Managing the Differences

 

    Looking back to the start of this trip to Great Britain and London, adjusting to the culture and lifestyle was easier than I expected. Starting our time at Harlaxton provided a soft landing—the environment felt relatively familiar and eased the transition. I think culture shock was more manageable because the U.S. and U.K. share many similarities in language, values, and popular culture. Being in a small group at the beginning also helped; it limited the cultural contrast before we dove into the vibrant mix of cultures in London. Spending time in the countryside first offered a gentle introduction to British culture and gave us time to observe the cues and subtle norms that shape daily interactions.

Although the U.K. shares a surface-level familiarity with the U.S., subtle but impactful cultural differences soon emerged. One of the most noticeable adjustments was in nonverbal communication. British interactions are often marked by politeness, respect, and thoughtfulness—expressed not through bold gestures or overt friendliness, but through quiet cues and restraint. Limited eye contact subdued facial expressions, and a generally reserved demeanor contrasted with the more expressive and direct style I’m used to back home. One of the first things I noticed was the understated nature of  British communication. Unlike in many American settings where directness is appreciated—even expected—the British often favor subtlety, irony, and an indirect approach. Even simple classroom discussions or casual conversations required more attention and reading between the lines.

Another major adjustment was the lifestyle pace and transportation system, especially in London. In the U.S., especially in areas outside of major cities, driving is the norm. Our infrastructure encourages car dependency, and public transportation is often underdeveloped or unreliable—even in large cities like Seattle or Los Angeles. In contrast, London’s public transit system is well-organized, fast-paced, and central to daily life. At first, it was overwhelming to navigate the Tube or plan routes based on bus schedules and transfers. However, I came to appreciate its efficiency and how seamlessly it connects the city.

More than that, walking became a central part of the experience. Unlike many American cities, London and other British towns are designed to be walkable. In places like Stamford, I walked from one end of the town to the other with ease. Walking through cities offered a richer, more intimate view of the culture. I noticed architectural details I would have missed in a car, stumbled upon hidden cafés and local markets, and had countless opportunities to observe how people live, work, and interact. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the layered history of the city—how medieval alleyways, Victorian storefronts, and modern buildings coexist in a living, breathing landscape. This shift in daily life required more mental and physical energy, but it also reshaped how I think about movement, space, and connection.

Cultural adaptation brought its own challenges. As our text explains, successful adaptation involves learning about the host culture, avoiding ethnocentrism, and maintaining connection with one’s own cultural identity. One challenge I encountered was the expected pleasantries in conversation. In the U.S., it’s common to get straight to the point, especially in casual or professional contexts. In the U.K., starting with “Hope you’re well” or a similar greeting isn’t just polite—it’s often expected. I also struggled at times with British sense of humor, which often involves sarcasm hidden behind politeness. I missed some cues early on, which led to awkward moments, but those experiences became valuable lessons in understanding deeper cultural nuances.

According to our course text, “Culture shock can be lessened and adaptation accelerated if one becomes aware of the host culture’s fundamental characteristics.” I’ve learned that observing without judgment, pausing before reacting, and asking questions are essential tools in intercultural communication. Documenting and reflecting through these blog posts has also been a powerful way to enhance acculturation. Looking back, I realize that researching culture more deeply—whether through media, literature, or firsthand stories—could have helped me adapt more smoothly. Understanding local values, humor, and daily habits ahead of time would have offered an even stronger foundation.

Returning home from the U.K. came with its own form of adjustment. Reverse Culture shock is very real. Even after a relatively short time abroad, my perspective had changed. I returned home with more independence, cultural awareness, and even new tastes and habits. Jet lag and travel fatigue added another layer of difficulty. Staying awake on long flights, reentering familiar environments with a new mindset, and managing expectations required intentional care. I found that giving myself space to transition, staying hydrated, and setting realistic goals helped make the return process smoother.

In class, we discussed two key philosophical perspectives that shape how we understand intercultural communication: relativism and universalism. Relativism  suggests that cultural norms and values are context-dependent, meaning that ethical systems can vary, and no one system is inherently superior. This perspective helped me interpret British indirectness and formality not as strange, but as culturally meaningful. On the other hand, universalism argues that some ethical standards—like human dignity or respect—should apply across cultures. While relativism promotes openness, universalism helps maintain accountability when practices cause harm or contradict shared values. Balancing these two perspectives has helped me think more critically about my assumptions and how I engage in intercultural situations—whether abroad or at home.

Reflecting on this journey has sparked a desire to explore more of the U.K., especially Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. Each of these nations has its own rich cultural heritage, languages, and traditions distinct from England. From the Gaelic roots of the Scottish Highlands to the literary and musical traditions of Dublin, to the storytelling culture of Wales, these regions offer unique identities that I’m eager to understand more deeply. Immersing myself in those environments would not only expand my knowledge of the British Isles but also push me to grow further in intercultural competence.

As we packed our bags and said our goodbyes, I felt deep gratitude for what London and England have taught me—not just about history and travel, but about how I interact with the world. Cultural adjustment wasn’t always easy, but it was worth it. The best preparation for future intercultural exchanges isn’t just knowing what to pack or which phrases to memorize—it’s approaching each experience with humility, curiosity, and a willingness to grow. Whether I’m traveling abroad or exploring new communities back home, I’m not only learning from the people I meet, but also from the cultures that shape them—and me.