Having Authentic Experience When Visiting Culturally Significant Sites Douglas Jenkins, October 29, 2021October 29, 2021 Facebook 0 Twitter 0 LinkedIn 0Shares It is so meaningful when you get to experience something authentic about the place you are visiting. You get to know their cultures through cultural, historical, or religious sites. However, you should also remember that there is real impact of overtourism where sacred and cultural sites are damaged. Hence, it is important for travelers to be more conscious about their habits of travel. Not to mention that culturally significant sites always be clear with their rules so it is a must to respect and follow them. Be culturally sensitive when visiting sites of significant It is a must to do a research prior your trip to a site of significant. At least, you know what to do and not to do during a visit in advance. Hence, you won’t make mistakes or offend the locals. And here are some tips for you to be more culturally sensitive and respectful when visiting sites of significant: Change your travel mindset Visiting a site of significant is like when you visit a house of a others. You don’t want to impost your presence to the point where the host feel offended. What you think right or wrong doesn’t matter because it is about their culture and tradition coming from their perspectives, not yours. Hence, always have a mindset of travel with a sense of wonder so you look at everything as if it were new. Think of it as a mystery you want to slowly revel in a meaningful way. Travel thoughtfully Thoughtful travel means you think before you act throughout the time you spend in your destination, especially when it is a site of significant. Hence, it is always a must to do research prior the trip, especially if you are not joining any organized group travel. If you have a local tour guide, always ask before doing something to avoid offending the locals. What you consider normal in your culture might be offensive in other cultures. Hence, always be mindful with your actions no matter how good your intention is. Visiting religious sites and festivals In sites of significant such as temples, church, mosques, synagogues, you need to follow the rules. For example, you should dress moderately and avoid any too revealing clothes if you want to enter those places. To avoid causing any offense, make sure to learn more and dive more into the culture. Always follow their lead without internal judgement and more with an open mind instead. Joining rituals and ceremonies In majority of countries around the world, rituals and ceremonies are mostly private and only for the local communities. It is rare for tourists or people outside of the community to be able to join unless with special permission. Even if you are allowed to join a ritual or ceremony, you need to follow strict rules. To do this respectfully, make sure to always listen with care with what your host advises you on local protocols and customs. Observe calmly with respect and an open mind. My Blog