Birkenstocks abroad - Is it a problem?

[Greengardenpixie]

Was reading on a tourist info site that you cant wear flip flops in some museums etc. Is this the case? Would Birkenstocks be classed as flip flops? Would any type of shoe without the back bit. Experiences please!!!

I think it very much depends on which country you're talking about... abroad is a very big place!

Just read this!!!!

In Europe, in particular, sneakers are for sporting activities only. White tennis shoes, Crocs and Birkenstocks are notably frowned upon by Spaniards and Italians. Instead, wear comfortable leather walking shoes in the city, and keep them polished and in good shape. White, lace-up tennis shoes are the calling card of American tourists (and don't even think about Velcro sneakers).

It's also wise to stick with closed-toe shoes, which can help prevent insect bites or cuts on your toes from gravelly surfaces. "It is not sanitary to wear flip-flops and other open-toe shoes when traveling to some areas because you can get infections," notes Talia Salem, a communications specialist at PlanetWildlife.

Sorry was talking about Europe and mainly France, Switzerland, Italy.

..mostly in the country rather than going into big citites.

No, it's not a problem. Wear what you want.

I've never found it to be a problem

Do please link to the site in question, OP, that's hilarious. Well-polished leather shoes?! Is it from the 1950s?

Haha, where did you find that??

I've worn mine all over Europe and have never been ejected from anywhere for crimes against fashion.

None of my Spanish friends have a problem with Birkenstocks. They are extremely comfortable and I wear mine often in Europe as do many other European tourists.

www.independenttraveler.com/travel-tips/passports-and-international-travel/10-things-you-should-never-wear-when-traveling-abroad

Ha ha...yeh, does sound ancient

I don't think I have ever seen anyone in Spain with a pair of closed in shoes! At least not in the summer.
That's hilarious.
I always buy sandals to bring home with me.

I too would love to see a pair of well polished closed toe walking shoe. Am imagining something like a 'jazz shoe'.

"It is not sanitary to wear flip-flops and other open-toe shoes when traveling to some areas because you can get infections,"
Well, like, yeah, but that can happen in the UK too. Take TCP or similar. I have worn flip-flops and sandals on five continents and I am (gasp!) still alive.

No one chased me from any Spanish museum for wearing sandals, either.

That is a VERY strange article: half of it is common sense and the other half is mad. Like the implication that only Americans wear shorts for anything except 'soccer'.

As for the advice to avoid bright colours... If you want to star out like a sore thumb in, say, Sri Lanka, by all means turn up in shades of beige.

*stand out...

Hmm that sounds very old fashioned!

I wore my birkis and Toms round Rome in 2012 when we went. I was 24 weeks pregnant and needed to be comfortable - admittedly many people think the Toms look like slippers but I really didn't care. They were so comfy. We did all the sights and lots of posh ish restaurants. No one batted an eyelid! I never even thought about it!

In fact they had a birkenstock shop near to the Vatican. .. not saying you'd buy them specifically for visiting the Vatican but clearly they're popular!

it sounds like my grans era! Thank god its nonsense. I havent been abroad in years!! so pardon my complete ignorance!!

who gives a fuck what other people think of your footwear?

I imagine take something suitable if visiting temples, but for touristy stuff, just wear your normal sandals

Never had a problem with footwear abroad. DH, however, was refused entry to a church in Malta because his shorts were too short.

In his defence they weren't short shorts just above knee length and they are very strict on dress codes in churches there.

Well i dont give a fuck and generally wear what i want [ far too old in the tooth to care about others] but i would hate to be turned away from getting in somewhere on account of my shoes!

It's an American site. They really haven't got a clue - they genuinely think their giant white sneakers, worn with white mid-calf socks and shorts, are the only thing that gives away their origin. Bless their innocent hearts!

I have worn Birkenstocks in a museum in France. Nothing bad happened. I have worn Birkenstocks in Brazil. Felt like a tit because all the women were wearing massive glam wedged sandals in town and flip flops on the beach. Wear them and take a pair of those fold up ballet flats just in case perhaps?

Yes, think i am going to do exactly that norockandroll. I have children with me so im not really bothered about looking glam anyway! Interesting comment about your experience in Brazil though. Funny how different countries have differing ideas!

I was just going to say that too Bluestocking. On Trip advisor forums there is frequently a question regarding 'dress code' in Paris/Madrid or wherever. Usu ally an American poster, insisting that they don't want to 'look like a tourist'.

I do remember something about Birkenstocks being nicked at the beach as they were desirable items.

I wear mine a lot in Europe. Here, in France, Spain. Just not for driving. I keep proper sandals or my Supergas to hand for driving.

Have you read the comments below the article!

I agree about a shawl to cover shoulders if you are planning visits to churches etc. (speaking from experience of italy)

Otherwise, have fun and dress for less sweat!

that article is bloody hilarious!
"Never wear expensive, flashy jewelry abroad, unless you want your diamond rings, pearls and pricey watches to be tagged for someone else's collection." - yes, abroad, there be dragons!!!