When you go to a different country, you always have expectations and prejudices towards the place. Even if you are only going for a holiday. So, if you’re moving to some other country or staying for longer period of time, those things get more relevant. I collect a list of things that occurred to me during my first’s days and what I think is important to keep in mind.
Before I go to that subject, I think is important you to know what kind of person I am and some idea about my personality and way I like to do things. First, I’m not a very patient person and I like things to happen very quickly. This is a good quality when you are doing something and deadline is near. But when it comes to longer period, I always find myself very frustrated. :) That’s the thing that I am always trying to improve in myself.
I also value a lot of honesty and talking about things how they are. In my opinion there is no need to make things prettier than they are. Normally you just end up of upsetting someone with that.
“People are supposed to "say what they mean" or remain silent.” –Finnish expression
The first thing what I felt when I entered boarders of Croatia, was confusion. I remember doubting if I made the right decision. Croatian culture is different from Finland (obviously) and so are the people. Adapting the new culture in a new country is a process that doesn't happen in one night. When you add all the cultures around the world and people to that package, mixture is ready. So give it time. You will get used to it pretty fast. And let the culture shock take you. Every person feels it differently but it will pass fast. Then you realize that you have already met awesome people and experienced great things.
If you are travelling alone and there are no people you know at first, there is some nice ways track down people like you. If you are single, Tinder is nice way to find company. Although is more like a dating app, you can use it if you just don't take it too seriously. I have found couchsurfing a very nice way to meet new people. You don’t have to offer people a sleeping place if you are not able to, but you can participate on weekly meetings or bar nights. And let’s face it, what is better way to get to know new people than one night in a bar with wine and beer?
And the last thing. Always pack one pair of woolen socks with you where ever you go. They warm you if it is cold and if you are travelling somewhere where is warm, you can use them as a bottle cooler since they will keep cold very cold.
Have a happy weekend! :)
Before I go to that subject, I think is important you to know what kind of person I am and some idea about my personality and way I like to do things. First, I’m not a very patient person and I like things to happen very quickly. This is a good quality when you are doing something and deadline is near. But when it comes to longer period, I always find myself very frustrated. :) That’s the thing that I am always trying to improve in myself.
I also value a lot of honesty and talking about things how they are. In my opinion there is no need to make things prettier than they are. Normally you just end up of upsetting someone with that.
“People are supposed to "say what they mean" or remain silent.” –Finnish expression
The first thing what I felt when I entered boarders of Croatia, was confusion. I remember doubting if I made the right decision. Croatian culture is different from Finland (obviously) and so are the people. Adapting the new culture in a new country is a process that doesn't happen in one night. When you add all the cultures around the world and people to that package, mixture is ready. So give it time. You will get used to it pretty fast. And let the culture shock take you. Every person feels it differently but it will pass fast. Then you realize that you have already met awesome people and experienced great things.
If you are travelling alone and there are no people you know at first, there is some nice ways track down people like you. If you are single, Tinder is nice way to find company. Although is more like a dating app, you can use it if you just don't take it too seriously. I have found couchsurfing a very nice way to meet new people. You don’t have to offer people a sleeping place if you are not able to, but you can participate on weekly meetings or bar nights. And let’s face it, what is better way to get to know new people than one night in a bar with wine and beer?
And the last thing. Always pack one pair of woolen socks with you where ever you go. They warm you if it is cold and if you are travelling somewhere where is warm, you can use them as a bottle cooler since they will keep cold very cold.
Have a happy weekend! :)