In many countries, a local woman covers most of her body with clothing. For a female traveler, loose-fitting clothing that covers arms and legs is always a safe choice. Wear tight shorts and T-shirt and you'll quickly discover that you're offending some observers while attracting others you'd prefer to avoid. Minimize eye contact with men. Where a friendly smile can be misinterpreted, a wink could start a war.
Dark sunglasses are an excellent way to avoid eye contact.
Common courtesies, such as thanking someone for holding open a door, can lead to being followed. An impassive nod may have to be sufficient acknowledgment of a good deed. Don't be drawn into discussion of controversial topics, especially concerning male-female relations. When you're with a new acquaintance, go Dutch so that neither of you feels that the other is indebted. Drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes in public is considered provocative in some countries.