The culture of a place can greatly
influence how you travel and if you will enjoy your time there. Culture can include food, customs, language and religion. If you feel
uncomfortable not knowing the language, what are you willing to do? Will you
take classes? Is a small dictionary enough? Are you ok if people don’t
understand everything you say? What are you willing to eat? Yes now a days you
can find westernized fast food just about everywhere, welcome to global
obesity, but do you want that to be your every meal? Do you want to go
somewhere with lots of outdoor adventure or calm beaches? Is there a culture
you are interested in and want to learn more about? As you ask these questions
make a list of what matters most to you in traveling and then find countries
that fit that description. I know some of my friends would love the food of Vietnam
but would not be willing to take uncomfortable sleeper busses along the coast.
Of course they can fly but they also want to spend more time on islands, so
instead of Vietnam they are going to Thailand. There are countless guides
available so do some google image searches and read!
I belief that every culture has something
beautiful to teach us. While in Thailand I learned how significant a smile is. I
had never before felt so welcomed and loved in a place where no one understood
me. As a result I now try to smile
at more people, even here on the streets of NYC. I often get concerned looks,
as if people are checking to see if I am ok. Oh well, one step at a time. Even
if the culture may seem harsh or cold I encourage you to find something good in
it. I mean why are we traveling if not to experience new things and learn?
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| *toilets in Japan really do solve all my bathroom needs! oh what you can discover.* |
