Monthly Wrap: Tips for integrating into a new culture

Even the most experienced expats can still face culture shock when first moving to a new country and attempting to integrate within the local community.

It can be difficult to know what to do and what to say. What if someone gets offended? What if something gets lost in translation? Whilst mistakes can and will happen, it’s important to know it’s all part of the process and is part of integrating into a new country.

Be open minded

There’s no point in moving to a new country if you aren’t going to be open minded. However, that doesn’t mean moving can’t cause a bit of a shock. Especially if you’ve never travelled to the country before.

So, when you inevitably get hit with culture shock it’s important to keep a positive attitude and that you’re willing to try the new things that make you feel uncomfortable.

Food can be a good example. When you’re offered a new food, it can be easy to shy away from it because it looks or smells different. Don’t be afraid to ask what it is and go outside your comfort range by trying it.

Gravitate towards locals

One of the easiest ways to integrate is by meeting up with locals and interacting with them. This can also be a great way to start making friends. When you hang out with locals you can get a pretty good idea of their customs and habits, what’s acceptable and what isn’t.

Start out in your local cafés and bars and try, if you can, to connect with people of differing ages. This is especially useful because you’re likely to get different answers when you ask about the culture and local experiences. This way you get a broader range of answers to work from when you’re finding your footing.

People watch

There’s nothing wrong with just slowing down for a moment to watch the world go by. It’s actually really handy when you want to learn about cultural norms. Whether you’re in a park, a café or the city centre, take the time to observe the people around you and see how they interact with others and their environment.

It may seem odd, but this is a great way to observe body language and pick up on small cultural nuances that your friends may forget to mention. Also, it can help improve your relationships with people in general. Observation allows you to become more empathetic as you gain a better understanding of people. This in turn can help reduce conflict and misunderstandings.

Learn the language

Learning a language can be very difficult, but the benefits are worth it. Most of the time when it comes to communicating through another language it’s the thought that counts. Many locals will see that you’re trying, and they’ll appreciate it.

So, download a language app to get those first few crucial phrases tucked away. Another great way to learn is through emersion. Markets are a great place for this because recognisable items are often labelled which helps you learn quicker. If you’re really stumped body language is an excellent way to communicate, don’t be afraid to point to things or exaggerate your movements to get you point across.

Never make assumptions

It’s understandable that you may have preconceived notions about the country you’re moving to However, there’s a difference between knowing them and acting on them. Assuming anything about the culture you’re integrating into can cause a lot of issues, including miscommunication, embarrassment and even animosity.

If you don’t know something about the country you’re moving to, take the time to find it out. Of course, you can search the internet for answers before you go but don’t underestimate the power of asking questions.

If you can, talk to locals when you move and ask for all the important dos and don’ts of the culture. This can show that you’re more willing to fully integrate. If there’s a cultural norm that surprises you, don’t be afraid to talk about it. Your new friends and neighbours will just appreciate that you’re trying.

Hopefully this article has given you some helpful hints and tips about how to successfully integrate into a new culture. Remember, this is just a guide. At the end of the day you define your integration experience. So, get out there and start exploring and interacting with people. Don’t get too stressed if you make mistakes and remember to enjoy yourself.