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From Away.com
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A Cultural Expeditions Primer (cont.)

Do I have to bargain?
Not necessarily. In Russia, for instance, shops have fixed prices, but in markets you'll be expected to bargain.

In many cultures, bargaining is an expected way of doing business. It can be a fun way to practice your language skills. If possible, do some research and get a reasonable idea of fair prices. Refrain from buying the first example you see of a particular item.



Bargaining will usually save you some money. Remember though, you are not shopping for a car. You don't necessarily have to get the deal of the century. Chances are, the person you are bargaining with can use the money more than you can.

Are there topics to avoid in conversation?
In general, avoid sensitive subjects like religion and politics until you know someone fairly well. The weather, local history, folklore, art, and the beauty of your surroundings are usually safe.

In most cases, avoid even joking about the subject of sex, especially in China and Islamic countries.

In South Africa, people may be divided on the issue of racial and social policies. Throughout Latin America you may run into an attitude of machismo--the concept that men are superior to women. Whether or not you agree with the prevailing views, accepting differences is part of learning about another culture.

How do you decide whether to visit a country where there is racial, cultural, or outright political repression, such as Burma (Myanmar) or Indonesia?
You must weigh for yourself whether the presence of political or ethnic repression will make your travel experience intolerable. While you don't want to have an unpleasant journey, in some cases, your visit may be beneficial.

You can always check the State Department advisories (see Travelers' Toolkit) to assess the level of political unrest--but it will still come down to your personal level of comfort.

For example, Asia Transpacific Adventures, which offers cultural tours to Burma, takes this approach: "Travel to Burma remains a topic of controversy. While we abhor Burma's repressive military regime and are committed to the Burmese people and their struggle for democracy, we feel strongly that a return to isolation could be devastating and that compassionate, well-informed travelers can have a positive impact on the future of this proud nation."

This view of isolation can apply to Burma, China, or any of the other hot spots around the world.

What about single travelers?
Many tour operators designate tours exclusively for people traveling independently. On regular departures, if you would like to share a room and avoid the "single supplement fee," an operator will try to match you with another single roommate who has expressed an interest in the trip. You can tell the tour operator your roommate requirements.

Independent travelers often enjoy the safety and security of group travel to places where they might feel uncomfortable visiting by themselves. However, some people find that traveling with a small group feels more intimate and less intrusive.

Should I bring gifts?
You may want to travel with easy-to-carry gifts that are representative of your home country or town. Postcards, dishtowels, and stamps often are appreciated, as are useful items, like soap, aspirin or beads, if these items are scarce in the area you are visiting.

Irma Turtle suggests you avoid anything expensive or counterculture, such as giving plastic jewelry to women in a West African tribe. She also finds that native people like to see your photographs of family and friends.
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