Local Culture

Practicalities Thinking it Through Local Culture Clothing 

In countries where there are rules about what you should wear, these may be waived for children. However, this is not universally the case and it is anyway better to dress your child in accordance with local ideas of decency unless you are planning to spend the entire holiday in an enclosed resort.

The issue is particularly relevant for girls, who as young as 10 can find themselves the subject of sexual harassment if they are dressed in what is considered a provocative manner.

It is likely that the parents, as well as the children will feel more comfortable if the children are appropriately dressed.

While in the first world most things go, in Australia and New Zealand parents get old-fashioned looks if they don't cover their kids adequately against the sun.

In north Africa loose trousers under skirts are a good idea for girls and in all Muslim countries it is wise to stick to looser clothing which cover most of the body (also providing protection against the sun).

In much of sub-Saharan Africa thighs are the main area to keep covered - so shorts are not ideal, even for boys. In India inner arms, legs and shoulders are areas which are best kept out of sight.

If the children are very blonde and/or curly-headed, hats will make them less of a draw to curious locals if they are all dark/straight-haired.