Elliott Confidential

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Elliott Confidential
Why tourists are behaving worse than ever

Why tourists are behaving worse than ever

From sacred-site selfies to driving fines, travelers are acting up in all kinds of ways. Here's what's behind it.

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Christopher Elliott
Jun 01, 2025
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Why tourists are behaving worse than ever
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What's the worst thing you've ever done on vacation?

Austin Rulfs says he's still embarrassed about his recent visit to a Balinese temple. He was wearing a T-shirt and tattered shorts. The locals stared at him with disapproval.

"I underestimated how strict they are about respecting sacred areas," says Rulfs, a financial consultant from Adelaide, Australia.

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