When travelling in other countries, we expect to meet different people, see different sights and do different things. However, the most valuable learning that comes from travel is not that we are different, but that we share so many common needs and feelings.
Many of my experiences abroad have been gained by staying with families who live in the country that I am visiting. When a student first meets their host family, they will feel nervous. They ask questions, such as 'Are they going to like me? Are we going to be able to communicate? Have they got a sense of humour? Will I feel comfortable in their company?' Having hosted students myself, I know that host families are also feeling nervous, and ask themselves the same questions.
'Homestay' experiences can introduce a whole new element into your learning programme - even if it is for a short period before moving on to college or a volunteer programme. The learning that comes from interacting with families of the culture that one is visiting can be so much greater than the learning that is derived from staying in just hotels and hostels. Mixing the type of accommodation can bring a variety of benefits. I have often travelled with groups of young people, and it has been remarkable to see their self-confidence blossom.
Travelling to new cultures and interacting with strangers teaches one as much about oneself as it does about other people. The challenge of new experiences will push one's personal barriers back. Coping with situations that have not been previously encountered can show you that you are capable of achieving, or succeeding at, so much more than you had thought. Learning about different cultures can teach you things about your own culture - things you had erstwhile neither appreciated nor understood.
Spending time with friends from another culture will challenge stereotypes that may be held by both parties. Some of the greatest joys of travel are gleaned from knowing that your preconceptions were wrong. Many of the opportunities offered through voluntary work/projects can bring you into contact with volunteers from a wide range of countries and cultures. In this circumstance, being in a different country might well allow you to meet, learn and challenge your preconceptions with people from a variety of backgrounds.
When travelling, do not only look for the differences - seek the common areas that bring you closer together. Do not expect to learn just about others - revel in the learning that you obtain about yourself!
David Shaddick
Chief Executive
EIL UK
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