We all know that feeling when everyone is looking at us because it stands out that we are tourists; this can make you a target for pickpockets, which no one wants. In this article, you’ll find some cool tips on how to avoid standing out when holidaying in South America.
Don’t Wear Shorts
As 99.99% of foreign tourists wear shorts, it makes total sense to wear long pants. Stylish leisure pants with large pockets are ideal, as you have secure places to keep valuables. Cargo shorts are the go-to shorts for foreign tourists in South and Central America and they should be avoided if you want to blend in with the locals. Book one of the escorted tours in Peru and pack a few pairs of long pants that also protect your legs from mosquitoes.
Sneakers Are For Sports
South American people do not wear sneakers outside of playing sports, so leave your Nike trainers at home and wearing casual sandals might be a good idea. Of course, footwear should be comfortable and offer good grip, as there is a lot of walking involved when touring South America.
Visiting Churches & Cathedrals
Christianity is the major religion across South America, largely thanks to the Spanish & Portuguese who colonised the region in the 16th century and when visiting a church or cathedral, you should wear a shirt that covers your shoulder, while women should wear a dress that is below the knee. Men should never go topless in or around a holy place and wearing long trousers is advised.
Avoid The Hippy Look
One of the downsides of South American culture is that people tend to put you into a category, so if you are dressed like a 1960s hippy, the locals will avoid you, think you are a down and out who is broke and looking for charity. If you have long hair, wear a hairband that sweeps your hair back, which is a tidy way to keep long hair for men.
Dress Code For Females
Generally speaking, South American culture requires that women dress conservatively. If you are a woman that likes to show off her assets, it might be a good idea to leave this look at home and dress more conservatively. Of course, the locals are not going to approach you and tell you what they think, but they will create an image that is not accurate, so be warned!
Don’t Wear A Fanny Pack
If you wish to keep your valuables safe, rather than wearing a fanny pack, order a travel bag online that you can wear under your shirt. Indeed, locals play a spot-the-tourist game and anyone wearing a fanny pack is automatically a foreign tourist! The majority of foreigners who are robbed are wearing such a bag, which is easy to cut open when worn in reverse.
Flip-Flops Are OK On The Beach
Like anywhere in the world, wearing flip-flops on the beach is considered normal, yet in South America, the locals never wear them when walking around non-beach areas.
If it is important for you that you don’t stand out when visiting South America, follow the above advice and you will be regarded as an expat rather than a tourist. For the best selection of South American tours, search online for a leading tour operator that covers South America.