6 Tips For Embracing Culture When You Travel ~
While tools like the internet have brought us closer together as a global society, there are still aspects of individual cultures that offer a completely unique approach to life. One of the most fun parts of traveling can be immersing yourself in the lives of people who approach the world in a completely different way to you. Today, let’s run through six of the best ways to achieve this.
1. Keep An Open Mind
As we’ve discussed, the world is more connected than it used to be. That said, small pockets of the world might still harbor views which to you seem archaic or outdated. This is especially true of tribal cultures, who can still be found dotted throughout the world.
So long as these opinions aren’t spreading any form of hate against a particular people or culture, it’s important to keep an open mind. Don’t assume the way you do things is better just because they might seem more advanced. You wouldn’t like if someone criticized how you approach life, so extending that same respect to others is important.
2. Work Or Volunteer In The Country You’re Visiting
As the Secret Traveller points out, getting a job in the country you’re volunteering in will help you to blend in with the culture far more quickly. You’re likely to be working alongside natives, giving you an authentic taste of their lifestyles and habits. What’s more, having a job while on your travels also means you have a constant cash flow – and people to go out and spend your money with on an evening. Win, win, win. Also, you will need money to make sure you are covered if accidents happen as well! Being prepared is always a good thing!
Photo by Hannah Sellers on Unsplash
3. Go To Local Events
Find out what’s going on and try to give it a go – especially if it’s something you’ve never tried before. Generally speaking, the larger the event, the less likely it is to retain its niche appeal. Small, quirky events provide you with the chance to get a glimpse of how the locals really live. That’s not to say you should avoid bigger events outright, however.
4. Buy Food From Their Supermarkets
Ever noticed how different supermarkets are in other parts of the world? Even nations from the same continent can have vastly different approaches to shelf management and layout. The further you travel, the more extreme these changes will be. It’s a fascinating insight into what kinds of produce are popular in the nation you’re visiting.
Photo by Alex Holyoake on Unsplash
5. Ask Locals For What’s Best To Do
Who’s better to ask for advice on what to do than someone who knows the area inside out? Instead of consulting the guide book, why not instead get chatting with a local and ask them the best places to see in your free time. This not only gives you more exposure to the “real” culture of an area but could help you avoid tourist traps.
6. Learn Some Of The Languages
While you aren’t going to pick up a full language while you travel, it never hurts to master some of the basics. Uncornered Market provides insights into how to speedily pick up enough language to help you get by.
Some of their best advice includes:
• Surrounding yourself with non-English speakers
• Listen to and mimic what people are saying
• Take lessons in your spare time
Having a grounding in another language can make it easier for you to blend into your surroundings.
Keep these six tips in mind, and you’ll find yourself seamlessly blending into the culture.
~ Goldie Summers