Best Guide To Immerse Yourself In Culture Travel When travellers go to foreign countries, they usually shy away from authentic experiences and try to take comfort in familiarity: they want their hotels to be equipped with every possible amenity; they try not to taste the cuisine of the place they’re visiting (because who wants diarrhoea when you’re on vacation!); they keep cooped up inside their hotels and don’t talk to the locals. If this sounds anything like you, your travel experiences so far have been incomplete. Cultural travel is all about experiencing a foreign culture and actively trying to become a part it. It has more to do with the people you meet rather than the places you visit. If you like the sound of this, then you’re ready for your first truly cultural trip. Here are some tips to help you along your journey as you discover a new culture: 1. Try and learn the language beforehand It’s always good to know a bit of the language while planning a trip abroad. It’ll make navigating through the country easier for you. Also, the people there will be more likely to talk to you if you can throw around a few sentences in their native tongue and are likely to trust you more.
2. Read up on customs Don’t make the mistake of offending the locals while you’re visiting their country. For instance, if you’re in China and you have been invited to dinner, don’t finish everything that’s on your plate. It gives the impression that the hosts did not give you enough food and that’s rude. Similarly, in Indonesia, don’t point with your forefinger—it’s considered discourteous. You’re supposed to point with your thumb instead. It’s when you try learning about a culture before visiting a foreign land that you won’t accidentally insult the locals and they will appreciate the effort.
3. Indulge in the activities the place is famous for Whether it’s learning yoga in India, belly dancing in Morocco, the guitar in Spain, or surfing in Hawaii—it’s always good to learn things from the places that have made them famous. You’ll have a unique skill and it’ll make for an interesting trip!
4. Don’t forget to visit museums Museums are a great place to learn about a country’s or city’s history. Visiting one is bound to give you some insight into the culture of the place. Plus, the bonus is that you can wow people back home with your in-depth knowledge!
6. Try all the food Food connects us with people like nothing else. Share a meal with the locals and you’re going to end up bonding with them. Don’t be afraid to try new things and test your gastronomic limits. You never know. You might have a new favourite dish to call your own!
7. Don’t be afraid to talk to people Forget your social anxiety during your trip. More often than not, locals are welcoming, patient and will answer your ridiculous questions with a smile on their face. Start talking to them and learn about their life a country you know nothing about and the problems they face.
It’s no wonder that the phrase ‘when in Rome, do as the Romans do’ is so apt. Live as the locals do and you’re bound to have a trip that you will remember forever!