NicoleB Photography

When you travel the Globe, or are what they call an Expat (means someone living abroad), you might run into some things that trouble you.

After a while of being in a different country you might either glorify the people there or condemn them.
Meaning, they are all soooo friendly or they are all sooo greedy.
Never forget that things seldom are what they seem.
Thanks to globalization most people in most countries are now like the ones you left at home.
No better, no worse.

Only because some drive big cars, doesn’t mean that all the people in that country (or the person that drives the car) are rich. Nor is everyone poor because some live in shags.
Only because someone backstabs you or tries to rip you off, doesn’t mean they will all do it - or vice versa.

What is different is the cultural background. That is something you should watch out for.
A smile isn’t always a sign of friendliness. Some take it as a signal to hit on you big time, some take friendliness as a weakness.
In other places it’s just what it usually is, a sign of being friendly.

A handshake isn’t always welcome. On the contrary, it is often frowned upon. In many places women won’t shake your hand and might even take it as an offense.

Read a bit about the places you will go to.
Stay open minded during your time there.
Don’t forget that not everything is golden nor is it all pitch dark.
Read between the lines & be sensible.
Treat people with respect and you usually get some back.

If not.
Well, then you might consider to move on to the next, hopefully friendlier place.

Take care fellow travelers and stay safe!

Feedback and Input on these thoughts are welcome, as usual