Do’s and Don’ts of travelling in the Far East

When travelling, it is essential to be aware of the cultures we are about to visit. Travel is about expanding the mind and understanding the significance of the world’s cultural diversity, as much as it is about relaxing and having fun. So it is important to be aware of the customs and traditions of a particular region. By doing this we respect the locals, and provide ourselves with an enriching holiday experience. Here are a few Do’s and Don’t s for travelling in the Far East:

DONT'S

Don’t loose face or cause others to loose face in public

Saving face is an important concept in the Asian community, so do not become angry, force money, wheedle or insist on locals, otherwise you could cause someone great shame and embarrassment in public. So remember during your excursions that dignity, honour and reputation are extremely important in the Asian community, and conduct yourself respectfully towards the locals.  

Don’t touch or disrespect people’s heads

The head is regarded as a sacred place in most Asian countries, especially countries where Buddhism is widely practised, because Buddhists believe the head is where the spirit exists. Avoid causing offense by not touching the heads of adults, or even children.

Don’t use your left hand to eat or touch someone

In most countries in the Far East, the left hand is considered unclean and reserved for tasks like using the toilet, so remember when eating, greeting or touching people, use both hands or your right hand.

Don’t use your feet to point

Whilst heads are considered the most sacred place of the body, feet are considered the dirtiest and least sacred so do not use your feet to point or raise them above someone’s head.

DO'S

Do negotiate on everything

From your taxi ride, tuk-tuk- fare to the vast amount of treasures found in various street stalls, when in Asia learn to negotiate on everything. Vendors and salespeople will hike prices up when they realise you are a tourist. However when negotiating be respectful and do not cause the sales person to loose face.

When visiting temples and pagodas, keep arms and legs covered

When visiting the Far East, especially areas in South East Asia, it is important to dress modestly. When visiting sacred places, keep you arms and legs covered, especially the shoulders. It is extremely disrespectful to show up to these places with little clothing.

Take your shoes off when going indoors

It is very important to take off one’s shoes when entering someone’s home. In Asian culture’s it is important to take off one’s shoes because it signifies being aware of stepping into someone’s private space, but it also prevents dirt from the outside entering into someone’s home.

Bend slightly when greeting elders

A slight bow in places like China is not commonly practiced, but it is ideal and beneficial.

Ask before taking photographs of people and certain places

Many people in South-East Asia, especially in small villages, do not like having their pictures taken, this also applies to inside temples and holy places, for instance do not photograph someone praying without their permission. In places like Cambodia and Vietnam avoid taking pictures of military institutions, such a mistake could get you arrested.

If this has inspired you to travel to the Far East, call one of our Travel Advisors on 020 7843 3531. Alternatively, you can visit our website, request a brochure, or enquire online here.