As they say, “When in Rome…” But what does it mean to “do as the Romans do”? Quite literally, the phrase means that it is advisable to follow the customs and conventions of the area you are visiting.

When visiting a new place, considering the culture is just as important as the climate. I got to tour Italy as a chaperone on a high school trip a couple of years ago. I gained some insights, but no one could confuse me for a local. For the inside scoop on how to act like an Italian, we went to an expert.

Introducing Steve Perillo, CEO, President, and third-generation family owner of Perillo Tours, America’s leading tour company to Italy. Steve’s such an expert on Italy that he can tell you the average temperature on a given day in any region. Here are more than a few tips for acting like a local in Italy, according to Steve.

10 Best Ways To Avoid Looking Like a Tourist in Italy

1. Dress Nicely

Italian women as well as men tend to dress much less casually than we do in the States. Let’s just say that wearing shorts is a good way to advertise that you’re a tourist. So are flip-flops. Steve suggests that you wear clothes that fit the occasion” and making sure you present yourself neatly. “Italians take a lot of pride in their appearance and usually follow the dress code for any kind of public outing. Even when going shopping, Italians dress nicely,” he says.

2. Keep Your Shoes On

In some cultures, it’s appropriate to take your shoes off when entering one’s home. Steve says in Italy, it comes down to personal preference: “Some Italians find it rude to take off one’s shoes in front of others. Some, though not many, expect you to take them off.” Be attentive to what others are doing with their shoes, and when in doubt, ask.

3. Shoulders And Knees Must Be Covered In Church

Largely Catholic, Italy has an inordinate amount of ornate churches that you can tour. However, it is important to keep in mind that while these churches are attractions, they are still considered holy places. Show respect by dressing conservatively. Don’t wear sunglasses. If you wear sandals or flip-flops, they may not let you into a church.

4. Don’t Call During Pisolino

If you need to call on someone between the hours of 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., think again. You may interrupt their “pisolino.”

“Pisolino refers to a nap that most Italians take after their mid-day meal each day, also known as a siesta,” Steve says. He advises that if you must call during these hours, you “first apologize for disturbing the household at this time.”

5. Punctuality Is Not A Priority

You may be used to being on time down to the minute, or even showing up early, but Italians don’t answer to clocks as much as Americans do. Steve says, “It is acceptable to arrive 15 to 30 minutes after the designated time. If you complain, you will look like a tourist”

6. Italians Don’t Wait In Line

“Unlike Americans, Italians don’t really believe in standing in lines,” says Steve. “The unspoken rule is whoever is the most aggressive and gets to the front first, goes first. Lines are simply not respected.”

7. Fare La Bella Figura

As you may have gathered, impressions mean something in Italy. Fare la bella figura literally translates as “to make a beautiful figure,” but it means “to make a good impression.” We always want to look nice on vacation anyway, so leave the messy bun and yoga pants at home and get your bella figura on!

8. Familiarize Yourself With Campanilismo

Steve explains, “The best way to describe campanilismo is a strong sense of pride for one’s local area. Sometimes people will even define themselves right down to the particular quarter of the city they live in. Italians are more proud of being Toscano (from Tuscany) or Romano (from Rome) than being Italian, so try to avoid doing that.” Even speaking Italian but with a different regional accent may be frowned upon.

9. Do Your Shopping Before Sunday

Prior to 2012, “all stores, except supermarkets, were always closed on Sundays in order to give workers time to spend with their family and go to church,” Steve says. More stores are open on Sundays now, but don’t count on it!

10. Only Carry Essentials

If you don’t need it, don’t bring it — especially your passport. Backpacks are very handy and comfortable to use, but they can be unsafe because you will look like a tourist if you wear one. You can wear a shoulder bag or fanny packs like many Italians do to carry valuables and documents, or, alternatively, if you are afraid of being pickpocketed, you can use a money belt.

Steve offers these tips to visitors to avoid being pickpocketed in touristy areas:

• Always keep your hand on your bag that’s hanging on your shoulder or keep your bag in front of you.
• Don’t keep your wallet in your back pocket.
• Use a cheap luggage lock that you can use to lock the zippers on your backpack or purse in busy areas.
• At restaurants and cafés, leave your purse in your lap instead of hanging it off of your chair, and don’t leave your phone on the table if dining outside.

Stay physically active and get enough sleep while you travel

In the midst of the excitement of travelling abroad, it’s essential to prioritize your health to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Whether you’re embarking on a vacation, business trip, or backpacking adventure, here are some expert tips to help you stay healthy while exploring foreign lands.

Consult a Travel Medicine Specialist: Before jetting off, consider scheduling a consultation with a travel medicine specialist. These professionals can provide personalized advice based on your destination, itinerary, and individual health concerns. They can recommend necessary vaccinations, medications, and precautions to minimize health risks during your trip.

Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccinations: Ensure you’re up-to-date on routine vaccinations recommended for travellers. This includes vaccines for diseases such as hepatitis, typhoid, and tetanus. Additionally, consider getting vaccinated against diseases prevalent in specific regions, such as yellow fever or Japanese encephalitis.

Pack a Travel Health Kit: Prepare a travel health kit containing essential medical supplies such as over-the-counter medications, adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and hand sanitizer. Include any prescription medications you’ll need during your trip, along with copies of your prescriptions and medical records.

Practice Safe Eating and Drinking Habits: To avoid foodborne illnesses and waterborne diseases, be cautious about what you eat and drink while abroad. Stick to bottled or boiled water and avoid consuming raw or undercooked foods, especially in areas with poor sanitation. Opt for freshly prepared meals from reputable establishments whenever possible.

Protect Against Insect-Borne Diseases: Insect-borne diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus can pose a risk in certain regions. Protect yourself by using insect repellent containing DEET, wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants, and sleeping under mosquito nets, especially in tropical and subtropical areas.

Practice good hygiene: This will help prevent the spread of germs and infections. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or handling food. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when handwashing facilities are unavailable, and avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.

Protect Yourself from the Sun: Protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Seek shade during peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Get Sufficient Rest and Exercise: Traveling can be physically and mentally demanding, so prioritize getting enough rest and exercise to maintain your overall well-being. Aim for regular sleep patterns, even if adjusting to new time zones, and incorporate physical activity into your daily routine to stay energized and healthy.

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries while travelling. Be cautious when exploring unfamiliar areas, especially at night, and avoid risky activities or situations that could jeopardize your safety.

Purchase Travel Insurance: Consider investing in travel insurance to provide financial protection in case of medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or unforeseen events. Review the policy coverage carefully to ensure it meets your needs and includes medical evacuation and repatriation coverage if necessary.

If you follow these tips and take proactive measures to safeguard your health, you can enjoy a safe and fulfilling travel experience abroad. Remember to stay informed, stay prepared, and prioritize your well-being wherever your adventures take you.

One of the best things about traveling in Saudi Arabia is the opportunity to let yourself blend in with a unique and fascinating culture. From exploring the stunning architecture of the capital city of Riyadh to camel riding in the desert, there are plenty of amazing experiences to explore in Saudi Arabia.

Over the years, Saudi Arabia quickly became a popular tourist destination. However, keep in mind that wherever you travel, there are always local customs and traditions be aware of. In this article, you will find some Saudi Arabian travel tips on how to make the most of your trip while respecting local traditions.

While being aware of local customs and laws is important, this shouldn’t lessen your trip’s overall enjoyment. By dressing modestly, being mindful of prayer times, and respecting the country’s local laws and regulations, you can have a safe and memorable experience in Saudi Arabia.

Visiting Saudi Arabia can be an amazing experience that will allow you to immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind culture. As long as you plan ahead and stay open to new adventures, your trip is sure to be memorable. Here are the do’s and don’ts in Saudi Arabia for you to know:

1. Do learn Arabic greetings and phrases

Before heading to Saudi Arabia, learning some basic Arabic greetings and phrases is a good idea. It shows that you’re interested in their culture and traditions and that you have respect for the locals. Here are a few basic greetings and phrases that you should get familiar with:

• Marhaba – Hello
• Assalamualaikum – Peace be upon you
• Waalaikumsalam – Peace be upon you, too
• Kaifa halak? – How are you? (asking a man)
• Kafa halik? – How are you? (asking a woman)
• Ana bekhair – I’m fine
• Shukran – Thank you
• Afwan- You’re welcome
• Fehimt – Understood

2. Do dress modestly

If you plan on visiting Saudi Arabia, it’s important to dress modestly to honor the country’s Muslim faith. Women should dress in clothing that covers their bodies and knees while also covering their heads. This kind of dress is a sign of respect and may earn you respect in return. It’s best to avoid wearing mini skirts, strapless blouses, or outfits with revealing details. Men should also avoid wearing shorts, clothing with short sleeves, or tight short pants in public.

3. Do not point fingers at others

When you’re in Saudi Arabia, it’s best to avoid pointing with your fingers when you want to point in any direction, especially to other people. Instead, you can use your chin to indicate the direction you’re referring to. This is a local unwritten custom, and it’s important to be respectful of it. So, if you’re used to pointing with your finger, try to get into the habit of not doing so, especially when you’re interacting with locals.

4. Do remove your shoes when entering a house

In Saudi Arabia, the locals are known for their hospitality and willingness to share a meal or a cup of coffee with tourists. It’s common for them to invite guests to their homes to make them feel welcome. If you are fortunate enough to be invited as a guest, be sure to take off your shoes before entering the house as a sign of respect for your hosts.

5. Do not use your left hand too often

Using your left hand for certain activities in Saudi Arabia is considered impolite. This is because the left hand is believed to be unclean as it is primarily used for toileting. As a result, it’s best to avoid using your left hand for activities such as eating, shaking hands, or giving and receiving objects.

To make sure that you don’t offend anyone in one way or another, it’s important to be mindful of this unwritten cultural norm during your trip to Saudi Arabia. Consider bringing a handkerchief or tissue to show more respect when eating or exchanging objects.

6. Do not show any PDAs (Public Displays of Affection)

In Saudi Arabia, it’s important to be aware that public displays of affection (PDA) are unacceptable and can be considered disrespectful. PDA can include actions such as hugging, kissing, holding hands, or sitting close to someone of the opposite sex.

There are some exceptions to this rule, such as married couples who can privately show affection to each other. However, even married couples should avoid PDAs in public places like restaurants or parks. Remembering this rule and avoiding PDA while in Saudi Arabia will help you avoid unwanted public attention and show respect for the local culture.

7. Do take permission while taking photos

If you’re planning to take pictures of people or places in Saudi Arabia, it’s important to ask for permission first. This shows that you’re respectful of their customs and avoid any misunderstandings. Asking for permission is an act of making sure that everyone is comfortable with the situation and allows you to get the perfect shot.

When you’re in Saudi Arabia, some places don’t allow people to take pictures. These can include government buildings, military bases, private property, and areas that are considered sensitive. It’s good to ask for permission before taking photos anywhere in Saudi Arabia, even if it’s not listed as restricted.

8. Do pay respect to the elderly in every situation

In Saudi Arabia, showing respect for the elderly is considered a significant cultural value. The elderly are highly regarded for their wisdom and experience, and their opinions are highly respected. There are various ways to demonstrate respect for the elderly in Saudi Arabia, such as standing up when they enter a room, giving up your seat to them on public transportation, holding the door open for them, addressing them as “uncle” or “aunt” regardless of their relation to you, refraining from speaking loudly or making rude gestures in their presence, and being patient with them while attentively listening to their stories.

9. Do pay attention to local business hours

The standard working hours in Saudi Arabia are from 8 am to 5 pm, with an hour lunch break. However, some businesses may open earlier or later, and some may be closed on Fridays or Saturdays, as they are official rest days in Saudi Arabia.

If you plan to visit a business in Saudi Arabia, it’s best to confirm their operating hours beforehand. It is best to also check their official website or social media pages for more information.

10. Do pay respect during Ramadan

When traveling to Saudi Arabia during Ramadan, it’s important to show respect for the local people’s religious practices. To do so, you can enjoy your meals and drinks in a private setting, which can be a nice opportunity to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of public places. By being mindful of the local customs, you can have a pleasant and enjoyable experience while showing your appreciation for the people around you.

With the proper precautions, flying during the first trimester of pregnancy is safe. Here’s what you should know about air travel during early pregnancy.

If you’re currently pregnant, planning to be, or just curious, it’s possible you’ve wondered about whether or not it’s safe to fly during the first trimester. After all, the first three months of pregnancy are crucial, and most instances of pregnancy loss occur during the first trimester, so it’s understandable to have questions or concerns about air travel during that time.

However, the good news is that air travel during the first trimester is generally considered safe. Ahead, learn more about flying during early pregnancy, what experts have to say about precautions, and tips for having a safe flight during the first trimester.

Common Myths About Pregnancy and Air Travel

The first trimester is actually an especially low-risk time to travel during pregnancy. Contrary to popular belief, noise vibration, cosmic radiation, and cabin pressure create no increased risks for the pregnant air traveler. And if you were concerned that security equipment could radiate or somehow hurt your baby, set those fears aside. “Metal detectors are not a risk to the baby,” says Raul Artal, M.D., vice chairman of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) committee on obstetric practice.

That being said, it’s still a good idea to chat with an OB-GYN or health care provider before you schedule your babymoon or any work trips during the first trimester. A health care professional can give you specific, individualized advice, based on your needs and unique pregnancy journey.

Tips for Flying During Early Pregnancy

Check your health before you go

Travel isn’t recommended for those with high-risk pregnancy conditions (hypertension, sickle-cell disease, history of premature labor, placental abnormalities such as placenta previa, etc.) Pregnant people with preexisting medical conditions (like heart disease) should also check with a health care provider before flying.

Move around

One issue of concern for all air passengers—pregnant or not—is the formation of blood clots, or thrombosis, especially during long flights. Pregnant travelers should take special precautions to minimize risks, like wearing support stockings and/or moving your lower extremities every half-hour or so. “Wiggle your toes,” Dr. Artal suggests, “Move your legs around, and take a stroll up the cabin every once in a while.”

Book a comfortable seat

The aisle seat will make it easier to get up frequently for restroom trips or walking through the cabin. The bulkhead seats, which are located right behind a dividing wall between cabins, tend to have the most legroom. If you’re concerned about a bumpy ride, try choosing a seat over a wing, which will give you the smoothest flight.

Buckle up

Make sure you buckle up, keeping the seatbelt low on the hips and under the belly. Flying can be unpredictable when it comes to severe turbulence, which can cause injury. Therefore, it is wise to buckle up and remain buckled while seated throughout the entire flight.

Stay hydrated

The cabin of an aircraft has low humidity, which can cause anyone to have a dry nose and throat. Make sure to drink water throughout the flight to avoid dehydration.

Prevent air sickness

Morning sickness and fatigue often kick in around seven to eight weeks of pregnancy. Ask a health care provider for tips to help with nausea, and inquire about safe anti-nausea medication to take with you, just in case.

Don’t drink or eat gas-producing items

Try to avoid consuming food and drinks that are known to cause gas (such as beans, cruciferous vegetables, and carbonated beverages) before or during your flight. Entrapped gas expands at higher altitudes and can give you a stomachache.

Prepare for digestion problems

You may want to ask a health care provider about diarrhea medications or remedies that are safe to use during pregnancy, especially if you are traveling internationally, which can elevate the risk of exposure to bacteria that can cause diarrhea.

Consider updating your vaccinations

Depending on where your final destination is, you may be required to be vaccinated against certain diseases, especially if you’re traveling internationally. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a travel vaccine and medication guide that covers travel-related diseases you can be inoculated against from food-borne illnesses to influenza.

Plan ahead

Always tell a health care provider about your plans before booking your trip. Depending on your travel plans, you may need to pre-book a prenatal appointment at your destination. Educate yourself on hospitals located near where you will be staying while traveling, and purchase travel insurance.

Check on travel advisories

Before flying anywhere, it is worth checking for any health or travel advisories that could pose a risk to pregnant travelers. The CDC compiles up-to-date data on travel health advisories as well as other safety information for countries around the globe. You can easily look up your destination and check to make sure that there are not any health alerts that could put you or your pregnancy at risk.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, flying during the first trimester of pregnancy is considered safe for many people. However, those with pre-existing medical conditions or high-risk pregnancies might be advised to skip air travel during those early weeks. When in doubt, be sure to consult with an OB-GYN or health care provider. Together, you can determine the right course of action and travel plans for you.