These Countries Do What?!
If you're planning on moving to another country, be prepared for a lot to change. Different countries follow different habits and norms that may be surprising to you. We've listed 20 of the most common culture shocks that people have when moving to various countries.
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1. Slurping Noodles in Japan
You may have been taught to eat with your mouth closed and without any loud noises as a kid, but over in Japan, you've got to forget all about that. Because in this country, slurping up your noodles is a sign of respect, one that tells the chef they made a delicious dish.
2. Squat Toilets in China
Don't be surprised to see toilets built straight into the ground when you arrive in China. These squat toilets are a norm in the country, in fact, most citizens prefer it! It's said to be more hygenic because you don't have to touch anything unnecessary. Just make sure you get your legs strengthened up so you can squat when you've got to do your business.
Akinori Takemoto on Wikimedia Commons
3. Tipping Culture In America
15-20% tips? That's unheard of in many other countries around the world. But in America, this is the norm. While some countries don't even have tipping culture, Americans must be prepared to pay a hefty amount when it comes to tips. After all, it's highly frowned upon to leave nothing behind.
4. Cheek Kissing in France
For those of you that aren't big on physical intimacy or contact, adjusting to the friendly French hello will definitely be a culture shock. Everytime you meet up with someone or are introduced to someone new in France, you can expect one or two cheek kisses to follow suit.
5. Drinking Tap Water in Canada
Canada is one of the few countries in the world that has insanely clean tap water you can drink. It doesn't taste dirty or weird at all! It's something many Canadians say they miss whenever they travel to other countries.
6. No Public Trash Cans in Japan
The next time you visit Japan, be prepared to hold onto your trash throughout the day. If you buy a drink or food, those wrappers and cups will be going with you! That's because it's very hard finding public trash cans in this country. We recommend carrying some bags for you to toss your garbage into if you're planning on spending the whole day out - it'll be much easier to carry.
7. Firearms For Sale in America
Even being sold in big grocery chains like Walmart, it never ceases to amaze people just how easy it is to purchase firearms in the United States. While there are plenty of background checks that need to be passed before you can buy one outright, it is a bit crazy seeing them all on display.
8. Vinegar On Fries in the UK
While fries and ketchup are the usual combination that people are familiar with, the UK loves adding in this third special ingredient. While many foreigners might jump back at the thought of adding vinegar to their already salty fries, the Brits love the tanginess this condiment brings. Just be careful not to add too much!
9. Ease Of Public Transportation in Canada
Specifically in Vancouver, British Columbia, public transportation is so useful and easy to access. The Translink network that they have created is so efficient and can easily get you from one place to the next. It's a luxury not many countries have experienced before.
10. Wearing Shoes in the House in America
There's just something strange about wearing the shoes you just wore outside into your clean home. Aren't people in America worried about getting their floors dirty? Many other countries in the world take off their shoes before entering a house. That's why so many people around the world are shocked by this American custom.
11. Bowing in South Korea
South Koreans take respecting their seniors to the utmost highest degree. It's crucial that you bow to anyone you look up to or is older than you. It's a clear sign of respect that all Koreans follow, and while it can be surprising for foreigners at first, it's something you should adopt. It's an important part of their culture!
12. Free Public Transit in Luxembourg
Travellers or new Luxembourg citizens might be shocked to hear that public transit is free within the country. That goes for trains, buses, and anything of the like. So if you ever need to get somewhere and don't have a car, all you have to do is hop on and get ready for the ride.
13. Healthcare Expenses in America
If you're not covered by your insurance, it's best that you hope you won't get injured while you're living in America. Healthcare expenses are no joke in this country. You might hear about it on the news, but seeing the actual numbers in real life will shock you for sure.
14. Emptying Your Plate Is Rude in China
In America, cleaning off your plate is considered a polite thing to do, especially if you're being served by a host. It means that the food was delicious and you couldn't help but polish everything off. But over in China, you'd be surprised to learn they've got the opposite rule. Instead of completely emptying your plate, it's custom to leave behind a little bit of food. Doing so suggests that your host fed you well and left you so satisfied, you couldn't reach for more.
15. Public Drinking in the UK
Many people have commented on seeing how relaxed the drinking rules in the UK are. It's not uncommon to see people public drinking in the parks or just out and about. As long as you're respectful and don't over do it, no one's going to call you out for it.
16. Sheer Number of People in India
If there's one country that people struggle to adjust to, it's India. The sheer number of people everywhere continues to shock first-timers around the world. Getting thrown into the mix right off the plane is an experience that has certainly opened the eyes of many.
17. Milk in A Bag in Canada
If there's one thing that confuses folks about Canada, it's bagged milk. It's not commonly used in many parts of the country, but if you happen to come across one, we're sure you'll be scratching your head too. Something just feels off about storing milk in a bag; we're just so used to it being in a plastic carton!
David Orban on Wikimedia Commons
18. Affection Is Strong in Brazil
If you're not a very affectionate or open person, be prepared to change if you're planning on moving to Brazil. The people here are often noted to be very loving and physically close. From hugging to kisses on the cheek, these people aren't afraid to show their love for one another.
19. Spitting Is Normal in China
While you might be used to hearing that spitting in public is considered rude, don't be too quick to judge the people in China who do it regularly on the streets. No, they're not trying to be mean or disrespectful - spitting in public is a normal habit in this country.
Image by Nick Looy from Pixabay
20. Long Meals in France
You might be used to being rushed out of restaurants for staying too long, but that's never something you have to worry about in France. The French take meal time incredibly seriously. They truly believe that a good meal is best enjoyed when you get to relax and be at ease. That's why this country will never kick you out for staying too long - they want you to have a good time!
