Page 48 - Amazon River Cruise & Rain Forest

Complex, multi-layered cultural traditions and stunning natural geography make South
America a fascinating destination. To get the most enjoyment out of your trip, remember that
many South American countries are still considered developing nations, and be aware that you
may be approached to buy crafts or solicited by children to take photographs.

In restaurants, hotels, and at cultural sites, everything works according to a slower sense
of time than what you are used to. It’s best to wind down and adjust to the local pace and
philosophy.

Language Barrier

You can have some great “conversations” with local people who do not speak English, even if
you don’t speak a word of the local language. Indeed, this non-verbal communication can be
a highly rewarding part of travel. To break the ice, bring along some family photographs, or a
few postcards of your hometown.

Your attire is a key part of your non-verbal presentation. Your clothing should show a respect
for local tradition. In South America, this means you should dress in a relatively modest style.

Taking Photographs

The etiquette of photographing most people in the countries on your itinerary is about the
same as it would be on the streets of your hometown. You need permission to take a close-up,
but not for a crowd scene. Be especially polite if you want to photograph an older woman. If
you want to shoot a great portrait, show interest in your subject, try to have a bit of social
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Safety & Security

Common Sense and Awareness

As you travel, exercise the same caution and awareness that you would in a large American
city. Don’t be overly nervous or suspicious, but keep your eyes open. If you are venturing out
after dark, go with one or two other people, and always by taxi.

Pickpockets

Like any other big city or tourist destination, pickpockets will sometimes target travelers.
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is to avoid attracting attention. Don’t wear fancy jewelry or expensive watches in the street (or
even cheaper items that look expensive).

The next step is to limit what you have on you. Instead of carrying all your money, all your
credit cards, and your passport in your pocket or purse, stick to what you’ll need for that
day—a one-day supply of money and one or two cards. (You won’t need your passport, so our
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