It is easy to get used to our own culture, customs and ways of seeing the world. Challenge yourself now and again to learn about other countries & cultures with the following hobbies and activities!
Learn New Languages
Pick a language other than your own and learn basic greetings, learn how to count, learn to ask where the bathroom is!
This is especially important if you plan to travel to a new country, but is also a great way to begin the process of learning about a culture that you don’t know much about.
Check out our full post on learning new languages for helpful tips and resources!
If you are looking for the best online resources for learning a new language, we recommend checking out a few of these highly-rated learning platforms:
Try New Recipes
Try cooking something new!
We all love ordering takeout from our favorite restaurants, but what about trying to cook that Thai, Mediterranean, Ethiopian(etc…) food yourself?
Learn a new skill, eat something delicious and learn about the culture, customs and ingredients of a new culture with a hands-on cooking hobby.
Check out the cookbook “Tasting The World One Country At a Time” by Nicole Jordan O’Donnell (Available from Amazon) featuring 200 Recipes from 200 Countries!
Attend Cultural Events
Check your local or city center for cultural events happening in your area.
Often times there are community gatherings, festivals, parades going on that you may not hear about unless you seek them out!
Have an open mind, learn, be respectful and try new things!
Go with a friend and talk about your experiences together afterwards to share and grow your knowledge together.
Visit Museums
What better way to dive in and learn about new cultures than by visiting a Museum?
History, Art, Culture, Archeology etc… Check your local area or city center for museums in your area.
Did you know that many museums offer free days for folks or students on a budget? (Check your local museum’s website for details).
Read Authors from Other Countries
Pick a new author from a country other than your own!
Learn new perspectives, stories and writing styles by exploring authors writing about their own culture, country and customs.
Did you know that Amazon offers virtual Book Clubs? Check them out here or start your own!
Listen to Music
Listening to music from other countries is an easy and simple way to learn and appreciate the culture and art of the area.
Check out playlists, go to concerts or even play instruments from countries other than your own to appreciate the musical stylings of other cultures.
Travel
Of course the best way to learn about a new culture is to travel to another country. Immerse yourself in the culture, customs, food and language by getting out of your comfort zone and traveling to a new place.
Travel safely, but put yourself out there and try new things while traveling. Take a tour of an area off the beaten path, stay at Airbnb’s or hostels. It is easy to fall into the standard tourism path when traveling; be aware of this and venture out to learn even more!
