Opinion | Editorials
Be sensitive to local culture
It is common sense that any visitor should abide by the laws of the host country.
- Gulf News
- Published: 00:04 July 10, 2008
Acts of public indecency are a serious issue. It is not a matter of different cultures; all societies have public standards which they try to uphold for the benefit of those who reside within their borders.
In the United States, Europe and Asia, as well as other regions, there are laws designed specifically to uphold public decency. Obvious displays of intimacy can and do offend if they take place in public areas, especially areas where children are likely to be. It is simple common sense that any visitor to any country should abide by the laws of that country. There is a greater onus on visitors to a country to act in a mature manner especially if that country tries to make them feel as comfortable as possible. Tolerance displayed by officials trying to make people welcome should not be taken by tourists or residents as licence to be silly.
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