Those who live near tourist attractions know the experience. You’re trying to walk down the street, and hundreds of pedestrians are taking photos. Hundreds of pedestrians get in your way while trying to walk down the street. Some are taking pictures, some are gawking at the monument, and some are just being loud and ignorant. To locals, tourists are annoying. Here are 15 ways not to be annoying when visiting Washington, D.C.
Avoid Taking Too Many Pictures
Locals hate it when tourists take pictures, especially when they don’t consider those around them. You could be walking, and an amateur photographer might set the stage or get the perfect angle and bump into you. To avoid being annoying to D.C. locals, avoid taking too many pictures. Get some good images and allow the rest to remain in your memory.
Avoid Large Group Tours
Few things are as insufferable to locals as large tourist groups. Put them on segways, and you risk a full-fledged crashout. Those living in the area usually work or have necessary appointments. They don’t want to be stuck behind a large tourist group. It’s also annoying because the tourists are on vacation, and you’re stuck working. Avoid joining an extensive tour and be out of the crosshairs for a local.
Wear Casual Clothes
Nothing screams tourist more than wearing a t-shirt that says, “I heart D.C.” Locals in line to get a hotdog from a local hotdog stand do not want to be stuck behind a tourist who has never ordered a hotdog. In Washington, D.C., locals live and work; it’s their everyday place. Wear casual clothes and avoid being picked out by locals.
Don’t Block Foot Traffic
Tourists who visit D.C. are often on vacation and may not have the same sense of urgency as locals. They are often slow walkers, and if tourists want to avoid irritating locals, they should be sure to walk quickly and not block foot traffic. However, if you find yourself in a situation where you need to take your time, consider stepping to the side to allow others to pass, or simply be aware of your surroundings and make way for those in a hurry.
Use Public Transportation
One way to seamlessly blend in with the locals is to use public transportation. Need to travel across the city? Hop on the city bus. By doing so, you’ll be perceived as a resident going about their daily routine. However, if you’re riding around in a large tour bus or, heaven forbid, a segway, locals might give you a second glance. Avoid standing out and ride public transportation to avoid being an annoyance to locals.
Avoid Tourist Souvenirs
There’s no other way to stand out as a tourist than to wear a shirt that says the name of the city you’re visiting. Avoid bringing attention to yourself by avoiding souvenirs. For one, souvenirs are usually ridiculously and unnecessarily expensive. Locals will loathe your existence if you walk around D.C. with your new swag. Unless the souvenir is unique, save your money. You can always order a coffee mug on Amazon.
Avoid Wearing Backpacks
People who wear backpacks usually scream, “I don’t belong here.” Unless you have all of your belongings in a backpack, there is no need to carry one. Leave your belongings at the hotel or Airbnb. A backpack is practical only if you spend the entire day in the field. Avoid wearing a backpack if you want to keep a low profile with the locals.
Don’t Gawk at the Monuments
Tourists are typically excited to see the Washington, D.C. sites like the White House, Lincoln Memorial, or the Washington Monument. But that doesn’t mean you have to make a big scene. Locals hate it when tourists stand there and gawk. Avoid lingering and causing minor annoyance by looking at the structures and quickly moving on. Yes, they are amazing, but don’t make a big deal about it.
Don’t Ask For Directions
Don’t ask for directions when walking around D.C., especially from locals. They might be short with you. Worse, they might send you in the wrong direction. No one likes being annoyed by people taking up space and exploring their city. Be sure to study a map beforehand and know your destinations. Better yet, use your phone as a GPS, but be sure you don’t give the impression you are taking lots of photographs. Be discreet.
Avoid Tourist Traps
Tourist traps are places where goods and services are overpriced because tourists are typically willing to pay more for the experience. These locations tend to be crowded with people and are near historical landmarks. Tourists flock towards novel and gimmicky things, so don’t fall into the trap. Save your money and ignore the hype. Seek out local businesses that sell authentic goods.
Know Some of the D.C. Neighborhoods
One way to ensure you have an authentic D.C. experience is by familiarizing yourself with the key neighborhoods. Georgetown is home to the university, while Dupont Circle boasts historic buildings, cafes, and art galleries. Adams Morgan is known for its vibrant nightlife. By knowing these neighborhoods, you can act like a sophisticated world traveler who knows the best spots to visit, rather than a clueless tourist.
Use D.C. Lingo
When in Washington, D.C., it’s best to use the local lingo. Most locals refer to the city as D.C. or The District, and the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia metropolitan areas as the DMV. Capitol Hill is often called The Hill. By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you can blend in with the locals and avoid standing out as a tourist.
Don’t Walk Around With A Map
Another way you can tell someone is a tourist is if they walk around with a map. When you’re in D.C., avoid being glued to a map. It is dangerous to walk around; you’ll likely bump into people. Plus, some locals might scoff at you when you get in their way. If you need directions, use your smartphone, but be aware of your surroundings. Don’t appear to be a lost and clueless tourist.
Eat at Local Restaurants
Near D.C.’s historical sites, many restaurants boast an excellent dining experience. However, the prices are often inflated because businesses know tourists are willing to spend more money. Before visiting, research and scope out some of the local favorites. You will support local businesses and won’t break the bank on lunch or dinner.
Visit Local Bars
There’s no better way to mingle with the locals than to go to a favorite local bar. The atmosphere will provide a more authentic experience of D.C. Often, tourist traps are gimmicky and novel, trying to appeal to tourists. Local bars will be where real D.C. locals kick back and enjoy a cold one. Do some internet research before you visit, and ask a friend familiar with D.C. where the cool bars are.
