International - Explore

Sunset over the County Donegal coastline

Rick Steves Suggests Journeying To This Charming Yet Forgotten County In Northwestern Ireland

By Camila Pérez B

Renowned travel writer and expert Rick Steves suggests taking the time to visit this charming but underrated county found in northwestern Ireland.

Expat Vs. Digital Nomad: The Differences In Travel Styles Are Bigger Than You Think

By Amanda Morgan

Learn the key differences between expats and digital nomads, including the lifestyle, how long they usually stay in one place, and some requirements.

Locals In Japan Feel Disrespected When This Unspoken Train Rule Is Broken By Tourists

By Camila Pérez B

Japan is a culture that takes public etiquette seriously, including how one behaves on a train, and breaking this particular rule could have consequences.

Unexpected Differences Americans Will Notice When Visiting National Parks In Canada

By Laura Jones

Prepare for your outdoor adventure north of the border by learning about these unexpected differences you'll notice in Canada's national parks.

Young people posing making the peace sign hand gesture

Rick Steves Shares Why A Peace Sign Hand Gesture Can 'Get You A Punch In The Nose' In Britain

By Lee Adams

Despite many similarities between the U.K. and the U.S., there are some common gestures that may seem innocuous that could get you in trouble in Britain.

Vacation Allergies Or A Cold? A Doctor Shares How Travelers Can Tell The Difference

By Camila Pérez B

Getting a sniffly nose can put a damper on your travel plans, but there are lots of cold symptoms that can also be allergies. Here's how to tell the difference.

The Unexpected Beloved Beverage That Breaks Traditional French Dining Etiquette

By Camila Pérez B

Tourists are well aware that France has a lot of customs when it comes to food and dining, but some visitors from the U.S. may not be aware of this rule.

Smiling traveler taking a selfie in Thailand

The Faux Pas Tourists Need To Know About That Carries A Years-Long Prison Sentence In Thailand

By Camila Pérez B

Both tourists and locals should be aware of this law that may not be common knowledge in Thailand. Even social media posts can land you in hot water.

Patrons at a French winery raise their wine glasses

The Subtle Etiquette Misstep In France That Could Ruin The Magic Of A Shared Meal

By Robert Isenberg

Diners in France have one rule that you may not see in the United States. But it can truly impact your meal, and many people around the world agree with it.

Rick Steves' Secrets For Blending In Like A Local While Hanging Out In Irish Pubs

By Anna Robinson

Visiting one of Ireland's many traditional pubs is a great way to meet locals and learn more about the local way of life. Here's how you can blend in.

The Etiquette Blunder Americans Often Make In French Restaurants Without Realizing

By Camila Pérez B

There are a lot of rules that tourists from the United States should be aware of in France, especially when it comes to food culture. Here's one major faux pas.

Europe's Oldest City Is An Underrated Cultural Hub Of Ancient Ruins, Arts, And Charm

By Madison Scrivano

For a vacation full of ancient ruins, artistic displays, and authentic old-word European culture, head to this city, the continent's oldest.

A group of friends enjoy a meal outdoors in Italy

This Delectable Bread Trick Doubles As A Good Etiquette Rule While Dining In Italy

By Chris Tharp

Being polite in Italy can come with some tasty benefits. When dining at Italian restaurants, practice good etiquette by remembering these bread-based manners.

cobbled street with stone houses at sunset

Rick Steves' Protégé's Sensible Advice For Exploring Popular European Countries Without The Crowds

By Laura Jones

It can be difficult to enjoy your European getaway when every attraction is packed with people. Here's Rick Steves' protégé's advice for dodging these crowds.

A rear shot of a woman wearing a beret on the streets of Tokyo

The Footwear Faux Pas That That Will Make Any Tourist Stand Out In Japan

By Chris Tharp

Are you heading to Japan? Here's why packing this common type of footwear could lead to some disapproving glances from locals throughout your trip.

Be Careful About How You Drink Whisky In Scotland To Avoid Outing Yourself As A Tourist

By Camila Pérez B

Don't default to your typical routine when enjoying whisky during a trip to Scotland. Instead, avoid looking like a tourist by following this drinking tip.

French restaurant sign with building in background

The Major Difference Between Ordering Steak In America Vs France, Per Rick Steves

By Christine Dulion

Rare, medium, or well-done. Ordering steak in the U.S. is not the same as in France. To get the right temperature, here's how to order a steak in France.

ornate Chinese signs, people walking, crosswalk

Japan Is Following Other Countries With New Tourist Tax Changes

By Anna Robinson

Find out what travelers need to know before booking a trip to Japan. This popular destination is following global trends and making changes to its tourist tax.

Two people toast with glasses of soju at a Korean barbecue restaurant

The Crucial Alcohol Drinking Etiquette Rule Tourists Will Want To Follow While In South Korea

By Chris Tharp

Here's what to know about this important drinking etiquette in South Korea so you can blend in like a local and enjoy the country's vibrant nightlife.

female traveler checks directions in a European city

This Beloved European Region Is A Dream Destination For Solo Female Travelers

By Shelby Wilkerson

Strike out on your own to see the world. For women traveling solo, this one incredible European destination tops the list of bucket list places to visit.

The Unspoken Rule Of Taking A Phone Call In The Airport That Too Many People Totally Ignore

By Robert Isenberg

Airports have their own little culture. There are many unspoken etiquettes and rules you're expected to follow. If you have to make a phone call, don't do this.

The Dinner Etiquette Breach That's Considered Gross In America But Accepted In Other Countries

By Camila Pérez B

Different cultures have different etiquettes when eating out. This one behavior is considered rude and gross in America, but is a compliment elsewhere.

woman applying for visa in US immigration office and handing documents

Crucial Mistakes To Avoid When Renewing Your Passport

By Daniel Feininger

If your passport is nearing expiration, you should renew it immediately. However, the process can be tricky if you aren't careful. Here are mistakes to avoid.

Cars waiting at a border crossing into Mexico

What American Tourists Should Know About Confusing Rule Changes For Crossing Into Mexico

By Chris Tharp

Learn why you need to stay up to date with Mexico's confusing entry requirements, as frequent changes can affect your travel plans if you're not prepared.

Travelers buying fresh street food from locals

Unexpected Customs Tourists Should Know Before Visiting Thailand For The First Time

By Maura Bielinski

Thailand has a very different culture than the West. If you're visiting Thailand, make sure to learn these customs to easily blend in and avoid offending.

Why It's Important To Never Go On A Cruise Without Your Passport

By Robert Isenberg

Don't leave for your next cruise without packing your passport. For a few key reasons, this essential travel item could be more important than you'd think.

tourists taking photos in front of Eiffel Tower

One Major Etiquette Faux Pas When Taking Photos In Paris Is Super Annoying To Locals

By Anna Robinson

Don't stand out as an obnoxious tourist when you visit Paris. Instead, read up on this one annoying photography habit, and avoid it at all costs while abroad.