ICE Invents gives travel tips for different cultures, the importance of discovery and making the most of your trip
Travel Etiquettes
When visiting a culture different from yours, it is important keep in mind the ‘different’ part. Many aspects will be unlike what you are used to. Behaviour that is regular in your part of the world may even offend somebody living elsewhere.
Touching: The concept of personal space changes from country to country. It’s offensive to touch somebody (like a simple pat on the back) in Korea, Thailand and China unless you are a family member or close friend. In countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia, among other Middle Eastern countries, men and women are prohibited from interacting, let alone touch or show public displays of affection.
Eating with your left: Many cultures still prefer the traditional methods to eat by using a hand, specifically the right. In places like India, Morocco, Africa and the Middle East, the locals may take offence in the action if you’ll be partaking in a communal meal.
Refusing lei in Hawaii: Leis are garlands made of flowers that are worn in the Hawaiian Islands. They aren’t just pretty, floral neck wear that people there just give out. They’re considered a cultural symbol of welcome, friendship and appreciation. You can see why it would be disrespectful if a lei is refused or removed shortly after receiving it.
Making eye contact: It’s an absolute ‘no’ in Korea and Japan. Prolonged eye contact is sure to make locals from these countries uncomfortable.
Not removing your shoes: When entering a home in Asia, Hawaii or the Pacific Islands, it is essential that you take off your shoes. Not only does it keep sand and dirt out but it’s also a sign that you’re ‘leaving the outside world behind.’
Considering how diverse cultures around the world are, it is important that you do not appear disrespectful when visiting a foreign land. Observe the locals and their lifestyle so you can try and adapt. If unsure of something, ask.
Rules to live by when on vacation
When you’re travelling overseas, it should be with the expectation that things are going to be different. An anticipation of change in scene and lifestyle is bound to add to the excitement. Nevertheless, most tourists take measures to stay guarded when it comes to food and local customs. There is nothing wrong with that, but going overboard with ‘safety’ can cause more harm than good. Here are some things to keep in mind to make the most out of your trip.
Make the most of the limited time you have
This applies for life too but that calls for a whole other article in itself. When you go to a foreign land on vacation, it is never for more than a month or two. Waking up early is advised so you can take in more of the seemingly alien place you are in. Plan ahead so you can manage time efficiently.
Get to know the locals
The one thing every place in the world has in abundance is people. The locals of your retreat destination are bound to be different from the ones you usually associate with. Start a conversation with them instead of other tourists. Such interactions can be an interesting experience and can help you know more about the local culture.
Do NOT miss out on local food
Taste a little bit of everything when on holiday. There is no other way to know what will suit your palate. Ask the locals for recommendations. Eat street food especially from vendors who cater to long lines of customers. Instead of walking in to the nearest KFC for lunch, go to a restaurant the locals go to. Statistically, the chances of you falling sick for eating food that everyone else does is very slim.
Break out of your comfort zone from time to time
Be a little adventurous and do things that you normally wouldn’t do back home. A foreign land always has something to offer that you’ve never experienced before. A strange vehicle? Take a ride on it. An exotic beverage? Take a sip. These modest risks will help you get to know yourself a little more.
Wander off into the unknown
As poetic as it sounds, this is actually practical and can turn out to be fun. Get out of your hotel and choose a direction to walk off into. The best way to discover the lifestyle and trends of the locals is to do it on foot. Carry a contact card of your hotel in case you get lost; you can simply hop on a taxi and return. Don’t be too worried about stumbling in to dangerous neighbourhoods as the locals will usually warn you before you get that far.
Take notes and snap as many photos as possible
With the technology available these days, this one is possibly the easiest. You’ll meet new people, find new places and eat different food – chances are that you may do these things only once in your life. The photos you take will forever remain a memory of things you experienced, good or bad.
DIY: Twig Frame
What you’ll need: A bunch of twigs, jute yarn and tacks to attach photo.
Step 1:
Cut the twigs according to the dimensions of the photo.
Step 2:
Place the twigs in accordance to your preferred size.
Step 3:
Tie up the four corners using the jute thread in a criss-cross fashion.
Step 4:
Use the tacks to attach photo to the frame.