The Cultural Icebreakers Rick Steves Recommends For Building Friendships Abroad

Anyone who has spent time abroad for an extended period knows it can be difficult to fully integrate into a foreign culture. Different languages, cultures, and even unfamiliar daily routines can cause barriers. Even those spending a short amount of time in any one city can feel out of sorts. To perhaps overcompensate, they try too hard and become obnoxious tourists that no one wants to be around. You know the type, the ones who go to Germany, purchase lederhosen for Oktoberfest, and proceed to throw up outside the venue, or the ones with their camera in the face of the sweet Italian grandma just trying to make a living rolling pasta. European travel guru Rick Steves has suggestions on how to avoid becoming an annoying tourist when visiting the continent.

In a post on his website, Steves says that visitors shouldn't think of their trip in "terms of photo ops, but be open to encounters that don't fit your preconceptions." So, how can visitors entering a new country and culture achieve this?  Steves suggests that visitors should become "cultural chameleons" or "temporary locals," meaning they should try tuning into the rhythm of daily life and look for opportunities to connect with locals. Be open to new opportunities, and learn to roll with the punches! The more accepting visitors are of a different culture, the less like an outsider they will feel. 

According to Steves, there are numerous activities tourists can join in on to feel more involved in local life. For a start, visit a new city with the age-old saying "the early bird gets the worm" in mind. In many European countries, mornings are when most of the action happens. Markets are often open and bustling by 7 a.m., people are out on terraces enjoying their morning espresso and newspaper, and walkers are out enjoying an early morning stroll. Breathe in the energy of a new day while surrounding yourself with culture, and as Steves says, "Among travelers, the early bird gets the memories." 

His second suggestion is to take the roads less traveled. It shouldn't be a shock to hear that places like the Colosseum in Rome or St. Mark's Square in Venice will be crowded. Instead of becoming a sardine in the mass of people attempting to take a photo in front of the Trevi Fountain, walk a few blocks out of the way to a lesser-known area. You never know what you might find.

Exploring the unknown will open the door to new opportunities and adventures, and maybe you'll even discover something incredible along the way. With this in mind, Steves also recommends joining in on an evening walk. One of the best pastimes throughout many cities in Europe is joining in on a stroll, where grandparents watch their grandchildren play, and friends gather to enjoy each other's company. Another great opportunity to immerse yourself in culture is to visit a park. It's a great way to get outside and enjoy some fresh air while also enjoying a day amongst the locals. 

While some may feel that meeting new people while abroad is too challenging simply by taking a stroll or visiting a market, Steves has a few other tricks up his sleeve. One is to join in on a famous European pastime and head to a soccer match. If you've ever visited a city when their team is playing, you may know what a crazy experience it can be. Everyone is out on the streets wearing team colors, singing songs, and sharing beers. The passion Europeans have for sporting events is next level. Purchase a scarf, wave a flag, and join the masses as they cheer on their team — it will be an experience you won't forget. 

If you are in town for a local festival, don't be afraid to join in! It's a great way to learn about the city's history and traditions while having fun. Lastly, Steves suggests something for the brave of heart — challenging a local to their national pastime. He goes on to say that when visiting a teahouse in Greece or Turkey, visitors should feel free to challenge someone to a game of backgammon. Why? According to Rick, "You're instantly a part or a star of the cafe or bar scene ... what starts as a simple game becomes a fun duel of international significance." Although a quick trip to a new city may not result in having the time to make significant friendships, there are still many ways to get out of the typical tourist comfort zone and immerse oneself in the local culture.