How many times have you visited a different state and there were certain characteristics about it that were really bizarre to you? It has happened to all of us, and it doesn’t even have to be something major, it can be something as small as an accent, but when you notice it, it really takes you back.
The one thing to remember about these culture shocks is that they aren’t really based on the culture of a particular people. The culture shock is based on the culture of that particular area… you can almost call it a vibe. You know how you can get around certain people, whether you know them or not, and they either give you good vibes or bad vibes? Well, that same logic applies to travel too! It’s just a vibe, you know? You’ll either pick up on it immediately, or you’ll be completely oblivious to it all.
Now, there are certain places where there is no escaping the culture shock. All five of your senses will be graced by the scent, touch, sight, sound, and the many flavors that the city has to offer you. If you’re wanting to travel the world for an unforgettable travel experience, visit these three places to get your fill of culture shocks!
Nashville, TN
Nashville, TN… the country music capital of the world! If you haven’t visited this city, you’re missing out on a boot-full of southern hospitality. With Nashville being in the south, the culture is unlike any other, and definitely worth visiting just for the “down south” experience.
One big culture shock with Nashville is the people. With Nashville, you don’t even have to know anyone to get a “hi, how are you?” The people there are just so friendly, and the southern accent is the cutest thing ever! The friendliness is definitely on overload but in a good way!
Another culture shock that Nashville offers is the food and beverages. Well as far as beverages are concerned, I should just say sweet tea. With Nashville, you will definitely get your fill on soul food, hot chicken and sweet tea!
Nashville is THE spot for hot chicken, clearly… even KFC has advertisements for their “Nashville Hot Chicken,” but if you’re a true traveler, then you know better than to order “location specific” food from a different location. So if you want hot chicken, get it Nashville! If you want sweet tea, go ANYWHERE in Nashville for that!
Los Angeles, CA
When you think of LA, what’s the first thing that pops in your head? For most people, it’s fun in the sun, beaches, free spirits, fame, celebrities, and health nuts! Clearly, a lot of thoughts come to mind, but the culture there is totally different than that of other cities!
Being in LA, it gives you a feeling of being a free spirit, and doing whatever you want to do! You can easily grab your swimsuit and go with your friends to the beach. You also have a good chance of running into celebrities and taking a selfie with them. Once you get that selfie, you’re automatically best friends!
California, in general, is very health conscious. Everyone there eats salads and drinks smoothies and is either hiking beautiful trails or with their personal trainer. Their eating habits are very different than those in the south!
There are some soul food spots there, but it won’t be anything in comparison to soul food from the south so, if you do visit LA, maybe go on a healthy cleanse before you get there, especially if you want to blend in with the locals!
Last, but not least, you can’t forget about the number one reason why people go to LA… to be famous! You can go into any coffee shop and ask anyone in there what they do for a living. Their response is going to be that they’re an actor/actress or that they’re a producer writing a screenplay! There’s nothing wrong with that, but just know that you’re surrounded by up and coming famous people… oh to live the glamorous life!
New York City, NY
New York is a different type of experience that will definitely give you a culture shock to remember! From the lingo to the modes of transportation, it’s a place you’ll have to get used to.
New York is somewhere that you’ll want to “do as the Romans,” and you’ll figure that out really quick! Television shows portray New York as a mecca of busy people. It really is as though, if you’re a busy person who is always having to be somewhere, you were placed in New York to be the busy-body that you are!
For one, people in New York rarely drive… they’re always walking, or taking public transportation, and get around just fine. With so many people walking as a mode of transportation, you can look at the sidewalk as the road and the people as the moving vehicles. In that aspect, you still have to follow the rules of the road.
There’s no stopping in the middle of the sidewalk because that can cause a human pile up, just like cars can’t just stop in the middle of the road; you would need to pull over to the side if you needed to stop walking.
Also, to blend in, just a little, you’ll want to learn the lingo. It’s not something you absolutely have to do, but it will be quite helpful in understanding what they’re talking about. If you go to get pizza, they may ask what kind of pie you want. You might look a little puzzled, but pie means pizza in New York.
You can only get an authentic “New York style” pizza in New York. The other places have to call it “New York styled” because they’re trying to emulate a pizza flavor that is natural to New Yorkers. Some places might be pretty good, but it’s nothing in comparison to the authenticity of real New York pizza!
Safe Travels
Whenever you’re traveling, just remember that safety always comes first. If you’re going on a road trip to some of these places, you want to make sure your car insurance is up-to-date and that you have an experienced personal injury lawyer available in case you’re involved in a car accident.
The key thing to remember is that whether you’re visiting any of the above destinations or decide to visit a different city like Denver, you’re going to want the best legal representation behind you if you get into an accident away from home. If you’re in Denver when the accident occurs, you’ll want the best Denver personal injury lawyer there is. So, of course, have fun on your trip but also be safe!