Have you ever stepped off a plane in a new country, eager to soak in the sights, only to realize your words might be rubbing locals the wrong way? I’ll never forget my first trip to a bustling market in Marrakech, where my casual comment about prices in dollars earned me a polite but puzzled smile from a vendor. It was a small moment, but it stuck with me. Traveling the world—70 countries and counting—has taught me that what we say and how we say it can make or break our connections abroad. Nobody wants to be the traveler locals can’t wait to see leave. So, let’s dive into seven phrases that can make Americans sound, well, a bit obnoxious when traveling—and what to say instead to show respect and curiosity.
Why Words Matter When You Travel
Travel isn’t just about snapping photos of landmarks or tasting new foods; it’s about building bridges with people from different cultures. A single misplaced phrase can signal ignorance or entitlement, even if that’s not your intention. According to travel behavior experts, language shapes perceptions, and small verbal missteps can reinforce stereotypes about Americans being self-centered or unaware. This article unpacks seven phrases to avoid, why they grate on locals, and how to rephrase for smoother, more respectful interactions. Let’s get started.
1. “How Much Is That in Dollars?”
Picture this: you’re at a vibrant street market in Bangkok, eyeing a handcrafted scarf. You ask the vendor, “How much is that in dollars?” and suddenly, their smile fades. Asking for prices in U.S. dollars assumes everyone operates on your terms, which can feel dismissive. The world doesn’t revolve around the dollar, and expecting locals to convert prices instantly can come off as self-centered.
Respecting local currency is a small but powerful way to show you value the culture you’re visiting.
– Travel etiquette coach
What to do instead: Before you travel, download a currency conversion app or check the local currency’s name and symbol. For example, in Thailand, it’s the baht (฿). Ask, “How much is this in baht?” or use your app to estimate costs. It shows preparation and respect for the local economy.
- Research the local currency before your trip.
- Use a conversion app for quick calculations.
- Ask prices in the local currency to show respect.
2. “Wow, Everything Is So Cheap Here!”
I once overheard a traveler in Peru exclaim, “Everything is so cheap!” at a local craft market. The vendor’s expression shifted from welcoming to guarded. Calling a place “cheap” can imply it’s inferior or that locals are somehow less fortunate, which often ties to complex histories of economic disparity. It’s a phrase that screams privilege without meaning to.
What to say instead: Try, “I love how affordable these beautiful crafts are!” This focuses on the value of the goods and shows appreciation without judgment. It’s a subtle shift that keeps the conversation positive.
3. “What State Are You From?”
Asking someone in, say, Singapore, “What state are you from?” is a classic American blunder. Not every country is divided into states—some have provinces, regions, or none at all. This question reveals a lack of research and assumes the U.S. model applies everywhere. I’ve seen travelers ask this in places like Monaco, a tiny city-state, and it’s always a bit awkward.
What to do instead: Ask, “Where are you from?” or “What part of the country do you call home?” These open-ended questions invite locals to share without forcing them into an American framework. Plus, you might learn something new about their region!
4. “Where’s the Nearest Starbucks?”
Seeking out familiar chains like Starbucks while abroad misses the point of travel. I remember a trip to Istanbul where a fellow traveler insisted on finding a Starbucks instead of trying a traditional Turkish coffee house. Not only did they miss out on a rich cultural experience, but they also signaled a lack of interest in local businesses.
Travel is about embracing the unfamiliar, from food to customs to coffee.
– Cultural immersion expert
What to try instead: Ask locals, “Where’s a great spot for coffee around here?” or “What’s a local cafe you love?” This opens the door to authentic experiences and supports small businesses. In Istanbul, I discovered a cozy cafe serving menengic coffee—a pistachio-based delight I’d never have found at a chain.
5. “Your English Is Really Good!”
Complimenting someone’s English in a country where it’s widely spoken—like Singapore or the Philippines—can feel patronizing. English is a global language, spoken by over 1.5 billion people. Assuming someone’s proficiency is surprising can imply you didn’t expect them to be educated or worldly. I’ve cringed hearing this phrase in places where English is an official language.
What to say instead: If you’re impressed by someone’s communication, try, “I love your accent!” or “You’re so easy to talk to!” These compliments focus on the interaction without making assumptions about their background.
6. “This Is a Third-World Country, Right?”
Labeling a destination a “third-world country” is a verbal landmine. The term is outdated and carries judgmental undertones, often tied to stereotypes about poverty or underdevelopment. I’ve seen travelers use it casually in places like Vietnam, unaware of how it dismisses a nation’s progress and pride.
What to say instead: If you’re curious about a country’s status, ask, “Can you tell me about your country’s economy?” or “What’s life like here?” These questions invite insight without labeling. Better yet, do some research beforehand to understand the context.
7. “This Isn’t How We Do It Back Home”
Comparing everything to “back home” can make you sound closed-minded. I once dined at a restaurant in Lisbon where a traveler complained that the meal wasn’t like their usual American-style brunch. The waiter’s polite smile couldn’t hide his frustration. Travel is about embracing differences, not holding them to your home’s standards.
What to say instead: Try, “This is so different from what I’m used to—tell me more about it!” This shows curiosity and openness. For example, in Lisbon, I learned about bacalhau (salted cod) and its cultural significance by asking questions instead of comparing.
Why These Phrases Matter in Relationships Abroad
Travel isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about forming connections, even fleeting ones, with people. The phrases you use can shape how locals perceive you—especially in romantic or social contexts. For travelers looking to date or build friendships abroad, cultural sensitivity is key. A thoughtless comment can signal disrespect, while mindful language opens doors to deeper connections.
| Phrase to Avoid | Why It’s Problematic | Better Alternative |
| How much in dollars? | Assumes U.S.-centric worldview | Ask in local currency |
| Everything is so cheap! | Implies inferiority | Praise affordability respectfully |
| What state are you from? | Ignores local geography | Ask about their hometown |
| Where’s Starbucks? | Misses local culture | Seek local cafes |
| Your English is good! | Feels patronizing | Compliment their communication |
| Third-world country? | Judgmental and outdated | Ask about the economy |
| Not like back home | Closes off new experiences | Show curiosity about differences |
How to Build Better Connections Abroad
Traveling with empathy and curiosity transforms your experience. Here’s how to communicate effectively and avoid the “obnoxious” label:
- Do your homework: Learn basic phrases, currency, and cultural norms before you go.
- Listen actively: Pay attention to how locals communicate and mirror their tone.
- Stay open-minded: Embrace differences instead of comparing them to home.
- Ask questions: Show genuine interest in local customs, food, or history.
In my experience, asking locals about their favorite spots or traditions sparks meaningful conversations. On a trip to Kyoto, a simple question about matcha led to an hour-long chat with a tea shop owner about Japanese culture. Those moments stick with you.
The Bigger Picture: Travel as a Relationship Builder
Traveling thoughtfully doesn’t just make you a better guest—it can enhance your relationships, romantic or otherwise. Whether you’re flirting with someone new in Paris or bonding with a tour guide in Cape Town, respectful communication sets the tone. I’ve found that showing curiosity about a culture makes people more open to sharing their stories, which can lead to unexpected friendships or even sparks of romance.
Travel is a dance of give and take—your words are the steps that keep you in sync with the world.
Perhaps the most rewarding part of travel is how it reshapes your perspective. Each trip teaches you to listen, adapt, and connect in ways that make you a better communicator—not just abroad, but back home too. So, next time you pack your bags, leave these seven phrases behind and bring an open heart instead. Where are you headed next?
