Every country has its own “normal.” And nothing exposes that faster than travelespecially when you accidentally commit a cultural faceplant
like it’s an Olympic sport. In a lively online travel discussion, frequent flyers and former expats compared notes on the biggest “please don’t do that”
moments they’ve seen visitors make. Some are about manners. Others are about laws. All of them are about one simple idea: respect.
To keep this list grounded in reality (and not in that one cousin’s “I heard on TikTok…”), the tips below reflect widely documented etiquette and local-law
guidance from established U.S.-based travel and government resourcesthen rewritten into practical, human language you can actually use on the ground.
The goal isn’t to make you anxious. It’s to make you smooth.
Why these “no-nos” matter (beyond being polite)
Cultural missteps aren’t always “offensive”sometimes they’re just exhausting for locals who deal with the same tourist behavior all day. And legal missteps?
Those can turn a vacation into a courtroom cameo. Think of this guide as a travel superpower: you’ll blend in better, get better service, and avoid the kind of
story that begins with “So anyway, the embassy called…”
30 Big Travel No-Nos by Country (and what to do instead)
1) Japan Don’t tip like you’re paying a ransom
In much of Japan, tipping can feel confusing at best and rude at worst. Exceptional service is often viewed as part of the job, not something that needs a
cash “bonus.” Do instead: say thank you, be gracious, and follow the house’s normal payment process.
2) Japan Don’t turn trains into your personal podcast studio
Public transit is a quiet, shared space. Loud conversations, speakerphone calls, or “just one quick FaceTime” reads as inconsiderate. Do instead:
keep your voice low, take calls outside stations when possible, and treat the train like a library with better fashion.
3) Japan Don’t create obstacles in high-traffic places
Stations, sidewalks, and escalators are choreographed chaos. Stopping dead center to re-check your map can jam the whole system. Do instead:
step to the side, regroup, then re-enter the flow like you meant to be there.
4) Japan Don’t commit chopstick crimes at the dinner table
Two big ones: don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice, and don’t pass food chopstick-to-chopstick. Both are strongly associated with funeral rituals.
Do instead: rest chopsticks on the holder (or the edge of your plate), and use serving utensils when offered.
5) Japan Don’t camp out in quick-serve restaurants
Ramen shops, conveyor-belt sushi, and similar spots are designed for fast turnover. Lingering long after you’re done can be a silent inconvenience.
Do instead: enjoy your meal, pay, and free up the seatthen loiter somewhere that sells coffee and vibes.
6) Japan Don’t assume your U.S. prescription is automatically legal
Some medications that are routine in the U.S. can be restricted or illegal elsewhere. Japan is known for strict rules on certain stimulants and other drugs.
Do instead: check rules well before departure, carry meds in original packaging, and follow official import guidance.
7) Thailand Don’t touch someone’s head (even playfully)
The head is culturally significant in Thailand, and touching it can be intrusive or disrespectfulespecially with children. Do instead:
keep your hands to yourself, and show warmth with a smile and polite body language.
8) Thailand Don’t point your feet at people (or sacred objects)
Feet are considered the lowest part of the body, so pointing them at someoneor at Buddha imagescan be deeply rude. Do instead:
sit with feet tucked back or to the side, and avoid propping your feet on chairs or temple structures.
9) Thailand Don’t joke about the monarchy
This one isn’t just etiquettethere are serious laws around insulting or defaming the monarchy. Even “I’m just kidding” can go very badly.
Do instead: keep commentary off the table entirely and stay neutral in public conversations.
10) Singapore Don’t play games with gum rules
Singapore has famously strict regulations around chewing gum sales/importand it’s not the place to test boundaries for a “funny story.”
Do instead: follow posted rules, don’t bring what you shouldn’t, and save your rebellious phase for trying a new vegetable.
11) Singapore Don’t underestimate cleanliness laws and fines
The city’s clean reputation is not an accident; enforcement can be real. Littering, spitting, and other public messes are treated seriously.
Do instead: dispose of trash properly, follow signage, and assume that “small” violations aren’t invisible.
12) United Arab Emirates Don’t photograph people without consent
In the UAE, privacy laws are strict, and photographing strangers (then posting it) can trigger major trouble. Do instead:
ask permission, be cautious with crowds, and when in doubt, keep your camera pointed at architecturenot humans.
13) United Arab Emirates Don’t photograph sensitive sites
Military facilities, certain government buildings, airports, and marked areas can be off-limits for photography. Do instead:
watch for signs, respect barriers, and treat “no photos” like a final answer, not a negotiation opener.
14) United Arab Emirates Don’t treat public spaces like beach clubs
Modest dress and public-decency expectations are stronger than in many U.S. cities, especially in malls, markets, and religious sites.
Do instead: pack light layers, cover shoulders/knees when appropriate, and keep swimwear at beaches/pools.
15) United Arab Emirates Don’t mix alcohol, swearing, and “bold gestures”
Public intoxication and disorderly conduct can carry serious consequences. Add profanity or obscene gestures, and you’ve upgraded your problem.
Do instead: drink only where allowed, stay in control, and keep your frustration in your inside voice.
16) India Don’t use your left hand for eating
In many settings, the left hand is considered unclean. Using it to handle food can be uncomfortable for hosts or tablemates.
Do instead: eat with your right hand (or use utensils if that’s the norm at your table) and watch what locals do first.
17) India Don’t share food or drinks that touched your lips
A common etiquette rule: don’t take a bite, then offer the rest to someone else, and don’t pass around a cup you’ve already sipped from.
Do instead: offer untouched portions, pour into a clean cup, or ask what’s preferred.
18) India Don’t treat temples like tourist photo sets
Many religious sites expect modest clothing, shoe removal, and respectful behavior. Do instead:
carry socks and a light scarf, keep your voice down, and follow posted rulesespecially around photography.
19) Italy Don’t ignore church dress codes
Churches and basilicas are living religious spaces, not just pretty backdrops. Bare shoulders, short shorts, and hats may get you turned away.
Do instead: cover shoulders and knees, remove hats indoors, and carry a lightweight wrap for “surprise cathedral” moments.
20) Italy Don’t order cappuccino at 4 p.m. and expect applause
Italian coffee culture has strong opinions. Cappuccino is typically a morning drink, and excessive customization can read as clueless.
Do instead: order like a localespresso, macchiato, or caffèespecially after lunch.
21) Italy Don’t demand substitutions like you’re rewriting the menu
In many Italian restaurants, the dish is the dish. Endless swaps can be perceived as disrespectful to the kitchen’s intent.
Do instead: choose a different menu item, politely ask about allergies, and save the “make it keto” storyline for home.
22) France Don’t skip “bonjour” when entering a shop or café
In Franceespecially Parisgreetings matter. Walking in and launching straight into demands can feel brusque.
Do instead: start with “Bonjour” (or “Bonsoir”), then ask your question. It’s a tiny word with huge magical powers.
23) France Don’t call the server “Garçon!”
It’s a classic tourist mistake and can come off rude. Do instead: make eye contact, say “Excusez-moi,”
or use “Madame/Monsieur” when appropriate. Calm confidence beats volume every time.
24) France Don’t tip like you’re still in the U.S.
French tipping norms are different, and service charges are often included. Do instead:
round up modestly or leave small change for excellent servicewithout turning every bill into a dramatic gratuity finale.
25) Indonesia Don’t treat drug laws like vacation scenery
Indonesia’s penalties for drugs can be severeup to very long prison sentences and even the death penalty for serious offenses.
That includes cannabis, “edibles,” and products containing THC or CBD. Do instead: don’t carry, buy, or experimentperiod.
26) Indonesia Don’t assume your U.S.-legal meds are automatically allowed
Some prescriptions (including certain ADHD medications) can be illegal or tightly controlled. Do instead:
verify what you can bring, keep documentation, and avoid “borrowing” meds from friends while abroad.
27) Mexico Don’t drink tap water if safety is uncertain
In many destinations, tap water may not be treated to the same standards you’re used to, which can lead to illness fast.
Do instead: stick to sealed bottled beverages and safe water sources, and use the same logic for brushing teeth.
28) Mexico Don’t assume ice is safe “because it’s fancy”
Ice is only as safe as the water it’s made from. In higher-risk areas, it may be made with tap water.
Do instead: skip ice unless you’re confident it came from safe wateryour stomach will thank you with fewer dramatic speeches.
29) Egypt Don’t buy, take, or “souvenir” antiquities
Removing antiquities, damaging historic sites, or buying artifacts can be illegal and lead to prosecution.
Do instead: admire, photograph where allowed, and support legitimate museums and licensed shops.
30) Australia (Great Barrier Reef) Don’t touch or stand on coral
Coral isn’t a rock; it’s living and fragile. Touching, kicking, or standing on coral can damage or kill it.
Do instead: keep a safe distance, practice good buoyancy if diving/snorkeling, and treat reefs like the natural wonders they are.
Quick recovery kit: what to do if you mess up anyway
- Apologize briefly (no long speechkeep it simple and sincere).
- Correct immediately (step aside, lower your voice, cover up, stop the behavior).
- Don’t argue “but in America…” (that sentence has never rescued anyone).
- Watch locals and copy the rhythm: volume, pacing, spacing, and gestures.
- Assume good faithmost people appreciate effort more than perfection.
Bonus: 500-ish words of real-world experiences from the “No-No” hall of fame
One traveler in the online thread described tipping in Japan like tossing a banana peel onto a spotless floor: the gesture isn’t “mean,” it’s just wildly out of
place. They left cash on the table after a meal, felt proud of their generosity, and walked outonly to hear hurried footsteps behind them. The staff member
returned the money with the urgency of someone handing back a lost passport. The lesson wasn’t “don’t be nice.” It was “be nice in the way the place
understands.” A warm thank-you and polite departure landed better than extra bills.
Another commenter admitted they learned the “step aside” rule in Japan the hard way: they stopped at the top of a station staircase to check directionsright in the
centercreating a human dam. No one yelled. No one shoved. It was worse: a quiet, efficient flow of people started detouring around them with the silent patience of
commuters who have seen this movie a thousand times. Now their personal policy is “navigate like you’re a bicycle lane”: pull over before you park your body.
In Thailand, someone wrote about the moment they realized their feet were “talking.” They were sitting casually with one ankle on the opposite knee, the sole of
their shoe aimed like a laser pointer at a temple statue. A friend gently nudged them and whispered the cultural context. The traveler adjusted immediately, but the
bigger takeaway stuck: body language is language. You can be quiet and still say something loud with posture, pointing, or gestures.
France got its own mini-anthem in the thread: “Say bonjour.” One poster described walking into a small bakery, pointing at a pastry, and asking in English if it had
nuts. The staff answeredpolitely, evenbut the vibe stayed cool. The next day they repeated the same question, but started with “Bonjour, Madame” and a smile.
They got a warmer response plus an extra suggestion (“Try this one insteadno nuts.”). Same words, different doorway. In places where greetings are a social ritual,
skipping them feels like barging into someone’s house without knocking.
And then there’s the travel stomach saga. A contributor confessed they’d been “so careful” in Mexicountil they accepted a drink loaded with ice at a busy outdoor
bar. Cue the kind of digestive drama that makes you memorize bathroom tile patterns. After that, they used a simple rule: sealed drinks, cautious ice, and “peel it or
skip it” for produce in higher-risk settings. Not glamorous, but neither is missing your snorkeling day because your gut is writing angry reviews.
Finally, the reef story: a snorkeler in Australia said they never meant to touch coralthey just got tired and tried to stand for a second. A guide corrected them
quickly, explaining that even light contact can harm living coral structures. The traveler felt embarrassed… then grateful. Now they’re the annoying friend (in the best
way) who reminds everyone to float, kick gently, and keep their fins away from the reef. Sometimes the best souvenir is leaving the place exactly as you found it.
