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São Paulo, Brazil
RALF Member Since Nov 2025

RALF Community is the meeting point of one of the most connected communities in the world — where people, cultures, and stories intersect to reshape the way we explore the planet.

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Tips & Traps

17 posts

Trap

Miscellaneous

Going to NASA without checking distance

Houston, United States

Space Center Houston is NOT close to downtown. It’s about 45–60 min away.

Many travelers assume it’s quick — it’s a half-day commitment. Plan transportation in advance.

Tip

Sport & Outdoors

Kayak with the skyline at Buffalo Bayou

Houston, United States

Explore Houston from the water at Buffalo Bayou Park — one of the most unexpected experiences in the city. You can rent kayaks, bike along the trails, or just walk with skyline views.

Best time: sunset Local vibe: picnic + skyline + chill Houston energy

Tip

Miscellaneous

Think in neighborhoods

Houston, United States

Houston doesn’t really have one central area to explore. Each neighborhood has its own vibe:

• Montrose - artsy & walkable • The Heights - cafes & boutiques • Midtown - nightlife • Museum District - culture

Skip Downtown. Explore the bayou instead.

Tip

Sport & Outdoors

Skip Downtown. Explore the bayou instead.

Houston, United States

Many first-timers go straight to downtown, but locals head to the bayou parks. Walk, bike, or just watch the skyline at sunset.

It’s one of the few places where Houston actually feels walkable. Perfect for golden hour, picnics, and skyline views.

Always carry some cash (Colombian pesos)

Tip

Miscellaneous

Always carry some cash (Colombian pesos)

Bogotá D.C., Colombia

Even in big cities like Bogotá and Medellín, many small shops, local markets, and even some services don’t accept cards. Having cash on hand will save you from awkward situations.

Tip

Miscellaneous

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases

Bogotá D.C., Colombia

While you’ll find some English speakers in tourist areas, most locals in Colombia speak Spanish. Simple phrases go a long way and make interactions much smoother and friendlier!

Try these:

Hola - Hello Gracias - Thank you Por favor - Please

¿Cuánto cuesta? - How much does it cost? ¿Dónde está…? - Where is…? La cuenta…

Underestimating the weather (especially in Bogotá)

Trap

Miscellaneous

Underestimating the weather (especially in Bogotá)

Bogotá D.C., Colombia

Even though it’s in Latin America, Bogotá can get quite cold and the weather changes fast throughout the day. Don’t assume it’ll be warm. 🌧️ Always carry a jacket and something waterproof.

Tip

Art & Culture

Gold Museum (Museo del Oro)

Bogotá D.C., Colombia

This is one of Latin America’s most important museums, showcasing ancient goldwork from Indigenous cultures. Plan at least two hours... the exhibits are dense and beautifully curated.

Trap

Miscellaneous

Assuming all restaurants accept credit cards

Tokyo, Japan

Small ramen shops and izakayas often only take cash. Always carry some yen to avoid awkward situations, especially late at night.

Tip

Miscellaneous

Maintain silence on trains

Tokyo, Japan

Do not make or take phone calls while on Japanese trains, including the subway and Shinkansen (bullet train). Avoid listening to music loudly or engaging in loud conversations, as absolute silence is expected. This rule honors the Omotenashi culture and respects tired commuters who rely on the quiet carriage time for…

Trap

Sport & Outdoors

Do not disturb the sacred deer

Tokyo, Japan

In areas like Nara and Miyajima, do not provoke the sacred deer. These animals are wild and have injured tourists (kicking and biting) when angered, often by people teasing them with food to get a perfect selfie, or withholding food after attracting them.

Furthermore, do not feed them human food, as it can make them…

Tip

Photography & Views

Tokyo city view & Mori Art Museum

Tokyo, Japan

If you want one of the most impressive skyline views in Tokyo, save time for the Tokyo City View observation deck on the top floors of the Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills. The panoramic windows give you a 360° perspective of the city — including Tokyo Tower glowing right in front of you at night. The best part is that…

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My trips

14Countries visited

across 6 continents

Europe4 countries
, , ,
South America3 countries
, ,
Asia2 countries
,
Africa2 countries
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Oceania2 countries
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North America1 country

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