FAQ: Preparing to Go

What should I bring?

What are the restrictions and guidelines for admissible items on airplanes?

Is there anything that I should not bring into my destination country?

Where is my Embassy?

How much luggage can I bring?

What is culture shock?

Travel Warnings

Can I avoid culture shock?

Can I avoid culture shock?

• Culture shock is not something you can necessarily avoid, but it is something that you can work through. Each individual experiences culture shock in a different way, so the approaches to dealing with it can vary. Here are some ideas:
  • Before travelling, educate yourself about the culture and customs of the area to which you are moving. For country specific information please review our Country Information Section.
  • Once you are in your new country, try to meet people. A great way to do this is by signing up for a language course, or by joining a team, a club, or a gym. Building a social group abroad can be integral to your success.
  • Get to know the area in which you are living by learning where the grocery store is, finding a place that serves western meals, etc.
  • Travel around the area on weekends. Try the local food, and get to know the local people outside of your classroom.
  • Keep a journal of the new and interesting things that you experience each day.
  • Remember to keep a positive attitude, an open mind, and do not forget to bring your sense of humour.
• In the end, dealing with culture shock is the same as dealing with any other big change in your life: it really depends on you.