CUSTOMS AND CULTURE
Dress casually and comfortably.
You'll want to be as comfortable as possible during your trip, so bring well-worn walking shoes and casual clothing.
Carry the name and address of your hotel with you.
It's amazing how easy it is to forget the name of your hotel - so pick up a card or matchbook at the front desk and carry it with you when you go out.
Know the rules of the country.
In Muslim countries, for example, it is frowned upon for women to bare their shoulders in public. Some Buddhist countries require that your legs be covered and your shoes off in order to enter sacred temples. And in Thailand, it is rude to touch a child upon the head. The more you know about the customs of the country you're visiting, the more courteous a traveler you'll be.
Be polite when taking photos
In some Indian cultures, the act of photography is believed to steal the soul of the person whose photograph is being taken. So please ask before taking pictures of people. Even if you don't speak their language, just pointing at your camera and smiling will get your point across. And don't be surprised if some children want a tip, or a piece of candy, for allowing their picture to be taken.