1. Speak less loudly. I can say this because I am an American. Americans tend to be the loudest tourists on the planet and unwittingly draw attention to their American-ness. Talk softly and match your voice to those around you--you will begin to blend in more with the local population.
2. Listen more and talk less. Be an observer. Watch local customs. Sit in a park, a library, shopping mall, or noisy café, and watch the day- to-day actions and interactions.
3. Visit the cemeteries. Bring a camera and leave a donation in the box or with the caretaker. You won’t be disappointed. The stories are there and ready for you to make your own.
4. Go to church. Even if you don’t understand the language, it will be an experience you will remember and gives you time to observe the local people and children in a natural setting.
5. Travel the less traveled road. Take local transportation. Avoid the hotel shuttle buses as much as possible. Avoid tourist taxis. And party barges and packaged tours. Take the bus and the local taxis. Talk to your driver and ask his advice on things to see and do.
6. Walk more. Slow down and really take in the scenery, the sights, sounds, and smells.
7. Stay for more than 7 days. If your budget and time allows, try staying in one place for longer than a week. Or try staying in multiple places in the same city for a few days at a time to get a different view of the same location.
8. When in Rome... Stay and eat where the locals are hanging out. And do what they do. Spend time interacting with them as they go about their daily lives, going to work, at church, relaxing—and not just when they are waiting on you, the tourist.
