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Speaking the language - This is the first thing you should consider when you travel. You should always make an effort to speak the language of the country you're in.

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Assuming everybody speaks English - It may be a universal language, but don't assume everybody speaks English. The best thing is to learn the basics of the native language of the country you're visiting.

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Local culture - Technology's evolution has made it easier to learn about the cultures of other countries. You may avoid some sticky situations if you learn about local customs and traditions, such as how people greet each other, or how they dress.

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Disrespecting local culture - 'When in Rome, do as the Romans do:' some countries have habits and customs such as greetings, dress style and gestures that may seem odd to visitors. Disrespecting these customs is never a good idea. In the end it causes conflict and shows ignorance of the local culture.

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Offending the locals - Verbally offending people in either your language or the local language is something you should always avoid.

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Offensive gestures - Depending on the country, some gestures that might seem normal to us may be taken as disrespectful. So inform yourself about what may or may not be taken the wrong way before you use hand gestures.

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Don't make fun of the local language - Every country has their language and way of communicating. Showing respect for this can help to create empathy with local people and avoid conflict.

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Taking photos in forbidden areas - In some places you will find it's strictly prohibited to take photos and you may even see signs warning of this. If you don't respect this, it may not go down well with local people.

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Taking photos in holy places - Some temples, churches and even museums don't allow people to take photos inside. It may be important for you to remember the experience later on, but it's better to respect the laws of the place you're in.

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Taking photos without permission - Don't just point and shoot! If you want to take photos of people, ask for their permission. Not everybody likes to be photographed.

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Littering - This one goes for at home too - littering is never good. By putting your garbage in the trash you're helping the environment and avoiding any potential conflict.

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Currency exchange at the airport - You will always get the worst exchange rates at the airport. It's better to do it at home before you travel or if it's an emergency, at an ATM in the country you're visiting.

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Not getting travel insurance - Most people only think of travel insurance after getting in an accident or getting sick. But travel insurance could be a real life saver and it's better to be safe than sorry.

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Customs - You know that some items won't be allowed through customs. Don't take any risks by trying to sneak through illegal items. Being caught at customs is no way to begin, or end, a holiday.

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Emergency money - You should always keep track of the money you bring with you. It's important to set some aside, just in case something unforeseen happens, and to avoid ending up with an empty wallet.

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Not tipping - In some cultures, not leaving a tip is seen as disrespectful and rude. Best to leave something, and not take the risk.

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Smoking where it's prohibited - Just because you're in another country doesn't mean you can smoke indoors. This is a universal symbol and must be respected.

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Not respecting the silence - In some places making noise is not allowed and keeping quiet is recommended. Not following this may get you in trouble.

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Keeping an eye on your stuff - Always be aware of your stuff, especially valuable items like your phone or wallet. Pickpockets are more common in some countries than others, and tourists are often their preferred target.

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Bringing just one credit card -

It's a good idea to have a spare credit card or money, just in case you lose your wallet or it gets stolen.

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Not knowing how to get home - You may enjoy exploring a new city and getting lost in it without worrying about picking up a map, but you should always try to remember the way back. Getting lost in a country you don't know can be a real hassle.

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Going down dangerous streets - Places on the outskirts of town with little footfall and fewer people around are ideal for attackers. Be careful on these streets and avoid them if you can, especially at night.

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Not respecting the rules of the road - Breaking red lights, or not stopping at crosswalks is not allowed in most countries. Don't get daunted on the roads, and respect the rules.

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Eating and drinking on public transport - Most countries don't let you bring food or drink on public transports. They may even have signs warning you of this, so make sure you respect the rules.

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Drinking alcohol in some places - It may be prohibited to drink alcohol in certain places. The same as with smoking, it's important to look out for signs.

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Chewing gum - Chewing gum while talking to somebody may be seen as disrespectful. Try to avoid it.

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Skipping the queue - Most cultures follow the rules of queuing. Waiting your turn is a rule you should always follow. You don't want to disrespect other people or create tense situations.

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Speaking on the phone - In some places, using a cell phone may not be allowed. You may need to reply to that text or take that call, but it's better if you respect your environment.

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Shoes off - Some countries, especially in Asia, take their shoes off at the entrance to a house, temple, or sacred place. If you visit a country where this is the norm, respect the tradition and do as the locals do.

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Not warning anybody -

It's always a good idea to let somebody know you're traveling. Something unexpected might happen, both at home or abroad. Let your family or close friends know where you're off to, and when you expect to be back.

See also: Discovering the ancient city-state called Sparta

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