Some apes have gypsy blood and yearn to travel. In choosing where to go, sometimes certain mis-perceptions arise that may keep the Hairy Ape from adventuring out of his or her comfort zone. That's truly a shame, as you can miss a whole lot of the world that way!
For example, a few years ago we traveled to Europe and France was on the agenda. When many Americans think of the French culture they think of "freedom fries" or of a rather arrogant persona. I found just the opposite to be true. My daughter put down her camera in a local bistro and ran back for it. The waiter there had neatly put it in a safe place for her, and returned it with a gentle kindness that we will never forget.
It would appear that "haughty is as haughty does" no matter where you travel. If you're a puffed-up American tourist with an attitude - that's what you will get from people in your journeys no matter where you land those fuzzy paws. On the other hand, a little courtesy and effort goes a long way. In our case all it took was remembering our "please and thank yous" as we went.
Certainly there are instances when one must be careful. Not all cultures think like ours, nor do they expect to have to put on an "American" show for their visitors. Turkey is one place where female apes should not shop-till-they-drop alone. However, if you go with a male friend all is right with the world and you can have a fantastic time. In this instance understanding the culture and preparing for those differences will also improve your overall experience in traveling.
Remember too that when you're abroad yours is not the only Country represented in tourism. You'll meet apes from every corner of the world all of whom have their own reasons to travel. This creates a kind of hairy ape soup, that mixes and stirs, and if you open up and begin talking to these wild and travel-wise apes you'll come away with much spicier stories to share.
When at last the wandering ape returns home it's often with a completely different perspective than before leaving. That's why getting young apes out of their proverbial back yard is so important. Our world is very global now, and thinking globally is part of what will lead to better inter-cultural relationships in the future. Diversity makes the world far more spectacular - in history, in food, in mannerisms. Allow yourself a moment of immersion into another reality with unique apes. You'll be glad you did!