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Whether from personal mistakes or prudent planning, seasoned travelers know that it’s always best to do their own research when it comes to preparing for a trip. And what better resource than the internet to just ask locals directly about what to do and, maybe more importantly, not to do?
This is exactly what one netizen did when they asked Americans about what things tourists should avoid doing at all costs. The crowdsourced answers covered a lot of useful ground for any planning a US trip. We also reached out to veteran traveler Will Tang from the Going Awesome Places blog to learn some other good tips and tricks.
More info: Going Awesome Places | Instagram
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Go where you want! My country is absolutely gorgeous, especially the national parks. Just 2 pieces of advice:
1. For the love of all that is holy, stay away from the f***ing wildlife. Seriously. The cute fluffy bison would sonner gore you than take a selfie with you.
2. Don't tell us how awful our healthcare system is. We. Know.
WindySwede 2 years ago
The wildlife aren't payed enough to endure your bison c**p, they are no movie extras.. 🤪
Gen X Feral (try/me) 2 years ago
I just saw the news yesterday where a woman was gored by a bison at Yellowstone so badly she had to be airlifted out of there. Sounds callous, but my first thought was good now maybe people will treat those animals with the caution and respect they deserve. Trying to take selfies with humongous dangerous animals, you get what you deserve.
Kelsie Marx 2 years ago
I couldn’t agree with this person more! Then when a bison attacks a person, the person questions why, and it’s because THEY were too stupid to not follow the rules 🤷♀️
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
And please do not stick your appendages into the hot springs. It's not cool or fun to watch.. I will laugh if you fall in for being stupid.
RELATED:
#2
Northern WI.
Because that's where I live and I don't like people.
KWilly 2 years ago
But you have cheese! ALL THE CHEESE! I will be there soon. Sorry.....
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Thom Serveaux 2 years ago
Wisconsin is amazing. We have so many different kinds of natural beauty. The great lakes feel more like oceans, the dells feel like mountains, and our forests are huge. I love it here.
Mark Karol-Chik 2 years ago
I like people. It's the cringe worthy asshats that make it a nightmare
Partlie Cloudie 2 years ago
So anywhere this person lives? This should not have been included.
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
I'd love to go to the north woods of Wisconsin. They look so beautiful.
#3
Death Valley in the summer especially if you consider yourself a strong hiker, and live in a cooler climate.
It has that name for a reason.
Saint Tim the Godless 2 years ago
Hey, the vultures and snakes have got to eat something.
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Oerff On Tour 2 years ago
And so a few days ago, Death Valley was swamped by tourists "who wanted to be there for when the temperature reached a record high".
Upstaged75 2 years ago
#facepalm Just, why?? I say we let them get scorched or otherwise have to pay a massive fee if they end up needing to be rescued.
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William Teach 2 years ago
I love how idiots are going there now with the heatwave in *checks notes* summer and getting into trouble.
Lew k 2 years ago
Don’t hike in AZ in the summer if you aren’t from here and understand how dangerous the heat is. It’s ridiculous how many people I warn off that are trying to do a 5 mile hike in 110 + degree weather with a little 12 oz water bottle. You can literally die. best case you’re going to force others to hike up and rescue you.
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
Even residents shouldn't be out there. My rule was that once the zoo implements their summer hours it's too hot during the day for anyone to be hiking.
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Linus Bourque 2 years ago
I will say that springtime in Death Valley can be quite spectacular (if there is a bloom on)
Full of Giggles 2 years ago
My family has spent the last 6 weeks in Australia where the high has been between 50-65F. I’m really not looking forward to going home to Phoenix tomorrow.
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David 2 years ago
And if you are DRIVING through the general area - for example the I-15 freeway that goes from Los Vegas to LA - try to drive the desert area at night when it is cooler. Me and a friend. Was so hot we couldn't keep the AC on because the extra load was making the car overheat. So we rolled the windows down but if you put your hand out of the window at freeway speed it felt like you were sticking your hand in front of a heater. We toughed it out cuz no choice but we didn't make that mistake a second time.
Voodoops_13 2 years ago
People often think about their own water, shade, sunscreen stuff, but forget that these extreme Temps can put your vehicle out of commission too. Then you're stranded without enough supplies for the unexpected trouble.
Bored Panda got in touch with Will Tang, travel writer, and globetrotter, from Going Awesome Places to get some insights on what travelers should do in general when preparing for a trip. “If there's one big tip I'd provide to anyone that's new to travel, it'd be to pack light as best as you can. It's one of those things that doesn't feel intuitive and is the best thing when you learn that it's quite easy to wash your clothes along the way and you really don't use half the things you initially want to bring.”
We also were curious to hear his take on “travel tips” in general. “Travel is totally one of those things where you end up becoming more comfortable and "seasoned" by just getting out there. There's no better teacher than going through the highs and lows of travel yourself because ultimately everyone has a different style of travel and there's no one-size-fits-all.”
#4
If you’re in a National park, listen to what the caution signs say and don’t venture off of paths. One is because of wildlife and the other is because humans don’t need to ruin everything in nature, just to get a photo.
Also, don’t fall into the Grand Canyon. You will die.
Kim Kermes 2 years ago
YES!! The wilderness is not the suburbs or a city park. Mother Nature isn't a b***h, she just doesn't care.
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
And it's a crime to throw anything off thr edge of thr grand canyon as you don't know who or what is below and could kill them.
#5
Avoid large chain restaurants. The best food in America comes from small owner operated businesses.
Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa) 2 years ago
Also don't be afraid of the food trucks. They can be a lot of fun.
Der Kommissar 2 years ago
Republicans tried to scare us by telling us that if immigration got out of control, there would be a taco truck on every corner. That would be very convenient and wonderful.
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Shark Lady 2 years ago
Like most places, ask a local where they go to eat, online reviews don't always give you an accurate view. However, sometimes sticking with a chain restaurant isn't bad advice because you know what you're going to get, you also know roughly how much it is going to cost you.
D3v1lD0ll 2 years ago
Agreed. To add to this, I'd say ask a taxi driver (if they still operate at your destination). They know where to find the best value in eateries and tend to value small, local businesses.
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TrippyBanana 2 years ago
Well, ya, but I still want to see what McDonalds in Spain does differently than the McDonald's in my hometown does. Some menu items are specific to a location. Even if I don't eat there, I want to check it out.
#6
If you go to a national park and you disregard the signs you're going to die.
It's not a joke.
Treat buffalo like field puppies? You're going to die. Try to pet the brown bear? You're going to die. See that moose and want to feed it? You're probably already dead. Oh look, a rattlesnake! *dead* Want to swim in Old Faithful? You're going to die painfully and completely dissolve into a soup.
S**t is dangerous here and if you don't respect it you'll be lucky to die quick.
PlatinumTheCat 2 years ago
If you are stupid enough to disregard the signs, please disregard the signs, I’m sick and tired of idiots not listening to the rules
Tracy Wallick 2 years ago
Normally I'd agree, but a lot of tourist antics also damage the parks/animals/etc. with their stupidity
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Madam Puddyfoot 2 years ago
Ski off trail and get lost/injured, in some states, you will be charged the costs of your rescue.
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
In Arizona there's a stupid motorists law during monsoon season and any heavy rain. If you get stuck and require assistance you will be charged and will have to pay the fee for your rescue. I think AZ needs a Stupid Hiker Law also, but in due time.
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Michael P (Perthaussieguy) 2 years ago
There is always a steady supply of 'Darwin Award' contenders
Mabelbabel 2 years ago
Bill Bryson's book about walking the Appalachian trail goes into a lot of graphic detail about the dangers. He recounted a story about a woman who dipped her toddler's hand in honey to encourage a bear to lick it off for a cute photograph.... There are some utterly dozy tourists around.
Norah Reilly 2 years ago
The problem with all of this good advice is that the congenitally stupid will neither understand nor obey the rules.
“THAT SAID, as someone that has gone through the gamut of travel, there are travel tips that I put under the "I wish someone told me about that before I went". As an example, it's good to know if pickpocketing is an issue in certain cities. You don't exactly want to learn from the actual experience of having your phone stolen.”
#7
Don’t hike into the wilderness of Colorado (especially 14ers) without knowing wilderness survival and responsibilities. Tourists die on our mountains and in Rocky Mountain National Park all the time. Do your research! Altitude is no joke
Ingo Sauer 2 years ago
I only drove up Pike's Peak, and even with no energy expended on my part the thin air up there was impressively ... well ... thin.
David 2 years ago
Did you take the cog railroad to the top? I lived in Colorado for three years but I could still feel the thinner air at the tourist / view place at the top.
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Sapna Sarfare 2 years ago
Indian here... understand this advice. I stay in Maharashtra near the Western Ghats. It is a mountain range which defines our region and is popular amongst trekkers. We see a lot of newbies being extra smart and going alone here. A few have lost life. Some die and can be eaten by leopards or tiger.... Dont remember the timeline but recently a young guy from Delhi came in this part alone to trek and lost life.
Voodoops_13 2 years ago
This goes for any wilderness in America. Especially stay aware of weather forecasts. It can change quickly and is wide ranging across the country.
Jan van den Broek 2 years ago
Probably also for any wilderness outside of America.
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TrippyBanana 2 years ago
All mountains should be respected no matter their size. People died on the Superstitions in Apache Junction, AZ, annually because it's usually hot and dry. Though I am contemplating moving back to the mountains so that's exciting.
RandomPanda 2 years ago
I never even made it up halfway when I lived in CO. The air gets really thin and you could die up there if you aren't careful. Knowing when to quit would be really helpful.
Two_rolling_black_eyes 2 years ago
Please pay attention to this. We have hospitals with units devoted to just treating altitude sickness but we still have multiple fatalities every year. Some people die essentially from suffocation because their bodies cannot transport enough oxygen. Some die from having blood vessels blow up in their brains because the heart overcompensates. Some die from blood clots. If you start to feel ill, immediately get to the lowest possible. There are places a helicopter can't get to so medevac is impossible. As a native, I struggle with it too. My body "learned" to increase blood pressure. I now have to acclimate over days to go to higher altitude.
Paul Pienkowski 2 years ago
Yep. We were camping in the Rockies and three bears got into our food cooler. We've been before, we knew how to deal with it. Let the bears eat and stay tf away until they're done. They're not cuddly teddies.
#8
Disney. Your life will be wasted away waiting in lines to pay too much. The time spent enjoying the Disney stuff will be nothing compared to the time being suffocated by crowds waiting around to do things.
Unless you came her to stand around ahd bleed money it's not going to be fun.
Kathryn Baylis 2 years ago
Go in the off season if you can, like on weekdays when kids are in school. When I lived in SoCal, we used to go to Disneyland like on a Wednesday in October or March—-even on Christmas Eve it wasn’t crowded because people were at home. The weather was cool and comfortable, there were no lines, you could ride the rides several times in a row, you could get seated in the restaurants right away, and you could watch all the live shows and parades from the front row. Don’t know if it’s still like that in the off-season, but Inwoukd think the crowds would at least be thinner.
David 2 years ago
Posts like this make me sad and nostalgic. I was fortunate enough to visit Disneyland as a young boy in the 60s when it was not like that. And Disneyworld in Orlando in 1980 when it was only a little bit like that. One of the times at Disneyworld was on July 4th when it was free for military in uniform. That particular day was sort of a mistake and very crowded / lines and it STILL wasn't as bad was what so many folks describe now as just any given day at Disneyland/world. You used to be able to spend most of your time seeing stuff/riding rather than lines and everything was much cheaper. Including you could bring your own food in. Now I hear they check baby strollers and stuff for outside food. No alcohol of course but some basic sandwiches and snacks go a long way. TDLR: I'm old, in the mid 60s-mid 70s an adult ticket to Disneyland was $7.30.
Sarah M. 2 years ago
Not sure where you heard that but we visit often and when we do we always bring food, waters etc. Disney's official website says it is perfectly fine. https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/faq/parks/outside-food-and-drink/
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Kyle D 2 years ago
Disney is great but you do have to go in with the expectation of lines and prices and prepare for both. Depending on the time you go, there's nothing you can do about crowds but the other is simple, don't eat or buy souvenirs at the park. Bring snacks and drinks and buy trinkets at a local Target or WalMart (assuming you can get there). Sure they aren't "park souvenirs" but cheaper is cheaper. Also, don't go expecting to do EVERYTHING. Pick a few must dos and anything extra is a wonderful bonus.
Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa) 2 years ago
There are two days a year I would go to Disneyland. Pride day and Bat's Day at the Fun Park. Pride day is obvious but Bat's Day is the day Disneyland is swarmed by goths. It's disneyland and everybody is dressed in black and looking like they just rolled in on their steam powered velocipede.
Bruce Strickland 2 years ago
Stand in a line for an hour for a two-minute ride? Who wouldn't want to do that?
#9
The deserts of the southwest, unless you're prepared for it and understand the dangers of that environment. It isn't uncommon for us to get folks from Europe--typically Germany for some reason--who decide to go hiking at the worst times of the day without enough water. Some of them die. It's really easy to get dehydrated and possibly die even in "safe" areas, and the danger can sneak up on you.
Tracy Wallick 2 years ago (edited)
I'm from the southwest; by all means, go see our beautiful deserts! But ideally not in summer, and regardless of when you visit, always bring more water than you expect to need and wear sunscreen RELIGIOUSLY, even in winter. (I highly recommend the Anza-Borrego desert in spring, when it has its famous 'superblooms' and is covered in flowers)
BC 2 years ago
Funnily enough, in Australia, it’s the Seppos (septic tank=yanks). They seem to think they can drive from Melbourne to Perth on one tank of petrol and with one bottle of water. It’s a bloody desert out there!!!
sofacushionfort 2 years ago (edited)
“Seppo?” When Australians come to our national parks they handle the heat just fine. The main cause of injuries happens when they think they can shag the wild bighorn sheep as safely as they do their own Merinos.
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Caryle 2 years ago
I had a family member visit me in the summer in Arizona and she wanted to go for a hike early in the morning and she said she mapped it out for the whole time she was taking selfies not looking where she was going and got us lost and hot in the desert. I had to tell her twice watch where you’re walking. If you slip on these rocks I’m not dragging your carcass back., So yes also, please listen to the residence of a place when they tell you that it’s dangerous
Maryse Faucher 2 years ago
always carry extra water yep the weight of it might slow you down a bit still it's better than overheating
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
Also, if you're camping in the desert at night, be prepared. All the critters emerge at night, and it can get frosty cold. It is not uncommon to hear of migrants who are caught to have frostbite or suffering from hypothermia because they were traveling at night and were not wearing proper clothing.
Similar to some of the other tips here, we wanted to hear his horror stories, as those tend to be a great way to know what to avoid. “You hear about all the cab scams in certain countries and sometimes you feel like it'll never happen to you - until it does. For most of our time in Istanbul, we used Uber but in one particular case, we figured, "What's the worst that could happen" when we needed to get from our hotel to a hammam we had booked.”
#10
Anywhere south in the summer time. Its too f****n hot.
Kathryn Baylis 2 years ago
Even if the temperature isn’t deathly high, the f*****g humidity will drown you in your own sweat—-which will start gushing out of you with the slightest exertion, like talking your first moisture-filled breath outside. It’s like walking through a steam bath.
Upstaged75 2 years ago
I'm not even that far South but we get horrible humidity as well. (Because Washington DC is built on a stupid swamp!) I'm so annoyed at my damn hair lately - it's either sweaty or frizzy. I really just want to shave it off, but I can't pull off the bald look. :)
Load More Replies... PlatinumTheCat 2 years ago
I live in Florida and right not I can’t even bear to leave my house (is that the right bear? Or is it bare I can’t remember)
Jess S. 2 years ago
You're correct. It's bear. Bare is naked like the band Barenaked Ladies!
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Kelley Clough Mountain 2 years ago
The air down south in the summer is like trying to breathe thick soup.
BetterBitterButter 2 years ago
I can take the heat but combine that with humidity and I am restless in 30-35°.
#11
Avoid going to one location thinking another location across the country is a short trip.
Yeet_girl360 2 years ago
To get from Dallas,Texas to Del Rio, Texas takes about 8-9 hours depending on the route, and that is just one way....
PHOTOBOB 2 years ago
Definitely do your homework. I live in Florida and have actually had this conversation (online). "We are coming down to Disney and want a hotel right on the ocean. We thought we would zip over to Miami for lunch one day. Any recommendations? If we have lunch in Miami could we spend a little time in Key west before heading back to Disney for the afternoon?" Answer: "Orlando is not on the ocean. About an hour drive.. Miami is a 3 1/2 to 4 hour drive. If traffic is good. Key West is another 3 1/2 to 4 hours. If traffic is good." At least look at a map. Our state is thin but long. and traffic sucks especially during the winter.
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
I've had this conversation with people also. It's two hours to Tampa from where I am, and 3 and half to Ocala. Nothing is close by and there's miles of empty, but beautiful, land in between. I also make sure they understand that if a gator is in the road you stop and wait until that sucker moves or he'll break your car.
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Shannon Hawks 2 years ago
you can drive thru every New England state faster than you can get thru Texas. it was almost its own country
Burnt Bagel 2 years ago
And there is a blessed lack of people in the West. Just look at a light emission map of the USA. Cant understand why anyone would want to live on the east coast. People piled on people.
Petra Schaap 2 years ago
dont worry, we have Google Maps and other apps in europe, you should try it once.
Janet Ryan 2 years ago (edited)
We already do but google maps can’t always tell road closures especially in the northeast
Load More Replies... #12
The Kensington area of North Philadelphia. Don't. Just don't
Nacho Man Sandy Ravage 2 years ago
And here's why.....read about this myself a couple of weeks ago https://nypost.com/2023/05/27/horrific-footage-shows-devastation-of-philadelphias-tranq-epidemic/
Lene 2 years ago
Oh.... 😳 that looks HORRIBLE! all those poor people frying their brains and nervous systems. Thanks for the link, Nacho Man
Load More Replies... Der Kommissar 2 years ago
It is a huge drug market, similar to the one in the Tenderloin in San Fran.
Rinso the Red 2 years ago
"In West Philadelphia born and raised On the playground was where I spent most of my days..."
Mark Karol-Chik 2 years ago
I am not a religious person, heaven and hell are c**p views to me, HOWEVER- if there is a hell, those gawdamned dealers deserve that as an afterlife.
SarahBee 2 years ago
Really fun city! Great museums, lots of American History, great food.... Reading Terminal is an amazing food market - lots of Amish food there! Pop-up beer gardens. Just pay attention to where you are!
Load More Replies...“Tracking the route on my phone, the route he took didn't seem too crazy so it didn't ring any alarm bells but things got sketchy when we had to pay. They hand him a 50 TRY bill and he comes back and says we owe him more money even though we were expecting change. What he did was pull off a sleight-of-hand move and switched the 50 to a 5 TRY bill. There was a moment of hesitation but we were pretty sure it was a 50. Yelling ensued and we refused to give more. Despite overpaying, we decided to just walk away. The cab driver still got the last laugh though because when we looked around, we weren't close to where we wanted to go. We made sure we used Uber for the rest of our trip.”
#13
Area 51 seems the obvious answer
Sierra Tide 2 years ago
Been to Roswell New Mexico and it's a one-day trip - everything worth doing can be done in one day . It's very alien themed cheezy.
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
I remember there was a weird moment when people went and stood outside of area 51 and demanded answers. Some were even saying they're going to storm the base, but I don't think anyone did. Maybe I dreamt that, because I say it out loud and it feels like a weird thing to have watched on the news.
Burnt Bagel 2 years ago
Nobody in their right mind should trust the American government…period!
Pickles, Pennies, & Ponies 2 years ago
Man, I wish I had some mad super powers. Specifically, invisibility. I would love to see what goes on there.
White Sauce Hot Sauce 2 years ago
Just get a whole bunch of your friends to Naruto run through the gates. They can't stop all of you.
ninjaTrashPandaBoom 2 years ago
I'm sure that the military security with rules of engagement allowing deadly force will be gentle.
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#14
I see no one has said it, so I’m going to: HOLLYWOOD
Hollywood has like a single block of its area that’s actually worth a visit- it’s the one with the Chinese Theater. But the rest of the city is a complete opposite of the rose-tinted glass view it shows itself as.
It’s not even the fact it’s crowded that’s the issue really, but it is definitely a root issue too.
- it’s filthy, there’s not only garbage everywhere but it’s never clean. You could make a game out of how much vomit, p**s, booze, and cum stains there are.
- the people are scary. Not just the homeless people who are in a depressingly large number, but people in general seem to have a screw loose. There’s also a lot of… “entrepreneurs” trying to sell their businesses, and they aren’t afraid to be in your face about it
- don’t expect any decent eating either. Unless you bleed gold and c**p diamonds, and make reservations a month in advance, there’s no food to be had here.
Overall, it’s just not worth the visit. You want to see an entertainment capital worth your time? Visit Universal Studios theme park. Now there’s an ACTUAL good time to be had.
Edit: I am talking about Hollywood Blvd specifically.
Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa) 2 years ago
Hollywood is disgusting. When go to LA I spend most of my time in Long Beach, Compton and East LA. Better food and less crackheads.
over it already 2 years ago
Lol you're not wrong. Southern CA imo is a cesspit, but Hollywood is the armpit of the region.
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Linda Souza 2 years ago
There's a fair number of hiking trails in the neighborhoods around the Hollywood sign that are way less disappointing than Hollywood itself. The Innsdale Trail is gorgeous and not super hard. Living here in LA is way different than visiting. I didn't like it all that much when I first visited but I love living here now.
White Sauce Hot Sauce 2 years ago
The New Yorker in me wants to go to Hollywood Blvd just to see how much of a tourist trap dump it is.
Pandapoo 2 years ago
I love visiting NYC, but have no desire to visit LA/Hollywood.
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Zelda p 2 years ago
Correction on the food: The Griddle Cafe. Fun menu, huge portions, reasonable prices, and worth the wait in line.
María Hermida 2 years ago
If I have to queue for more then ten minutes, I'll leave. I'd rather have a sandwich sitting on a bench in a local park. I hate queueing, and it also means the place is going to be crowded and noisy, and the servers will be stressed, in a hurry and they'll force you to eat as fast as possible and leave.
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Philly Bobcat 2 years ago
Hollywood is an upholstered sewer... Like any other area, there are amazing parts of SW Cali but Hollywood isn't one of them.
#15
In Alaska, please don't go close to the wildlife the bears will kill you along with the moose. Just no period. -_- I've seen so many tourist get attacked by bears and moose, it ain't pretty.....
Michael Largey 2 years ago
And remember that bear spray is not applied like mosquito spray. Not at all.
Thom Serveaux 2 years ago
...is this person also a bear? How is that something you witness that often?
Thomas Grant 2 years ago
Sounds like SOMEONE wants to keep all the bear and moose for themselves... hmm...
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
My grandma had a friend who lived in Anchorage and cared for her granddaughter. They would have school delays because busses had to wait for moose to move away before kids could come out to the bus. Moose are frightening and will kill you if they deem you a threat.
“A contrasting story would be from our time in South Africa where we decided we would drive ourselves from Johannesburg to the Sabi Sands Private Reserve next to Kruger National Park for our safari. Luckily, we were able to speak to a friend knowledgeable about the area beforehand where she warned us about the police catching people speeding and then expecting a bribe. This put us on high alert throughout our drive and made sure we followed the speed limits to a T. We never encountered any speed traps along the way and arrived at our lodge without a hitch. Feeling pretty good about it, we then heard from other travelers that we met there that had the opposite experience and actually had to deal with the bribing sadly.”
#16
If you wouldn't go there in your home country, don't go there in a foreign country.
What I mean is, every city has a 'bad neighborhood'. Either research before you go, or ask around while you're there.
Every country has a backwoods rural area known for being a bad place for foreigners. Learn where it is and avoid it.
Every tourist destination has tourist traps. Learn what kind of traps to look out for in your destination.
Kathryn Baylis 2 years ago (edited)
If you go somewhere and purposely try to trigger the locals, you deserve what you get. Research places you plan to visit. Read the news from those places too. Be polite and gracious, and avoid ruffling feathers. Most people who live in rural areas or even down South. aren’t MAGAts, bumpkins, or illiterate. Believe it or not. They’re just not as loud about it as those other people are. People aren’t stereotypes or caricatures. So don’t go lumping them in with their embarrassing neighbors, as it would insult them. In fact, avoid those topics entirely. Every country—-and I mean EVERY COUNTRY—-has its embarrassing citizens. If you wouldn’t like Americans to insult you by lumping you in with them, don’t do it to us.
D C 2 years ago
You're one of those embarrassing citizens using middle school level name calling for people that think differently than you..
Load More Replies... Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa) 2 years ago
The hosts of Top Gear found this one out. They were driving through Alabama and painted slogans on each other's car to try and get each other shot. They were surprised when it almost worked. Don't drive through rural Alabama with "Hillary for President" painted on the side of your car.
David 2 years ago
Doubly true in poor countries. Every country has many good people. But when the people of a country are poor and trying to survive there are more people desperate enough to prey on other people. And if you are an obvious foreigner you are 1. "Rich" (in their minds) and 2. "not one of theirs". Add to that they can not afford the level of police / paramedics you might be accustomed to. I have many wonderful memories from 'poor' countries. Just use common sense.
María Hermida 2 years ago
I guess this piece of advice is also useful when you travel within your own country to a totally different environment. If you are from Madrid and you come to the north, do your research. We may get lost in the tube when we go to the capital, but you will probably do something even more stupid and dangerous if you think you are too intelligent to listen to the advice. If the locals don't do certain activities or don't go to certain places at certain times, there's s good reason. Just don't do it. Respect the sea, the tides, the storms... they can kill you. And for god's sake, don't compare everything with your city. Yes, you are the capital, yes, you have so many shopping centres, cinemas, etc. You also have hours of commuting and traffic jams. We don't. If you like your city so much, go back there as soon as possible and leave us alone.
Tracy Wallick 2 years ago
Dude. It's the US, not the wasteland from Mad Max. Calm down.
Load More Replies... #17
Maine. But that's just bc we don't want people here.
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
I have been planning a road trip up the coast of Maine for the last two years. I haven't been to any of the Northern corners of the lower 48 so I'd like to get Maine and Washington off my bucket list at some point.
Burnt Bagel 2 years ago
The Northeast is the only place worthy of comparing to the Pacific Northwest. The rest of the country kind of sucks! ( And f**k you, I’ve been in all 50 states!)
#18
Look up current sundown towns. I know truckers who absolutely get the f**k out of those places before dark for fear of racial retaliation.
Michelle A 2 years ago
Me and my sis stopped to get gas in a small southern town last year...got out went into the store, 2 Black women traveling alone, all eyes fell on us and it got quiet. We turned the h.. around and drove to the next larger town. NNNOOOPE!
Celtic Pirate Queen 2 years ago
East Texas in 1977. I was with 3 friends heading home to San Diego from Louisiana, one of whom happened to be black. The car's radiator hose blew and we were stuck in some Podunk town that rolls the streets up on Sunday. I went over to the auto parts store, got the emergency number for the manager and found a payphone. He was super kind and said he'd be right down to help us. In the MEANTIME, a group of three big fat inbred bubbas were watching us. The "leader" steps forward and asks, "Hey. Watcha all doing with that n*gger?" My friends instantly grabbed my arms and put a hand over my mouth and shoved me into the backseat. Luckily, the auto guy showed up right about then and basically shamed these a*sholes into leaving us alone. He gave us a replacement hose for free and installed it himself, and told us to get the hell out of town before the sun went down. 45 years later & it STILL pisses me off.
Cyndielouwhoo 2 years ago
I definitely misunderstood this at first, I thought they meant a place with a lot of seniors "sundowning" and being dangerous.
Nimitz 2 years ago
This is also true for queer people. If you aren't 100%, don't share your identity with people. Some places will just treat you bad, some people will try to harm you if they think they can get away with it. Speaking from personal experience, the US is not safe for us, and frankly, it never has
ShadySlytherin 2 years ago
Nope, sorry. The experiences are not the same. LGBTQA+ folks CAN hide who they are for the sake of safety (they absolutely should not have to, but that's a different issue), whereas Black people/POC absolutely cannot hide the aspect of who they are that invokes violence from the people in these towns.
Load More Replies...The bottom line is that it never hurts to be prepared, even if the location is as “well known” as the United States. After all, it’s a pretty huge, diverse country with a lot to offer, so ask around, Google your destination and make some notes. And if you want to see more of what Will Tang does, you can find his blog here, his Instagram here, his YouTube here, and his TikTok here.
#19
New Orleans during Mardi Gras and Manhattan, NY during New Years. If you like the smell of p*ss, sh*t and vomit, ignore my advice.
kansasmagic 2 years ago
Was in NO for Mardis Gras. It was a spectacle. Something to see once, and then get on with life.
usernamenotfound 2 years ago
Everyone should see Mardi Gras at least once. Once in the French Quarter and maybe once elsewhere in the city or Metairie where it's not so crazy! It is fun!!
Load More Replies... Paul Pienkowski 2 years ago
Try St. Louis on Mardi Gras. Second biggest after New Orleans, less hyped and trashy!
iMOGENE CARGO 2 years ago
As a New Orleans resident. I gtfo of town for Mardi Gras. Also don't come down here from the end of July to mid September if you're not used to living in a sauna.
martymcmatrix 2 years ago
Once, a boy was born on a market square in literally p🔞ss, sh🔞t and vomit but eventually he became a very famous perfumist in Paris though...
#20
Honestly, when it comes to nature, please visit everywhere you're heart desires. Just respect Native lands, and plan according to seasons.
City wise, every city has its problems. Do some research and learn the areas to avoid at night and you'll be fine.
Edit
Don't forget, private lands here are private. Take no trespassing and keep out signs seriously.
Cheryl Lohr 2 years ago
As in private lands to them are like your house to you, do you want strangers just going into your house without being invited?
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Janos Schumacher 2 years ago
Don't forget that public lands are public and there are a lot of them. Public land belongs to everyone so treat it nicely. You wouldn't make a mess at your grandma's house, don't make a mess on public land.
ॐBoyGanesh 2 years ago
I live between a very rural, off-grid tedious to reach area of an island and smack-dab in the middle of a 7-mile by 7-mile west coast city. We often get “off the beaten path” tourists looking for our secret black sand nude beach on the island and most of the property they drive thru and by to find this beach is very private. With a lot of pakalolo being grown. You can get hurt or even shot by trespassing. As far as my city goes, avoid sketchy areas after dark; the typical rule anywhere.
Sarah Stalder 2 years ago
You will be lucky if you just get birdshot, but there will definitely be a rifle involved.
Justin Thyme 2 years ago
You trespass, there is a really good chance you will get shot, yes we have guns, and yes we have stand your ground laws.
Burnt Bagel 2 years ago
‘Muricans take their property rights damn seriously! So f*****g territorial. Nobody actually owns s**t. We are just stewards of the land that nobody will know who we were in less than a couple hundred years.
#21
Anywhere with a Rainforest Cafe and a Wax Museum on the same street is a tourist trap.
Edit: i love how many people keep guessing what city im talking about and no guess has been the same.
ConstantlyJon 2 years ago
there is no answer. there's multiple places like this and that's the point
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RedCorvette 2 years ago
I actually like Rainforest Cafe, I would take my visiting relatives and friends there. Sadly they closed the only one in our state.
#22
Gas station sushi.
No matter how fresh they say it is. . . *Never. Ever. Eat it.*
R Dennis 2 years ago
I dunno... we have gas stations with pretty good pizza, middle eastern food, fried chicken, bbq. I guess if it just looks like a gas station, anything would be bad to eat. But good judgment is key.
MadOrca99 2 years ago
I know what you mean. It's only a few select gas stations that have canteens and tourist information. In Missouri one of the bp's in a city near at Louis has the best Indian food I have ever eaten.
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martymcmatrix 2 years ago
Not necessarily, because that's all you get at a gas station in Japan.
#23
Gary, Indiana. Americans should avoid it as well
R Dennis 2 years ago
OMG. Went to Chicago from SE Michigan and got off in Gary to get cheap gas before hitting Chicago. I am from Detroit and that was still the most desolate place I have ever seen. The gas station was closed, the on ramp to get back on the freeway was closed... so here we are driving in the dark trying to find gas before we run out and a way back on the road. (Before Google maps) My wife's BFF wakes up in the back seat, looks around, and asks "Where the hell did you bring me?!" Gary isn't an exaggeration...
Michael Largey 2 years ago
It was a city founded not by people but by a corporation, U.S. Steel, in 1906 and grew to be the second largest city in the state. When the domestic steel industry went under, so did Gary. (But there's still that song from "The Music Man", sung by little Oppie Cunningham himself.)
Richard Graham 2 years ago (edited)
Gary, Indiana! What a wonderful name Named for Elbert Gary of judiciary fame Gary, Indiana, as a Shakespeare would say Trips along softly on the tongue this way Gary, Indiana, Gary Indiana, Gary, Indiana Let me say it once again Gary, Indiana, Gary, Indiana, Gary, Indiana That's the town that "knew me when" Now if you'd like to have a logical explanation How I happened on this elegant syncopation I will say without a moment of hesitation There is just one place That can light my face Gary, Indiana Gary Indiana Not Louisiana, Paris, France, New York, or Rome, but Gary, Indiana Gary, Indiana Gary Indiana My home sweet home
LittleWombat 2 years ago (edited)
The towns around Gary are nice and some of the loveliest places to live, but you lock your car doors when you go to/through Gary. However! They have managed to put in a baseball stadium (some minor league thing) that is SAFE and popular and sort of an anomaly from the area directly around it. I'm sure because the city polices it well to keep it in business. But it's definitely a ray of light in the town! (Edit: source, I live 2 towns over) Also, Indiana University has an offshoot school in Gary which is relatively safe, compared to the rest of the town. Still, if you are a white person loitering in Gary after dark, police will check you out because they know you're there for no good, like buying drugs or guns or whatever.
shawn mckinney 2 years ago
I purposely added Gary IN to my road trip because I wanted to see where the Jackson 5 grew up. The tiny looking house was gated and well taken care of. The block was quiet and the surrounding homes were modest and neat. However, I drove 30 mins out of town to find a hotel for the night. Lol
#24
As a native Californian, I'd definitely say the Hollywood Walk of Fame. That place is so dirty and grimy and all the people and street performers there are sketchy and aggressive. Definitely not worth it if you ask me
Der Kommissar 2 years ago
People dressed in superhero costumes expect money if you take their photo. So did 3 homeless people holding signs. One unfortunate woman refused to pay $1 after taking their photo, so one stabbed her to death while the others held her down. I do come here if family or friends from out of town want to, but I tell them not to talk to anyone and avoid eye contact.
RandomPanda 2 years ago
Went there with my family when I was 12, got cussed out by some racist homeless guy because we're Indian.
#25
Not American but if you ever find yourself in East Texas and think ‘I’m going to drive to New Orleans’ DON’T DO IT.
Rural Louisiana is like the f*****g upside down.
DE Ray 2 years ago (edited)
If you find yourself in East Texas, think "I wonder what's in Arkansas?" The oldest part of the national parks system (Hot Springs was designated for preservation before the national parks were formed), the only diamond mine open to the public, plenty of hiking in the mountains or kayaking or blues and jazz festivals... Just remember it's still hot and humid.
usernamenotfound 2 years ago
I've always wanted to go to the hot springs and the diamond mine!😃
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Cynthia Kelly 2 years ago
I drove from Tyler to New Orleans--- STAY ON I-10. Do not veer off the highway and DO NOT follow your GPS that promises a shorter route. If you do, be ready for Deliverance (cue banjo music)
ॐBoyGanesh 2 years ago (edited)
Rural Louisiana is the most danger I’ve ever dealt with in traveling through 42 countries, 29 US states in 50 years of life. And I’ve been right in the middle of civil war torn places.
iMOGENE CARGO 2 years ago
Apparently you've never been to an American elementary school.
Load More Replies... #26
Times Square. As a native New Yorker I highly recommend going to Chelsea, the Village, or anywhere in Central Park over this overrated monstrosity dedicated to capitalism.
Hans Georg 2 years ago
Was there. It was okay. But the Hot Dogs are c**p. Even Ikea does better.
Rachel'n-it-easy 2 years ago
I enjoyed the vibe, the lights and crowds, but there's wasn't much to do/see beside shows or shopping.
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
I actually enjoyed my time in Time Square. I'd like to go back as an adult and enjoy more of the city and visit the boroughs more. My mom took me to see The Lion King, and it was the most amazing show.
SillyPandaBunny 2 years ago
I second this. Grew up in NYC, we avoid Times Square like the plague
Lorrie Rothstein 2 years ago
Times Square is too crowded . Too many people in costumes. Too many tourists
Mama Penguin 2 years ago
I would suggest Museum Mile any day over Times Square. If you're interested in military and space travel history, I would suggest the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space museum.
#27
Right now.... Vermont.
Christos Arvanitis 2 years ago
Vermont homeowner here. We had a double whammy last week and it has been brutal.
Donald 2 years ago
Best of luck Christos, we got like 1/5th the rain you have in the last week here in NJ and already lost a few lives to flash floods. I hope you and your loved ones are safe.
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Vermonta 2 years ago
People don't realize how many homes have basements with utilities in them - a huge loss in addition filthy water damage. On CBS morning news they showed communities helping each other with hard labor clean up. The Vermont Community Foundation created a fund for flooded communities. (during covid they raised $11 million). In the interviews people calmly describe the events without tears. We're a stoic bunch. I'm surprised you have internet ; )
Cheryl Ramsay 2 years ago
My husband and I lived in Montpelier for years. I was so very sorry to hear of and see the devastation due to all the rain.
Rod 2 years ago
I love Vermont!!! It's beautiful and cheese is good. If I ever have to move back to the US, I would probably go to Burlington.
TrippyBanana 2 years ago
I hope you are doing okay. I can't believe the devastation. So many of those buildings have been around for hundreds of years at this point. Stay safe. Kentucky is also dealing with flooding again this year.
Janet Ryan 2 years ago
Some of my family can’t get to their houses cause the roads washed out, I was lucky the town I was visiting just got missed by the storm but the town next to it got hit. Also most bodies of water are temporarily closed because there might be ecoli in the water.
#28
Avoid swimming in Lake Superior. People read the name “Lake” and get excited. What they don’t realize is they’re (Great Lakes) inland fresh water seas. It’s cold af and it can be fatal. Edit: too many people missing the point here - I know that are some decent beaches around LS where you can go and swim and do stuff, I was talking about the lake as a whole. - For those who can swim in it, it’s good, I myself have been fortunate enough to have swam in it a few times, however, my point being, that the Great Lakes in general are a powerful entity and unlike your regular lakes, moreover, except for a couple of months, the weather can be erratic and can change multiple times in a day, so, if someone’s planning to swim, they need to be careful. - It’s great that if you can swim there all the time, doesn’t mean everyone should. It’s a general advice, not a specific one.
Shark Lady 2 years ago
There are ships that have gone down in the Great Lakes due to weather conditions and rogue waves. The most well-known is probably the Edmund Fitzgerald, listen to the advice of locals, if they don't swim somewhere then you shouldn't either.
Full of Giggles 2 years ago
It should be noted that the Edmund-Fitzgerald was at one time the largest ship on all five Great Lakes and is the largest ship to have sunk in them.
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Suzie Alto 2 years ago
My great grandfather and a couple friends drowned in Lake Superior.in 1927.
JenniB 2 years ago
The weather on the great lakes can also turn very quickly (most Superior and Erie from my experience) and they have a deadly rip currents. People see "lake" and think it's safe as they are smaller "contained" bodies of water but believe me there is more going on under there than you think...
Jennifer Ness 2 years ago
I should have commented here rather than replying to the guy getting downvoted for saying this is BS. Go down and see my comments if you're intersted in what it's like to live on the shore of a lake so big and so cold it creates it's own weather.
David 2 years ago
For a time I was stationed at Great Lakes Naval Station. Before I left made it a point to walk down and see Lake Michigan. I grew up on the ocean / west coast. It was really weird knowing I was looking at a lake but it looked like the ocean. Our lakes do not have tides / waves lapping the shore. And MOST of our lakes you can see the other shore or at least some indicator there is land in 'that direction'. We didn't swim - blizzard, 6 feet of snow, boulders on the shore covered in ice. Not the ideal time of year to visit a lake but I wanted to see it before I left the base.
Weezy 2 years ago
I agree! I am from nothern michigan and people always to travel to the pictured rocks and the other neat spots up there. It is beautiful but if you are a water person and like to swim, water ski, paddleboard, or whatever, go to Lake Michigan. You will freeze your a&& off in Lake Superior, even in August.
30_Helens_Agree 2 years ago
Hey I’m from northern Michigan too! Hi neighbor!
Load More Replies... axle f 2 years ago
anyone who swims in any of the great lakes is really missing out....the best swimming in michigan is in any of the hundreds/thousands of inland lakes. the great lakes are oceans in everything but salt content. they do not get warm. ever. and they have things in them...mean things, some of them...
30_Helens_Agree 2 years ago
Lake Michigan is really warm this year, at least in my town.
Load More Replies... TrippyBanana 2 years ago
Lake Michigan is also cold, and it has rip currents, so one needs to be aware of what's going on..
#29
Steaming Acidic hot springs in Yellowstone.
Kim Kermes 2 years ago
Yellowstone is fascinating if you learn the geology. And follow Park Ranger instructions.
Michael P (Perthaussieguy) 2 years ago
There will always be people who just have to find out for themselves though
Jennifer Clark 2 years ago
Yellowstone is beautiful. Just don't approach the wildlife, and don't touch the hot springs water.
Upstaged75 2 years ago
There was a recent video of someone doing just that, even though she was told not to. (Never mind the hundreds of signs too.) After she touched the water she jerked her hand away yelling "it's hot". Some people deserve to get dissolved in to human soup. ;)
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Booker 2 years ago
Absolutely one of my favorite laid-back vacation spots. If you think it's boring, just remember the whole park is the top of a supervolcano that's overdue to erupt and that the park has been lifted up many inches by the magma bubble underneath it. The real danger though is not realizing that the wildlife really is wild. It wasn't staged there as a tourist attraction. It's a fantastic experience!
Duolingobird 2 years ago
Omg I just god one of those 3D pictures of that same hot springs on the picture!
Nancy Lynch 2 years ago
Never leave the boardwalk when you see the springs. You could die. You're in the middle of a volcano that's over due.
#30
Not American but as a visitor trying to travel on the cheap, I made the mistake of booking a greyhound bus ride. There's a reason why it was cheap lol
Petra Schaap 2 years ago
unless something has changed recently, i dont see why. Did several Greyhound trips. Its the same as bustraveling in Europe. Usualy nice, can be bad.
Clément D. 2 years ago
Yeah, iI travelled two months on the Greyhound east to west, and met AMAZING people. rest stops are sometimes in amazing places, and every single driver was great.
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Kenny Kulbiski 2 years ago
No worse than an airplane and at least you can get off if you can't stand it anymore.
Carol Lock 2 years ago
You couldn't be more wrong. The Greyhound bus trip is one of the "Rings of Hell" that Dante mentioned. I once traveled from Calgary, Alberta to Phoenix, Arizona. I would almost rather die than do it again. This was back in the early 1980's. Two dudes got on in Montana and terrorized the entire bus for hours ... they were chain-smoking cigarettes and playing some kind of knife-throwing game where they would aim at a spot in the center aisle and try to get the knife to stick up out of the floor. The bus driver was too scared to say anything. Nobody else spoke for hundreds of miles. Looooongest trip of my life - even AFTER they got off.
Load More Replies... #31
Trenton NJ. It’s the state capital, there is a good museum. But it looks like a bombed-out looted s**thole and I won’t even stop at red lights while in Trenton.
William Teach 2 years ago
There are tons of nice places to visit in NJ, just stay away from the Trenton area and Newark area (excepting to see the Devils play). Go to Shore in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Go up to the NW part of the state. See the Pine Barrens.
Michael Largey 2 years ago
Rule of thumb in the US - avoid state capitals. Cities are usually chosen to be the state capital precisely because nothing is happening there.
Debs Bee 2 years ago
The Lincoln Library, his home and gravesite in Springfield, Il are must-sees.
Load More Replies... Donald 2 years ago
I live in Trenton and there are a few good blocks with different restaurants and bars, but many of them close at 6 on week days. Its making a slight come back but yeah, its dirty, people are rude as hell, no one follows traffic laws, unemployment is through the roof. We had a really cool event called Art All Night to showcase local artists/musicians/food trucks for a few years until some human scum brought their gang beef to it and shot up the place.
#32
Don’t go on hikes in the southwest- unless you know what you’re going into. The deserts there can be pretty hot, so you’ll need to bring plenty of water, and sunscreen up.
Kathryn Baylis 2 years ago
And watch where you’re going. There are rattlesnakes, scorpions, and tarantulas out there, amongst other critters you don’t want to come face to face with.
Amelia Jade 2 years ago
I live in the sw. We're avid hikers. The summer is our downtime, meaning we rarely hike and if we do it's because we roadtripped to somewhere a bit cooler to do it.
Duolingobird 2 years ago
I live in (close to) the Mojave about 30 minutes away from calico and I can confirm. Do not go into the desert without water.
#33
It's not "places" as much as "situations" that you should avoid. Depending on where you're from, you'll have some of these instincts, but not others. It's not all or nothing. But here's some situations I can see happening to a European, as an example. * Getting stranded in the desert. Whether you're hiking without water, or driving too far on a single tank of gas, there's a real risk of being stranded without very immediate help, and no cell reception. * Underestimating travel time. You're not going to see NYC and LA on the same trip. They're three time zones apart. They are exactly as far apart as London, England and Baku, Azerbaijan. You'll either be driving for a week, or flying. Even things that seem close, like NYC and DC, are not actually that close. It would be about 6 hours of driving or train to get from one to the other. * Trespassing. It is taken VERY seriously here, and you could wind up shot if you are on the wrong person's land. We do **not** have the [right to roam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freedom_to_roam). And we **do** have the right to bear arms. Some states even have "castle laws" which considers trespassing to be sufficient reason to shoot someone in "self defense". Any places people are mentioning are places that Americans wouldn't go to either if they could help it. But if I can say one place in particular, it would be Camden, NJ. It's just across the river from Philadelphia, and has a couple of tourist draws like the Aquarium or the concert venue, but anywhere that's not those specific places is ***incredibly*** unsafe.
Donald 2 years ago
Its ok during the day, criminals are asleep or don't mess with college students to avoid bringing attention. At night I still won't stop at red lights or stops signs, slow a little and check for other cars (there are none its a ghost town) and punch it. So much potential in that city, its a shame to see what it has become.
Load More Replies... Mama Penguin 2 years ago
NYC and DC is not bad by train or bus. Train will take you about 3 hours.
#34
Most of Downtown Los Angeles at night. When the streets get quiet and the locals go home, that's your cue to go back to your hotel or a more popular hotspot. Edit-I should have said "populated"
#35
East st louis. One of the highest, if not the highest, murders per capita in the country.
Petra Schaap 2 years ago
Rest of St Louis too :-D On the backseat with friends who didnt even stop for red lights 😂
ConstantlyJon 2 years ago
you wanna go somewhere scary, go near the mural mile at night. hooooooly f**k.
#36
Pine Hills, Florida. It’s in the Orlando area. Just stick to the tourist areas. I used to live there and it’s a s**t show.
#37
Circle Ks at 2 am..
ninjaTrashPandaBoom 2 years ago
Any convenience store at 2am, but definitely Circle Ks....and 7/11s
#38
Walker County, Alabama. Just don’t go there. Don’t. Anywhere else in Alabama is fine though, Huntsville is great and so is Birmingham. Decatur has a really good BBQ joint, and don’t forget white bbq sauce on your chicken.
PlatinumTheCat 2 years ago
I was born in Huntsville, Alabama and my grandmother lives there so my family went there last summer (it might have been winter) and it was great, there were a lot of things to see
#39
East St Louis Gary. Indiana Outside the tourist French Quarter in New Orleans Anything named "Ward" in major cities....example Houston 5th Ward
ConstantlyJon 2 years ago
I'm honestly surprised to not see Detroit or Flint on this list. As a Michigander, those are the go-to for "don't go to these places" for many people.
#40
Overall? Mississippi. You see American redditors bash it all the time but they really aren’t just memes. It’s miserable there, the government works against you, and the people are (understandably) in a constant state of unpleasantness.
Saint Tim the Godless 2 years ago
Mississippi is one of the poorest states in America with one of the lowest standards of living.
Linda R 2 years ago
Nothing to see in Mississippi, except maybe the casinos on the coast, if you're into that sort of thing. I live in coastal Mississippi. Even the beaches are not much to look at, as they are close enough to the Mississippi River to be discolored by the silt. Alabama beaches are pretty, though. At least the water is blue, not brown.
#41
Downtown Albuquerque at night. So many cracked out homeless dudes getting in your personal space. I told my wife to wait in the car while I stood in front of the taco truck. One guy tried to start a fight with me because I wouldn't lower my window to talk to him while I was at the McDonald's drive-thru. I'm used to NYC where the beggars ask you for money while leaning against the wall or something. In downtown Albuquerque, it's like they own the streets and the roads.
#42
Not necessarily avoid it... But San Francisco is wild. If you leave things in sight in your car there is a fairly good chance it could be stolen. It's an expensive city to visit and having to worry about all that extra crime after paying so much to visit sucks. It's a cool city though.
WoodChuckCouldChuck 2 years ago
I’m glad to have visited but not a chance I’d stay longer than a weekend. It’s a decaying shell of what it once was.
RandomPanda 2 years ago
A friend of mine got their car broken into in SF, the window was shattered and everything. Luckily nothing was taken, but still scary, and a lot more common than you'd think.
Moyd Shank 2 years ago
Yeah. I lived there from 1983 to 1999. You couldnt pay me 10 tousand dollars to go there for lunch anymore. Sad.
Justin Thyme 2 years ago
San Fran was fun back in the 80's -- it has turned into an apocalyptical nightmare now
Petra Schaap 2 years ago
absolutely two sides of this city but i still love to visit and to stay. We've seen our share of crazy stuff though.
#43
The poor sections of every large city. That's where the overwhelming majority of crime happens.
#44
I’ll say it. Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, TN. Too many people, and it’s a huge tourist trap.
While the Smoky Mountains are beautiful you can enjoy less crowded scenery by staying in North Carolina and visiting the park around that side. Also the Cherokee National Forest is magnificent.
Edit:// I live a few hours from there which I why I mentioned it. Dollywood is about the only reason I’d go up to visit. I live close to many great hiking areas in National Forests so I have no need to see the National Park (where I can’t even bring my dog). It’s just not worth it to point someone in that direction if they’re visiting, I’ll tell them to go to different areas.
Team Jay 2 years ago
Could not agree more to avoid Gatlinburg. It's Myrtle Beach in the mountains.
30_Helens_Agree 2 years ago
I went once and I will never, ever go back again. My bad for expecting a cute mountain town and instead landing in a tackier, southern Vegas.
Load More Replies... Justin Thyme 2 years ago
I live close to Gatlinburg, enjoy doing the touristy stuff occasionally, especially with the grandkids-- sure, it's cheesy, but that's the point.
Madam Puddyfoot 2 years ago
I agree. I went on a white water rafting trip near there, and it was a blast.
Load More Replies... #45
Don't go to Six Flags and don't stay in any ~~hotels~~ motels with an exterior entrance that leads directly into your room. Edit: Motel added. Thanks for your useful contribution.
Arnaud 2 years ago
Why shouldn't I stay in a Motel with exterior entrance and cheezy neon sign like I see in the movies? Crackheads will burst into my room? It will be infested by bugs?
PlatinumTheCat 2 years ago
What is six flags, I’ve heard of it and I think it’s like an amusement park, right?
High Mamii Melo 2 years ago
But why not go to Six Flags? I love Six Flags! Not to mention there are multiple throughout the country...
Tired Panda 2 years ago
Ok, I live in the U.S. and am getting freaked out now. I wouldn't want to come here if I wasn't already here, lol.
Load More Replies... Full of Giggles 2 years ago
Not all motels are bad. I’ve had positive experiences at several motels in Flagstaff, Prescott, and Sedona, Arizona.
Sarah M. 2 years ago
Completely agree. There are a couple chains that I would trust every time that almost always have exterior entrances - Red Roof Inn springs to mind. Always clean, pets stay free, usually within spitting distance of a decent roadside restaurant or two.
Load More Replies... #46
I see a lot of posters suggesting national parks, which is great. But please be aware some parks are crowded, and some need reservations, so call ahead or check their web pages.
Madam Puddyfoot 2 years ago
There are just as many beautiful places that are not national parks.
#47
Arizona is very hot in the summertime, otherwise a nice place to visit…bring your own water please!
Saint Tim the Godless 2 years ago
No. The Saudis bought rights to it and are being allowed to pump it all out. Not kidding.
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#48
Avoid the place in your head that says you can visit Miami and LA in the same week. You can, if you fly but youll spent 15 hours in the air and get to see very little with at most 48hrs to see the city
RandomPanda 2 years ago
It's a 6-hour flight unless there are layovers, if you plan your time accordingly, you'll be able to spend a good amount of time in each place.
Load More Replies... Petra Schaap 2 years ago
if you fly via Canada and Mexico you'll probably need 15hrs i guess. Also, why do these people think non americans cant read maps?
#49
Any tourist place will be a money trap, crowded and underwhelming.
Unfortunately lots of cool stuff in the US just gets turns into a business with bizarre gift shops with unrelated gifts
Megan Curl 2 years ago
Except this is the Lincoln Monument - free. The Smithsonian Museums - all free. Show some self control and stay away from the gift shops, food courts and various street vendors.
WoodChuckCouldChuck 2 years ago
Maybe you could reference some places since you’re saying every single “tourist place”? By definition wouldn’t a “tourist place” demand some sort of payment? The majority of monuments and historical locations are absolutely free to visit. This is another BS one.
Petra Schaap 2 years ago
while it depends on where you are in the US, this also counts OUTSIDE the US.
#50
Apparently Harrison, Arkansas
White Sauce Hot Sauce 2 years ago
It's the hometown of the Knights of the KKK and considered the most racist town in America. Don't go there if you're not a straight, white, Protestant, American male.
DE Ray 2 years ago
Don't go there if you are a straight, white Protestant, American male, either.
Load More Replies... #51
Skid Row, LA.
#52
San Bernardino California at night with no money walking and waving/screaming obscenities at police officers
WoodChuckCouldChuck 2 years ago
Why would a foreign tourist go to San Bernardino in the first place lol
Thom Serveaux 2 years ago
I don't understand...were they the ones screaming at the cops? Because yeah you should probably avoid that...
#53
It’s subjective, but I hated Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg. It’s pretty, but otherwise over-priced tourist trap with terrible traffic. Go to Asheville instead.
CC Boom 2 years ago
No stay away from AVL. You'll fall in love and never leave. This means you people from Florida.
LooseSeal's $10 Banana 2 years ago
As a native North Carolinian, Asheville is my least favorite part of the mountains. I've been 3 times and been harassed by panhandlers every time.
Load More Replies...
the_avenging_knight 2 years ago
Yes! Asheville is awesome. A tour of the Biltmore is worth every penny!
#54
Pueblo Colorado
AJZombieJag 2 years ago
It's very poor, some crime issues, and very poor. Nothing is really there. It's said that people who can't afford to live in Denver move to Colorado Springs. The people who can't afford Colorado Springs live in Pueblo.
Load More Replies... What do you think ?
Snorky The Pig 2 years ago
I would say the Idaho panhandle. Full of neo-nazis and other creeps and not worth it especially if you are a woman.
ginger kay 2 years ago
Southern Idaho is nice though. I know a few people from in the panhandle, and they're tough people, but not bad. I haven't been up there much though so I'm not really sure.
Load More Replies... William Teach 2 years ago
Instead of doing the negative thing, how about a post on places you should visit? Starting with Mt Mitchell in NC. Head to one of the barbecue places on the NC Barbecue Trail. Okracoke Island
Solangelo4life!!! 2 years ago (edited)
I would also just like to reccomend Detroit. Several teenagers came together and used technologies on phones to kind of call the community to report and slowly cleared out Detroit. It’s much better now, just my moment of pride for my city. Also, I would reccomend mackinaw city, it’s beautiful, no cars but you can walk, it’s also very safe, and smells of horses and fudge. You can bike around the whole island if you are a good biker, or take a horse carriage tour knowing the horses are treated well.
Load More Replies... ConstantlyJon 2 years ago
Is this a list of places or a list of advice while visiting places? Can't tell.
Pablo Ramos 2 years ago
I think I would condense everyone's opinions in this Bored Panda like this: Don't Come to the USA.
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
Loving the energy of all of the posts that say ‘don’t come to xxxxxxx, we don’t like people here’, they are people after my own heart. The U.S. is big on a scale that a lot of folk can’t imagine, Aussies being one exception, and there’s plenty of room to NOT be herded like sheep into money robbing, tourist traps. I loved my time there, didn’t really do touristy stuff and saw some of the finest mountains (Rockies) I’ve been lucky enough to see. *will be back when I have more time & money*
Myst Edenflower 2 years ago
Don't go anywhere. Stay home. Outsdie (not a typo, thanks) has people, home has your stuff and maybe animals. Is better.
Snorky The Pig 2 years ago
I would say the Idaho panhandle. Full of neo-nazis and other creeps and not worth it especially if you are a woman.
ginger kay 2 years ago
Southern Idaho is nice though. I know a few people from in the panhandle, and they're tough people, but not bad. I haven't been up there much though so I'm not really sure.
Load More Replies... William Teach 2 years ago
Instead of doing the negative thing, how about a post on places you should visit? Starting with Mt Mitchell in NC. Head to one of the barbecue places on the NC Barbecue Trail. Okracoke Island
Solangelo4life!!! 2 years ago (edited)
I would also just like to reccomend Detroit. Several teenagers came together and used technologies on phones to kind of call the community to report and slowly cleared out Detroit. It’s much better now, just my moment of pride for my city. Also, I would reccomend mackinaw city, it’s beautiful, no cars but you can walk, it’s also very safe, and smells of horses and fudge. You can bike around the whole island if you are a good biker, or take a horse carriage tour knowing the horses are treated well.
Load More Replies... ConstantlyJon 2 years ago
Is this a list of places or a list of advice while visiting places? Can't tell.
Pablo Ramos 2 years ago
I think I would condense everyone's opinions in this Bored Panda like this: Don't Come to the USA.
Gavin Johnson 2 years ago
Loving the energy of all of the posts that say ‘don’t come to xxxxxxx, we don’t like people here’, they are people after my own heart. The U.S. is big on a scale that a lot of folk can’t imagine, Aussies being one exception, and there’s plenty of room to NOT be herded like sheep into money robbing, tourist traps. I loved my time there, didn’t really do touristy stuff and saw some of the finest mountains (Rockies) I’ve been lucky enough to see. *will be back when I have more time & money*
Myst Edenflower 2 years ago
Don't go anywhere. Stay home. Outsdie (not a typo, thanks) has people, home has your stuff and maybe animals. Is better.
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