How to ace partying in foreign cities

As some of you prepare for a summer packed with party plans, including some overseas jaunts, it’s important to consider the nuance of partying in foreign locations. Every place has its own customs and local peculiarities, and there are more obvious things to consider too. Simply having a baseline of respect for wherever you’re venturing to should be foundational. But there are a few other points worth integrating into your overseas party plans.

Here are a few tips for how to ace raving in foreign cities.

DO YOUR RESEARCH
You want to find a good location to stay, a nice Airbnb, and book tickets for the best parties. But also look at local customs and etiquette; learn a few basic words - even “hello” in another language can help you ingratiate yourself with the locals.

BE CURIOUS
For some of you, an overseas party trip may just comprise: flight - Airbnb - party - bed - flight. But try to open yourself to curiosity: to learn about local history and culture. Even if it’s just asking a waiter in a restaurant a few questions. Foreign trips are a chance to become more worldly, not just to exploit the local rave scene.

PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE
A huge benefit of being in another country is that you can free yourself from social trappings. Be bold and speak to new people. Connect with locals and get insider tips on the best parties. Forming bonds with people from other cultures can be powerful and transformative.

KEEP RESPECT AT THE FOREFRONT OF YOUR MIND
Respect isn’t just about saying please and thank you; it’s about acknowledging that you’re a guest in someone else’s locality. It’s about behaving in a way that doesn’t impact the place you’re visiting: stay safe and don’t go too hard, since you’re in unfamiliar territory. No littering, no anti-social behaviour, and a warm, open-hearted mindset. Always.

FLYING HOME
Perhaps the most dreaded part of a foreign partying excursion: the flight home. Some of you will power through. Others will be more sensible, and the more adventurous might even change their flight. You never know what’s on the other side of such a decision - change your flight, and you might change your life.