers, fanny packs and sleeveless shirts might not be the right attire every step of the way. And even if you’re going somewhere very hot, try to pack at least one outfit that provides more cover (in a lightweight, breathable fabric).

“Know what to wear. There are places, from religious sites to entire countries, where modesty is required,” Smith said. “Some locations also ‘dress for dinner.’ This may require formal or semi-formal attire as well as the requisite footwear.”

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And on the subject of clothing, make sure you familiarize yourself with the rules around shoes when you enter someone’s home or certain establishments. In many cultures, there’s an expectation that guests will remove their shoes at the door.

Behaving Improperly At Sacred Sites

In addition to dressing respectfully while visiting religious sites and other places of deep significance to locals, you’ll want to show reverence in your behavior. You may not be familiar with the traditions and culture surrounding the religion in question, but always err on the side of being quiet and courteous of others.

“Temples, churches and other places of worship are usually very beautiful and grandiose, which leads to many travelers wanting to capture the perfect photo,” Lauderdale said. “However, when doing so, you could be interfering with people praying or other religious ceremonies.”

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Bargaining Incorrectly

“Because you are in a foreign country, you might exhibit rude behaviors or faux pas without knowing. One of the most common ones is actually bargaining,” Lau said.

Of course, many countries and cities have marketplaces where negotiating over prices is the norm, but that isn’t true everywhere. And even if it is, the rules can vary. As always, do your research.

“Bargaining can be disrespectful, especially if you are in a place where bargaining is not acceptable,” Lau explained. “But even in places where bargaining is acceptable, you can still anger the locals by bargaining incorrectly. If the vendor tells you a price and you respond by low-balling him, he might be insulted and kick you out of his shop.”

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Not Following Time Norms

Different cultures carry different expectations for timing and scheduling. Smith explained that some places follow more “linear” notions of time, while others are more “circular” or “cyclical,” for instance.

“Linear cultures tend to keep careful time,” Smith said. “It is important that you are right on time ― or early ― for reservations or gatherings. Circular cultures tend to be time fluid. When making plans, the timing is more of a suggestion than the rule.”

Greeting People Rudely

“Greeting a friend can look very different depending on which part of the world you are in,” Trifari said. “Cultural differences can result in a warm welcome being perceived as cold, rigid or otherwise inappropriate.”

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Indeed, certain gestures or movements that indicate one thing in the U.S. might have a very different meaning in other countries.

“In the Netherlands, it is considered rude to shout a greeting from afar,” Trifari explained. “The Dutch are modest people, and ostentatious behavior is frowned upon. When greeting someone from a distance, it is better to wave.”

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In some places, friends and acquaintances might greet one another with a smile or friendly nod, while in others, people might greet with a kiss or two on the cheek.

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