Blake McCoy Discusses How to Truly Experience New Culture While Traveling

One of the most common reasons people travel is to experience a new way of life. This often comes with the desire to immerse yourself in a new culture. Here are some tips to help you take full advantage of your trip.

Do Research Beforehand

Before you leave, make sure that you thoroughly research the country’s traditions and customs. Doing so will allow you to better understand how the locals live. You should also learn how people greet one another, their eye contact, and their thoughts on specific clothing. The local customs of some cultures are strict, and the locals may not like tourists breaking their rules.

Learn the Language

Getting to know a new language can be incredibly challenging, but improving your vocabulary is also possible. Although English is widely used, it’s always assumed that some people in the country do not speak it.

In addition, learn how to use simple words such as “thank you,” “hello,” and “please.” You can also learn how to ask someone if they’re fluent in English or not. Commenting on someone’s status in the local language, saying “hi” or “how are you,” is appreciated.

Support Local Restaurants

Food is a vital part of a country’s culture. When you consume the local food, you actively participate in the culture through your taste buds. Examples of countries that are known for their cuisine include India, Japan, and Italy. One of the most amazing things about traveling to a country is eating its food at the source.

Volunteer

If you plan on staying in a country for a couple of weeks, try volunteering for the local population. Doing so will allow you to experience a deeper understanding of the country’s culture. Working overseas can provide various benefits, such as spiritual growth, financial stability, and educational advancement.

Go Beyond Tourism

Most of the time, tourist attractions are full of people due to the number of people who want to see what the country offers. But, by learning about local culture, you can broaden your perspective and visit places not commonly visited by tourists. Outside tourist hotspots and crowds, you can discover the hidden beauty in a country you visit.

About Blake McCoy

Blake McCoy is a dynamic, engaging broadcast journalist with a depth of experience. As a network news correspondent, Blake has traveled the country sharing stories of human triumph and tragedy, struggle and perseverance. As a local anchor, Blake has connected with audiences by leading top-rated newscasts with authenticity, accuracy and care.

Blake McCoy’s news journey began in Boise, Idaho where he spent nearly two years establishing the foundation for his career as a reporter and morning anchor at KBOI-TV.

Next stop was Las Vegas, NV where Blake McCoy worked as reporter and weekend anchor at KTNV, ABC Action News. Vegas had gone from boom to bust overnight, rattled by the 2008 financial crisis. Reporting on tourism from the fast-paced Las Vegas Strip, Blake found new urgency in the constant push for reinvention. Just beyond the neon, reporting juxtaposed with deeply personal stories of job loss, home foreclosure and desperation.

After three years in Las Vegas, Blake McCoy’s next career opportunity came from the highly respected, award-winning team at KARE 11, NBC in Minneapolis, MN. Blake would keep is schedule anchoring weekend evenings and reporting on important issues in the community. At KARE 11, Blake’s authenticity and smart reporting was quickly embraced by viewers of their #1 rated newscasts.

Prior to embarking on a career in broadcasting, Blake McCoy graduated with honors from The George Washington University, earning a double-major Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Political Science. He spent a semester abroad in England, studying European politics at the University of Manchester.