Travelling to a new country will be an exciting, and sometimes trying, adventure; but ultimately, it’s what you personally make of the circumstances that will ensure your travell abroad is an experience to fondly remember! By finding out more about the culture and new environment you will live in, you will likely feel better prepared for what you encounter overseas. And of course, having a positive and open attitude can be key to coping with difficult (or simply different) situations. Read on for some tips and ideas on navigating your new terrain, and also be sure to check out our extensive resources!
One of the first things to remember about travelling to a new country is that identical behaviors can have different meanings in different cultures. For example, looking away and not making eye contact can be a sign of respect in some cultures, while in the U.S. this behavior indicates insecurity or perhaps dishonesty. See how miscommunication between persons of different nationalities can occur? The best way to prepare yourself for a foreign culture is to learn as much as you can about the culture!