Heading to a tropical island? Taking a cruise? Traveling to a large city? As you stroll the beach, explore the local markets, partake in a port excursion, or even just walk down the street, chances are good you will encounter one or more pushy sales people. From taxi-drivers to street performers, unwanted attention from “micro-traders” can add stress to your vacation.

Watch Video

Annmarie Nicely, a leading researcher in the field of visitor harassment, has identified 35 known behaviors used by “micro-traders” such as taxi drivers, craft vendors, street-side chefs, local tour guides and street performers, to market their products, services or entertainment. Nicely’s research has uncovered that harassing behaviors occur during all phases of the small-trade process – the solicitation, the sale, the “sale-refusal” stage and after the sale. Attend this Learn and Lunch to learn how avoid or lessen the impact of pushy sales people so that your next trip is an enjoyable one.