I will be in Greece, Turkey, Italy this September. No matter what I wear on my head I'll stand out as a tourist, and I know not to wear a baseball or tractor cap advertising something clearing U.S.; bu twhat kind of hat or cap do other men wear so that they stick out like a sore thumb?
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9110 posts
If you want a hat that's more European in theme, simply buy one for one of the big soccer teams when you are in Italy. They can also be purchased in the US at www.soccer.com Of course caps without logos also exist:)
Posted by
Redmond, WA
295 posts
Tilly hats are seen everywhere. They protect your head and neck, which baseball caps don't. You'll get a lot of sun and a brimmed hat sure beats slathering on a lot of extra subscreen when you will be sweating. Looking a bit out of place is not something to worry about; no one knows you, and they really don't care anyway. We often think everyone notices us, but really, when you are walking around overseas and seeing the sights, does what some guy is wearing on his head matter to you?
Posted by
Portlandia
3313 posts
I have to wear a ball cap, so I take a Ducks hat. As much as it is great to be lost in Europe, it's also great to run across other Oregonians.
Posted by
Yorkshire, UK
264 posts
If you really are the baseball cap type person and don't want to say "US Tourist" certainly consider one of the European football teams caps.
However I would suggest just get one with the Nike Swoosh or and Addidas one. While you can fit in with the Football caps you may have to deal with supporters of other squads.
Posted by
Myrtle Beach, USA
12315 posts
What you really need is a straw cowboy hat, with a Corona headband, that can be rolled up and packed. They can be had at Walmart for about $5 or come free with a bucket of beer at most Mexican resorts.
They actually work well in warm sunny climes, you'll be the envy of all the tourists who stick out like sore thumbs.
If you don't want to stick out, I suggest waiting until you are there. Look and see what you like that people are wearing and visit a store locally. There is likely to be a difference between hat choices in Italy, Greece and Turkey so you may come home with three souvenirs.
A tilly hat may be touristy but it's always a functional choice.