The Importance of Immersing in New Cultures When Travelling
Is travelling truly, well, travelling? Just think about it for a moment: the whole world is so globalised or at least it feels that way- is it even possible to get out of your comfort zone? Just take cruise ships, for example; they take you to ports that are so overly commercialised and filled with recognisable brands (like McDonald’s) that it feels hard to get an authentic meal. The same could probably be said for dating practices, too, as if you go to another country (especially a major city), the chances are high that they’ll be more aware or will practice Western dating practices.
Resorts might be another great example because you just stay on the resort property, and they usually cater to the same type of people. It’s nice going out and seeing new sites, but if you’re in your comfort zone, then what’s the point? Honestly, it’s so important to try and immerse yourself in new cultures when travelling, and here’s exactly why!
It’s About Fostering a Better Understanding
You don’t only travel to see new pretty views, right? You go to other countries to learn about other cultures and expand your horizons. If not, then why travel, right? To a degree, it’s really about experiencing life as locals do, from everyday routines to traditional celebrations, which opens up a new level of understanding and appreciation for diversity. If you’re staying at a resort, then you know for a fact you’re not living how the locals live; you’re merely there for sites and the cultural experience. It’s important because it challenges preconceived notions and can change your worldview, helping you become more globally-minded and empathetic towards others.
Creating Memorable Experiences
It’s all about having a deeper understanding and a deeper meaning; therefore, it means a more memorable experience. For example, if you went ziplining in the Alps of Japan, are you going to remember that? What if you got to experience a tea ceremony and soak in a hot spring in the Alps afterwards? That sounds more memorable, right? Cultural experiences are almost always far more memorable than generic tourist attractions that are far from genuine.
Besides, maybe some of these could be incorporated into daily life, like drinking matcha green tea every day, or if you’ve been to the Middle East, maybe you’d want to buy Shishas online and incorporate this as a social (yet cultural) activity to do with friends who come to your house. But overall, it’s the memorable experiences that are usually cultural, and sometimes, these also sync into everyday life.
Enhancing Enjoyment
Are you actually going to find enjoyment in a trip if you’re eating and doing the same things you would have done at home? Just think about it for a moment; to truly enjoy the essence of your destination, immersing in its culture is key. This might mean trying foods that aren’t on your usual menu, participating in local festivals, or learning a bit of the language. Each of these acts enriches your experience, making your travel more engaging and enjoyable.
