No matter where you are going on vacation, looking like a tourist can be a liability. Tourists tend to be targets for everything from being mocked by the locals to being mugged. Even if you do not care what people think of you, there is still a safety issue. Tourists do and wear things that make them easy targets for thieves and pickpockets. Here is how you can avoid potential problems as a tourist.
Don't carry a map or guidebook. If you are standing on a sidewalk engrossed in a map, you are not paying attention to your surroundings. Most locals do not need maps in their towns. Keep a map with you for emergencies, but don't look at it while sightseeing. Know your route in advance.
Know where you are going. Planning ahead is effective. Make a list of the places you want to see, and how to get from each destination to the next. Ask the hotel front desk for help. Keep things simple. If you are using public transit, have your bus numbers, trains, stops and transfer information written down. If the directions are complicated, or there are too many stops, take a cab.
Unless you dress like a tourist at home, a vacation is not the time to start. Do not wear bright flashy clothing. This is not the time to wear short-shorts and halter tops, if they are not age appropriate. Socks and sandals are never appropriate. Go to any area where tourists and locals mingle, and you will be able to spot the tourists immediately. Do your homework and wear appropriate attire for your destination. Being in a city that is close to a beach does not give you the right to wear beachwear everywhere. Dress fashionably.
Do not wear a fanny pack.
Do not carry a backpack unless you are a student. If you have to carry a purse, carry a small purse or a tote bag.
Be confident. Do your best to blend in with the crowd. Follow the flow of traffic. Do not stop to gawk. There is nothing more annoying than a pedestrian pile up because of a street performer or a pretty building. Plus usually locals ignore these things anyway. If the crowd is crossing the street, cross. If you are on a subway, know what stop is yours and allow yourself enough time to make it to a door before the train reaches that stop. Walk briskly down the sidewalks and do not impede foot traffic.
