Taking a trip to a different country is always an exciting experience, especially when we think of all the exhilarating activities we will engage in and the people we could meet. As much as it will be fun, going to a place for the first time can be problematic, especially when considering all the new things you must adapt to before you begin the fun parts of being in that environment.

However, with the right mindset and adequate preparation, your first time could be less worrisome. In this editorial, we will give you a few tips to apply when in a new environment, so let’s get into it, shall we?

 

 

Seek Local Assistance

When you arrive at a new place, it’s normal to feel clueless because you can’t navigate your way around. The whole surroundings are new to you, but not to the locals.

The locals have lived there for years; they wake up every day to that same atmosphere, and asking these locals for assistance is a recommended action. Do not hesitate to ask natives for help or clarification when moving around an unfamiliar environment. Many of them are ready and happy to help travellers who have come to explore their country, even if they do not speak the same language.

 

 

Learning Basic Phrases

Some phrases such as “hello”, “excuse me”, and “where is…?” are some important phrases that need to be learnt to get the attention of locals around you. You can’t always count on the natives to understand the same language you speak, so you would have to adjust to their terms.

 

 

A Phrase/Picture Book

Taking a book with you will help you identify landmarks better. Using a phrase book would make it easier to ask natives for help, especially those who don’t speak the same language you do. A phrase book provides pronunciations and translations of common and simple phrases, while a picture book makes it even easier for the natives to understand where you plan on going next.

 

 

 

Translation Applications

If you are not a fan of taking books around, this is your next best option for phrases and pronunciations of words you have no idea what they are. Use the internet to install these translation apps into your smartphones to bridge language barriers.

 

 

Stay Open-minded and Patient

When in a new place, you need to understand that misunderstandings are bound to happen. No one wants it, but it’s almost inevitable. Hence, you have to be patient when trying to navigate your way around a new city.

 

 

The less fun part of being in a new place for the first time is always getting used to the new scenery and navigating your way. But once you have gotten the hang of things, that’s where the fun begins, and with the above pointers, blending in just got a lot easier.

 

Johnson Chukwueke
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