What Makes a Gracious Respectful Tourist - My Recent Experience in Bali

By Michael J Griffin aided by AI

During Covid and post-Covid I traveled to holiday in Bali – what a difference in serenity and harmony between the two trips. By the way…my first trip to Bali was way back in 1978 when things were a lot quieter! Returning to Bali in post-Covid January, I experienced the return of the disruptive tourist in Bali and can empathize with the local Balinese anger and the many press reports calling out very visible tourists who consciously ignore local values and customs in the normally harmonious island of Bali.

The arrogance of some tourists I observed was normally found in the disrespect for places of worship and the reckless driving of helmetless tourists on motorbikes weaving/speeding in and out of local traffic. I sense the attitudes of these callous tourists in Bali to be rooted in a “superiority complex” that states he/she knows best, and “I am not accountable to the culture, customs, and rules of Bali.” The second attitude is “It can’t happen to me” in terms of having a vehicle accident or getting fined or arrested for indecent, reckless, or obnoxious behaviour. The third attitude is just one of selfish ignorance not taking the time to research and learn about the Balinese culture and how one might to adapt their own behaviour while in another culture different than their own. These three attitudes make for win-lose cross-cultural relationships and inspire anger and racism among the host country locals.

I put together a list of what characteristics make for a respectful tourist who visits a country or region different from their own native land. Give them a read and share them with your family members next time you are ready to take a trip overseas. How many key actions did you do before and during your last trip?

A respectful global tourist is someone who understands and appreciates the local culture and customs of the places they visit. They are mindful of the impact their presence, behaviors, and cultural biases/ baggage has on the environment, economy, community and even individual interactions with the locals. Here are some of the characteristics, attitudes, and behaviours of a respectful global tourist:

1. They respect local customs and traditions and make an effort to learn about them before arriving. When in country, they avoid making assumptions or imposing their own cultural values on others.

2. A respectful world traveler approaches new experiences with humility, recognizing that they are guests in other people's communities and homes. They seek to learn from their experiences rather than impose their own worldview.

3. They dress appropriately for the culture and climate of the destination.

4. They make an effort to speak the local language or at least learn basic phrases like thank you and good day.

5. They are mindful that they are an ambassador of their own country and take efforts to build healthy relational bridges between cultures.

6. A respectful world traveler is able to put themselves in host country people's shoes and understand their perspectives and experiences. They listen carefully and try to understand the needs and concerns of the people they interact with.

7. They smile a lot and are gracious when interacting with locals. No need to be paranoid.

8. They are open-minded and ask questions rather than being judgemental.

9. A respectful world traveler is grateful for the opportunities they have to explore and learn from different cultures. They express appreciation for the hospitality and kindness of the people they encounter on their travels.

10. A respectful world traveler is adaptable and flexible, able to navigate unexpected situations and challenges with grace and patience. They are able to embrace the unpredictability and spontaneity of travel with a sense of adventure and curiosity and not continually complaining about local conditions.

11. They are mindful of their impact on the environment and take steps to reduce waste, conserve resources, and respect wildlife.

12. They support the local economy by shopping at local markets and eating at locally-owned restaurants.

13. They are courteous to locals, especially service staff and other fellow tourists.

14. They follow all rules and regulations, including those related to cultural and religious practices.

15. They refrain from taking part in activities that are harmful or exploitative to people or animals.

16. They educate themselves about the history and current events of the place they are visiting to gain a deeper understanding of the culture.

17. They leave the destination better than they found it by participating in responsible tourism practices that create well-being and trust between cultures.

18. And don’t forget to have fun during your holiday!!

Wow! Eighteen practices of a respectful global tourist. Learn them and better enjoy your global travels! Be a gracious ambassador of your country when you travel and inspire the locals with your good respectful behaviours to create trust and collaboration across cultures!

Michael J Griffin
Expat and World Traveller for +40 years
Cross Cultural Trainer