Two Worlds Of Contrasts Australia vs Sweden
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Written by Tina Bergqvist
hen you move to a new place, you tend to see things with fresh eyes. You might compare it to what it was like where you lived before, and maybe even be amazed about how different things and people are in the new place. After a while, you get used to your surroundings. The customs and way of things are not as fresh or different anymore. You have adjusted to your new way of life without even thinking about it. The things that amazed or surprised you before have become what you are used to now. You might even take some things for granted without having the intention to do so. Then one day, you might return to where you used to live. Don’t be surprised if you experience a reverse culture shock. It is prevalent, especially if you have been studying or living abroad for a while and then returns to your home country. Things back home might have changed, just like you have. And now, you can see the place that was once your home with new eyes and a new perspective. That happened to me - I studied in Australia for three years and moved back to Sweden for a while. I had gotten so used to the Aussie customs and way of life, which in many ways is very different from the Swedish lifestyle. Australia Vs Sweden In Australia, you hail the bus when you want it to stop to pick you up from the bus stop. It is common to say “thank you” or wave to the bus driver when you get off. I almost did the same thing in Sweden last time I was there, and I couldn’t help but giggle. I am sure the bus driver would have appreciated a “thank you,” but everyone else might have thought I had lost my mind since that isn’t a common thing to say in Sweden. Or maybe not? Maybe I should try it next time I go there.
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July 2022
