Learn How To Prepare Yourself For Culture Shock
The lure of travel abroad is that people get a chance to experience first-hand the beauty of other cultures. Many would attest that their knowledge is broadened and that they develop a deeper understanding of other people. Although traveling abroad can be an enriching experience, sometimes we encounter strange customs and traditions that we have a hard time understanding. Even those who have been to many places in the world have experienced culture-shock in one way or another.
Cultural sensitivity is a key to fruitful and enjoyable trip abroad. But what does it mean to be culturally sensitive? Of prime importance is getting to know a locale’s traditions, customs, and way of life. The more our familiarity with the practice, then the less strange it would seem. Appreciation entails understanding and respect from the traveler. We should be able to see them in their own eyes.
An important travel advice that should be observed by everybody is to be culturally sensitive. This entails getting to know about customs, traditions and local folkways of the place. The key to avoiding misunderstanding is to have a good knowledge and background of the people and locale. That way, we can practice the proper etiquette and respect. Pointing at people for instance is considered insulting in some countries. By knowing information such as this, we are sure to avoid inconveniences along the way.
The importance of communication cannot be overemphasized especially for overseas travel. Not only should we be knowledgeable about the local customs, but the language as well. Not a few would often find themselves frustrated for they are unable to communicate with others. Assuming that everybody speaks the same language as we would, it proves costly. That is why many try to get hold of a phrase book when traveling abroad. That way, we are able to explain ourselves and are able to get around more effectively. Being able to say “thank you” and “please” in the local language is a must.
When it comes to food, we should also be prepared. Those who follow a certain diet like vegetarians must know what kind of dishes they could eat. Trying the local cuisine requires a certain degree of courage so it is best if we know what we are about to put in. Even the gastronomically adventurous would benefit from knowing the local cuisine. We can never know if a dish has an ingredient that we are allergic to. Another advantage is that we can avoid insulting a host and also avoid waste when we are unable to finish the food served or offered.
Be culturally sensitive in taking souvenirs with you. In order to remember our travels in other countries, we often take souvenirs with us. However, we must be careful that the items we take are handled properly. This is especially true if the souvenir we got is an object which is considered sacred by the locals. Immersion in different cultures is truly an enriching experience when one keeps an open mind. Overseas travel would surely result in a deeper appreciation of other cultures if we are prepared. This makes our travel experiences more enriching and colorful.