Travel tips from CNN

[DrD]

Apparently there is a guide that more and more businesses are giving out to their employees that travel in an effort to improve the "ugly American." After reading so many threads on the dress codes, I can't help but post the tips here. Note #3! The story is here: http://www.cnn.com/2006/TRAVEL/05/10/usa.ugly.reut/index.html

 

Tips for travelers

This month, San Francisco-based BDA -- whose board includes executives from Exxon and McDonald's -- began distributing a "World Citizen's Guide" to corporate travelers. Its 16 points are a mirror image of the behavioral patterns that earned Americans a boorish reputation in the first place. Here's a sampler from the guide.

 

 

Think as big as you like but talk and act smaller. In many countries, any form of boasting is considered rude. Talking about wealth, power or status -- corporate or personal -- can create resentment.

 

 

Speak lower and slower. In conversation, match your voice level and tonality to the environment and other people. A loud voice is often perceived as bragging. A fast talker can be seen as aggressive and threatening

 

 

Dress up. You can always dress down. In some countries, casual dress is a sign of disrespect. Check out what is expected and when in doubt, err on the side of the more formal and less casual attire. You can remove a jacket and tie if you are overdressed. But you can't make up for being too casual.

 

 

Listen at least as much as you talk. By all means, talk about America and your life in the country. But also ask people you're visiting about themselves and their way of life. Listen, and show your interest in how they compare their experiences to yours.

[Nliedel]

I think this is sound advice for most social situations, not just travel.