When you travel, travel etiquette, the unwritten rules of how to behave respectfully in foreign places. Also known as cultural respect, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about being aware. You don’t need to speak the language fluently or bow correctly in every country, but skipping basic customs can ruin your experience—and someone else’s day.
It’s not just about tipping customs, how and when to give money to service workers. In some Caribbean resorts, staff rely on tips because their wages are low—even if your package says "all-inclusive." In others, tipping is seen as insulting. Then there’s resort rules, the hidden policies about alcohol, dress codes, and guest behavior. Many people get surprised when they’re told they can’t drink after 10 p.m. or that bringing outside food to the beach isn’t allowed. These aren’t arbitrary; they’re tied to local laws, safety, or environmental protection.
And then there’s local traditions, the everyday rituals that shape how people live and welcome visitors. In some places, you take off your shoes before entering a home. In others, you never point with your feet. In the Caribbean, greeting someone with a smile and a simple "Good morning" matters more than you think. Ignoring these things doesn’t make you a bad person—it just makes you stand out for the wrong reasons.
You’ll find posts here that cut through the noise. No generic advice like "be polite." Instead, you’ll see real examples: why you shouldn’t tip at all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica but should in Cuba, why some beaches ban alcohol not because they’re uptight but because of turtle nesting season, and how a simple gesture—like asking permission before taking a photo of a vendor—can turn a transaction into a connection.
These aren’t rules to follow blindly. They’re clues to help you travel like someone who belongs, even if just for a few days. Whether you’re packing for a weekend in Barbados or planning a month-long trip through the islands, getting the small stuff right means you’ll be welcomed back—not just tolerated.
Cancelling a holiday at the last minute can feel rude, but the etiquette hinges on reasons, cultural norms, and who’s affected. Learn the impact, costs, and graceful steps to avoid burning bridges.
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