By Carl Dombek
A few weeks ago, syndicated advice columnist Miss Manners published some incorrect information regarding wardrobes when traveling to other countries. She said, “Many countries are establishing dress codes for tourists.”
That isn’t quite correct; many countries have specific rules about how to dress in public spaces, religious sites, or government buildings, but they apply to everyone, not just tourists. However, tourists who aren’t familiar with the customs of the country they’re visiting are most likely to run afoul of those rules than are locals.
SAGE ADVICE
Familiarize yourself with the rules of the country you’ll be visiting. That’s just common sense, though that seems in short supply these days. Particularly if you’ll be visiting a country in the Middle East, it will be worth your time to investigate what’s acceptable and what isn’t. Countries including Saudi Arabia and Iran require women to cover their hair and wear loose clothing. Countries including Maldives and Uganda also have strict modesty laws. Visiting religious sites often requires clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Even the recently reopened Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris was reportedly turning away would-be visitors whose shoulders were not covered, though knees were not an issue.
A few weeks ago, syndicated advice columnist Miss Manners published some incorrect information regarding wardrobes when traveling to other countries. She said, “Many countries are establishing dress codes for tourists.”
That isn’t quite correct; many countries have specific rules about how to dress in public spaces, religious sites, or government buildings, but they apply to everyone, not just tourists. However, tourists who aren’t familiar with the customs of the country they’re visiting are most likely to run afoul of those rules than are locals.
SAGE ADVICE
Familiarize yourself with the rules of the country you’ll be visiting. That’s just common sense, though that seems in short supply these days. Particularly if you’ll be visiting a country in the Middle East, it will be worth your time to investigate what’s acceptable and what isn’t. Countries including Saudi Arabia and Iran require women to cover their hair and wear loose clothing. Countries including Maldives and Uganda also have strict modesty laws. Visiting religious sites often requires clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Even the recently reopened Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris was reportedly turning away would-be visitors whose shoulders were not covered, though knees were not an issue.
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| Photo credit: Wikipedia |
Dubai is a multi-cultural city and VisitDubai.com notes that all attires are generally acceptable, though swimwear is only acceptable at the beach or pool, not in business districts and shopping malls. If you plan on visiting either a business district or mall, remember to wear loose-fitting and conservative clothing, avoid shorts and keep ankles covered. Also, if traveling with a significant other, understand that public displays of affection should be minimal; holding hands is acceptable but kissing and hugging in public are not, per the UAE's official web site, u.ae.
France has banned items that cover the face such as masks, helmets, balaclavas, niqābs and other veils covering the face in public places. COVID masks are the exception. As of this year, people are still required to wear a mask in hospitals, nursing homes and other health facilities. Wearing a mask in other settings, such as on public transportation, is now a personal choice.
One self-important American "influencer" thought the prohibition on board shorts was ridiculous, said so, and got in the water anyway, only to find several lifeguards swimming out to him and removing him "with a hook that you'd use to save someone who is drowning." Remember that many other countries put the good of society ahead of individual freedoms.
France has banned items that cover the face such as masks, helmets, balaclavas, niqābs and other veils covering the face in public places. COVID masks are the exception. As of this year, people are still required to wear a mask in hospitals, nursing homes and other health facilities. Wearing a mask in other settings, such as on public transportation, is now a personal choice.
Swim suits: Men in France who plan on swimming in a public pool, at the beach, or in any swimmable body of water are required to wear tight swimming trunks or briefs – think Speedo – even if it makes those of us with (too much) tummy (myself included) look ridiculous. Loose-fitting or baggy shorts are strictly prohibited, as those are considered unhygienic. In addition, swim caps are often mandatory.
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| Photo credit: The Guardian |
One self-important American "influencer" thought the prohibition on board shorts was ridiculous, said so, and got in the water anyway, only to find several lifeguards swimming out to him and removing him "with a hook that you'd use to save someone who is drowning." Remember that many other countries put the good of society ahead of individual freedoms.
Some countries, including Barbados, have specific rules against anyone other than active members of the country’s military wearing camouflage clothing, making identification of a bona fide law enforcement agent much easier than it is in the U.S. at present.
In Spain, there are specific rules that can result in a fine if driving in certain types of footwear. Drivers must be in a position to control their vehicle at all times and flip-flops, sandals, and other footwear that does not have a secure strap around the heel can be considered dangerous. A fine of up to €200 can be issued if an officer determined they impeded the driver's ability to operate the pedals safely.
Work to blend in with the locals. While t-shirts with slogans or sports team logos are much more common in developed countries than even 10 or 15 years ago, it is still best to be bland. For men, a simple button-down shirt or polo shirt without an ostentatious imprint and khakis works well. For women, tailored slacks or a mid-length skirt and a simple top will serve you well.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Do your homework well before you start packing and consider the places you plan to visit. If you want to visit a religious site or two, be sure you have the required conservative clothing. In any case, planning well ahead will give you a better idea of what to take and what to leave home, and leave enough time to fill in any gaps in your traveling wardrobe before the day of your departure.
Bon voyage!
In Spain, there are specific rules that can result in a fine if driving in certain types of footwear. Drivers must be in a position to control their vehicle at all times and flip-flops, sandals, and other footwear that does not have a secure strap around the heel can be considered dangerous. A fine of up to €200 can be issued if an officer determined they impeded the driver's ability to operate the pedals safely.
Work to blend in with the locals. While t-shirts with slogans or sports team logos are much more common in developed countries than even 10 or 15 years ago, it is still best to be bland. For men, a simple button-down shirt or polo shirt without an ostentatious imprint and khakis works well. For women, tailored slacks or a mid-length skirt and a simple top will serve you well.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Do your homework well before you start packing and consider the places you plan to visit. If you want to visit a religious site or two, be sure you have the required conservative clothing. In any case, planning well ahead will give you a better idea of what to take and what to leave home, and leave enough time to fill in any gaps in your traveling wardrobe before the day of your departure.
Bon voyage!
Visit my main page at TheTravelPro.us for more news, reviews, and personal observations on the world of upmarket travel.
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