Overcoming Cross Cultural Misunderstands

Even though the advent of countless new age technological marvels, Internet and numerous travel gadgets have made travelling to a foreign land much easier, there still floats a certain amount of cloud of scepticism whenever we heat upon a vacation. That might be because of our own reservations and a degree of ethnocentrism that looms large somewhere deep down. To dismiss that scratch of cultural differences as whole is not a smart thing to do as well.

Some cultural practices differ in a huge way in terms of meaning and implication. And not being aware of them in a foreign land might create some minor or major issues that might spoil your vacation. We should always keep in mind that the host culture is a unique entity in itself and as travellers, we need to be well aware of the implications that could be drawn from our expressions, gestures, body language, words and action. To avoid these sorts of silly misunderstandings, it is always advisable to do a thorough research on the cultural plethora of the country you are planning to visit. Here you can take help of the Internet where there are myriad websites with travel information and 'what to do' and 'what not to do' instructions for any region.

Further, check out the traveller blogs and reviews to get some valuable inputs from their first hand experience. Don't forget to sort out the places you would like to visit in accordance to your choice and taste. In many cases, because of lack of proper information, we land up on a place that doesn't suit our preferences and life style. Doing home work on your vacation helps you avoid some unwanted situations in a foreign country. Manage your gestures as par the accepted norms of the land. While taking part in a discussion with locals, keep in mind the topics not to toss in course of the conversation. You might have won many friends by sharing your knowledge about sports, but in Germany, it is not a safe option to adopt.

They don't see discussing sports in public in good light. Don't expect to be greeted with the same gesture in all parts of the world. Go to the Inuit society in Canada and you will be welcomed with a nose rubbing session. Whereas in Japan, people take a slight bow to greet each other. The same way, it is always advised not to ask for pork products in an Islamic nation. The degree of uncertainty and reaction to cultural blunder differs from nation to nation. The conservative and culturally reserved countries demand more research and caution than the societies with an open culture. But still, it always favourable in your side to know the cultural practices and most importantly, the taboos that marks a country, community and culture. Happy Journey!!!