6 annoying things tourists do in the Caribbean, according to a local
Riselle Celestina lights up whenever she has the chance to talk about the Caribbean.
Born on the island of Curaçao, Celestina has called St. Maarten home for more than two decades.
Between the region's welcoming people, diverse landscapes, historic sites, hidden destinations, and rich cultures, Celestina told Insider that she's seen and experienced many of the islands that make up the Caribbean.
She isn't afraid to share the highlights of her home on her travel blog The Traveling Island Girl or her podcast Paradise Perspectives. And while she's eager to broadcast the good, she doesn't hesitate to share the ugly, too.
Celestina told Insider that her points of frustration often stem from visitors and their behaviors. Whether it's a cruise passenger who prances around St. Maarten wearing only a skimpy swimsuit or a visitor who forgets to say hello, Celestina said there are plenty of things tourists do that annoy both her and other islanders.
Before a trip to the Caribbean, Celestina urges travelers to research. And once you're there, don't be afraid to keep learning.
"It's your vacation destination, but it's our home," she said.
Celestina wears many hats. Beyond her travel blog, podcast, and travel consulting business, Celestina owns a bar on St. Maarten.
She said tourists often walk into her business and place an order without ever saying hello.
And this doesn't just happen inside the bar. She said she's had plenty of instances where tourists flag her or another local down to ask a question. Instead of greeting her or the other locals first, they immediately ask their questions.
Celestina said she finds this rude. It's common courtesy to start a conversation by saying good morning or asking how someone's day is going in the Caribbean. Even a simple hello will suffice, she said.
"This is super important to us," she said. Not only does this create a friendly atmosphere, but it also opens up a dialogue so everyone can learn about one another.
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