I love travelling. But lately, I’ve been seeing a lot of “sightseeing” that misses the whole point. We all know the drill; snap a pic for instagram, tick the box, and move on to the next famous landmark. But honestly? You’re missing out on the best part: the culture.
Seriously, travel isn’t just about what you see; it’s about what you learn.
For me, this journey of learning started young. My family and I travel every single year, and those trips are what really opened my eyes. Growing up in Canada, we have this specific, very Westernized mindset. When I first started traveling outside of that bubble, I was genuinely shocked by the differences.
Take my recent trip to Japan, for example. The level of respect and order is on another level, and it’s enforced not by rules, but by cultural expectation. I remember being constantly aware of how I was disposing of trash, how quietly I was talking on the train, and the specific rules around things like wearing shoes indoors.
One small but highly noticeable difference was the scarcity of public trash cans. Coming from Canada, where they’re on every corner, it felt strange to walk around Tokyo with a finished coffee cup in my hand, having to hold onto my wrappers. But this isn’t an oversight; it’s a deeply ingrained cultural norm! In Japan, the expectation is that if you create the trash, you take responsibility for it. You carry your empty wrapper or bottle until you can sort it properly at home or a designated spot. It forces you to be hyper-aware of the waste you generate, which is a powerful lesson in personal accountability that we don’t often get back home.
Another difference that really stuck with me was the service. Back home, service is friendly and often transactional. In Japan, you encounter omotenashi, or wholeheartedly looking after guests. I watched a cashier gently place my chance on a small tray instead of dropping it directly into my hand. It is such a tiny thing, but it speaks volumes about their culture of humility and deep respect in ever interaction. And don’t even think of about leaving a trip, it’s considered rude! Trying to leave an extra $5 on the table felt like a huge North American faux pas.
Or look at Hawaii, which is technically part of the US, but has profoundly deep and unique Polynesian culture that is completely different from the mainland. Learning about the Āina (the land) and the concept of Mālama (to care for) the environment game me a whole new appreciation for that incredible place; way beyond just the beautiful beaches. That mindful approach to nature is a cultural lesson we can all bring home.
But here’s the cool part: the similarities are just as amazing. Catch the surface of any culture and you’ll find people who value their family, good food, and community. That deep, shared human experience is everywhere! It forces you to check your cultural baggage at the door and realize that your way isn’t the only way, or even the best way. It’s just a way. You don’t just see a country when you travel; you see a while new way of living. That’s the real adventure, way better than any landmark.
Whats the most surprising cultural difference you’ve encountered on a trip that made you reevaluate a norm from your own life? Share it in the comments!
Photo Credits: All photos in this post were taken by the author during their travels.
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