Learning about Cultural Differences Enhances Foreign Travel

Funny, you would think it was travel first.... but, in 1987, I was on orders for going to Korea. Being a former Marine, I thought everyone in the Army knew the culture of Korea and would be so much smarter than me. So, I studied, did language training and went to Korean restaurants. (Marine CI guys were pushed to learn your target areas. I just figured the Army would also.) My self study, made me able to conduct liaison with senior foreign nationals and it started my Army career well....using a lot of my 7 years of USMC training.

Whenever you are going to a foreign country, read up on their history and try to see history through their eyes. It may be very different from what you might imagine.

When you get in country, learn as much of their language as you can. Learn to count, learn simple words such as "Yes, No, Maybe, You, Me, He, She, They, Mother, Father, Sister, Brother, Aunt, Uncle, Cousin, Grandfather, Grandmother, Who, What, Which, Where, When, How, Why, Up, Down, Left, Right, Near, Far, Here, There, North, South, East, West, Hungry, Thirsty, Eat, Drink, Water, Please, Thank you, etc. and learn Simple phrases that can help you get around such as "How much is that?" "Where is the bathroom?" "How old are you?" "I like it." "I only speak a little."

And instead of running to McDonalds or KFC, find out where the locals eat, go there and eat the local food. Don't drink the water...

I also discovered that if you really want to learn a language fast and you're a guy, talk to the girls and vice-versa. Tell them to pretend that they are teaching a child to speak and ask them to show you how they make certain sounds. You might have to study their lips ; )

Foreigners appreciate when you are the guest visiting their country that you don't look at them like they are the foreigners. Be humble, gracious, and genuine. They will appreciate that you took the time to learn their history, sample their food, and that you have learned to speak words in their language.

You will open doors and they will more than likely want to pick your brain about what you think of their food, holiday festivals, sports, homes, customs, etc.

When they ask you all kinds of questions, answer honestly about which food you like and don't like, but don't insult their customs and culture. Just say, "Well, it's different and something I'm not used to." and redirect to something else. Ask them what they like most about their culture and make it about them. People like to talk about themselves... : )

Do these things and you will make a lot of friends. Don't be surprised when you get invited home for dinner or to stay the night...