How to Assimilate When Moving to Another Culture

Assimilating into a new culture can be exciting.

Moving to another culture can be, well, shocking. As much as you've heard the stereotypes or have read seemingly credible reports about the culture to which you are moving, you won't really know what it's like until you've arrived. Even moving within the country where you live can be shocking because of the contrast in customs, beliefs and attitudes. Assimilation is the process of coming to feel that you fit in.

Instructions

1. Take time upon arrival to relax and become educated about the culture in which you are now living. Read local newspapers and visit museums.

2. Visit a bar and talk to the locals. Even if you don't know their language, many will know how to speak some English. This can be helpful in learning about the people and their culture, but to assimilate fully, you should learn their language.

3. Study the language of the culture from which you are living. Courses are offered in most cultures to help immigrants learn their language. This is also a good time to get to know some fellow English-speaking people who can give you other advice.

4. Join an athletic team or club in the country where you are now living and participate in a local cultural activity. This is another opportunity to get to know the locals and to learn about their culture.

5. Frequent the same spots so that you start feeling at home. For example, find a coffee shop where you feel comfortable and make it a regular stop.

6. Eat the same food as the locals and move away from the food you normally eat. Eating is an important adjustment for assimilation because it's something you do every day.

References

• Culture Shock: What Is It?
• The Longest Way Home: Is Social Integration Possible When Trying to Live Overseas?
• London Relocation: Relocation to London -- How to Fit It All In