"TMFINR" How to become invisible as tourist.

Being American is funny internationally (most people aren't fond of Americans), so I am aware of the fact that I may or may not be the only Black American woman in that space, often there are other Americans but they are usually Caucasian. Because of this, I have learned ways to camouflage myself as a solo traveler, as best as I can.

Why is it bad to stand out?

First, it looks disrespectful. Americans are loud, it is what it is. It's the truth. But being oblivious to your surroundings shows that you have not bothered to learn local customs and you lack etiquette. There is no reason one should be able to hear your conversation across the restaurant, no matter how much you enjoy the service from the staff. This will make you stand out to other patrons, and I get it when you are black, that happens anyway. But you don't want to exaggerate that, plus overseas (in my experience) the wait staff are nicer to Black Americans. It could be because they pity us. Also standing out makes you a prime suspect for scams. Looking like you are clearly on vacation and are just eager to drink, makes you look like flashing money. Blending in allows you to move like you have been there for a while and it makes your trip more enjoyable overall.

Do your research

Should be self-explanatory but ever since "No Child, Left Behind" hit the streets people do not read anymore. Stop traveling off vibes and TikTok. Not doing any of the logistic work necessary to see if it's even feasible to go to a destination is Stupid. Research would save a lot of hassle. I hate when I am in another country where the language is not English, and I see somebody (usually there are from America and America Sr. (UK)) getting mad and being rude when the service staff do not speak English. Countries that are tourist attractions understand that visitors may or may not speak the language, but they will be more willing to assist you if you show that you took some effort to try and communicate. Learning basic phrases will save you a lot of hassle. Also learning what types of scams to avoid will help you. (IE The “bracelet” trick. Common in South and Latin America. Where an individual- usually a child distracting will slide a bracelet onto your wrist and then demand payment.)

Be polite — and be mindful of your body language.

Americans are rude on vacation. Entitled, impatient, obnoxious, and a plethora of other words. Just because something seems perfectly fine at home doesn’t mean it'll be okay — or safe — to behave the same way somewhere else. Even stuff as simple as hand gestures may be considered rude.

Dress Appropriately.

• How people dress varies from country to country, but the basic rule of thumb for how to avoid looking like a tourist when you travel is: if the locals don’t wear it, you shouldn’t either. Simple. It's okay to be fashionable, but understand where you are going.

• Dress for the climate you’re visiting. The same goes for the plane ride. Dress for where you are going, not where you are leaving.

• If traveling to a conservative country, avoid wearing shorts or tank tops. Bring a headscarf or cover-up if that’s common in the country you’re visiting, or if you plan to bring to visit religious sites including temples, mosques, or churches.

• Avoid bringing expensive clothing, jewelry, or flashy, and avoid looking at your phone, if you do not know where you are going.

Be aware of your surroundings

• Unless you frequent a place often (if so then this blog is moot) you’ll no doubt be visiting at least a few major tourist attractions in an unfamiliar area while traveling. Unfortunately, these can be hotspots for pickpocketing and theft.

• Secure your belongings, particularly in busy areas (if you want to know my personal favorites- https://www.amazon.com/shop/breeelaine/list/12KFNCXZRZ4PN?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_aipsfbreeelaine_7ZPSWH4P245N6ZHFZSHY

• Avoid getting visibly and publicly drunk. It annoys the locals and might make you a target for theft.

FAKE IT UNTIL YOU MAKE IT.

Look like you know where you are going. Downloading your route on google maps before you leave makes you look experienced. It also helps you gauge your path, along the way you might see a shop or a place you would have overlooked if you spent your entire time looking at your phone. While you should avoid people who seem too eager to help you, locals are great guides. Most are willing to help nice tourists.

Eat like a local.

Self-explanatory. Also why are you overseas eating Little Caesar's pizza? I give fast food a pass but that should be last minute we have been on excursions and need to feed the liquor options.

Travel like a local.

I did this in London and only spent $10 a day getting around, Denmark was $8 and Instanbul was $8. Using public transportation (like buses, trains, and subways) will not only you save money on cabs, but you’ll also get a more authentic experience of the city or town you’re visiting. However, do your research to ensure public transport t is a safe option. If traveling at night or alone, taxis may be best.

Lastly- Don’t be afraid to ask questions

You won't know if you don't ask. Learning from the locals is one of the best things about traveling. Locals love to talk about their culture and can provide invaluable insights into the area you’re visiting. I haven't had an English-speaking Uber driver that wasn't willing to give me a free history lesson.

Above all else have fun. If you happen to look like a tourist- oh well. The key is to avoid extra attention but don't be a prude. Adapt and have fun.