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10 easy ways to experience a little more culture while traveling

ByDr. Cate Brubaker #GlobalLife2014, Travel

It’s surprisingly easy to avoid experiencing another culture while traveling, especially if you’re traveling for work. Sure, you take public 10EasyWaysToExperienceMoreCultureWhileTravelingtransportation, stay in local accommodations, and eat in local restaurants. But after a short while, it can become routine.

Here are 10 easy ways to get a little closer to the local culture while traveling.

  1. Buy toiletries like toothpaste, shampoo, and for the adventurous…deodorant.

  2. Get your hair cut, colored or styled.

  3. Eat street food and ask questions about what you’re eating.

  4. Ride a bus, tram or subway to the end station, wander around, and eat at a restaurant where you can’t read the menu and don’t see any other tourists.

  5. Attend a religious service, sports game, play or musical performance.

  6. Spend a couple hours browsing a department store (maybe it’s just me, but I always find the kitchen items and school supplies really interesting).

  7. Attend a local meet-up.

  8. Visit a K-12 classroom (this one isn’t quite as easy but it’s worth the effort).

  9. Take a taxi and chat with the driver.

  10. Buy groceries at a local grocery store and cook dinner. Even better if you cook a local dish!

What would you add to this list?

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