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Why is there such a negative image around Brits and Americans travelling abroad? Many of us Westerners complain at such stereotyping, calling it ‘unfair’ and ‘untrue’. But is it? When we take a serious look at our attitudes and actions towards foreign cultures, something isn't right. Of course, the sort of people reading this story right now are those who do travel in a proper, considerate, respectful manner, and I applaud you for it. It is unfortunate that those who need this article most may never read it, although you can help to change that by sharing it with whoever you deem it necessary. To me, the image of most Western travellers as rude, obnoxious and disrespectful has strengthened over the years; it’s wholeheartedly deserved, and unfortunately it does not seem to be going away any time soon. Let me tell you a story which epitomises exactly why so many foreign cultures despise us… * Have you ever been to Sevilla? With its marvellous Moorish architecture and fabulous Flamenco shows, the capital of the Andalusian region will likely captivate you. Stroll through the streets of Sevilla and you’ll marvel at the ornate buildings, the vivid oranges, strawberries and other fruits at market stalls, and the passionate buskers in the busy streets and squares. Picture a typical tapas bar, mellow and laidback, with low-level murmuring and general chit-chat. Glasses clinking; diners laughing; Spanish waiters arguing in that entertaining mix of heatedness and good-naturedness. No stress, no rush, and no hassle – exactly how a good tapas bar should be. Now picture a middle-aged English tourist, overweight, sunburnt, and extremely well-refreshed. Put her in the tapas bar. Can you see what might happen? Of course, as is her right as a proud British citizen she can be as insolent as humanely possible: “Squid I said, SQUID!” The waiters, somehow maintaining their tempers, respond, “Vale, si, los calamares”. As you naturally would, the woman proceeded to shriek at the very top of her lungs: “NOT THAT CRAP, I WANT SQUID!” Never have I been so proud to be British. * This is only one short instance from many I could’ve chosen. We Westerners rarely speak the local language, and yet expect others to always speak English, and are actually offended when they do so with a foreign accent! Is this xenophobic attitude really what we want to pass on to future generations of Western travellers? My aim is to form part of a new generation, one that is thirsty not only to see new places, do new things, and meet new people, but to do so with the upmost respect to local culture. Whether that involves picking every single bit of litter left by you or your companions, or NOT getting horrendously drunk every night, or taking the time to learn a bit of the local language, it all makes a difference. I want to change this toxic image of Western travellers to something far more positive, so that people of other countries – Spanish, Chinese and Martian alike – are genuinely eager for us to visit. It isn’t too much to ask that we treat foreign culture with respect. Don’t be that tourist in the tapas bar; do something more meaningful on your travels. Connect with a local, try an unusual food, get out of your comfort zone. Let’s be part of the generation known for travelling the right way, not the easy way. Be the change you wish to see in the world. It all starts with you.