15 Phrases You Should Never Say as an American Traveling Abroad

You’ve got your passport, your phone is charged, and you’re ready to explore a totally new place. Traveling to another country is an amazing adventure, full of new foods, cool sights, and interesting people.

But just like you wouldn’t wear snow boots to the beach, you also need to pack the right words. Sometimes, a phrase that seems perfectly normal at home can come across as weird, rude, or just plain confusing in another culture.

A simple slip-up can turn a friendly chat into a super awkward moment.

Being a good traveler is about more than just seeing the sights; it’s about connecting with people and showing respect.

Knowing what not to say is a superpower that can help you avoid cringey situations and make real friends. It shows you care about the local culture and aren’t just another loud tourist. Think of it as a secret key to unlocking a better, more authentic travel experience.

Let’s dive into the 15 phrases you should definitely leave out of your suitcase.

“Are U.S. dollars accepted here?”

Imagine someone visiting your town and asking if they can pay for pizza in a completely different currency. It would feel a bit strange, right? When you ask to use dollars in another country, it can seem like you think their own money isn’t good enough or that your convenience is more important.

It might give off the vibe that you expect them to go out of their way just for you, which can come across as a little arrogant.

The smart move is to use the local currency. You can easily get it from an ATM right at the airport when you land. Using the country’s money shows respect and makes paying for things much simpler.

Plus, when shops do accept dollars, they often give you a bad exchange rate, meaning you end up paying more than you should. Using local cash or a no-fee card is easier for everyone and saves you money.

“It’s actually pretty cheap here”

Saying something is “cheap” might seem like you’re giving a compliment, but it can easily make locals feel bad. What’s a bargain for you might be a normal price for the people who live there, and your comment could sound like you’re looking down on their economy or how much they earn.

It can feel like you’re just seeing their home as a discount store instead of appreciating their culture and hard work.

A better way to show you’re happy with the cost is to talk about the quality. Instead of yelling about how cheap your meal is, tell the restaurant owner how delicious the food was. If you find a cool souvenir, praise the great craftsmanship.

You can mention that it’s a good value when you’re talking privately with your friends, but in public, focusing on the quality is a much more respectful way to show your appreciation.

“How come nobody speaks English here?”

This question can sound really entitled, as if you expect everyone everywhere to cater to you. You’re a visitor in their country, where they have their own language and culture. Complaining that people don’t speak your language can make them feel like you don’t respect their home.

Plus, many people around the world speak multiple languages, so asking this might seem rude to someone who is already bilingual or trilingual.

A much better approach is to learn a few basic words in the local language, like “hello,” “please,” and “thank you.” A simple “Do you speak English?” asked politely in their language shows you’re making an effort. Using a translation app on your phone can also be a huge help.

This small gesture of respect goes a long way and will get you a much friendlier response than showing frustration.

“Is it dangerous around here?” shouted in public

Yelling this question in the middle of a street is a big no-no. It can make the people who live there feel really uncomfortable and embarrassed, as if you’re announcing that you think their neighborhood is dangerous.

It’s like a guest in your house asking loudly if your doors are locked because they think it’s a bad area. This kind of public display can also draw the wrong kind of attention to you, making you a target for pickpockets who look for nervous tourists.

The smarter way to handle safety concerns is to be prepared and discreet. Do a little research online about your destination before you even leave home.

If you have specific questions about a certain part of town once you arrive, quietly ask the staff at your hotel or a person at a tourist information desk. Acting confident and aware is much more effective than showing fear.