How to Adapt to a New Culture When Studying Abroad

How to Adapt to a New Culture When Studying Abroad: A Student's Guide

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Europe

<h3>What inspired you to go abroad?</h3>
<p>After a financial disaster with a failed franchise venture, which led to my divorce after 25 years of marriage. I wanted to escape the UK, travel to parts of the world I had never visited, and do some useful environmental conservation work. I specifically wanted to go to Southeast Asia, an area that had fascinated me from an early age.</p>
<h3>Why did you choose <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/nature-care-volunteering" target="_self" class="link">Nature Care Volunteering</a>?</h3>
<p>This program offered volunteering opportunities in Indonesia for 3–6 months. The information on GoAbroad's website interested me, and I was further encouraged by the prompt answers to my questions from the administrator/Director of LPTM in Makassar, Sulawesi, Indonesia. It offered the chance to stay in a local village and plant trees, meet people, and discover more about an Islamic country.</p>
<h3>What was your favorite part about Indonesia?</h3>
<p>Indonesia is a very interesting country and is growing rapidly economically. I stayed in Makassar, a vibrant and bustling city in South Sulawesi. I learned much about the history of Indonesia, the Islamic religion, ancient traditions and beliefs, but above all I loved meeting the people and sharing my Western culture with them. I much enjoyed discussing philosophical questions with my host Director, Dr Baharuddin Abidin. </p>
<p>I learned to live on my own, and discovered inner resources that I never knew I had. After 35 years of working in the UK, I enjoyed the freedom of going where I wanted and doing exactly what I wanted.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered"><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1/images2/interviews/jhubirxaatugoyrkik5g.jpg" alt="Tim Taylor from England with fellow volunteer Laura Sykes from Australia, in Governor's Office, Makassar City, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. 2008."><div class="caption"><p>Tim Taylor from England with fellow volunteer Laura Sykes from Australia, in Governor's Office, Makassar City, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. 2008.</p></div></div>
<h3>What made your experience abroad extraordinary?</h3>
<p>Sharing experiences with the Indonesian people, learning about Islam, discussing deep philosophical questions about the meaning of life, working hard but enjoying the environment and new experiences. I also, of course, met other volunteers from all over the world and learned about their countries, their own motivations, and lives back home.</p>
<h3>How did local staff support you throughout your program?</h3>
<p>My host, Director Dr Abidin, and his family supported me throughout the program. They answered my questions and were very friendly and hospitable. The staff of LPTM (as it was then called) were also very professional, polite, and helpful; they made my experience even more enjoyable. I learned a little of the Indonesian language and was able to communicate with the villagers and other Indonesian friends I made in the city.</p>
<h3>What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?</h3>
<p>I cannot say that there was anything I wish I had done differently. It was all a new experience, and I had to learn quickly as I went along. There may have been some differences of opinion when discussing religion and Islam with my host, but it was good-natured and not at all disagreeable, as he was a wise man and lived according to his devout beliefs, and we both greatly respected each other's views.</p>
<h3>Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.</h3>
<p>A typical day was to get up early, wash or shower, then try to find breakfast. I then reported to Director Dr Abidin and discussed the day's work with him. He often got sidetracked into telling me many amusing or interesting stories, and he seemed to enjoy my company and my responses to his humor! Very occasionally he was serious, bothered by a family or business problem, but he always explained to me what the problem was and how he was going to solve it. </p>
<p>After these discussions, we went about our work of preparing tree saplings for planting out. I often accompanied Dr Abidin to his many meetings with the Rotary Club of Makassar or the Chamber of Commerce, or his University lecturers, and he wanted me to participate. He was extremely generous in sharing all his interests with me, so I gained a full picture of his life, his family and business, and visions for the future. </p>
<p>In the evenings, I usually had dinner with fellow volunteers or other friends in local restaurants.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered"><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1/images2/interviews/oqwmvxiinmp9urqidntn.jpg" alt="Tim Taylor, British Environmental volunteer in Indonesia, with fellow volunteer Laura Sykes (teaching volunteer) Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia . 2008."><div class="caption"><p>Tim Taylor, British Environmental volunteer in Indonesia, with fellow volunteer Laura Sykes (teaching volunteer) Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia . 2008.</p></div></div>
<h3>What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?</h3>
<p>Makassar is a very interesting city, heavily influenced by Dutch colonizers from the seventeenth century who traded exotic and valuable spices from the Indonesian islands to Europe. Fort Rotterdam has an interesting museum with old cannons, fortifications, and cultural artifacts and costumes on display. </p>
<p>I enjoyed going to fish restaurants and hearing about the history of the place. I loved going to see the ancient caves of early human habitation at Leang Leang and exploring the karst limestone Stone Forest at Maros-Pangkep. </p>
<p>I was taken to Lake Tempe, about a 5-hour drive from Makassar, where fishermen catch fish in large nets and live in shacks on stilts above the water. I also went to Toraja, a famous region where they place dead bodies in stone caves or hang coffins on ledges in steep cliff faces. </p>
<p>I learned much about the many different tribes of Sulawesi, such as the Buginese, and the wars and conflicts over thousands of years.</p>
<h3>What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?</h3>
<p>In Makassar, I stayed in student accommodation near the city center. This was a pleasant enough building, with the students' rooms surrounding a courtyard. The room was basic but comfortable, with separate toilet and shower facilities, a bedside table, and cupboards. There was a fan and blinds, as it grew very hot during the day. </p>
<p>In the village, I stayed in half of the house of the village administrator who was responsible for paying pensions to the locals. My room was very basic and bare, but had a bed and some storage space. I ate in the living room next door. Despite the dirt and rubbish, I survived for a month in this house and tried to teach the locals about waste disposal, although it was challenging to see much change.</p>
<h3>What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?</h3>
<p>In my case, I was on a placement in Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population in the world—about 250 million people. Participants must observe the rules in this Islamic country, including modesty, moderation, consideration of others, orderly behavior, and no alcohol for Muslims. My host organization, LPTM, warned me about the rules and requirements so I was prepared.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend Nature Care Volunteering to others? Why?</h3>
<p>Yes, I would certainly recommend this organization and volunteer opportunity to others. LPTM's volunteer program recently changed its name to <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/nature-care-volunteering" target="_self" class="link">Nature Care Volunteering</a> to distinguish it from the construction training program. </p>
<p>Nature Care Volunteering has clear aims and objectives. It has clear instructions and information about its many programs. It answers questions fully and promptly. Its comprehensive website explains opportunities, fees, accommodation, and what to expect in Indonesia. Above all, the programs are what they say in the introduction, and offer an amazing experience for young and old alike.</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered"><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1/images2/interviews/b7n17ohpqlwfie8asnwj.jpg" alt="Tim Taylor, British environmental volunteer, with Laura Sykes and staff of LPTM (now Nature Care Volunteering), Makassar, Indonesia 2008."><div class="caption"><p>Tim Taylor, British environmental volunteer, with Laura Sykes and staff of LPTM (now Nature Care Volunteering), Makassar, Indonesia 2008.</p></div></div>
<h3>What do you feel is the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?</h3>
<p>Undoubtedly, travel and volunteering overseas can broaden your mind and outlook, as well as change your preconceptions and life. I loved the freedom to choose which country to go to, the programs, and the work. </p>
<p>After many bad experiences in the UK, I recovered my health and mental state by traveling and meeting different people from all over the world, and living with my host family and friends. I was able to rebuild my life after my volunteering experiences, and I wrote a book showing that personal disasters and setbacks can be overcome. <em>Dust in the Sunshine</em> is a paperback published by Pegasus Publishers in the UK and available in the US on Amazon, Google Books, Bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, and Walmart.</p>
<h3>Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?</h3>
<p>I now live in Nepal with a Nepali wife and a 10-year-old daughter. I have built a new life, with new priorities and objectives. And I also like to share that travel can certainly help you overcome many problems in your life.</p>
<p>My book, "Dust in the Sunshine," narrates how travel has impacted my life.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>I am the sort of person who likes to learn from every situation and experience. For me, travel is most meaningful when I can experience the country and connect with its people, while also feeling safe and comfortable. I enjoy learning about the people and cultures of the places I visit and prefer experiences that go beyond sightseeing.</p>

Timothy Taylor

Check out this GoAbroad Interview with Timothy Taylor who participated in Nature Care Volunteering program.

Timothy Taylor | Nature Care Volunteering Nature Care Volunteering Interview

Nature Care Volunteering Alumni Interview with Timothy Taylor

<h3>What inspired you to work for <a href=https://www.goabroad.com/providers/volunteer-safari-initiative rel="" target="_self" class="link">Volunteer Safari Initiative</a>?</h3>
<p>I was inspired to work with Volunteer Safari Initiative by my passion for tourism, conservation, and community empowerment. Through my experience in tourism, I realized that travel can be much more than visiting beautiful destinations—it can be a powerful tool for learning, creating connections, and making a positive difference.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Seeing the challenges faced by communities and wildlife in Kenya motivated me to help create opportunities for people from different parts of the world to contribute their skills, share experiences, and learn from local communities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I believe meaningful travel should benefit both visitors and the communities they visit. VSI allows me to combine my knowledge and experience in tourism with my passion for conservation, cultural exchange, and responsible travel.&nbsp;</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1789721056/images2/interviews/29bLd0nNeKvfQr4aA6nDRkhcr5ZDKzvttgele3SF.jpg" alt="Participants during a safari trip"><div class="caption"><p>Participants during a safari trip</p></div></div>
<p>Through our programs, I hope to create lasting connections and support projects that bring genuine, sustainable benefits to communities and the environment.</p>
<h3>What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?</h3>
<p>I’d tell my pre-travel self to stay curious, embrace the unexpected, and be open to learning from every person, place, and experience. Travel is not just about visiting beautiful destinations; it is about the people you meet, the cultures you discover, the stories you hear, and the memories you create along the way.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I would remind myself not to be afraid of stepping outside my comfort zone, because some of the most meaningful experiences happen when you try something new. I’d also encourage myself to respect local cultures, ask questions, listen more, and avoid making assumptions about people or places.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Every journey offers an opportunity to grow, gain a new perspective, and understand the world differently. Most importantly, I would travel with an open mind and heart, knowing that the experience can change you in ways you may never expect.</p>
<h3>Describe a typical day at work.</h3>
<p>As a Program Manager, my typical day involves planning and coordinating volunteer programs, managing partnerships, communicating with volunteers, and ensuring projects run smoothly. I oversee schedules, logistics, and field activities while supporting our conservation and community initiatives. I also monitor project progress, address challenges, and ensure volunteers have a safe, meaningful, and impactful experience.</p>
<h3>Why do you do what you do?</h3>
<p>I do what I do because I believe travel can create a positive impact beyond the experience itself. I’m passionate about connecting people with communities, supporting conservation, and creating opportunities for volunteers to make a real difference. Seeing how small contributions can create meaningful change motivates me to keep building programs that benefit both people and the environment.</p>
<h3>What is your favorite part of your job?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1789721057/images2/interviews/ZFssZ7uV8h5nBSPTBVPgglFuTqf2AjwbGHVLGfkV.jpg" alt="With volunteers at the Mangrove restoration project"><div class="caption"><p>With volunteers at the Mangrove restoration project</p></div></div>
<p>My favorite part of the job is seeing volunteers connect with local communities and contribute to meaningful projects. I enjoy creating experiences where people can learn, make a difference, and leave with a deeper appreciation for Kenya, its people, and its natural environment. Seeing the impact of their work makes it all worthwhile.</p>
<h3>How do you use your education and international background in your current role?</h3>
<p>My education in Hospitality and Tourism Management has given me strong skills in tourism, program planning, customer service, and destination management. My international exposure has also helped me understand different cultures, expectations, and perspectives.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I use this knowledge to design meaningful volunteer experiences, build partnerships, and create programs that connect international volunteers with local communities in Kenya.</p>
<h3>What challenges do you often face and how do you overcome them?</h3>
<p>One of the common challenges is balancing different volunteer needs, project requirements, and unexpected changes in the field. I overcome these challenges through clear communication, careful planning, teamwork, and flexibility.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I also believe in listening to our partners and volunteers, learning from each experience, and finding practical solutions that keep our programs impactful and running smoothly.</p>
<h3>What are some current projects you are working on?</h3>
<p>I’m currently working on expanding Volunteer Safari Initiative’s conservation and community development programs across Kenya. This includes developing new volunteer opportunities in wildlife conservation, marine and mangrove conservation, community empowerment, and youth programs.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I’m also building partnerships with local organizations and communities to create sustainable projects that provide meaningful experiences for volunteers while delivering long-term benefits to local communities and the environment.</p>
<h3>Why should someone choose Volunteer Safari Initiative over competitors?</h3>
<p>People should choose Volunteer Safari Initiative because we are committed to creating genuine, meaningful impact rather than simply providing volunteer experiences. We work closely with local communities and conservation partners to ensure that our projects respond to real needs and create lasting benefits.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We believe volunteering should be a two-way learning experience, where participants contribute their time and skills while also learning from the people, culture, and environment around them. Our volunteers receive personalized support before and throughout their placement, helping them feel prepared, welcomed, and connected to their projects. We also provide opportunities to experience authentic Kenyan culture, explore the country, and build meaningful relationships with local communities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>What makes VSI special is our focus on responsible volunteering, genuine partnerships, and creating experiences that benefit both participants and the communities they serve.</p>
<h3>What is Volunteer Safari Initiative's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?</h3>
<p>Our mission at Volunteer Safari Initiative is to create meaningful opportunities that connect volunteers with local communities and conservation projects across Kenya while promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We believe volunteering should create genuine value for the communities involved while giving participants the opportunity to learn, contribute, and experience Kenya in an authentic way. We work toward this mission by building strong partnerships with local communities, conservation organizations, and other stakeholders to develop programs that respond to real needs.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We support initiatives focused on wildlife conservation, environmental protection, community empowerment, education, and cultural exchange. We also ensure that volunteers receive the guidance and support they need to participate responsibly.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Through these efforts, we aim to create lasting relationships, encourage cross-cultural understanding, and ensure that every volunteer experience contributes positively to both people and the environment.</p>
<h3>What makes Volunteer Safari Initiative special?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1789721058/images2/interviews/NZcH6MTvWrIMNWU98SJCn6JJyQpsg2BYHXvtAVAB.jpg" alt="Participants at Lumo Conservancy"><div class="caption"><p>Participants at Lumo Conservancy</p></div></div>
<p>What makes Volunteer Safari Initiative special is our focus on genuine impact, meaningful connections, and authentic Kenyan experiences. We work directly with local communities and conservation partners, ensuring volunteers contribute to projects that address real needs.&nbsp;</p>
<p>At the same time, we create opportunities for volunteers to learn, grow, experience our culture, and leave a positive and lasting contribution.</p>
<h3>What hopes do you have for the future for Volunteer Safari Initiative?</h3>
<p>My hope is for Volunteer Safari Initiative to grow into a leading volunteer organization in Kenya, creating more meaningful opportunities for international volunteers while making a greater impact in conservation and community development.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I hope to expand our partnerships, support more communities, and develop sustainable projects that create lasting benefits for both people and the environment.</p>
<h3>Are there any developments with Volunteer Safari Initiative that you would like to share with us?</h3>
<p>None, for now.</p>
<h3>What makes Volunteer Safari Initiative easy to market to potential participants?</h3>
<p>Volunteer Safari Initiative is easy to market because it offers authentic, meaningful experiences that combine volunteering, travel, culture, and conservation. Participants can make a real difference while exploring Kenya and connecting with local communities.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Our diverse projects, personalized support, and focus on genuine impact make VSI appealing to students, gap-year travelers, families, and anyone looking for purposeful travel.</p>
<h3>What do you hope participants take away from your programs?</h3>
<p>I hope participants leave Volunteer Safari Initiative with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Kenya, its people, culture, wildlife, and environment.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Beyond the memories, adventures, and experiences they gain during their stay, I want them to feel they made a genuine, positive contribution to a community or conservation project. I hope their time with us gives them an opportunity to learn new skills, build confidence, discover new perspectives, and develop meaningful relationships with local communities and fellow volunteers from around the world.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I also want participants to understand that responsible volunteering is about listening, learning, respecting local cultures, and working together to create meaningful change. Most importantly, I hope they return home inspired to continue making a positive difference in their own communities and to become ambassadors for responsible travel, conservation, cultural understanding, and global citizenship.</p>
<h3>Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?</h3>
<p>Traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures helps us see the world from different perspectives and understand that there are many different ways of living, thinking, and connecting with others. It teaches us to appreciate diversity, challenge our assumptions, and become more open-minded and respectful of people whose traditions and experiences may be different from our own.&nbsp;</p>
<p>For me, travel is not only about visiting new destinations, but also about building meaningful relationships, learning from local communities, and discovering the values and stories that shape different cultures. It encourages personal growth, builds confidence, and teaches us to adapt to new environments.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I believe international travel can also promote greater understanding between people and break down cultural barriers. When we travel with an open mind and a willingness to learn, we return home with more than memories—we gain new perspectives, friendships, knowledge, and a deeper appreciation of the diverse world we share.</p>
<h3>How do you help support participants?</h3>
<p>We support participants from the moment they begin planning their trip until they complete their volunteer experience. We provide clear information before arrival, assist with travel planning and logistics, offer orientation and guidance on the ground, and remain available throughout their stay. We also ensure they feel welcomed, safe, supported, and connected to their projects and host communities.</p>
<h3>If you could participate on one of Volunteer Safari Initiative's programs, where would you go and what would you do?</h3>
<p>If I could participate in one of our programs, I would choose a wildlife conservation project in Kenya. I would love to spend time in the field supporting conservation activities, learning more about wildlife, and working alongside local communities. It would be rewarding to experience the work from a volunteer’s perspective while contributing directly to protecting Kenya’s natural heritage.</p>
<h3>What questions do participants often ask you, and how do you typically respond?</h3>
<p>Participants often ask about safety, accommodation, costs, daily activities, transport, and what they will be doing during their volunteer placement. I respond with clear and honest information, explain what to expect, and help them prepare before arrival. I also encourage them to ask questions so they feel confident, informed, and comfortable throughout their experience.</p>
<h3>Why do you think learning a new language is important?</h3>
<p>I believe learning a new language is important because it helps us connect with people and understand their culture on a deeper level. It opens our minds to different perspectives, builds confidence, and makes travel and communication more meaningful. Even learning a few local words can show respect and create genuine connections with the communities we visit.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned " ><img src="https://images.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1789721058/images2/interviews/QItdocDU5hmehsl3oXqSnACgZQNJLEJcW7zGEBq2.jpg" alt="With volunteers at the Mangrove rest0ration project"><div class="caption"><p>With volunteers at the Mangrove restoration project</p></div></div>
<p>Meaningful travel means going beyond sightseeing and creating genuine connections with people, cultures, and places.&nbsp;</p>
<p>To me, travel is about learning from local communities, understanding their way of life, respecting their traditions, and appreciating the environment we share. It is also about being a responsible visitor and ensuring that our presence creates a positive impact rather than simply taking from the places we visit.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Through meaningful travel, we have an opportunity to exchange knowledge, share experiences, build friendships, and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and perspectives. I believe the most valuable journeys are those that challenge us to step outside our comfort zones and see the world differently.&nbsp;</p>
<p>For me, the true measure of a journey is not only the memories or photographs we take home, but also the relationships we build, the lessons we learn, and the positive contribution we leave behind. Meaningful travel should inspire personal growth, cultural understanding, responsible tourism, and a desire to continue making a difference long after the journey ends.</p>
<h3>What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?</h3>
<p>My advice is to be open-minded, curious, and willing to step outside your comfort zone. Research your destination, respect the local culture, and prepare yourself for new experiences and challenges.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Don’t be afraid to meet new people or try something different. Most importantly, travel with an open heart and a willingness to learn—you may return home with a completely new perspective on the world.</p>
<h3>What issues do you see in the world of international education that don't line up with your values and expectations for mutually beneficial &amp; educational relationships between providers/programs and the communities in which they are located within?</h3>
<p>One issue I see in international education is that some programs can focus more on the participant’s experience than on the needs of the local community. This can create unequal relationships where communities have limited input or benefit.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I believe programs should be built on genuine partnerships, respect local knowledge, involve communities in decision-making, and create sustainable benefits. International education should be a two-way exchange where participants learn while also making a meaningful and responsible contribution.</p>
<h3>What does ethical global engagement mean to you?</h3>
<p>Ethical global engagement means building relationships based on respect, equality, and mutual benefit.&nbsp;</p>
<p>To me, it means listening to local communities, valuing their knowledge and culture, and ensuring they have a meaningful voice in the programs that affect them.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>What hopes do you have for the future of international education?</h3>
<p>I hope international education becomes more inclusive, ethical, and focused on mutual benefit. I would like to see stronger partnerships between educational programs and local communities, with greater respect for local knowledge and culture.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I hope students have opportunities to learn through meaningful experiences while contributing positively to the communities they visit. Ultimately, international education should build understanding, global citizenship, and lasting positive connections.</p>
<h3>What qualities in program &amp; host community relations are important to you? (And Volunteer Safari Initiative)</h3>
<p>For me and Volunteer Safari Initiative, strong relationships with host communities should be built on respect, trust, communication, and mutual benefit. We value listening to local communities, respecting their culture and knowledge, and involving them in decision-making.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We also believe in transparency, accountability, and long-term partnerships that create meaningful benefits for both the community and program participants.<br></p>

Victor Owino

Get to know the people behind Volunteer Safari Initiative! Check out this GoAbroad Staff Interview with Victor Owino.

Victor Owino | Volunteer Safari Initiative Staff Interview

Volunteer Safari Initiative Staff Interview with Victor Owino

Claret Jacinta Oduor

Get to know the people behind Volunteer Safari Initiative! Check out this GoAbroad Staff Interview with Claret Jacinta Oduor.

Claret Jacinta Oduor | Volunteer Safari Initiative

Volunteer Safari Initiative Staff Interview with Claret Jacinta Oduor

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