Travel is something that all of us should be doing more of. It can help us recharge our batteries and surround ourselves with breathtaking scenery. But, more importantly, it opens our eyes to new cultures. Sometimes the cultures, customs and traditions we uncover as we travel can seem usual and even shocking. Especially if they vary significantly from our own. While it might be tempting to overlook foreign cultures, learning more about them can enhance and enrich your trip in numerous ways. So instead of seeing a culture shock as a negative thing, here are three reasons why learning more about cultures can benefit you.

It can heighten your understanding

It’s easy to discredit a culture and their traditions when you don’t understand the reasonings behind their actions. But this ignorance can often lead to misunderstandings and negative emotions. If you make the effort to move past your confusion or distaste, you’ll become far more open minded. You can ask the local people questions about why they carry out certain rituals or customs. You could also talk to tour guides and go on informative tours around your travel destination. You may find that there is a religious significance, or it may be a custom that has been passed down through the generations. This will give you an entirely different perspective and can make you feel compassion towards the locals. This information is something you can then pass onto others to enhance their understanding.

It will make you a well-rounded person

No matter where you go in the world, you will always come across someone from a different cultural background. Each culture has it’s own unique viewpoint and ideas, which we could all learn something from. Talk to people from different backgrounds, ask relevant questions and share your experiences. You may find that their approach and way of doing things is better or vice versa. Doing this will also help you become a more well-rounded person. You’ll feel more confident in countries with differing cultures, and you’ll become more accepting of others.

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It will add interest to your trip

While there is nothing wrong with lounging around on a sunlounger all week, it can get a little dull. Taking the time to learn more about the history and culture of a destination will add more excitement and interest to your trip. You could explore game reserves to learn more about the Zulu or Maasai cultures and traditions. You could attend festivals or visit museums and local markets where they sell produce and trinkets. You may even want to volunteer some of your time and build relationships with the local people. This is bound to be more interesting and provide you with more long lasting memories than relaxing by the pool ever could.

Regardless of whether you visit remote villages or capital cities, culture is an integral part of a travel experience. You may not always agree with their customs and traditions. But nothing will broaden your horizons more than learning about a different culture.