Being a wise traveler does not entail special skills to be one. All you need to know is to have an idea on what to do when you are on a foreign place.
Here are some tips on how to become a wise traveler:
1. Learn about the culture and tradition before leaving
This is very important especially if you are going to a place where the culture, tradition and language are quite different from what you are used to. The reason behind learning everything about the place and its people is to help yourself get prepared and be acquainted as what to expect when you arrive. Learn about 2-3 words in the native tongue, at least people will see how sincere you are about mingling with them. This can lead to building good relationship with the natives.
2. Always bring a map with you
You will never get lost if you bring along with you a map. In this way, you do not need to ask directions from anybody and look lost in the process. You can have a map printed out at home or in your office or you can purchase a map before you leave your country. Make sure you have at least 2-3 maps with you, just in case you will lose one in the process. Be familiar with the different legends or signs on a map such as the symbol for a market, church, shopping mall, airport, etc. This will make reading the map a lot easier.
3. Never look like you do not know about the place
This is a good tip especially for those who just visit the place for the first time. Be sure that you do look as if it has been your 10th time visiting. Why? This is to avoid people to take advantage of you, approach you telling you this and that and eventually you will fall for their trap. You do not want ending up losing money to a total stranger, right? So act as if you are a resident of the place or have been visiting the area for a lot of times already.
4. Do not trust anybody
Rule of thumb, it is always a must that you do not trust anybody especially at a foreign country wherein you do not know anybody. There might some who looked okay and can be trusted but you never know that they are the most notorious criminal in town. Just for your security sake, never dwell on the idea of making friends with people and be too trusty at the end.
