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Today’s PrideNomad™ Quiz:

In today’s email:

Up Front: The Rise of Anti-Tourism

Consider This: Don’t Be a “Dumb Tourist”

Nomad Hack: Buy a Hotel Chain & Score Big!

UP FRONT:

The Rise of Anti-Tourism

Is this the beginning of a new trend? On July 6th protesters in Barcelona assaulted tourists with water pistols recently to protest the vast influx of tourism over the past couple of years.

Tourists are blamed for increased housing costs (up 68% over the past 10 years) and higher living costs.

This has been a huge travel year for Europe, bouncing back massively since Covid decimated all global tourism.

Almost 26 million visitors made an overnight stay in the Barcelona region in 2023, spending €12.75 billion ($13.8 billion USD). Tourism accounts for 15% of Barcelona’s GDP.

Certainly there needs to be a balance of tourism and lifestyle. When I lived in the Caribbean, it was a love-hate relationship with the tourists, who crammed our restaurants full, crowded our roads (and didn’t know how to drive on the other side of the road) and behaved poorly (think Spring Break in Ft. Lauderdale and Miami Beach).

Tourists fuel economies, but bad players hurt all of us. With that in mind, we prepared a little guide to being a “non-tourist”—which can make you loved, not tolerated. You’ll find it below.

There’s a growing trend to restrict mass tourism in Europe—from the proposed closure of the cruise terminal in Amsterdam to an initiative to stop short-term housing (AirBnB’s) in Barcelona starting in 2028 (see PrideNomad 120).

This may have a stinging effect on typical tourist activities, but as independent, longer-stay travelers, we may be less at risk.

If we can add value where we go, then we do well for tourists everywhere! Oh…and as a PrideNomad, I don’t like to be considered a tourist—I’d consider us more like “immersive visitors”.

What are your thoughts on this? Respond to today’s email and let us know!

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CONSIDER THIS:

How to NOT Be a Dumb-Ass Tourist

One of the best ways to turn a dream trip into a disaster is to look like a newbie tourist. Rip-off artists prey on these ignorant souls…and that’s how travel horror stories are born.

As a PrideNomad, we want to ensure that you won’t be one of those victims.

In addition, you’ll find that there are typically two prices when you travel. There’s the tourist price, and then there’s the local price. Wanna guess which one is more affordable?

As a PrideNomad, you’re a savvy traveler who wants to avoid being pegged as a tourist at all costs!

So…are you ready to travel like a pro and not stick out like a sore thumb? Here are some practical tips to help you blend in and be the best non-tourist you can be.

Dress the Part

Leave the loud, flashy outfits at home. Think neutral colors and classic styles. Look up what locals wear and try to match their vibe. Bright colors typically scream “tourist!”. No!!!

Read the News

Before you travel, read up on the country’s current events. Know who the leaders are and what’s happening. This makes you look informed and helps you join in conversations. It’s a small effort that goes a long way.

Learn Key Phrases

Learn a few key phrases in the local language. A simple "hello," "please," and "thank you" can go a long way. It shows respect and can make locals more willing to help you out. I lived in Bangkok for 10 years and knew about 10 words.

When you can pronounce Hello and thank you like a local (with proper pronunciation), they think you speak fluently and love you. Unfortunately, many tourists mangle foreign languages and act as if the locals are stupid when their lousy pronunciation is not understood.

Just be sincere. If you demonstrate a sincere interest in learning and applying the language, you almost always make friends.

I discovered this in Paris many years ago. My French wasn’t fluent (by a long shot). But I love the language and wanted to do it right. And everyone helped me with pronunciation and more. They felt respected and appreciated, and that’s all any of us wants, right?

Keep Your Voice Down

We all get excited, but in many places, speaking loudly is considered rude. Try to match the volume of the locals around you. Years ago I was at a taverna in Mykonos with my boyfriend. Next to us was a very gregarious group from another English-speaking country (we’ll leave their country nameless for now). They were loud and annoying and didn’t leave a great impression. We were so embarrassed for them that we reminded the waiter that we were NOT from that country (more on being an ambassador later).

Ditch the Giant Map

Put away your phone and memorize key directions before heading out. If you get lost, step into a café to check your bearings discreetly. Nothing screams tourist more than someone standing on a street corner looking at a map, travel guide, or iPhone map.

Embrace Local Dining Customs

Try the local specialties and avoid asking for things that might not be common there, like ketchup or ice in your drinks. Sure, you can go to Maccas (McDonalds’ nickname in Australia), but for the love of everything holy, aren’t you traveling to experience the world?

That said, when I was younger, I made it a point to try Burger King in every country I visited and experience the difference. Luckily, I grew out of it.

Be Mindful of Tipping

In some places, it's expected, while in others, it can be seen as rude. Do a bit of research before you go. Further, be sure to know what the normal gratuity would be.

Respect Local Dress Codes

Especially at religious sites, always carry a scarf or shawl to cover up if needed. Many Asian holy sites require that your legs be covered. Do your research.

Show Genuine Interest

Be curious and ask questions. Show genuine interest in the local culture and people. This can help you make friends and learn more about the place you're visiting. You’ll make lifetime friends this way and you’ll have a far more immersive and fulfilling experience.

Use Public Transport

Blend in with the locals by using public transport. It's a great way to see how people live and can save you money. Don’t be afraid of it. Do your research before you travel. For example, in Bangkok, the BTS and MRT are the best ways to get around (motorbike taxis are my favorite for short trips). In Pattaya (Thailand), you’ll want to grab the “baht bus” where you may end up standing in the back of a pickup truck for 20 baht (60 cents USD). It’s fun and efficient.

Be Street Smart

Do some research before you go. Know the common tricks and how to avoid them. For example, always know the usual price for a taxi ride before you get in (in Bangkok, for instance, insist that the taxi driver use the meter—if they won’t, get out of the cab). Being informed can save you a lot of trouble.

Be Aware of Local Scams

Do your homework so you know what to watch out for. If something feels off, trust your gut and walk away. That said, be open enough to give someone a chance.

One of the most memorable days of my travel history happened in Kathmandu when my Mom and I were approached by a young man. Our spidey senses were on high-alert, but it turned out that he wanted to practice his English, and he gave us the most incredible tour and experience, including showing us his school, his shop and introducing us to his family, where we all danced together on the roof. It was magic.

Use Humor to Disarm Awkward Situations

If you mess up, laugh at yourself. Saying, “I’m a silly tourist, can you help me?” can make people more willing to assist you. It breaks the ice and shows you’re open to learning. People will laugh with you, not at you. Remember, you’re not perfect, so have fun with your imperfect humanity.

Remember You're a Guest and an Ambassador

Keep in mind that you’re representing more than just yourself. How you act reflects on travelers everywhere. Be a good guest, follow local customs, and be respectful and considerate. Think of it as visiting a friend’s house—be polite and considerate (give up your seat on the bus to elders and moms for instance!).

So there you have it. Travel smart, stay fabulous, and enjoy every moment of your journey. The world is your runway – strut it with style, sass, and savvy

We’d welcome YOUR contribution to the PrideNomad Letter! Just reply to the newsletter with your content idea and you could score your own PrideNomad Contributor T-Shirt!

NOMAD HACK:

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It only takes a single share purchase to qualify (other hotel chains offer similar incentives, but the buy-ins are significantly larger).

Accor’s brands include Fairmont, Pullman, Sofitel, Novotel, Ibis, Raffles, Delano, Mondrian, Mercure and more.

Unfortunately, your complimentary Gold status lasts only a year (then you have to prequalify), but for about $42, it’s worth every penny. Gold status gets you:

• Early check-in or late check-out, on request and based on availability

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• Welcome drink (coffee, soft drinks, beer or wine)

• Guaranteed room up to 3 days before arrival

PrideNomad loves Accor—perhaps it’s because the Pullman in Sydney has a rainbow permanently painted on its driveway, or because during World Pride the entire front of the building was a giant rainbow. Or is it because the Pullman in Auckland, NZ gave me a teddy bear (that might do it!), or because the Novotel in Perth, Australia would make me the most delicious energy balls every time I stayed there (and gave me the recipe!)?

Coming Soon

As PrideNomads, choosing destinations that align with our values and offer security is crucial for a fulfilling and enriching travel experience. Whether you’re exploring the top-ranked nations or considering travel within the U.S. or Asia, be aware of any potential risks. We’re developing some travel tools that will help you “know before you go” and craft incredible itineraries in some of the most welcoming LGBTQ+ countries on the planet.

It’s coming soon!

Quiz Answer

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