Page 49 - 101+ Tips for Solo Women Travelers

What to do about unwanted attention

90 In some cultures, such as southern Europe and Latin America,
behavior that we might consider over-the-top machismo is considered
acceptable. This may include obvious leering, catcalling, and flirtatious or
suggestive remarks. The best reaction is a non-reaction: Keep walking, ignore
the comments, and do not make eye contact. On the other hand, if someone
touches you inappropriately make noise and yell. Safety is more important
than politeness.

91 Learn the right greetings

Many cultures have strict taboos against men and women touching
each other, making it hard to know how to greet someone cordially. Generally,
men in Muslim countries are uncomfortable shaking hands with women. If you
extend yours you may be met with a blank stare or an awkwardly limp hand.
Women do not typically shake hands with men in Russia, either. In China, a
handshake is an acceptable greeting, whereas a hug is not. In India and Nepal,
the customary way to greet is to press your palms together in a prayer-like
manner, make a slight bowing motion, and say “Namaste.”

Understand the predominant
92communication style

In most English-speaking cultures, we are fairly straightforward and our words
state their intended meaning explicitly. But in places such as Latin America,
Asia, and parts of the Mediterranean, meaning is also conveyed through facial
expressions, body language and tone of voice. For example, in India people
o en wag their head from side to side while speaking. It can mean they agree

with you, OR disagree. It all depends on their facial expression.
In some Asian cultures, the idea of saving face is extremely important, and
communication may be more nuanced or indirect to avoid embarrassment or
conflict. You may think you are being lied to, but in reality the speaker may only
be trying to be polite. Some cultures have a greater tolerance for uncertainty
and ambiguity than others. So in Finland, Japan, and Germany people are very
punctual; in Latin America, they are not.

49

8029_101-Tips_Revised-TIPS.indd 49 1/20/22 1:34 PM