Interactions with other cultures is, for the most part, why we travel. New people, atmospheres, languages, foods, values and beliefs.. the list goes on! It’s not meant to always be easy, in fact, often times culture shock can be extremely overwhelming. As travelers, we don’t want to let culture shock hold us back from embracing the experience and getting the most out of our time abroad. How do you deal with culture shock so that it enriches rather than deducts from your experience abroad?

This Thursday, October 12th at 2pm EST, join us, @SmarterTravel, @marissa_sutera and the Passion Passport community to chat about ‘Culture Shock’! Make sure to tag us in your tweets with #PassionPassport.

If you are unavailable during the chat time but would still like to participate, feel free to schedule your tweets according to the times listed below:

Q1 – 2:00pm EST

Welcome to the chat! Where did you experience culture shock for the first time? Tell us about the experience.

Q2 – 2:05pm EST

How do you minimize the “shock” in culture shock? Share your words of wisdom!

Q3 – 2:15pm EST

How does a new culture affect your creativity? Share a stand-out photo or article that was influenced by a different culture!

Q4 – 2:25pm EST

What is the best advice you’ve received before experiencing a new culture?

Q5 – 2:30pm EST

Comprehending new rules is all part of the journey. Have any memorable stories?

Q6 – 2:35pm EST

Making friends in a new country is a great way to overcome cultural barriers. Tell us a story of an unexpected friendship you’ve made while traveling.

Q7 – 2:40pm EST

What culture would you like to experience and why? Share a pic!

Q8 – 2:50 pm EST
Reverse culture shock can be just as challenging. How do you deal with returning home after a big adventure?

Body image Steven Wei / Header image by Jack Young.