20 Travel Tips to Help You Mind Your Qs and Ps

The trip and the outcome could stress you out. These are the times when you’re most likely to make a social faux pas that could lead to a disaster or offend several people.

It would be best if you were a good host wherever you are going. Here are some travel tips.

Learn About the Place You’re Going

Each Country may have a different business culture. It’s worth learning about the culture before you go.

A firm handshake in countries such as Turkey is rude. China’s oldest citizens should be greeted first and then bow.

Learn the Language.

Although English is now the most widely used language in international business, your hosts will still be grateful that you took the time to learn some of their languages.

Dropping in a simple “Hello” or “Thank you” or “It was nice meeting you” will go a long way if it’s in a language familiar to your hosts.

No one is suggesting that you take a language class. Google Translate and other smartphone apps can be your best friend when you’re on business trips.

However, be careful with the language.

Urban legend says that Kennedy misspoke and that Berliners assumed he meant “I’m a jelly doughnut.” This confusion is because Berliners are known for their Berliner-made doughnuts.

The business etiquette lesson is: When you travel abroad, ensure you understand what you say.

Be There Early

Try to arrive at least a day before the business starts. This tip is part of travel etiquette that will allow you to learn more about the area and the people you visit.

Ask the concierge about hiring a guide who speaks your language and can show you around.

Keep it professional

There is a big difference between vacationing and traveling. While a work trip may seem more relaxing than regular work, it is only a temporary difference.

Research your host country if traveling abroad to find out appropriate professional conduct.

Learn how to greet people

Of course, there is the handshake example. It’s important to know how to address someone.

For example, in China, businesspeople are addressed by their title and family name.

Learn about Geography

Your hosts may appreciate your ability to speak some of their languages. But they will also love knowing where things are.

It would be helpful to know, for instance, that Brazil’s capital is Brasilia, while Sao Paolo, Brazil’s largest city, is Sao Paolo.

Keep an eye on the time.

It’s not enough to understand time zones. However, you will need to keep that in mind. It’s important to comprehend how time can be used in different cultures.

Japan has a 9 a.m. meeting. In Japan, punctuality is not as important, so don’t be offended if someone doesn’t show up on time.

Give praise, don’t criticize the food.

It’s the same as your mom’s old saying: If you don’t have anything to say, then don’t say anything. If their food is strange, be polite.

It’s a good idea to brush up on the cuisine and dining customs before going.

The Country deserves praise, but not criticism.

This is a supplement for rule number 7. Do not mention anything you dislike or find disappointing.

Wait for your hosts before you bring up the negative news.

Social Media: Be careful

This tip is an extension of the two previous ones. This is an extension of the previous two tips. You don’t want anything to do with your hosts, and you certainly don’t want anything to do with them.

You might also be in a country that bans Twitter and Facebook. So, show some respect and wait until your return to post about your trip.

Be curious

Pay attention to what your hosts tell you about the area you’re visiting. This is one of those travel etiquette tips. It’s good manners and good business. You will feel more comfortable speaking with people in your host country if you are more familiar with it.

Talking small can lead to greater things.

Keep the conversation light.

However, keep in mind that not all things are allowed in every Country.

For example, it may be inappropriate to discuss someone’s personal life in England. Keep it light on weather, food and current events.

Dress up

Although “business casual” may mean different things in different countries, being conservative and still looking professional is better.

This is what your teachers used to tell you on school trips: You represent the place you came from.

Pay Attention to Your Hands

Not only are handshakes different from one place to the next, but so is everything else. The same goes for hand gestures.

In Latin America, it isn’t nice to give someone a thumbs up. It does not mean “good job,” but “up yours.”

“Here’s my card.”

Another thing to learn: how to give and receive business cards.

For example, in Japan and China, you must present your card with both hands. The writing should face the person receiving the card. Experts recommend that your cards be printed in the language of the Country.

Let the Host Take Charge

If you take your family out to dinner, the one who invited everyone is responsible for paying. If your boss is going along, have him, or her pay the check. If you are not offered to pay, then you should.

Asking your fellow diners for a check division is fine, but asking the server to separate the checks is not okay.

Closing of the Deal

As with many other things on the list, negotiations will be handled differently in different locations. Americans who are used to closing deals quickly will need to slow down in countries like China or the U.K., where they will be discouraged by hard selling.

Keep the People Back Home in your thoughts.

Children might ask you if you brought anything if you return home with them.

Although your coworkers might not ask the same question as you, it is still interesting to think about them. You might get jealous that you were able to visit Australia during a severe East Coast winter.

Bring something back!

Remember to Thank Your Hosts

You just spent a week in another country with people who were not only willing to do business with you but also helped you navigate unfamiliar cultures.

You can send them a small thank you gift or card. It’s a simple gesture that can make a big difference when traveling for business.