Local Customs
When visiting countries outside of the EU, we ask that our customers recognise that certain social and cultural differences do exist. Although these differences can enhance your holiday experience, we would ask that you use discretion and seek our advice before travelling.
Dress To Impress
We all enjoy wearing our shorts and bikinis on holiday but what we wear in public in certain locations could be vital. Although it is no longer necessary to don a sari in India or a yashmak in Tunisia, it's still important not to offend locals, wherever you are, by wearing next to nothing walking down the street.
Food For Thought
Trying different foods is all part of the fun of being abroad. However, many countries, particularly those in the Far East, enjoy a kind of cuisine that tourists may consider highly inappropriate or offensive. When visiting such a country it is important to remember that you are a guest and should try not to offend anyone for doing something that they regard as perfectly normal.
Actions Speak A Thousand Words
There can be many differences between our gestures and body language and those from a country abroad. If you give the thumbs up in Saudi Arabia it won't go down too well - it's like giving someone two fingers over here. And things can get very confusing if you nod your head at people in Greece, Turkey or Bulgaria, as to some this actually means no and a shake of the head means yes!
Direct Holidays Team Tip
Take some time to learn some of the local language - even just a few sentences from a phrase book will show that you've made some effort. Most people are normally friendly and welcoming as long as they're given the right signals.
