- You arrive… and bam, the shock!
Experiencing culture shocks abroad is like diving into a cold pool. You arrive in a new country and everything is different: the language, the food, the habits… This is what we call “culture shock”. Don’t panic, it’s normal! You are simply discovering a new way to see the world. First tip: before you leave, do some research on the country. The better you know it, the less shocking it will be.
- Learn to say hello (and more)
Hi, hola, hello, ciao… Each country has its own way of saying hello. But not just that. Behaviors, gestures, facial expressions also change. In some countries, people kiss each other on the cheek, in others, they shake hands. Learn these little things and you’ll feel like a fish in water.
- Take your time
Dealing with culture shocks abroad doesn’t get resolved overnight. It takes time. So, be patient. Immerse yourself in the local culture. Taste the local dishes, learn a few words in the country’s language, meet locals. In short, open yourself up to this new culture. You’ll see, it’s an incredible experience.
- Stay true to yourself
It’s important to adapt, but don’t forget who you are. You can respect local customs while staying true to yourself. And if you’re having trouble adapting, talk about it. There are always people ready to help.
And there you go, you’re ready to face culture shocks abroad. So, ready to dive into the deep end of cultural diversity?
