How to avoid being labelled as "the tourist" in Sydney

By PR // 7 December 2009 // Comments: 0 // Related Categories: sydney, Traveller blog

When you arrive in Sydney there are a few things you should know if you want to avoid being labelled as "the obvious tourist". I think most people know that taking pictures of and pointing at everything you see is a big "no no" if you want to blend in with the locals. But there are some specific things you need to know about Sydney.

When you cross the road never wait until the traffic light switch to green. Walk over the road when you can't see that many cars coming. If you get stuck in the middle of the road with cars swishing by you, just stand patiently (remember that you shouldn't show that you are scared, just look cool) and wait until the cars have passed.

When you take the train somewhere there is an unwritten rule that you have to follow. When the train arrives to the platform and the doors open you should already be standing on either side of the door, not in front of the door. If you stand in front of the door it's harder for people to get off the train and you will be standing there with a big "T" on your forehead.

Other advice:

• - It is perfectly normal to say "see you" to a person you will never meet again
• - When you meet people remember to ask "how are you" even though you actually wouldn't want to know that
• - Repeat the phrase "no worries" as often as you can