Travel Philosophies

I have very strong opinions about traveling and, specifically, tourism. When I go to a foreign country I go to have foreign experiences. What's the point of going to paradise and spending all of your time in an all-inclusive hotel, never venturing outside the grounds? I know some people really love this sort of vacation, but I loathe the idea. Why not explore? If you can't speak the language, and do not have friends in said country, then a tour guide or group tour is a great idea. Many places have packages where you may not have as much unstructured time, but at least you are getting out there, seeing important sites, meeting new people and being educated about your surroundings.

Here are my personal tips: (Disclaimer: Opinions are Opinion-y)

• Be as adventurous as possible. I don't think people should just head off into unfamiliar territory will-nilly (though, that too is just how some people like their vacation), but it's good to try new things. Leave your comfort zone if you can. No, this does not mean travel to the worst neighborhood possible in the middle of the night. It does mean maybe eating that weird raw fish thing or drinking that strange purple corn beverage or going to that unusual theater show.
• Know at least a few phrases in the local language. I -hate- the stereotype that Americans think everyone should speak English. I also hate that I've seen it reinforced again and again. When I went to Costa Rica I took some time to learn a bit of Spanish, even though I would be traveling with fluent speakers. Knowing that little bit helped me pick up a lot more along the way. 
• Visit famous places, but also look for the small things. Many of the towns I visited in CR had beautiful public parks, but when I was taking photos I was more interested in some of the regular parks in smaller towns.
• Don't be afraid of the local food (unless WHO says you should be). Don't eat at Americanized restaurants for every meal, if you do you will really miss out. Note: If you a a picky eater I am not judging you. If you suffer from an anxiety or dietary restriction, do what makes you comfortable.
• Do your research. Knowing what opportunities await will help you have a much better experience. Knowing what is publicly acceptable to do and what not to do will help you save face. Knowing what foods, areas and behaviors might be dangerous is never a bad idea. Also research medications (many are illegal in other countries in large quantities, or illegal period), where to seek medical treatment and what to do if you lose a prescription
• Find people in the know and ask them questions, directions, recommendations. This will help you find out where hidden treasures lie and what to avoid. It will also help you not get lost in the biggest cemetery you've ever been in because your friend didn't want to ask for directions.
• Have a schedule but be flexible. This rule is hard for me, but I try to follow it. Maybe you really need to skip something for a quick nap, or you see a flyer for something you'd rather do.
• Don't always listen to other people, especially your Mother-in-Law. In fact, do the opposite of what is said just to be contrary. (O.K., this is mostly a joke. Mostly)
• Get plenty of sleep, but not too much. Pretty obvious.
• Pack light! Last time I went to Japan we had things shipped between home-stay and hotels with a one-day service because luggage can be a pain! We brought an empty suitcase to CR for souvenirs.
• Budget, make sure your emergency credit cards work where you'll be going, keep a list of CC and bank phone-numbers in case something is stolen. Keep copies of all documents in the safest place you can.
• Go to a travelers forum and ask what people think are must haves in your suitcase. This will range from host gifts, to Febreeze, to tissues, to hard to acquire goods.
• Be respectful. Don't be loud in places of worship, don't assume no one else knows your native tongue,  don't violate local customs to see what will happen. 

I could probably go on, but this has gotten long enough. Here are some images of my philosophy in action, on my most recent big trip.

Ate at a Local Restaurant. Did not get food poisoning. Did get delicious food.

Asked the locals, was lead to this.

Ditched my fears, saw a Cloud Forest.

Ate this steak to spite my MiL and only mildly regretted it.