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How not to be the annoying Gringo…

By info ⋅ April 14, 2008 ⋅  Email this post ⋅  Print this post ⋅ Post a comment

Here is a quick list for you to check that will help you know if you are in fact that ¨annoying Gringo¨.

1. Avoid calling the people from any country locals, it makes them feel like tribesman.

2. Don´t claim North America to be a unique continent. Latin Americans are taught that South and North America make up one continent, not two.

3. When using public transportation, try to keep your voice down.

4. Make an effort to speak the local language, and at the very least the basics such as hello and thank you.

5. Don´t EXPECT people to speak your language, you are no longer home.

6. Don´t leave small change as a tip. It is just as insulting as back home, maybe even more as you will come across as thinking that your small tip is actually a lot for them and therefore makes you a good person.

7. Don´t ask silly questions like Do you guys have McDonald’s here? Or How long have you guys had Nike?

8. Don´t refer to a person´s country as being a Third World Country, even though it can be considered that in most countries. It´s just not a great conversation starter.

9. Be sensitive to the issues that are close to a nation´s heart.

10. Avoid binge drinking at all costs.