To gain a deep understanding of a culture while traveling abroad, one should interact with local residents rather than other tourists, learn some of the language even if it's difficult, and join local community groups. They should also research current events, be open to new experiences, and avoid forming stereotypes about the people or place.

1. Joann McPike on the Best Ways to
Benefit from Cultural Immersion
While Abroad

2. ● Travellers wishing to gain a deep
understanding of a particular country, language,
and culture will not get the experience they
seek by staying in a hotel, interacting only with
fellow compatriots, and sticking to the tourist
hotspots.
● Before you visit, research not only the basic
history, but also the current events that are
taking place at your destination.
● Be open to conversing with the residents, and
be open to unexpected invitations, as long as
you feel safe.

3. ● If you wish to learn the language, dive into the
deep end. Instead of reverting to your native
language when you get stuck, use gestures and
the words you do know to get your point across.
● Resist forming social groups based on your
common language, even though it’s tempting.
● If you are staying for a while, join a local
community group or club, or take up a
recreational activity.
● More than anything, recognize that you will face
difficulties along the way, and try not to view the
experiences negatively, make comparisons, or
form stereotypes about an ethnic group or a
city.

4. ● Joann McPike launched the IB-authorized
Think Global School in 2010, committed to
offering high school students a four year
program of comprehensive education in twelve
different international cities.
● A resident in the Bahamas, Joann McPike has
lived in seven countries, and photographed
images of nature and humanity in
approximately 100 different countries during her
work as a travel photographer.