1. Adapt, adapt, adapt.
You need to quickly find out what the local customs and laws are. Customs are sometimes more difficult to learn but you have to figure it out. When in doubt, don’t do what you are questioning. Wait until you know whether it’s the right thing to do or not.
2. Be nice, kind and friendly.
This works around the world. Everyone appreciates a foreigner who is happy and kind. Represent your country well by being the type of person you hope everyone else will be.
3. Be aware of your surroundings.
Some countries, such as China, don’t have much crime and you don’t have to worry so much. But in places such as Italy, Russia or the USA, you must stay alert.
4. Be patient and tolerant.
This is a balancing act. If you don’t have patience, you best not travel abroad. You have to learn to be tolerant of others.
5. You need to learn to get what you need, not just what you want.
If you can’t speak the language, you can still survive.
6. Start by finding restaurants you are familiar with.
When I came to China I found a KFC close by. I knew that if I couldn’t get food in other restaurants or supermarkets, I could always go to KFC because it is familiar to me.
7. Have a positive mindset.
Like a child, explore everything. As we say, ‘stop and smell the roses.’ Appreciate the small things. One thing I noticed in Zhengzhou was the beauty of all of the trees, flowers and landscape.
source: China Daily
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