Rude Hand Gestures from Around the World

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.exoticphilippines.info/2014/04/rude-hand-gestures-from-around-world.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rude Hand Gestures from Around the World" border="0" height="390" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1PiUm5acTg/U1XcfC4IB8I/AAAAAAAAF1U/MDbUiaHJ7J8/s1600/Rude-Hand-Gestures-from-Around-the-World.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> We have habits that we think it's just nothing or didn't notice it at all. Sometimes we have to check ourselves and see if there are anything about us that may offend or may make someone else not comfortable with you, especially if you're visiting other countries.<br /> <br /> So here's an infographic I found online that could help us check ourselves and see what are the hand gestures that we may have been doing without knowing that to some people or countries it can make someone be offended.<br /> <br /> There's one from the Philippines, the "call the dog" hand gesture. I think I'm not that offended (as a Filipina) by that sign because of watching too much western TV series, and understand it as seducing someone. But yes, you can go to prison here (or worse be ban) in the Philippines if you "at least" offended a Filipino citizen.<br /> <br /> <center> <div class="visually_embed"> <img alt="Rude Hand Gestures from Around the World" class="visually_embed_infographic" src="http://thumbnails.visually.netdna-cdn.com/rude-hand-gestures-from-around-the-world_533926556232e_w540.png" /><br /> <div class="visually_embed_cycle"> <a href="http://www.exoticphilippines.info/2014/04/rude-hand-gestures-from-around-world.html">Rude Hand Gestures from Around the World</a> by Just the Flight.</div> <script class="visually_embed_script" id="visually_embed_script_117441" src="http://a.visual.ly/api/embed/117441?width=540" type="text/javascript"></script></div> </center> <br /> <br /> <h3> Self Check!</h3> Surprisingly, there are some habits or hand gestures I do that may get someone be offended and they are:<br /> <br /> <h4> The V Sign</h4> We do use the V sign here, we do use it as a sign of PEACE or pose for a photo like the Koreans do. I do that a lot since back in high school, I guess I should stop it since I've been wanting to visit the UK. <br /> <h4> Thumbs Up</h4> Another hand gesture that I do when I don't want to say "Okay" or "great job", I just do the thumbs up. But I think a lot of people do this, right? <br /> <h4> The A-Ok</h4> Another meaning (for me) for this sign other than "okay" is a money sign. <br /> <h4> Hands in Your Pocket</h4> I'm a bit boyish type of girl, and whenever I wear jeans, jacket or any clothes where I can put my hands on its pocket. I usually do this to keep my hands warm, especially if I'm nervous or I'm in a cold place. <br /> <h4> Crossed Fingers</h4> I think not only us Filipinos do this, but also westerners. We do this when we don't mean what we promise. <br /> <br /> How about you? Do you have any hand gestures that may offend someone? <br /> <br /> <br /> Photo Credits: Salvatore Vuono</div>

5 Best Ways To Enjoy Adventure Travel

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.exoticphilippines.info/2014/02/5-best-ways-to-enjoy-adventure-travel.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="5 Best Ways To Enjoy Adventure Travel" border="0" height="390" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PLrLnJwHIN0/UvDrxscKpdI/AAAAAAAAFkk/Y5R5aiBNXY0/s1600/5-Best-Ways-To-Enjoy-Adventure-Travel.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /> Adventure travel can be one of the most rewarding ways to go, but not if you aren't prepared for all that it may have to offer! Choose your destination and venue, then make sure you have a checklist to take care of all the little necessities. It's the only way to fully enjoy the awe and amazement of travel like this.<br /> <br /> <h3>Pack Lightly If You Can</h3>Bringing only the essentials with you will allow greater focus on the adventure itself and not the typical hassles. Pack the items that will keep you comfortable and safe, rather than a lot of  the"just in case" things you might feel inclined to have with you. Adventure travel usually doesn't involve high heels and board shorts, so be practical when packing!<br /> <br /> <h3>Have A Contact At Your Destination</h3>Particularly if you're traveling to an out of the way place, it's important to make a connection with someone before you leave. Even if it's just a few extra conversations with your hotel clerk, so that he or she will recognize and watch out for you while you're around. The best connection would be a native, but that may not be possible if you plan on crossing the Siberian taiga! Talk to someone at your Embassy or Consulate at the very least.<br /> <br /> <h3>Obey Local Customs And Traditions</h3>Whether swimming with dolphins around the Greek Isles or rock climbing up the Andes, knowing how to behave with the people around you is an essential part of enjoying the your whole adventure travel. While you obviously won't set out to offend, customs can be so quirky that you may inadvertently misrepresent yourself. Always keep a phrasebook with you, unless you are fluent in the local language.<br /> <br /> <h3>Document Your Travel</h3>Stopping to film your adventure should never get in the way of fun or compromise your safety, but it should be high on your list of priorities. Bring easy to operate equipment that won't weigh you down, and make good use of it. These are memories that last a lifetime and will help you tell your stories of adventure to others.<br /> <br /> <h3>The Best Destinations For Adventure Travel</h3>Europe is still your best bet with biking or hiking, unless you really want to get crazy with it. Traditional mountain climbing is most enjoyable where the trails are worn, but don't think you can't blaze your own trail! You can reach new heights in China or right in the United States, however; avoid drawing the attention of search and rescue teams by keeping a safe and smart itinerary.<br /> <br /> Try a guided tour of Switzerland's Valais region. Set off on a Mayan jungle adventure with a local showing you the way. You could also look for fantastic adventure travel right in your own country, just avoid the high-traffic tourist areas and find something exciting that you've never done before.<br /> <br /> While you want your trip to be exciting, you don't want it full of surprises! Plan it well, have everything you need and get ready for the vacation of a lifetime.</div>