Traveling is not just about taking in breathtaking scenery, having fun adventures, and making memories that will last a lifetime. It’s also about absorbing local cultures and different aspects of life. Here are some of those aspects to keep on hand next time you travel…
Taiwan: If you are on a Taipei street, and in the distance hear Beethoven’s Für Elise, expect a garbage truck to soon pass by.
Brazil: Many showers have electric heating built into the showerhead itself, leading to the occasional wiring surprise.
Italy: Placing bread upside down on the table is believed to bring bad luck—it’s considered disrespectful to food.
Russia: Some stray dogs in Moscow have learned to navigate the subway system, hopping on and off trains to get food and shelter.
Thailand: Pointing at someone with your feet is considered very rude because feet are seen as the lowest and dirtiest part of the body.
Botswana: Traffic lights are called “Robots” – if someone mentions a “robot,” they’re talking about a traffic light, not an actual machine.
New Zealand: When meeting someone, many New Zealanders (especially in Māori communities) will press their noses together in a traditional greeting known as the “hongi.”
South Africa: Power outages (load shedding) are a regular part of life, and people have become experts at working around scheduled blackouts.
Germany: Germans have a habit of automatically closing doors behind them, even when inside their own homes or offices.
Malta: While Malta has traffic laws, local drivers often follow their own interpretation of them, making traveling the roads an adventure.
Japan: Convenience stores (konbini) have shockingly good meals, and you’ll find everything you need, from fresh food to banking services.
England: Places like Great Snoring, Ugley, and Piddletrenthide actually exist.
Peru: Meals are often huge, whether it’s ceviche or a plate of lomo saltado—expect generous servings.
The Netherlands: Many Dutch homes leave their curtains wide open, showing off their tidy interiors—it’s seen as a sign of having nothing to hide.
Australia: Barefoot in Public? Totally Normal. – Many Australians casually walk barefoot in supermarkets, parks, or even shopping malls.
India: Getting a haircut or shave can happen right on the street, with barbers setting up shop on sidewalks.
Ireland: In rural areas, it’s normal to stop and wait for sheep casually wandering across the road.
Saudi Arabia: Many Saudis deeply value falconry, and even luxury hotels sometimes cater to guests traveling with their prized falcons.
Hungary: Hungarians avoid clinking beer glasses when making a toast, due to a historical tradition dating back to the 19th century.
South Korea: After a night of “Norebang” (karaoke), it’s not uncommon to see people casually strolling around in their pajamas, or people just hanging out on the street in sleepwear.
Morocco: Many houses have vibrant, decorated doors, sometimes painted blue to symbolize protection from evil spirits.
USA: There’s a national day for nearly everything, including National Pizza Day, National Talk Like a Pirate Day, and even National Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day!
Laos: While Laos officially drives on the right, there’s a mix of left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles, making traffic unpredictable.
Kenya: Minibuses known as matatus are more than just transportation—they’re often decked out with flashy lights, graffiti-style art, and loud music.
Indonesia: Car horns aren’t just for warnings—they’re used to signal turns, acknowledge drivers, or even just greet people.
Costa Rica: No Street Names? No Problem. Many places don’t have proper street names, and directions are often given based on landmarks like “200 meters past the big mango tree.”
Sweden: Whether on buses, trains, or elevators, Swedes tend to keep quiet and avoid unnecessary small talk.
