Traveling in the Time of Trump

Trump Travel Trauma…maybe?

Do you have plans to travel internationally in the near future? If you answered yes, under normal circumstances, most people would be ecstatic for such a trip on the horizon. Yet, for American travelers, the last few weeks with Trump in office has created a slight cause for concern when it comes to international travel.

If you do have any travel abroad planned, you may be experiencing similar feelings. Chances are that your concern is due, in part, to what has transpired during President Trump’s first six weeks in office and even more so if you’re planning a visit to the States, but we’ll table that for another post.

For myself, the question that continuously surfaces is, “Should we be traveling internationally in the time of Trump?”

Call me naïve or Mr. Glass-half-full, but the more I think about that question, the more I confidently answer — YES! But keep in mind that when you do travel, things may be a little different.

The most recent foreign policies coming from the Oval Office will have an effect on Americans abroad to varying degrees. In most cases, you may not notice any difference out there, but there will be those cases that may have you muttering, “Oy Vey!” But don’t fret, this is the chance where we, as Americans, have a chance to disavow the President’s foreign policy and political views.

Now is the time when we must do more traveling abroad. We need to let the world know that not all of us share the same views as our commander-in-chief. That we ARE a nation founded on acceptance and inclusion, contrary to how we may appear in the media. That we believe in our constitution and bill of rights, no matter may be spewing out of the Oval Office — but to be able to do so, we must engage our global neighbors.

Image (CC BY 2.0) by Michael Vadon

Here are a few tips to help make your trip a better experience!

• While it might be easier to stay quiet and not exchange political banter with foreigners, remaining hidden or silent may be tantamount to agreeing with him. So, take a chance and make new friends. Strike up conversations with locals and show them how much our viewpoints vary!

• Do some cultural research ahead of time to help you fit in more. Help bridge language gaps by learning some basics and common idioms. Most people will appreciate the attempt and the respect you show for their culture. This alone will improve your interactions abroad and almost certainly create more memorable experiences.

• Avoiding “touristy” fashion faux pas will go a long way in helping you blend in! Most travel experts advise ditching the all-white sneakers and graphic tees, which I love, in favor of darker, solid colored clothing and footwear. Americans tourists tend to stick out like a sore thumb. So when abroad…don’t!

It is our responsibility to represent our country the best way possible, whenever possible. People may engage you in conversation regarding the country’s new geopolitical stance. You know what, that is OK. It is safe to expect it when abroad. Again, take it as an opportunity to meet new people and have open discussions. It will be the perfect opportunity to converse and clear up any assumptions and/or misconceptions they may have on Americans in the time of Trump.

I will take up that mantle when traveling and I hope you do too!

I would love to know what you think or experiences you may have already had while abroad. Please share your comments below.