When traveling, we can’t help but notice how different life in other countries is, from the way people eat to the way they work and relax. This contrast often leaves us perplexed, but rarely do we stop to think that such unique habits can be adopted into our own routines, too.
These people, on the other hand, did and even shared them under this popular thread in hopes that others would find them helpful as well. Scroll down to find them below, and don’t forget to upvote those that you are tempted to try for yourself!
#21
We went to Eastern Europe and noticed a lot of cafes didn't have to-go cups. People don't go for coffee or tea unless they have the time to sit there and enjoy it, not sip it as they run to catch a bus or something. I like that concept so much better, so when I go for a chai latte or something, it's when I have the time to stay and savor it.
Report
23points
#22
After living in Germany for awhile I switch my "big" meal of the day to lunch and a smaller one at dinner.
Report
22points
#23
Japan - carrying trash home with me if I don’t find a trash can.
Report
22points
#24
I'm from Spain and started eating dinner earlier once I started traveling. I no longer have dinner at 10PM like my friends and family do back home.
Report
21points
#25
Wearing backpack on the front of my body when getting on a crowded train or bus. People wear their huge backpacks on their back on public transport and it drives me crazy. I wish my city would do a campaign about it like Japan did.
21points
#26
I read in France you need to make eye contact before doing business, and greet the person. That seemed quite fair so I did and then continued back in the US. No need for a full convo but acknowledge the person. Have gotten to know various people who work places I go and it’s a lot nicer. Some of them light up when they see me. I get we’re busy but there’s always time for good morning!
20points
#27
Olive oil on pizza.. (they do this in Italy)
It just makes EVERY PIZZA taste that much better and more satisfying!
It just makes EVERY PIZZA taste that much better and more satisfying!
Report
20points
#28
I grew up in one of those weird, American families that allowed shoes inside and after staying a few months in Japan I now wear slippers in my apartment and have slippers for guests too!
rirez replied:
I've straight up built a Genkan into my house. I love the naturally understandable barrier with all the shoes and sandals neatly lined up -- I don't need a sign that says "take your shoes off here", it's just blindingly obvious, and eliminates any potential cultural awkwardness of "so do I keep my shoes on or..."
Architecturally it's literally just a single step up, but it makes a huge difference in how the house-entering experience feels. Somehow that single change in elevation makes a big psychological difference.
rirez replied:
I've straight up built a Genkan into my house. I love the naturally understandable barrier with all the shoes and sandals neatly lined up -- I don't need a sign that says "take your shoes off here", it's just blindingly obvious, and eliminates any potential cultural awkwardness of "so do I keep my shoes on or..."
Architecturally it's literally just a single step up, but it makes a huge difference in how the house-entering experience feels. Somehow that single change in elevation makes a big psychological difference.
Report
19points
#29
Not as life changing as most other replies but... tea! I now drink tea. Never did before, but black tea and rooibos tea are my favourites now.
DrMoneybeard replied:
I picked up a lot of habits after 5 years living in the UK but a strong opinion about tea is the biggest! I was already a tea drinker before but mostly Asian style teas. Now I NEED a proper brew every morning and other types on the weekends and afternoons.
DrMoneybeard replied:
I picked up a lot of habits after 5 years living in the UK but a strong opinion about tea is the biggest! I was already a tea drinker before but mostly Asian style teas. Now I NEED a proper brew every morning and other types on the weekends and afternoons.
Report
18points
#30
When we went to Munich we slept in a queen bed with two separate duvets. I fell in love with this and bought two twin duvets when I got home.
Report
17points
#31
Vietnamese coffee became my every day coffee.
a_panda_named_ewok replied:
Vietnamese coconut coffee is an absolute game changer
a_panda_named_ewok replied:
Vietnamese coconut coffee is an absolute game changer
Report
16points
#32
The way Brits typically cut and eat things on their plate, i.e. keeping the fork in my left hand.
Report
16points
#33
In my recent trip to Portugal I learned a lot of living in the moment, being present and grateful. I think living especially in the US, you sometimes get so caught up with your career, making more money and the mentality of needing to do more. I think it's important to know when to push yourself, and when to relax.
Report
15points
#34
Several … chopstick use, British TV (so much better than US), bidets, rice cooker, Guinness, taking shoes off at door, Irn Bru, Inca Cola, Japanese plum wine, Japanese beer, more reverence for nature, ….
Report
14points
#35
I joke with my partner that the one of the most expensive parts of our trip to Japan was the bidet when we got home
Report
14points
#38
After visiting Jamaica, jerk chicken has become a regular meal in our family.
After living in Nigeria for a few years, we began calling our father “Baba.”.
After living in Nigeria for a few years, we began calling our father “Baba.”.
12points
#39
Ironing my clothes again! A recent trip to Palma I noticed that everyone was so well turned out, not fancy or dripping in labels but just so well groomed. It made me realise what a difference the little details make and I vowed to make more of an effort in how I present myself.
Report
11points