Learning a foreign language is much more than learning the grammar and speaking fluently. People not only speak a different language but behave differently as well. Every culture has its own way of looking at the world so if you bear this in mind, it’ll be much easier to enjoy your stay in a foreign country and learn about yourself and others.
Social relationships and body language are different everywhere, making you feel uncomfortable sometimes when talking to a foreigner without knowing why.
Latin people tend to stand closer and are prone to touch you slightly while talking but this is not considered an acceptable behavior for most English-speaking people. A direct look is considered appropriate for Arabians, Southern Europeans and Latin Americans but on the other hand, Asians, Northern Europeans avoid direct eye contact. Sticking out your tongue shows you don’t have manners in most places but in China a quick sticking out of your tongue shows you feel upset. So, never get offended or laugh without knowing why people say or act in such a way. If you don’t know, ask.
Eating in a foreign culture can also be difficult at the beginning. If you visit Anglo-Saxon countries, you’ll be served a rich breakfast, have a quick lunch at midday and supper around five or six in the afternoon. Traveling to Korea, can take you to a restaurant where you may be served to dog meat. In French restaurants a great variety of cheese will be brought to your table after your meal.
So, to enjoy life in another culture and make the most of it, it is wise to learn the basics of that culture at home. How?
If you are aware of these cultural differences, you’ll certainly enjoy your stay in an English-speaking country much more.
© Monica Haydee Di Santi
This article has been published in Skipping Stones magazine and SIRS Discoverers
About the author
Monica Haydee Di Santi is an ESL teacher and has a master degree in Linguistics. She has been a teacher and speaker in Chile, Argentina and USA. She’s also a published translator and writer. Her work has been published in Mexico, USA, Hong Kong and India. She's the author of www.e1-network.com