By Kumiko
Regarding the book *Why We Lie*, it became a hot topic when students from Kaohsiung High School and the mayor of Kaohsiung held it while taking a group photo together. In reality, when it comes to lies during travel, travelers need to know how to tell them, how to listen to them, and how to respond accordingly.
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The book *Why We Lie* went viral overnight due to current events. (Photo / Morning Star Publishing)
Generally speaking, there are two main purposes for lying: one is to protect or gain personal benefits, and the other is to try to influence or manipulate others. As mentioned in *Why We Lie*: everyone is born a liar, telling an average of six lies per day... Various forms of saying one thing but meaning another in life also require careful judgment with a high level of wisdom. The following six common and frequently used lies during travel are ones you should understand and use appropriately.
1. I’m single / I’m alone
This is often used when trying to strike up a conversation. If you don’t mind whether the other person is single and are open to invitations or meeting new people, you don’t need to worry too much about this point.
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Whether you have travel companions or not, when you’re alone abroad, you can appropriately indicate that you’re not actually by yourself. The beautiful view of Ho Chi Minh City Hall. (Photo / a_j.couple)
2. I’m not alone / I have a boyfriend
This is often used in potentially risky situations, to let the other person know you’re not on your own, thus avoiding any attempts at robbery or harassment while you’re alone. You can also say something like “I’m waiting for my friend,” to let them know someone else will be arriving soon, discouraging any bad intentions.
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Don’t easily share your privacy, accommodation, or flight details with others while traveling. Photo shows the Lanyang Museum. (Photo / tw.brian)
3. I don’t know
Sometimes you don’t need to reveal any information to strangers you meet while traveling. For example: Where are you going today? Do you know any good places to eat around here? When you feel the person may not be friendly or has ill intentions, you don’t need to answer their questions directly—you can just say “I don’t know.”
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Being able to cleverly lie a little while traveling can help keep you out of danger. Photo shows Gaomei Wetlands. (Photo / rhlij_____)
4. I forgot
Following the situation of “I don’t know,” “I forgot” is another lie that can be skillfully used. For example, if someone asks about your hotel or flight, you don’t need to let them know your exact location or itinerary. In such cases, you can say “I forgot.” In fact, some dangerous robberies have occurred when criminals entered hotels and knocked on specific room doors—when guests opened the door without suspicion, they were robbed, so it’s important to stay vigilant.