Traveling is an amazing experience, but tourists often unknowingly (or sometimes knowingly) engage in behaviors that annoy locals, damage cultural heritage, or contribute to overtourism.
Being a respectful and considerate tourist helps create positive connections with locals and makes travel more enjoyable for everyone.
Before visiting a new country, research local customs and always travel with an open mind. The world isn’t there just for tourists—it belongs to the people who call it home.
Here are 12 of the worst tourist behaviors that locals absolutely hate—and tips on how to be a more respectful traveler.
Read here Best eSim for International Travel and Best Travel Insurance Comparison
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Quick Easy Tips
Learn basic greetings in the local language—it shows respect.
Dress according to local customs, not Instagram trends.
Ask before taking photos of people or private property.
Keep your voice down, especially in restaurants and public transit.
Avoid assuming “everyone speaks English” and be patient when communicating.
One of the biggest cultural divides comes down to entitlement vs. immersion. Many tourists arrive with the mindset that they’re paying customers, and the country is a theme park for their enjoyment. But locals often see tourism as an intrusion, especially when visitors ignore social norms. It creates resentment, and in some cities, pushes locals out of their own neighborhoods—turning homes into rentals and daily life into a performance for strangers.
Another major issue is the “Instagram effect.” Tourists frequently flock to destinations not for the experience, but for the photo opportunity. This can lead to disrespectful behavior at religious sites, sacred landmarks, or family-owned businesses just to snap content. Locals watch as meaningful spaces are treated like backdrops—and it doesn’t go unnoticed.
Finally, there’s the behavior many tourists don’t realize is rude: comparing cultures out loud. Saying things like “This would never happen back home” or “Why don’t they do it like we do?” may seem harmless, but it often comes across as arrogant. Every culture has its own logic and rhythm, and making public judgments just reinforces stereotypes about tourists being inconsiderate.
Worst Tourist Behaviors
1. Disrespecting Local Customs and Dress Codes
Why Locals Hate It:
Wearing inappropriate clothing at religious sites (e.g., shorts in temples, bikinis in conservative areas).
Ignoring cultural norms—like refusing to remove shoes before entering homes in some countries.
Public displays of affection in countries where it’s frowned upon (like the Middle East or parts of Asia).
How to Avoid It:
Research local customs before visiting.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Follow local etiquette, such as bowing in Japan or using your right hand in India.
2. Treating Locals Like Instagram Props
Why Locals Hate It:
Tourists taking photos of people (especially children) without permission.
Asking locals to pose for staged, unrealistic travel shots.
Taking selfies with street vendors, monks, or locals in traditional dress just for “the gram.”
How to Avoid It:
Ask for permission before taking photos of people.
Respect personal space and cultural sensitivity.
Avoid turning poverty into a backdrop—volunteer or donate instead.
3. Overcrowding Famous Spots for the ‘Perfect Shot’
Why Locals Hate It:
Tourists blocking streets, monuments, and temples to take endless selfies.
Climbing or sitting on fragile historical landmarks for photos.
Disrupting everyday life—like standing in the middle of a busy market for a TikTok dance.
How to Avoid It:
Visit early in the morning or during off-peak times.
Be mindful of your surroundings—don’t block walkways or entrances.
Consider lesser-known locations for stunning, crowd-free photos.
4. Not Learning Basic Local Phrases
Why Locals Hate It:
Expecting everyone to speak English (even in small towns).
Getting frustrated with locals when they don’t understand.
Assuming loud talking will make people understand you better.
How to Avoid It:
Learn basic words like “hello,” “thank you,” and “please.”
Use translation apps like Google Translate for communication.
Be patient and polite if language barriers exist.
5. Littering and Disrespecting Nature
Why Locals Hate It:
Tourists leaving plastic bottles, food wrappers, and trash on beaches and hiking trails.
Ignoring “Leave No Trace” principles in national parks.
Feeding or disturbing wildlife in nature reserves.
How to Avoid It:
Dispose of waste properly or take it with you.
Avoid plastic waste by bringing reusable bottles and bags.
Respect wildlife—don’t touch, chase, or feed animals.
6. Being Loud and Obnoxious in Public Places
Why Locals Hate It:
Shouting in restaurants, public transport, or religious sites.
Playing music out loud on phones or Bluetooth speakers.
Drunken behavior in areas where drinking culture is more reserved (like Japan).
How to Avoid It:
Keep your voice at a respectful volume in public.
Use headphones instead of playing music on speakers.
Be aware of local norms for alcohol consumption.
7. Haggling Aggressively Over Small Amounts
Why Locals Hate It:
Bargaining too aggressively in places where prices are already fair.
Arguing over pennies when locals rely on tourism income.
Walking away rudely when negotiations don’t go your way.
How to Avoid It:
Understand when haggling is appropriate (markets vs. fixed-price stores).
Be respectful—negotiation should be light-hearted, not hostile.
Don’t haggle over small amounts—what’s cheap for you may be important income for a local vendor.
8. Treating Destinations Like a Personal Party Zone
Why Locals Hate It:
Getting drunk and disruptive in small, quiet towns.
Turning spiritual places (like Bali’s temples) into party zones.
Ignoring local laws on drinking and behavior.
How to Avoid It:
Respect the vibe of the destination—party in party cities, but be respectful elsewhere.
Drink responsibly and avoid causing trouble.
Follow local rules about alcohol consumption in public.
9. Not Tipping Where It’s Expected
Why Locals Hate It:
Tourists ignoring tipping customs in countries where it’s expected (like the U.S. or Mexico).
Assuming tipping isn’t necessary because it’s not common in their home country.
Leaving small or insulting tips for good service.
How to Avoid It:
Research local tipping customs before visiting.
Carry small change for tipping where needed.
If unsure, ask a local what’s appropriate.
10. Ignoring Local Rules and Signs
Why Locals Hate It:
Walking on protected sites (e.g., standing on coral reefs or ancient ruins).
Taking flash photography where it’s prohibited.
Ignoring safety warnings in national parks and dangerous areas.
How to Avoid It:
Follow posted rules and respect restricted areas.
Listen to local guides and authorities.
Understand why certain rules exist—they’re there for a reason.
11. Complaining About Local Food and Culture
Why Locals Hate It:
Saying, “This isn’t how we do it at home” when things are different.
Refusing to try local dishes and demanding Western food.
Expecting fast service in cultures with a slower, relaxed dining pace.
How to Avoid It:
Embrace local experiences—that’s why you’re traveling!
Be patient with different customs and service styles.
Try at least one authentic dish before sticking to familiar food.
12. Treating Locals Like Servants
Why Locals Hate It:
Being rude to hospitality workers, taxi drivers, and tour guides.
Snapping fingers at waiters or treating them disrespectfully.
Acting entitled because you’re spending money in their country.
How to Avoid It:
Be polite and say thank you in the local language.
Understand that not everyone speaks English—be patient.
Treat people how you’d like to be treated in your own country.
Final Thoughts
Travel should be about connection, not domination. When tourists adjust even slightly to local customs—whether it’s learning a few words, tipping appropriately, or simply observing how locals behave—it builds mutual respect. Small gestures go a long way in showing you’re not just passing through, but engaging thoughtfully.
Being a good guest isn’t complicated. It just means being self-aware, adaptable, and curious. Every country has its quirks, and that’s exactly what makes travel so enriching. When you choose to blend in rather than stand out for the wrong reasons, you often find deeper, more meaningful experiences.
Ultimately, the best travelers aren’t the ones who check off the most bucket list items—they’re the ones locals would actually welcome back. Be that traveler.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.