Travel Etiquette

The wise traveler avoids attracting too much attention. Travelers
always stand out if they display technology more advanced than that
with which the local citizens are familiar (see Tech Levels, p. 511). They
also attract unwelcome attention if they violate local laws or customs.
In general, any boisterous behavior or breach of peace should have
“interesting” consequences.
Travelers should also remember that politeness to local dignitaries is
always wise, and strangers met by chance might be more than they
appear . . .
groups. They are rarely isolated, how-
ever. If two languages are close, those
who know one at a given comprehen-
sion level can understand the other at
• Violating someone’s rights might
lead to a “civil” trial and a fine – or just
an informal beating.
• Violating a custom gives you a
reaction penalty – possibly a big one –
whenever you try to deal with a local.
The offended locals might not even tell
you what you are doing wrong!