Each country is unique and living abroad even for a short time can completely change your mindset forever. Foreign lands influence your character and attitude. What could ever be more challenging than becoming part of a new culture?

Here are the things that happen when you live far from home:

1. You Learn the Language 

Language challenges are the first thing you are going to face with once you arrive. It is possible that the language of the country you are going to is similar to your native tongue. There are a lot of English speaking countries and, if your native language is English, then living abroad will be very easy. Also, you’ll hardly have any difficulties if you are good at learning new languages or if the mission of your trip is language courses, working and living all at the same time. Be prepared to be misunderstood by the locals. You might not understand what others tell you. Do not get discouraged and move on. You are smart enough to cope with the issue.

2. You Blend in and Get to Know the Customs

Custom challenges are not less serious than the language challenges we have just described. Countries have different traditions, customs, religions and habits. What is polite in your native country might look absolutely inacceptable elsewhere. In order not to insult people be attentive and careful. Look around and see how others behave. Be tolerant and do not express negativity if you feel uncomfortable about their lifestyle. You are a stranger and you have no rights to change their mindset. On the contrary, you should try and learn from foreign cultures what you never knew at home.

3. You Taste the Unknown Cuisine

Food challenges are both pleasant and shocking. In some countries you will be offered dishes that you will keep eating for the rest of your life while some foods will taste disgusting. This is absolutely natural. However, foods and drinks that are unknown can be turned into a new adventure of your living abroad. Explore the local cuisine and see what fruits and vegetables the country cultivates. In exotic countries the variety of such foods is greater. In hot climates people prefer spicy foods while in the North you’ll be offered plenty of meat and fish.