'Virtual living' makes tourists behave worse and worse

According to experts, social networks like Instagram or Tiktok are making you a bad tourist because you are too passionate about virtual life.

According to CNN, people who travel to a beautiful place are very likely to post photos and videos to show off on social media. However, experts say this action creates a vicious cycle, which can cause a domino effect of bad behavior. Many people, in order to have beautiful photos, are willing to affect the lives of local people and disrespect the customs of the place they visit.

Streamer Polina Murugina took nude photos in front of a church in Moscow, Russia and faced a prison sentence in 2022. Photo: east2west news — Streamer Polina Murugina poses nude in front of a church in Moscow, Russia, in 2022. Photo: *east2west news*

Authorities in Bali, Indonesia have been forced to fine tourists for taking nude photos on a mountain sacred to locals. To combat the misbehavior, the government issued a new guide in June outlining the dos and don’ts of the island. If tourists violate the rules, they will face fines.

Other destinations have followed suit. Iceland, Hawaii, Palau, New Zealand, and Costa Rica have issued advisories asking visitors to respect local laws and customs. Campaigns like Switzerland’s No Drama, Austria’s See Vienna – not #Vienna, Finland’s Be more like a Finn, and the Netherlands’ How to Amsterdam all aim to encourage and attract well-behaved tourists.

When efforts to call for proper behavior failed, Maya Bay, Thailand was closed to tourists for a time.

"Remember you are a guest. Respect your hosts by traveling courteously," CNN writes. Even if you are a seasoned traveler, you may not realize your impact on the local community. But information provided on government websites can help you act more appropriately. So before you travel, take the time to research the place you are visiting.

If it is a place with stricter rules than where you live, you should be aware and avoid making mistakes. Whether or not you agree with their customs is irrelevant, as you are just a guest.

CNN research also suggests putting your phone down and enjoying the sights, life, and culture of the place you visit. The most memorable experiences are when you have a close connection with someone or learn something new. That becomes harder when you are constantly looking at your phone.

Anh Minh (According to CNN )

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