Travel & Culture - Understanding Common Local Customs (Intermediate)

Activity 1: Let's Get Started! 🤔 (Warm-up)

Let's discuss the importance of understanding local customs when traveling!

Why is it beneficial for travelers to be aware of local customs and etiquette before visiting a new country or region? Can you think of any potential misunderstandings that could arise from a lack of awareness?
Share an example of a local custom from your own culture that might be surprising or different for a visitor. How would you explain it?
How can travelers respectfully learn about and adapt to local customs without feeling overly self-conscious or "performing"? What's a good balance?

Activity 2: New Words & Phrases 🗣️ (Vocabulary)

Here are some key terms and phrases for discussing and understanding local customs at an intermediate level.

1. Etiquette (noun): The customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group.

Example: "Understanding dining Etiquette can enhance your experience when eating out in a foreign country."

2. Taboo (noun/adjective): A social or religious custom prohibiting or forbidding discussion of a particular practice or association with a particular person, place, or thing.

Example: "In some cultures, pointing with your index finger is considered Taboo and rude."

3. Gesture (noun): A movement of part of the body, especially a hand or the head, to express an idea or meaning.

Example: "A thumbs-up Gesture can have different meanings in different cultures, so it's wise to be cautious."

4. Show respect (verb phrase): To behave in a way that demonstrates admiration or consideration for someone or something, including local traditions.

Example: "Removing your shoes before entering a temple is a way to Show respect for the sacred space."

5. Cultural sensitivity (noun phrase): Being aware that cultural differences and similarities between people exist without assigning them a value – positive or negative, better or worse, right or wrong.

Example: "Practicing Cultural sensitivity helps travelers to interact positively with local communities."

6. Faux pas (noun phrase, from French): An embarrassing or tactless act or remark in a social situation.

Example: "He unknowingly committed a Faux pas by discussing business during a social dinner, which was not customary."

Activity 3: Reading - Navigating Social Norms Abroad 📖

Read this story about a traveler learning about local customs.

Sophia was thrilled to be visiting a country known for its rich history and unique traditions. Before her trip, she read several guidebooks to understand local customs and etiquette. She learned that it was important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, a simple way to Show respect. Upon arriving, she noticed that people greeted each other with a slight bow rather than a handshake. She made an effort to mirror this gesture, and locals seemed to appreciate her cultural sensitivity. She also learned that certain topics of conversation were considered taboo in casual settings, so she was mindful to avoid them, aiming to prevent any unintentional faux pas.

During a meal with a local family she was introduced to, Sophia observed their dining etiquette carefully. She noticed they waited for the eldest person to start eating before they began. She also saw that using your left hand for eating was considered impolite. Small gestures, like accepting a cup of tea with both hands, were signs of politeness she quickly picked up on. While some customs were different from her own, Sophia found that by being observant, asking polite questions when unsure, and generally practicing cultural sensitivity, she could navigate social situations smoothly and connect more deeply with the people she met. Her efforts to understand and respect local traditions enriched her travel experience significantly, allowing her to avoid a potentially embarrassing faux pas and foster positive interactions.

Questions about the Story:

Answer these questions:

What did Sophia do before her trip to prepare for local customs?
What specific gesture did Sophia learn for greetings? How did locals react to her effort?
What did Sophia learn about dining etiquette when eating with a local family? (Mention two examples)
What does the story say about certain topics of conversation and specific hand gestures?
How did Sophia's approach to local customs enhance her travel experience?

Activity 4: Role Play - Inquiring About Local Etiquette 🎭

Let's pretend! One person is Mr. Kenji Tanaka (Tourist), and the other is Ms. Elena Petrova (Local Guide).

Mr. Kenji Tanaka: Ms. Petrova, thank you for showing me around. I want to make sure I Show respect for your local customs. Is there any specific etiquette I should be aware of?

Ms. Elena Petrova: That's very thoughtful of you, Mr. Tanaka. Generally, people here are quite understanding of visitors. However, a key aspect of our etiquette is punctuality; being late for appointments is often frowned upon.

Mr. Kenji Tanaka: Good to know. What about gestures? Are there any common gestures in my country that might be considered taboo or a faux pas here?

Ms. Elena Petrova: That's a great question. For instance, direct eye contact during conversation is seen as a sign of sincerity here, whereas in some cultures it might be too direct. Also, avoid pointing with a single finger; it's better to gesture with an open hand.

Mr. Kenji Tanaka: That's helpful. And when visiting someone's home, what's the customary thing to do? Is bringing a small gift appropriate?

Ms. Elena Petrova: Yes, bringing a small gift like pastries or flowers is a very welcome gesture. It demonstrates cultural sensitivity. Also, it's polite to remove your shoes before entering.

Mr. Kenji Tanaka: I appreciate you explaining these nuances. I want to avoid any embarrassing faux pas if I can!

Ms. Elena Petrova: Your willingness to learn shows great cultural sensitivity, Mr. Tanaka. Don't worry too much; locals appreciate the effort.

Let's Talk About It:

After you read, talk about this:

What did Ms. Petrova say about punctuality and eye contact as part of local etiquette?
What advice did Ms. Petrova give regarding gestures to avoid a faux pas?

Activity 5: Let's Practice - Cultural Considerations ✍️

Help Liam (Traveler) complete his part of the dialogue with Maria (Local Friend). Use words and phrases from Activity 2!

Maria (Local Friend): So Liam, are you enjoying your research for your trip?

Liam (Traveler): Yes, it's fascinating! I'm reading about my destination, and it says their dining is quite different from ours. I should pay attention to that.

Maria (Local Friend): That's smart. It's easy to make a mistake if you're not aware.

Liam (Traveler): Exactly! I learned that making a certain hand is actually offensive there. I must remember not to do that; it's practically a .

Maria (Local Friend): Oh wow, good thing you found that out beforehand!

Liam (Traveler): Definitely. To to the local people, I'm also trying to learn a few basic phrases in their language.

Maria (Local Friend): They'll appreciate that effort. It shows you're trying to understand their culture.

Liam (Traveler): That's the goal. I want to practice good so I don't accidentally offend anyone or commit a .

Maria (Local Friend): Well, it sounds like you're preparing very well. I'm sure you'll have a great trip!

Show Answers! (Activity 5) ✨