How To Learn The Most From A Travel Experience
By Patrick Omari
Brits abroad have been the subject of complaint for many years now by people from foreign countries and by fellow Brits who feel many British holiday maker's behaviour is embarrassing.
You only have to note the packed fish and chip bars in places like Spain and Greece to realise that these countries cater to our love of batter and grease. Some restaurants are set up by natives themselves who have caught on to the trade, whilst others are run by the British themselves to please their fellow men. Whilst some people enjoy this type of holiday and often argue that they are still contributing to the tourism trade of the country, others would prefer to leave their home countries behind them for a while and delve into the core of their chosen destination.
If you are one of those people who love to experience and absorb the culture of the place you are visiting, then there are several things you can do, which will enrich your travel experience.
First of all it is a good idea to learn some simple phrases, or at least have a language book you can refer to. If you make an effort with others to speak their language, they will more often than not be delighted and help you improve. Try not to just point and speak in a really slow, patronising tone, as this can appear very rude and ignorant. Purchase a map and check out the best places to go before you get there so as to save time. Get to the know the country you are visiting, so as to understand and appreciate it to the maximum.
Tourist places are usually fantastic, well worth viewing and are therefore touristy for this reason. However, try not to limit yourself to viewing only these sights. Talk to the locals if you can, or talk to other holiday makers and try to find off the beaten track treasures. The sight may not be in your guide book, but it may turn out to be the most fantastic part of your trip. Try not to be completely ruled by time, if you see something that interests you, then stop and view it. If you are part of an organised trip, they often give you options, so feel free to utilise your choices, as much as you like. Moreover, point out things you want to do if they are not made already on offer.
When considering food, I would highly recommend sampling the local cuisine. Ask the native people what their favourites are and try them yourself. Even if the menu options seem confusing or are a little out of your comfort zone, give them a try. Furthermore, if you are visiting a place where they have different methods of eating or different social practices then try to join in as much as possible. For instance, it may be normal to eat with your hands, to use chop sticks, to bless the food or even to eat whilst sat on the floor. If you take an interest and try to fit in, the reception you receive from the locals is likely to be of a positive and welcoming nature.
It is true that some people really want to eat a variety of dishes, but simply can't stomach them. If this is the case then stick to what you can eat but be as adventurous as possible. Ordering off market side stalls is appealing to many and is often perfectly safe, yet may completely disgust others. All that is required is your own personal judgement over food safety and what you personally think will satisfy you. Be as daring as you feel comfortable.
I would also suggest using the local form of transport, as these are often far cheaper than shelling out for taxis all the time and can be good fun. Ride the sleeper trains, pack yourself onto a crowded bus, take a tuk tuk, or even jump on an elephant. All of these experiences should enrich your knowledge of and enhance your enjoyment in a particular place.
If you are feeling highly adventurous, why not do some research before you head off on your adventures, or even once you are there and try to stay with the local people. There is no better way to throw yourself into the culture. With language and dining experiences bound to be incredibly different from your own then it will be a culture shock, but one you will never forget.
I would also suggest going abroad with an open mind. Don't expect everything to run smoothly all the time and try to find the funny side if a bus is 3 hours late or if you get caught on a trek in the middle of the countryside. All in all, take things as they come and happy travelling.
About the author
Patrick is an expert Research and Travel consultant. His current interest is in airport hotels and Edinburgh airport hotels from http://www.FreeArticlesAndContent.com
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