Posted on February 15, 2010 - by Janice
How to travel alone:
10 tips to survive culture shock.
Cairo Time, 2009, Canada
When you travel alone, it is important to slip into the scene rather than stand out as a foreigner. Doing so, increases your safety and typically means that you are more respectful and, therefore, more accepted by the local culture.
In the film Cairo Time, Patricia Clarkson plays the wife of an NGO worker. She travels alone to Egypt to meet him but he’s delayed so she must spend time in Cairo alone. Her first days are very uncomfortable. Men are always looking at her. But, look at this scene. In a country where women cover their bodies, she wanders about in a sleeveless top and then goes into a coffee shop for men only. This film drove me crazy because one would expect a woman of her background to know better. Her cultural clumsiness was a painful story-telling convenience in the film but, for my purpose here, it points nicely to the fact that everyone is happier when you respect local customs and culture.
So, I give you: 10 tips to survive culture shock when you travel alone.
- Do your research before you go. Travel guides offer good information. You may also want to check out Kwintessential . It’s a global guide to customs, culture and etiquette.
- Ask friends and family to see if you can get a local contact. It’s especially wonderful to receive a personal introduction to a new culture when you travel alone. If you’re a woman, you could use Journeywoman’s hermail.net.
- Pack carefully to ensure that you have the appropriate clothes for your destination. You will feel more comfortable if you are properly dressed.
- Check the calendar for local festivals, celebrations and national days that may be taking place while you are there and get a bit of information on them before you go. Knowledge can help you adapt and enjoy a new culture more easily.
- Watch carefully how people greet each other, whether they line up for a bus, how they buy fruit… there are nuances in every aspect of a society. Look for them.
- Observe how people interact in groups large and small including where they stand, how they speak, where their eyes land…
- Start with an overview of the city by taking a local tour. A walking tour will give you a close-up look at the culture but bus tours can be helpful too.
- Befriend your hotel desk clerk or coffee shop owner – anyone who you can see on a regular basis and can become your local go-to person for questions.
- Be patient with yourself. If you are feeling culture shock, find a quiet place to relax and regroup.
- No matter how hard you try, it is likely that you will still stand out as a tourist. Guard your passport and other documents carefully. Don’t flash expensive jewelery or technology. Act conservatively so as not to attract the wrong sort of attention.
Typically, you’ll earn more respect and make more friends by focusing on the people you meet, their traditions, culture and customs. But, at a certain point and based on questions or cues, it may be acceptable to share a bit about your culture. I usually travel with some small Canadian gifts for these opportunities.
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March 15, 2010
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admin said:
What a wonderful idea. Thank you for contributing.
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March 15, 2010
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Adri Pedersen said:
Excellent advice and comments. Especially those dealing with observing, respecting and keeping a low profile (at least initially). One of my tricks is always traveling with a shawl or large scarf. In winter it’s wool; in summer it’s cotton. It’s a versatile accessory for both men and women. It helps me manage temperature but most importantly it helps me cover my head if appropriate, my mouth in case of fumes, and to make an outfit more modest and presentable. Plus, at times it can be quite comforting.
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February 23, 2010
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Lisa Bergren said:
Picked up several new tips and some good reminders in this post. Thanks!
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February 21, 2010
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Trans-Americas Jorney said:
Wise words to live by. I think much of this would seem intuitive to a ‘traveler’, but it’s sad how many thoughtless, careless ‘tourists’ can be found wandering around out there.
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February 16, 2010
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Ayngelina said:
I watched Cairo Time this weekend and was also disturbed by her lack of judgement. Mid way through she realized she should cover her head but in the next scene wears a dress with a deep neckline.
An otherwise good movie though.
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February 16, 2010
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Dave and Deb said:
Excellent advice all around. I didn’t see Cairo Time, and I am even bothered that she didn’t dress properly and respect local customs:) You are right, you receive far less attention when you dress appropriately. This is useful advice even if you are traveling alone or with someone. Good tips.
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February 16, 2010
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jessiev said:
brilliant post!! i love thinking about, writing about, and yes, even living culture shock. it’s a challenge and a joy, once you’re through it!
excellent tips. i’d add that it is also a great idea to remember to find someone from home to bounce your culture shock off of – you don’t want to be going negative on a new friend or cultural informant – they’ll then still be there for you!
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February 16, 2010
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admin said:
Oh yes. The golden rule exists in every culture. It could have been a much simpler post just to point that out. Thanks Joei.
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February 15, 2010
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Andi said:
Never seen the movie, but now I want to!
Couchsurfing is also a great way to meet people!!!
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February 15, 2010
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Joei Carlton Hossack said:
Some great ideas there and as a old woman traveling solo for the last 20 years I follow many of them. Thanks for putting them into words everyone can understand. Treat people as you would like to be treated. Respect is the name of the game. Joei