Culture Shock: Morocco Edition

As I've mentioned before, I studied abroad through a program called Semester at Sea, in which we traveled around porting in various countries throughout the summer. It just so happened that our very first port was in Africa! Casablanca, Morocco, to be exact. Talk about culture shock!

Before going abroad, I was prepared to experience some level of culture shock because I had never been to Europe before. However, I don't think I was prepared for the culture shock that I stumbled upon during my time in Morocco. I would have to say, of all the countries we visited, Morocco was the most different, in comparison to anywhere I had been before. First of all, it was blazing hot (I should have expected that since we were in Africa, but I didn't). Not to mention, Morocco is a muslim country so the dress code is very strict. Therefore, I was forced to dress in long pants and long-sleeves everywhere I went. This was definitely a new concept to me and took some getting used to. 

The food was also extremely different than what you would find in the United States and water was hard to come by. My entire stay in Morocco felt like a quest for water because I had to be extremely careful about the water I drank and where it came from. We were instructed to only drink out of bottled water and to even be careful then because the seals are often broken. Brushing my teeth was a struggle as well because I needed to have bottled water on hand every time I wanted to brush my teeth. Culture shock seemed to be setting in fast and let's just say, my time in Morocco wasn't my most hygienic days. 

The culture shock I was experiencing doubled when I decided to take a walk through the local market in Casablanca. It was quite the sight. There were live chickens being beheaded and hung out in the open as I strolled through the market. At that point, I wasn't sure what I had gotten myself into, but I knew I wanted to get out. 

Additionally, I spent a few days in a Berber camp in the Sahara desert. As you can imagine, water was, once again, hard to come by and we were living in the stifling hot Sahara desert. Oh, and did I mention that our only mode of transportation was riding camels? Yeah, that was quite the surprise and only enhanced my culture shock. Although my time spent at the Berber camp was a once in a lifetime opportunity, I was certainly ready to leave by the last day.

Once we arrived back in Marrakech, I was so excited to finally be back in civilization. Our last night in Morocco was looking up as we had planned to stay in a hotel in the city and go out that night. However, like most travel plans, things didn't go according to plan. The first disappointment of the night came as we checked into our hotel and were informed there was no air condition or WiFi. Let me just tell you, those were the two things I was most excited about after spending three days in the Sahara.

Although I knew air conditioning was hard to come by in Europe and certainly Africa, I held hope we would be in for a treat. Unfortunately, we weren't. After accepting the no A/C or WiFi fact, we decided to make the most of the night and visit a local grocery store to pick up some alcohol before going out. And here's where disappointment number two comes in....

Unbeknownst to us, Ramadan was in full swing and there was no alcohol to be found anywhere. It's important to note that the only reason this was such a big deal was because it was our first opportunity to go out since we had been abroad. And there we were again, faced with just another element of culture shock, as it is unheard of for alcohol to be scarce in the United States. 

Looking back on my time abroad, Morocco wouldn't have been so bad if it hadn't been our very first port. If I had previous exposure to different cultures and customs before visiting Morocco, I think I would have experienced a much smaller level of culture shock.

Study Shock

Embrace the world, and you may grow. Edinburgh, Scotland. 

Excitement, anticipation, curiosity, happiness, thrill...culture shock? These are just some of the emotions a student feels when traveling abroad to study with their University. Studying abroad can be extremely rewarding and one of the most memorable moments of a lifetime, but it can also involve incidents or frustrations that will leave you longing to catch the next plane home.

When traveling a student may encounter many cultural differences which can lead to culture shock. In our own culture, there are many elements that surround us, and that influence who we are as people and how we perceive the world. This native culture is what shapes us as a person. 

Different cultures, different experiences. Lock on the love wherever you go. Paris, France. 

When this feeling of comfort or symbols of familiarity of the native culture are lost, a person falls into a state of culture shock. This culture shock is a psychological discomfort that is felt when faced with foreign situations. Culture shock is a natural logical reaction, and just one of many phases students will face when getting accustomed to their new culture and surroundings.

The phases a student will experience include: Being fascinated with all the new things you are experiencing, feeling uncomfortable because you feel as if you don't belong, rejecting and labeling the foreign culture and people as being strange, learning to decipher foreign behavior and customs, and accepting and enjoying the foreign culture. 

When studying abroad, throughout the phases, a student will experience a wide range of emotions. They will be fascinated and excited by their new surroundings, and may then take more notice to anything, "Un-American." This could lead to some hostility towards the new culture which is another form of culture shock. 

In order to prepare for this journey, before going abroad, students may read up on where they are traveling (i.e international newspapers, guidebooks, novels, etc.), talk with friends who have traveled to the same location or an international student, and/or ask their study abroad office for an advisor. 

Overall, it is simple to get past culture shock as long as one uses their mind. Make sure to always keep a positive attitude, be optimistic and open to new ideas. These mixed with some time will help people adapt to cultural differences. These differences may even become preferable to that which one is used to in the United States. The steady balance of new culture experience and the native culture, will help people to grow culturally and become more diverse in thinking. Before you know it, you won't want your study abroad trip to end. 

Reversing the Shock

Many of you have heard of the term "culture shock" meaning the feeling of confusion, doubt and nervousness in an unfamiliar place that is very different from what you are used to. Most people experience this when staying in a foreign country for an extended period of time, such as studying abroad. It can be a result of not being used to the time difference, weather, the social norms, laws and the way people are and how they interact on a daily basis. On the contrary, reverse culture shock is the feeling of returning to your home culture and country after growing accustomed to a new one. This happens because you get used to the place you have been living in and have difficulty settling back into every day life at home. You may feel like you have an idealized view of what home is like and there becomes an inconsistency between expectations and reality. Also, you may feel an expectation of total familiarity in that nothing has changed while you have been away. 

There are many ways to deal with reverse culture shock. First, share your experiences with others. You may feel like constantly sharing stories about your trip will bother your friends and family, but they are there to listen and want to hear about your many experiences and memories. One way is to show them your many pictures and what happened in each. Explain what you did in the picture, where you were and the feelings you had. Also, starting a blog to explain your trip abroad will help cope and you will soon receive an audience that will listen intently. 

Severe reverse culture shock usually occurs with people who have been sent off to war or who have moved away from their home country for an extended period of time such as a couple of years. For ones that study abroad for a couple of months to a year, they do not experience the same reverse culture shock that those other people that have been away for longer time. 

So, once you return home from an adventure of a lifetime, do not get overwhelmed with the reverse culture shock! It might be hard to ease back into the life you used to have in America, but your family, friends and familiar surroundings will definitely help the transition. 

A Guide to Casual European Conversation

Freedom is an American value and stepping stone. We also tend to transfer this value to how we interact with each other. You have the personal freedom to say whatever you want in conversation. People may roll their eyes at you if you are particularly rash but it is not uncommon for people to share too much information. Think of your average plane ride, by the end of the plane ride you could know the life story of the person sitting next to you.

Europe does not play that game. Although it varies from country to country, cultures rooted in tradition or influence from art or enlightenment acknowledge well thought out debates or mere cordiality. Keep your inconsequential feelings to yourself.

We will look at the five top countries to travel according to Euro Monitor 2013 which are England, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

Great Britain

England has an eclectic mix of cultures beginning from the many takeovers from the Celtics, Romans, Vikings, Normans and finally Anglo-Saxons. Then from the expansion of the British Empire the island has grown into a unique mixture of cultures. Because of the many differing viewpoints, conversations are polite and consist of small talk usually about the weather. Unless you are particularly close with someone do you share private information, so dumping your whole life on a stranger would be out of place.

France

The French culture is influenced by the desire to live well and be seen living well. This is reflected in how they present themselves and their love of language. This also translates to the desire for intellectual debate. Northern Europe’s Logic and Latin culture’s emotion can be seen in French conversation. If you want to begin a lively conversation think out your arguments, do not make rash comments and, as always, begin and end your conversations with “Bonjour” and “Au Revoir”.

Germany

Germany has a long history of many cultures struggling to fit together whether that is from the many states fitting together to create Germany, the wars between Catholics and Protestants and clashes between East and West. Order is created by strict rules, formality and directness. Small talk is fine but look at the social cues around you and be tactful when you talk about history. Private information is not generally shared among strangers. Overall, be observant and respectful.

Hannah and I "in conversation" at the Lourve in an interactive art exhibit!

Italy

As the past epicenter of art and civilization the culture is vivacious.  Passionate debates are encouraged and happen simultaneously in a group of people. Jump in and talk about art, culture and other affairs in your own country! Emphasis is placed on living in the moment and enjoying family, tradition and putting on a good face.

Spain

In Spain social niceties and group approval are important with past utopian ideals. In a private relaxed setting feel free to talk about your travels, country, art, culture and your hosts’ children but avoid touchy historic issues.

When you engage in conversation in another country observe the natives and follow what they do. This information is just a snapshot of what is culturally acceptable in each place. Guide books and other websites are available to peruse.

Feel free to email me at readysetroamcontact@gmail.com or leave a comment if I left something out or if I pointed something out wrongly. Your feedback would be appreciated!

Foster, D. (2000). The global etiquette guide to Europe: everything you need to know for business and travel success. Canada: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Press.

Avoiding a Currency Crisis

Before attempting to understand currency exchange rates, it is important to know what a currency exchange rate really is. The term "currency exchange rate" essentially represents the value of a particular country's money in comparison to another country. A country's monetary value often fluctuates and is heavily dependent upon the strength of their economy at a particular point in time. 

As we all know, communication is a significant barrier when traveling to foreign countries, especially when there is a language barrier preventing you from communicating effectively. However, it is important to be aware that money can also be a significant barrier to traveling. Currency exchange rates can be extremely confusing for individuals traveling in various countries because there are various currencies used around the world. Although the euro is commonly accepted throughout Europe, many countries have other preferred currencies and even the euro can be confusing to work with if you haven't had a lot of practice.

Check out the steps we have listed below to avoid a currency crisis while traveling abroad!  

Step One: Determine the two currencies you will be working with. Select the currency you will convert from and the currency you will convert to.

 Step Two: Research the rate for converting your money in the new currency. Each country’s conversion rate can be found online.

 Step Three: Establish the relationship between the two currencies. Be aware that when you are converting money to a stronger currency, you will lose some purchasing power in that particular country.

 Step Four: Visit your local bank to convert some of your money to the local currency before leaving for your trip. Exchange rates tend to be much higher in airports or hotels, which may be your only option once you have arrived at your destination.

 Step Five: Be aware of surcharges that may be required to convert money. There may be a percentage rate on the transaction or a flat rate to complete the transaction.

 Step Six: Contact your credit card company to inquire about exchange rates and fees when using your card. Exchange rates and fees will vary by company. 

A Smart Traveler is a Happy Traveler

Throughout the entirety of our travel blog, we have emphasized the importance of educating yourself before you depart. Learning the language of your country of travel is no different. Learning a new language is one of the hardest things to conquer. We are not saying that you need to be perfectly fluent in a new language before you leave, but being able to learn and recognize common words, phrases and the lingo can make the transition very smooth.

Depending on the University you attend and the study abroad program you are participating in, there are many different requirements when it comes to classes that must be taken. Certain programs require taking a language class before you leave, others require language and culture classes to be taken once you are already abroad. Classes taken beforehand can be beneficial and very comforting when you arrive in a new country and already understand a lot of their language. Language classes taken while you are abroad can be neat too because the learning and experience are simultaneous. If your program does not require either option, it is important to buy books, a translation dictionary or use internet resources to educate yourself and grasp some basic knowledge of the country's language.

Learning and adapting to a foreign country's language and culture can be a very critical component to your study abroad experience. Not only will it make it easier, but a lot more enjoyable! A smart traveler makes a happy traveler!

Felices viajes! (Happy travels!)

Are you the next Study Abroad Global Duke?

ATTENTION JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: 

While many of our readers are interested in traveling or studying abroad, we also appreciate those readers who already have travel or study abroad experience!

If you have studied abroad or are currently studying abroad, then check out this great opportunity offered by James Madison University! 

JMU is looking for students interested in becoming a "Study Abroad Global Duke." Global Dukes are student peer advisors who want to share their study abroad experiences with potential study abroad students. This opportunity allows you to provide first-hand knowledge regarding the study abroad experience to engage and interest other James Madison University students. 

While the study abroad office provides fantastic information and resources, they recognize students often respond better to other students. JMU's Study Abroad Office wants your help to further the success of their study abroad programs!

While many leadership opportunities on campus demand a large time commitment, Global Dukes only requires seven hours a week of your time. As a Global Duke, you will spend approximately two hours a week in the Office of International Programs and around five hours a week planning study abroad projects and events. 

If you are seeking ways to stay connected to your study abroad experience after returning home, then Ready, Set, Roam encourages you to apply for a position as a "Study Abroad Global Duke!" The deadline is quickly approaching so be sure to fill out your application today and submit it along with your resume to Andriana Hench at henchaj@jmu.edu!

Budget Flights in Europe

Domestic European flights are on the rise as cheap airlines have flooded the European market. You can get a one way ticket for $25-$250!

In the United States domestic flights may leave our pockets empty and keep us weary of flying. However, by using a low-cost, one way ticket to different destinations in Europe flying can by a more bearable option.  While planning my 10 day trip through Europe I looked at a Eurail pass, but it was more expensive and more of a hassle to go by train to different parts of the continent in a short period of time.

While I was abroad I took two flights and three train rides to total my transportation costs of around $300-$500. That is less than or equal to one domestic flight within the United States.  If you check your options of different types of transportation and companies, then you can find some cheap deals.

Some websites I used to check flights are skyscanner.com, ryannair.com, and rumbo.es.

Be cautious when using these cheap airlines because the cost reflects the quality which is not high. The tickets are inexpensive so the airlines will tack on many extras including expensive baggage costs, high priced food and more money for priority seating. The way to get around these extras is to bring one bag that can be used as a carry on, such as a backpack, and be as low maintenance as possible.

Another thing to watch is delays. The airline is not making much money off your ticket so they are less invested if you arrive late or something happens. You need to be ready and allow yourself time to be ahead of schedule and prepared for takeoff.

The last thing to keep your eye on is the website you use to book the flight. When booking my flight from Barcelona to London I thought the website confirmed the ticket and the email was faulty. However, the email said that the tickets had not been purchased, so when we arrived at the airport we didn’t have a flight and had to pay for a ticket on the spot which was not cheap.

Europe offers many opportunities for you to explore inexpensively with various means of transportation including Inter European flights. You merely need to find them and know what to expect.

Mind the Gap

Don't waste your money on a taxi or rental car when public transportation is just around every corner. In England, Germany, Italy, France, etc. there is the tube, u-bahn, metro, and/or métro. These public transportation trains can be compared to the D.C. metro or the NY subway system.

Not only are there several stations spread through every part of major cities, but they are almost always conveniently located next to major tourist destinations. In London to see the Queen? Try the Green Park station next to Buckingham Palace. In Rome and in need of a stroll through the Colosseum? Try the Colosseo, Line B of the Rome Metro. A traveler can navigate from the airport to the entrance of Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany or navigate through Paris, France to the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre using their Métro lines.

These trains all provide visitor rail passes, resident passes, day passes, or one way tickets. They are flexible to a traveler's stay, and most are open from early morning to later at night. Countries are making it more convenient to commute this way, and these commute methods are quick and efficient. Check out their individual sites for ticket pricing, and consider this as a primary travel method when overseas. 

So next time you're abroad, if you need to get somewhere a little too far for a walk or want to arrive quickly, take the trains. 

Love and the Eiffel Tower

Celebrating 125 Years this week!

The Eiffel Tower was not supposed to be the symbol of love that is today according to the creator Alexandre Gustave Eiffel.  In the end he, and his bitterness, had to leave the city to avoid his creation.

However, in the span of 125 years love continues to surround the Eiffel Tower. During my time in Paris, the Eiffel Tower brought the best memories. On a beautiful Parisian night people set up blankets with their loved ones and sat in front of the sparkling Eiffel Tower.

When Hannah and I settled by the Eiffel Tower one night, we brought a bottle of wine and a baguette and reflected on our adventures together and how blessed our lives had been up to that point.  Under the glow of the Eiffel Tower time stopped and we were just with each other. Romantic love of Paris did not sweep us off our feet but the love of humanity, family and friends did.

So I would recommend to anyone visiting Paris to take time to live simply. All you need is a friend, a bottle of wine and a baguette to enjoy the Eiffel Tower.  Good company, good wine and a night under the symbol of Parisian love is a European experience that you should not miss.