Travel, or any interaction for that matter, manners truly do matter. There isn’t a language or cultural barrier that being polite and mannerly doesn’t help.It even aids in the work place. While manners won’t be a cure-all for every situation,manners and a smile can truly go a long way.

Why do manners matter? For starters, being a sour-puss or abrasive is a turn off and off putting. Most don’t want to being around a person or group that is obnoxious or nasty–it is the personification of rancid body odor and poor reflection of the person. Rudeness or lack of manners always portrays the person isn’t giving a dickers damn about anything, which is not conducive to much.

While “polite society”, as my grandmother would say, would kindly over look such ill-behavior. Most won’t likely hang around long and few might even bring it to light (in a discreet setting).

What are the perks of being mannerly and polite?

1. It allows for a better experience, crossing barriers that may exist (language, cultural, diversity, etc)
2. It aids the traveler in getting what they may need, help finding a specific location, a recommendation for dinner, a cool place to jive or enjoy some local delicacy and so much more.
3. Helps in a pinch if one gets lost.
4. Assists in business transactions, especially in making new deals or keeping repeat business.
5. Manners can introduce new, happy experiences. A simple but genuine smile is universally accepted as nice!
6. Smile and be patient
7. Use a pleasant tone
8. Ask openly
9. Make eye contact and listen
10. Be curious, respectfully

Here is a link to give some tips if you like to know more!