A Wall Street Journal report reveals that American tourists are increasingly adapting to new social and political scrutiny overseas with practical strategies.
At a Glance
- Rising anti-American sentiment and anti-tourism protests are pushing travelers to modify their behavior.
- Travelers are advised to dress conservatively to avoid drawing attention.
- Choosing less popular destinations can help avoid crowds and negative local reactions.
- Speaking quietly and observing local norms reduces the chance of standing out.
- Displaying respect—learning local phrases and supporting small businesses—can foster goodwill.
Navigating New Animosity Abroad
With rising tensions following U.S. policy decisions and military activity, tourists are facing a perceptible shift in how they’re received abroad. In countries like Spain, France, and Italy, recent protests have included anti-American rhetoric, prompting many travelers to adopt a lower profile. Travel advisors now recommend avoiding loud speech in public and dressing with subtlety—ditching logo-heavy clothing and sneakers in favor of muted tones and local fashion cues.
Some Americans interviewed said they now consciously “stay quiet,” avoid bringing up politics, and defer to local customs to avoid confrontation. Experts say the goal is not to erase identity, but to signal cultural respect.
Watch a report: State Department Travel Tips for Americans Abroad
Choosing Destinations and Dressing With Care
Travel professionals are guiding clients toward less overtouristed regions such as parts of the Balkans, Baltics, or inland Portugal to sidestep the resentment sometimes found in major capitals. This strategy not only improves traveler experience but reduces tensions in cities fatigued by mass tourism.
Attire remains a key recommendation: dress simply, leave patriotic gear at home, and research local fashion norms. Also emphasized is nonverbal awareness—observing volume levels on public transportation and respecting body language signals.
Embrace the Role of Cultural Ambassador
The report highlights how small gestures can go a long way. Greeting locals in their language, tipping modestly, shopping from neighborhood markets, and showing curiosity rather than entitlement can transform interactions. One traveler shared how preemptively acknowledging tensions helped defuse a heated conversation with a Parisian shopkeeper.
Ultimately, Americans are being urged to see themselves as unofficial diplomats. Whether they like it or not, their behavior abroad shapes how the U.S. is perceived globally—making travel not just a personal adventure, but a form of soft power diplomacy.
