The Most Entitled Tourists I've Encountered: Why Rudeness Travels

As a seasoned traveler and resident in various global cities, I've witnessed a broad spectrum of tourist behavior. While many visitors approach destinations with an eagerness to embrace local cultures and norms, there are a few who seem to believe they are above the rules and etiquettes of the places they visit. This article delves into the behaviors of the most entitled tourists I've encountered, providing insights into the underlying reasons behind their rude actions.

Entitled Behavior in Orlando

During my three-year tenure in Orlando, I spent countless days in the enchanting Disney parks. Among the most memorable and, unfortunately, disappointing encounters were with the Brazilian tour groups. These groups often consisted of large numbers of high school-aged students, accompanied by just a couple of chaperones, creating an overwhelming and disregarding presence in the park.

These tourists frequently imposed their behavior on others, lacking the queue etiquette that is common in well-organized tourist destinations. One could easily spot disturbances within a group of 40 to 60 teenagers buzzing around, hopping into long lines without regard for the queue discipline. When requested to stand at the back of the line, their proficiency in English seemed to vanish, making it almost impossible for staff to communicate effectively.

Indifference to the Convenience of Other Tourists

These Brazilian groups also disregarded the impact of their presence on others. Imagine trying to enjoy a meal in a restaurant during peak tourist hours, only for a group of chattering teenagers to invade your space, demanding chairs, and leaving a trail of crumbs and spills upon departure. The lack of consideration for others' comfort and experiences is a universal problem, yet it seems to be amplified in these tourist groups.

Sad Tales of Entitlement from Around the World

The examples of entitled tourists extend beyond the borders of Florida. In Barcelona, I witnessed a passenger from a distinguished seat in the business class area, who was so entitled that changing their seat due to a last-minute reassignment was a source of extreme distress. They belligerently protested the change, demanding reasons why their status did not give them immunity from seat adjustments. It's worth noting that the airline staff adhered to standard protocols, explaining the practical need for seat reassignments to accommodate different aircraft layouts.

Airport Incidents and Rudeness

Another instance of entitled behavior occurred at Heathrow Airport. Upon arrival, we encountered a similar scene. The doors that led from the jet bridge to the gate area were locked, and an employee was attempting to resolve the issue through the security team. A passenger in the waiting area became irate upon witnessing this situation, shouting at the airport staff in a highly profane manner, insisting that he deserved immediate access to the restricted area. The airport staff remained calm and professional, as they had to explain that security and access control are essential measures for passenger safety.

Why Do These Behaviors Persist?

The real question is why this behavior persists and how it impacts the global travel experience. There are several reasons why certain tourists behave in such an entitled manner:

Overindulgence in Perceived Rights: In some cases, people from affluent backgrounds grow up believing that they are entitled to special treatment. This mindset, coupled with an expectation that others will cater to their whims, can lead to rude behavior.

Cultural Insensitivity: Some tourists might be oblivious to local customs and norms due to a lack of cultural awareness. This ignorance can manifest as entitled behavior, as they do not understand the impact of their actions on others.

Lack of Discipline: Groups without proper leadership can succumb to collective entitlement. The absence of chaperones or a responsible individual to guide the behavior of large groups can escalate issues.

Conclusion: Fostering Respectful Tourism

The entitled tourist phenomenon serves as a reminder that regardless of nationality or financial status, all travelers should strive to be respectful and considerate of others. As the world becomes more interconnected, it is crucial that we educate ourselves on local customs and maintain a civil attitude when moving through diverse cultural environments. By doing so, we can contribute to a more harmonious and enjoyable travel experience for everyone.