Mind Your Manners: Respect Local Culture During Race-cations
Etiquette expert Lizzie Post advises runners to respect local etiquette while they're traveling to new territories for a race.
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
Etiquette expert and runner Lizzie Post knows a thing or two about the rules of the road. If you’re planning a race-cation that’ll take you overseas, the great-great granddaughter of etiquette’s original reigning queen, Emily Post, has tips for how you can be yourself without upsetting the new culture codes into which you wander.
I’m going to a race in Japan and I’m wondering about the best way to learn the local etiquette?
When I’m traveling out of the United States, I often turn to the country I’m traveling to for advice. Go right to the source! The best place to find it is on a tourism website. In Japan’s case head to jnto.go.jp. Lonely Planet is another website source that breaks down some very basic customs and elements of different cultures to be aware of.
Being proactive is really your best way to go. You’re smart to be thinking of this early on! Typically, greetings, the handling and exchange of money both in payment and for tipping, customs related to entering a home, gift giving, respectful attire and eating are going to be the biggest areas to look out for. Have a fabulous trip!
Related:
Mind Your Manners: Is Sharing Headphones Okay?
Mind Your Manners: Leaving Family At Home For Runcation
Mind Your Manners: Should I Tell My Friend She Has Terrible Form?