Part of what I love the most about traveling is experiencing new cultures, embracing diversity, and gaining a deeper understanding of the lives of the people in their country. Consequently, just as we have people in need in our own country, there’s the same type of need in other countries. When traveling abroad, we get up close and personal with individuals asking us for help. The approach has been made by adults, children, and vendors alike. Some silently hold signs or hold a cup or basket for you to donate, while some others are a bit more aggressive or intrusive to the point of creating annoyance or an unsafe feeling. No matter how they ask, it always pulls at my heartstrings. There is really no way to mentally prepare my mind for it. I want to share more about this intricate and delicate issue by sharing my own personal experiences and exploring the lessons that I’ve learned.
What I see is a combination of poverty and inequality that is typically a consequence of why we run into so many expressing their needs. Through my travels, I have witnessed firsthand the disparity in wealth distribution around the world. The terms used to refer to individuals who beg can vary based on cultural context and I intend to use respectful verbiage as I discuss this topic of those who may be experiencing economic hardships. There are many words used, such as “mendicants,” “panhandlers,” “vagrants,” “street urchins,” “homeless,” “indigent,” “destitute individuals,” “alms seekers” or “people in dire straits.” No matter what term you choose to use, please note that the “need” affects humans worldwide. My first international trip to Paris, “The City of Love,” had me shaken. While I was in line to visit the Eiffel Tower or while in any highly touristy area or while walking to eat some food, I was not prepared for the number of children holding signs asking for help stating that they are deaf or blind. They quietly came close to me and placed their sign in my face for me to read. Initially, I felt pulled to act, but after so much, I realized that the need was much greater than what I was able to give. I truly understand they all may have a story and struggle or just want enough to get through the day. I struggled internally and had no idea how to handle it for the rest of our trip. I still struggle to this day! I don’t think it will ever get any easier and every country I’ve been to has a different experience.
The struggle that I have is “What do I do when I am approached?” In most cases, I can simply just say “No, sorry, I don’t have anything for you” or “No, thank you” to the persistent vendor. Most will just move on. Thankfully, I notice that small acts of kindness can make a big difference! Making simple human connections like sharing a smile or simply saying hello can and does have a huge impact. Many travelers prefer not to make eye-contact out of fear that they will be bothered. Just know that, in many countries, it’s almost impossible to avoid someone in need. For example, what do you do when someone performs for you? In Havana, we had a man give us a full magic show. In Cartagena, we had some very talented, local rappers follow us and rapped the entire time. This was amazing and, at the same time, unfortunate because it happened to be at the end of the night while heading back to our Airbnb. We had absolutely no tips left to give. We tried thanking them and asking them to stop, however, they just kept rapping and rapping. It was so disheartening as they consistently kept asking for tips and telling us this is how they make a living to feed their families. We felt terrible! Keep in mind, that quick and impromptu encounter and conversation can feel like a full interview and lead to them asking for much help. It gets too overwhelming at times and can make simply walking around very unsettling.
Whether you decide to give or not, of course, is entirely up to you. This is a controversial topic. Many believe giving money only causes the habit of begging to continue and thinking this kindness of strangers will bring instant gratification yet perpetuate an endless cycle of poverty. As responsible travelers, we heavily consider the implications of our actions. If you really desire to give something, consider these alternatives…
- Purchase or carry food or snacks that you are willing to give away.
- Donate clothing or basic necessities. Local churches are a great resource.
- Find an organization to donate items to or make a monetary donation. Local schools are a great resource.
- Support educational initiatives by funding schools, providing scholarships or sponsoring vocational training programs.
- Support local businesses, local restaurants and local shops, ethical tourism and stay in locally owned residences and hotels. This helps to positively impact the communities that you visit where local employees earn their living.
- Offer your time and skills to organizations working in impoverished communities.
- Volunteer in teaching programs, healthcare clinics, or community development projects. Utilize your expertise in fields such as healthcare, engineering or business to make a meaningful impact.
- Live like a local by participating in traditional festivals, staying with local families or engaging in cultural activities. Share your experiences of connecting with locals and understanding their way of life.
As I travel and come across those in need, I often find opportunities for self-reflection, compassion, and a better understanding of the world’s realities. For your own safety, always remember to be aware of your surroundings while being respectful to the people around you. They do not deserve to be ignored or treated less than! If you can, take some time, listen to their stories, challenge your presumptions, and engage with empathy. Together, we all can contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate world.
