Are you planning on visiting the Amish? Then remember some basic dos and don'ts which will help you enjoy your visit to Amish country and will not offend the Amish. Remember the Amish want nothing more than to lead a simple life. Their own religious beliefs dictate such behavior. So please follow these simple rules:

• Do not take pictures of the Amish. They view photographs or posing for photographs as a sign of pride. Also resist taking video of the Amish it is very disrespectful to video or photograph Amish without permission. Some Amish will allow you to take pictures of their house, farm, or barn but remember to seek permission and know that this can be very intrusive.
• Avoid entering their property without permission.
• When driving down the road drive slowly, a buggy might be around the corner. When approaching a buggy turn off your bright lights, pass slowly and resist tooting the horn this may spook the horses.
• Please don't stare and gawk at the Amish. They are not animals in a zoo and remember you would not appreciate people staring at you.
• Sometimes you might see horses tethered to a hitching post in a parking lot, avoid petting the horses, and avoid feeding the horses.
• Remember to be respectful of the Amish's privacy. Do not walk up to them and ask them questions and try to engage them in a conversation. If you have to, seek out the male in the group and make sure you are brief. If you would like to learn more about Amish life and want to hear it straight from the horses mouth, then seek out one of the many Amish run businesses and ask them. They may be more forthcoming and will engage in pleasantries

In general the Amish are a friendly but private group. They will talk to you if you respect their privacy and follow these basic rules.