At some point, we have to see what else the world has to offer — the part of the globe that we haven’t set foot on, the side that’s vastly different from what we experience here. That’s why if you’re inspired to go on international travel, you’re doing yourself a favor — mentally and physically. A journal published by Positive Psychology says that the benefits of going on a vacation and meditating are quite similar — both activities boosted mindfulness.
So, are you ready to pack your bags? Not just yet, though! “Culture shock” and lack of research on the country you’re visiting may prevent you from enjoying your international travel. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take and some tips you can keep in mind before you arrive at your destination.
Here are some of them.
10 Tips for Your Next International Travel
1. Arrive courteously.
Even if nobody will be waiting for you at the airport with open arms, you’re still technically being “welcomed” by the whole country you’re visiting. After all, you were given a visa and you were allowed to board the plane. Thus, whoever may greet you in the country, make sure you politely greet them in return.
Whether you’re greeted by a stranger or acquaintance, smiling is universally acceptable. However, in some countries in Europe, greeting someone with a handshake is more appropriate — as this is a sign of sincerity. On the other hand, some countries in Southern Europe and the Middle East would rather greet people with a kiss (or a few kisses) on the cheek. Moreover, in some Asian nations like Japan and South Korea, bowing is an important custom.
2. Learn a few phrases.
English may be a commonly spoken language, but you also have to understand that not everyone speaks it. A good number of locals will try to communicate with you by speaking English, but many of them have limited knowledge of the language. Since you’ll be visiting their country, after all, you can impress them by learning a few of their phrases! — the majority of the locals will be touched by this gesture; it shows that you’re genuinely interested in learning about their culture.
Even if it’s just a few phrases of their language — such as “good morning/afternoon/evening,” “thank you,” “you’re welcome,” and “goodbye.” Figure out also what you’ll mostly be doing throughout your stay in their country — if you’ll go there for a food trip, you can learn cuisine-related phrases like “Where’s the coffee shop?” or “Where can I find the nearest restaurant?” in their language.
3. Dress accordingly.
Fashion may be universally observed, but sometimes, no matter how stylish you believe you are, your sense of fashion just won’t fly all the time. Californians may be known for their love for Daisy Dukes, and New Yorkers may have an eye for couture, but European fashion is simply just different — because of the culture and climate. Moreover, if you’re traveling to some parts of the world with a warmer climate, your parka or trench coat will uselessly take up space in your luggage — just ditch it!
The best way to find out what you’re better off wearing on your international travel is by researching the weather and climate in that country. However, if being fashionable is a huge part of your lifestyle, you can check out a few of their social media influencers and see how they typically dress.
There are also a few instances where dressing appropriately goes beyond being stylish. Sometimes, how people dress in certain countries has deep religious associations and cultural significance — especially in the majority of the countries in the Middle East. Women have to conceal specific body parts when they’re traveling there. But, as a general rule, if you’re visiting a church, mosque, or temple, cover up!
4. Learn the tipping culture.
Compared to the rest of the world, the tipping culture in the US is, in a way, the odd one out! Thankfully, when traveling, you won’t have to show off your calculation and computing skills that much — some nations already have their employees’ “tips” added to the bill. Moreover, unlike in the US, there are also other countries that don’t follow the 15%-20% rule of thumb — other countries like Japan even think it’s rude to tip!
5. Eat like the locals!
We often learn more about other cultures through food. That’s why international travel with a hungry tummy is highly encouraged! — this should go without saying that it’s very disrespectful to insult or show disgust when certain dishes are unfamiliar or unappetizing to you. Remember — those cuisines are integral to their nation and history. Furthermore, it also feeds their people and loved ones.
Utensils in other countries also vary. We may be used to our beloved cutlery — the trio: knife, fork, and spoon — but they’re not the preferred utensils in some parts of the world. Many are aware that some Asian countries like Japan, China, South Korea, and Vietnam use chopsticks.
But in some countries in Southeast Asia, like Thailand, Malaysia, The Philippines, and Cambodia, they prefer to use spoons and forks when eating. However, these nations are also known to sometimes use their bare hands when eating — so do many of the citizens of certain countries like Bangladesh, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and India; even several countries in Africa do this.
Exert the effort to learn how to use their utensils. If you’re having difficulties, you can ask them to teach you — more often than not, they’ll enthusiastically help you! Additionally, be open to trying their dishes. You never know, you might just find a new favorite food there!
6. Occasionally, put the camera down.
It would be a waste to not document our travels. Not only are they often Instagram-worthy of uploading, but they’re also memories that we can archive. However, not everything should be captured on the cam! — such as certain temples in Japan. To them, it’s believed that camera lenses can capture a soul. A digital ghost to bring home? No, thank you!
In some developing countries, their people lamented that some Western travelers in the past only gave their nations negative stereotypes — many Asian and African countries (as well as their indigenous people) aren’t too pleased with the misconception that their nation’s as poverty-stricken as they’re portrayed to be. It’s often because of how their countries have been documented in the past — be it via photographs or videos.
Thus, if you’re visiting a country abroad, it’s best to take pictures and videos without bias — unless it’s for journalism purposes and you really want to highlight a problem that you will subsequently address to the higher-ups. To make things easier, however, simply just ask for permission when you’re documenting specific people, places, or the nation.
7. Keep an open mind.
It’s always fun to meet new people! Sometimes, we meet new friends because we share common interests with them. However, there will be times when we’d get along with a person because they’re different from us! — keep this in mind when you’re going on international travel. Because there’s a huge chance that the people there will be unlike the ones you’re used to interacting with.
That said, the more open-minded you are, the more you’re likely to meet and get along with locals. Resist the urge to judge them! To them, you may be just as strange! — and you should find humor in that! Ask about their customs, traditions, culture, beliefs, and everything else that you find genuinely interesting about them.
8. Check out the market!
Who doesn’t want a souvenir to bring back with them? But you’re not going to find one if you don’t explore the streets! You can discover new fruits and vegetables if you visit their farmer’s market. But you can also spot unique textiles, clothes, and tchotchke if you go to the flea market. Regardless if you’re purchasing anything or not, it’s always great to see what the locals are selling — furthermore, you can practice or improve your haggling skills at the market!
9. Experience the nightlife.
It doesn’t matter what country you’re in, partying is a language that everyone speaks! — because every single person wants to celebrate something in their own way. Some instances, of course, call for parties to amp up the gatherings. Though not every country sells booze — especially in nations where the majority of their citizens are Muslims — drinking, however, is a common way to get to know the locals — and have fun the way locals do it!
Most countries also have alcohol or spirits that are unique to their nation or region. If you’re up for an adventure, you can take a sip of their local brew. Find out also what kind of music gets them dancing — you might just discover new artists and songs because of the nightlife in their country! When you return home, and you hear those songs again, you’re most likely going to be reminded of the fun memories of that international travel!
10. Depart with gratitude.
We all have different places that we call “home.” But if you think about it, even if it’s just for a short while, the country you visited temporarily became that — your home.
Even the people you encounter will most likely do their best to make you enjoy your stay with them. Thus, on your last day of the trip, take the time to thank the people you interacted with. Even if you don’t have a token to give to them, your mere gratitude will suffice. Lastly, treasure the memories you had in that country that, again, openly welcomed you!
Ultimately…
“Experience the world” — we often hear it, and most of us agree with the saying. However, we won’t be able to explore what the world has to offer if we don’t pack our bags and go on international travel and adventure! Traveling abroad is rarely uneventful — because you’ll experience different cultures, you’ll meet new people, and you’ll get to try out various cuisines!
Make sure, however, that you adhere to their practices. Do your research before going to their country. Lastly, be open-minded about the fact that their customs will most likely be dissimilar to yours — after all, it’s mainly the reason why it’s always fun to travel!