Digital nomadism is this beautiful adventure where we embark with a beating heart. The excitement of having great experiences in a distant land while working grows day by day. You prepare your luggage, being careful not to forget anything and not to be cluttered. But, often, teleworkers who go elsewhere forget something important. No, it's not the adapter, or the charger for that matter, although it can be in some cases. Rather, we are talking about mental preparation for a Culture shock which happens much more frequently than we think. Discover some tips for quickly adapting to the lifestyle, culture and cuisine of your host country.
Learn about local culture
So that the cultural shock is not too violent, it is important to prepare to integrate a country into the habits and customs which differ from yours.
To do this, you will need to do research and read a lot about the different facets of the region where you will be settling for a certain period of time. THE expat guides and the forums can help you build a fairly clear picture of what you will find there. You will also be able to participate in intercultural training, if your company offers them.
Learn the local language
Going to a country where the majority of people speak English, for example, clearly makes things easier for you if you are an English speaker. However, we strongly recommend that you immerse yourself in the local sounds and learn the native language of your destination.
Indeed, if you do so, it will demonstrate to the people you meet on a daily basis that you are interested in them and their culture. Then, they will in turn want to talk with you. In order to achieve your goal, you will be able to download apps dedicated to this purpose or simply register for courses. But you can also just watch local television and radio. This will also allow you to keep up to date with current events.
Show an open mind
There is cognitive work to do on yourself before leaving for your teleworking destination. We need to start showing openness and acceptance of others.
We are not all the same and sometimes we have habits that may offend some people. In India, for example, you should not shake hands or give a kiss to your interlocutor. Physical contact should be avoided.
It is therefore important to avoid certain gestures to create quality links with the inhabitants of your host country. It is also necessary to demonstrate tolerance face certain local customs even if they seem to repel you or you have difficulty understanding them at first. Ask those around you about the whys and wherefores of habits and customs. This will help you be more willing to accept cultural differences.
Connect with locals
The most effective way to adapt is undoubtedly to dive head first into the daily life of the country where you have decided to leave your computer.
To do this, we advise you not to spend your life on social networks chatting in French with your friends who remain in France. This is important, of course, but it shouldn't be your only social activity. Go out and meet locals and go to places that make it easier to make contact like associations, For example. You can also be kind and get closer to your neighbors. Don't hesitate to ask them to provide you with certain information or to accompany you on a tour of the neighborhood to find the best deals nearby.
Follow the local rhythm and way of life
Even if your job is jet lag with the destination you have chosen, do not experience a disconnect with your immediate environment.
Try to follow the same rhythm so that you can go to the markets and do the same activities as your new friends. If you go to Spain, for example, know that there, we have lunch around 2 p.m. and dinner around 10 p.m. Your stomach will have to get used to meal later. The Spanish are party people who like to go out a lot, this also changes from the lifestyle of the French who like to meet inside their homes.
Additionally, learn a little more about holidays celebrated in the city you are teleworking from and attend if invited. This will enrich you a lot both personally and socially.
Experiment with local cuisine
The watchword when it comes to local gastronomy when you go to a culture different from yours is to never say: fountain, I will not drink your water. Indeed, many people are very reluctant to try new flavors or new foods and may even offend locals with their remarks. It is important that open-mindedness also affects this area.
Afterwards, to adapt to a particular type of cuisine, it is important to go little by little. First start by discovering good restaurants to find the dishes you might like. Also take the time to test the different typical spices by putting a little bit in your dishes. This is how you will understand what is best for you and what is supported by your body and your taste buds. Harissa or pili-pili may upset you if you are not used to it.