Common behaviors by tourists in Spain, Italy, France, Greece, and Portugal that locals may privately criticize, based on insights from psychology.
In Southern Europe, travelling is not just about exploring the beautiful landscapes and historical sites, but also about immersing oneself in the local culture and traditions. Here are some tips to help you navigate the region with grace and respect.
Firstly, public spaces are not backdrops for choreographed photo shoots. Blocking narrow lanes, climbing fragile walls on Greek islands, or stepping into active traffic for the 'carefree crosswalk' shot may earn you judgement and sometimes scoldings. Instead, take the candid shot or step out of the flow to frame it.
When it comes to dining, mealtimes are considered social containers and are not meant to be rushed. Tourists who eat quickly or ask for the check immediately are judged for violating shared time norms.
Tipping, splitting, and haggling carry different meanings in Southern Europe. Service charges are often included, and tips are lighter and more discreet. When asking about service charges, it's important to ask, 'Is service included?' and accept the answer.
Greeting rituals vary from country to country. In France, you'll say 'Bonjour'; in Portugal, it's 'Bom dia'; in Spain, 'Buenos días'; in Italy, 'Buongiorno'; and in Greece, 'Καλημέρα'. Failing to perform the greeting ritual is perceived as abrupt and a 'face' threat by locals.
In much of Southern Europe, it is customary to greet before making a transaction. Volume should match the room and conversations should be kept within the group. Speaking at full volume is seen as a violation of 'display rules'.
When it comes to bargaining, it's best to ask, 'How do people usually do it here?' and learn the local name before the anglicized one. Bargaining aggressively in a Lisbon craft shop selling handmade tiles is disrespectful, while in Greece, bargaining may be expected.
Wearing beachwear everywhere can be seen as disrespectful, especially in sacred spaces. If you're interrupting the real life happening in a public place, you're doing it wrong. A quick apology in the local language resets the social field.
Tourists who ignore choreography-shouting orders or wave cash in the air disrupt local flow and are judged quietly by locals. Comparing countries out loud (and getting names wrong) earns quiet eye-rolls from locals and is seen as a lack of interest in learning.
It's important to remember that sacred spaces have 'moralized norms' and violations feel like value violations, not just rule breaks. When pausing someone's path, a quick apology in the local language resets the social field.
Lastly, when ordering and paying for drinks in Southern Europe, it's customary to follow local bar rituals. Ignoring these rituals can lead to judgement from the locals.
