You have entered a new world and are completely unfamiliar with their ways of thinking, their customs, their food, and simply anything about their culture. What do you do? Do you act disrespectful and rude by refusing to acknowledge their hard work and effort? Do you make them feel uncomfortable by remaining silent and refusing to socialize with others?

Many people find themselves in a similar situation when they encounter a different and unfamiliar culture. Oftentimes, they act rude around others by making disgusted faces or by simply remaining silent. Little do they know how rude they are being. If you feel that you sometimes act in this manner, why not change it? There are always ways to change the way you act so that you, as well as others, feel better about it.

1.Nibble on the food
As horrible as the food may look to you, it might not taste as bad as you think it does. Sometimes, trying some exotic and new foods is good for your health, and it’s a great way to allow yourself to learn more about foods around the world. Is the food too spicy, salty, sweet, or sour for you? Go home and try to make it yourself, except make a few alterations so that it suits your taste. There is definitely a way for you to adjust it so that it’s still from a different culture, but maybe more in your style!

2. Look at others wear it
Do the clothes from the different culture look weird? Do you think that you’d look strange dressing in that manner? Not a problem, why not take a look at how some other people turn out when they try out the new clothes? Wearing a kimono might feel weird at first, however, you will soon adjust to it, and you might even look fabulous in it. Don’t be afraid; if you are too nervous, have someone else who wants to, try on the piece of clothing first, and then you can get their opinion. Some clothes might be too tight or too loose, but you will soon understand that it is a part of their culture and even if you don’t like wearing it, you should still respect it.

3. Sports
When trying out a new sport, one must be extremely careful. Sometimes, you will not be able to do all of the moves that the sport requires. If this becomes the case, you should try different techniques little by little. Instead of rejecting the whole idea of doing the sport, you should take simple steps and soon, you might even match up with the level of those who are already accustomed to that sport. It will be easy or hard for different people, but what’s important is that you give it a try. Learning a new sport can help you discover something else you enjoy, and allow you to keep fit at the same time!

4. Actions and manners
When sitting at the table, pay attention and be sure to follow what the others are doing. Sometimes, what you find polite will be what others find impolite and rude; while what you find impolite and rude will be what they find to be respectful. Watch what the people from that culture are doing. Are they eating with a knife and fork, or are they using chopsticks? When shaking hands, do they shake it with a certain hand? Be careful and watch what the others do.

5. Religion
Occasionally, you will meet up with a totally different religion from what you expected the culture to practice. Nobody is saying that you have to become a Buddhist, but respect what they do. Ask questions to show that you are interested and while they are performing a ritual, be sure that you are being polite. Nobody expects you to be in the same boat as them, but they do expect you to respect their ideas.

6. Climate and weather
While you might find it excruciatingly hot, others from that culture might think that the weather is a perfect day to go fishing and enjoy the hot sun. Explain your health concerns or your uneasiness to them. There is always a possibility they will try to adjust their normal activities, and take you to a place that will suit you more.

7. Sleep
Certain cultures find that sleeping on a soft bed and using a pillow is unnecessary. On the first night, you will probably find that it is extremely uncomfortable. Instead of immediately grabbing your sleeping bag, you should explain your views of what you need in order to sleep comfortably, without being rude. They will think that you are kind, and that you understand their ways of doing things, but it simply is not your style.

8. Sanitary needs
Depending on where you are going, you might not always have your ideal toilet. As much as your friends in that culture would like to help you, it is inevitable that you will have to either use a bucket or simply nature’s resources. Perhaps this is a bit hard or uncomfortable for you, but look on the up side, at least it will help you survive better in nature when just don’t have that toilet and sink next to you.

Other cultures can be surprisingly different from your own. When deciding on what you should do, make sure you do not offend anybody and that you remain calm. If you literally have no idea about the culture, perhaps you should do some research on it before you visit that country.