How To Immerse Yourself In A Culture When Traveling
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When visiting a foreign culture, most travelers want to get the most out of their experience abroad. While it is easy to simply sit back and observe as an outsider, one cannot truly get an authentic and educational experience unless they immerse themselves in the culture they are visiting. Here are some tips on how to move from being an outsider looking in to actually becoming a part of the community.
Befriend Locals
When traveling, it can be easy to seek out people who are just like you. Other Westerners will share with you a common language, customs, social etiquette and an understanding of being a foreigner in a new place. However, if you only socialize with people who are from the same culture as you, then what’s the point of traveling? Look for opportunities to meet locals and learn more about the local culture. Head to a non-touristy bar, stop in a cafe that is a local favorite, wander through a bookshop and ask someone about what they’re reading or spend a day volunteering on a local project. Another idea is to offer some type of service to locals, such as tutoring or gardening help. If you look around, you will realize there are endless opportunities for meeting locals.Learn Local Customs And Act Accordingly
Before going to a foreign country, it is imperative that you research the local customs and etiquette. If you don’t, there is a good chance you’ll make a fool of yourself, offend someone or worse. Many Westerners believe the only difference between them and the locals is language, clothing and food. However, did you know that in Morocco and many Middle Eastern countries it is offensive to eat with your left hand? Or that in South East Asia you should never touch someone’s head or sit with your legs extended? Were you aware that in Dubai women actually receive summons tickets for wearing short skirts and shorts? Do your research beforehand to avoid making a social faux pas — or worse.Traditional Spanish paella. Image via salsachica.
Try New Foods
It is a sad truth that no matter where you go in the world, you are almost always going to find a McDonald’s. If you are in a place that has any niche for tourism, you will also be able to find countless restaurants offering Western cuisine and English menus. Do you really need another burger with fries? Not only are these places more expensive, but when you are in a foreign country you should be trying local fare. Seek out the more “mom and pop” establishments or sample some street food. This can also be an opportunity for you to interact with a local by asking someone who lives in the area to recommend some delicious, non-touristy restaurants. If you have already befriended a local, another idea is to ask them if they would like to cook together.Avoid Hotels And Resorts
Avoid staying at expensive hotels and resorts, and instead look for family-run bed and breakfasts, guesthouses and, your best bet, homestays. For mom and pop type accommodations, a simply Google search can give you what you are looking for. Furthermore, if you volunteer somewhere, a homestay can usually be arranged for you or you can try SE7EN. Otherwise, CouchSurfing can allow you to stay with locals and get to see the area from their perspective.Tai Chi on the beach. Image via star99.