Culture - Surviving Culture Shock
When it comes to being a solo travel later in life, you’re likely to find things a little different than they were when you were in your 20s. You may think that decades of life experience would make you immune to things such as culture shock, but trust me; this evil mind game can still sneak up and grab you when you least expect it! I'm 57, and even with a long career in the tourism industry, and years spent living in numerous countries, I still occasionally find myself feeling adrift in a foreign place, and struggling to battle the anxiety before it sets in.
Culture shock often arrives unannounced, sometimes in the quiet moments. You may wake up to unfamiliar sounds, the strange call of a street vendor, or a new language drifting through your window, and momentarily forget where you are. Sound familiar? If you find yourself pulling the covers over your head and wanting to stay in bed, you’re not alone! Here are a few tried-and-true tips I use to help me get back in the groove and enjoy the unique experience of traveling solo.
Find Your ‘Safe Space’
Knowing where you’ll be sleeping each night is key to feeling secure. Book your accommodations in advance, and if possible, make sure it's a place that feels comfortable to you. Having a ‘home base’ that’s safe and inviting can make all the difference when you’re feeling a bit unmoored. To me, where I lay my head each night is part of the experience, so it’s important the room is a pleasure to come back to, and not some closet I’m trying to avoid.
Befriend the Hotel Staff
The people at the front desk or concierge are invaluable resources. Take a moment to greet them warmly and get to know them. These are the folks who can help make your stay easier, whether it’s offering directions, giving insider tips, or even lending a friendly ear. You’ll feel less alone when you know there’s someone familiar waiting to help and - as many guests treat them poorly - being kind and considerate of their needs will make their day - and yours - so much better.
Settle In and Make the Room Yours
If you're staying in one place for more than a night, take a few minutes to unpack and claim the space. Hang up clothes, arrange your toiletries, and set out a favorite book or two. Those who have traveled with me will know I go a step further; rearranging the furniture and adding a glass of flowers or a familiar framed photo so it’s laid out more like a home. Small routines like this help me feel more grounded.
Familiarize Yourself with the Essentials
Find a nearby café or breakfast spot, the nearest ATM, and a local convenience store. Go to the same cafe daily if you can as familiarity brings comfort in a foreign city. Greet the barista by name and let them know you’ll be a loyal customer for the duration of your stay. Added benefits from doing this is that they often introduce you to other regulars, and greet you like a long-lost friend each time you return.
Tune Out the Noise
Street noise can feel overwhelming in a bustling city. I recall waking in a hotel after my first night in Cairo and positively freaking out due to the noises from the street below. If only I’d had headphones and a favorite playlist, it would have worked wonders to calm my nerves. With a soundtrack to underscore the more exotic experiences, you’re able to transform any cityscape or situation into an action-adventure or rom-com movie that you just happen to be starring in.
Escape into a Good Book or Game
A book or a fun game on your phone is a great way to take a mental breather. It gives you a comforting escape if you’re feeling overwhelmed or self-conscious while eating at a cafe alone. Bonus points if you’re reading something that transports you to another time and place in the city or country in which you’re travelling.
Get Your Bearings with a City Tour
A bus tour or rickshaw ride can help orient you with the city’s layout. It’s much easier to explore confidently when you know how far away the attractions are, and what areas to avoid! On check-in to a new hotel, I pocket two hotel business cards or brochures with maps and the address in the local language, so I can always get help to find my way ‘home’. Why two? Because invaluably I will lose one!
Familiar Food and Friendly Faces
Seek out a restaurant that serves familiar food or attracts other travelers who speak your language. These spots can feel like an oasis, and offer the chance to swap stories and tips with fellow travelers who have already figured out the best places, times and prices for sightseeing.
Engage with Kids and Animals
It may sound odd, but sometimes, the best way to lift your spirits is to talk to young children or interact with animals. They have a way of giving unfiltered joy and making you smile, which can be a refreshing dose of home in an unfamiliar location
Take Time to Ground
Culture shock usually passes in a day or two, but if it feels overwhelming while it’s playing out in your head. Try grounding yourself by walking barefoot on the grass, touching a tree, walking at the beach, or going for a long swim. If that all fails, then give yourself permission to take a break. Retreating to a resort or familiar setting can give you a chance to recalibrate. I was feeling overwhelmed in Bangkok last year, so I headed for the Hyatt, ordered a coffee, and ended up staying for three hours in their lounge area! Sometimes, a little time in a cozy bubble is all you need to regain the confidence to dive back into exploration.
Remember, while culture shock may feel disorienting, it’s just a sign that you’re stepping outside your comfort zone and growing through travel. Give yourself grace, take it slow, and enjoy the journey. Don’t give up as it too shall pass… Happy travels!
