Not only Paris — where tourists feel unwelcome
A study based on traveler impressions and comments from an etiquette expert has identified destinations where tourists encounter cold or unfriendly treatment: Paris, Italy, Germany, South Korea, Montenegro, and others. The article analyzes the cultural and economic reasons for this perception, emphasizing that tourism brings billions to countries and that a reputation for hospitality has economic value.
A new study, based on traveler impressions and comments from international etiquette expert Jo Hayes, founder of EtiquetteExpert.org, has identified a number of destinations where tourists reported cold, impatient, or unfriendly encounters. Among these places are Paris, Italy, Germany, South Korea, New York, and Montenegro, as well as Poland, the Czech Republic, and Hungary. In Paris, a common source of tension is language: a tourist speaking English may receive a cold response. In Italy, travelers reported impatience and a feeling that locals are tired of visitors, linked to the problem of overtourism. In Germany, the difference is explained by cultural traits: short answers and a businesslike service style. In South Korea, complaints focused on pushing in public transport and a direct manner of communication. In Montenegro, tourists described a detached attitude and a sense that they are seen primarily as a source of income. The article emphasizes that tourism brings these countries billions of dollars and that a reputation for hospitality has direct economic value.