When we travel, we often talk about “experiencing the culture” of a place, but what does that really mean?
What’s for sure is that culture is far more than food, festivals, or famous landmarks. It’s a complex, layered system of shared values, traditions, expressions, and daily habits that shape how people live, interact, and see the world.
In this guide, we explore what makes up a country’s culture, diving into the key elements that create a nation’s unique identity. Whether you’re planning a trip abroad, exploring culture through journaling or crafts, or simply curious about global diversity, this overview offers insight into how culture is formed and how we can better understand and respect it.
Make sure to check out our blogs in the categories of Cultural Exchange & Understanding, Educational Exploration & Lifelong Learning, Creativity & Self-Expression, Environmental & Social Consciousness, and Connection to Self & Community.)
CULTURAL DEEP DIVE
LANGUAGE, COMMUNICATION & STORYTELLING
At the heart of every culture is language. This includes not just the spoken tongue but local dialects, writing systems, alphabets, idioms, sayings, and even body language, gestures, and storytelling traditions.
And don’t forget communication styles. Some cultures place emphasis on directness, while others communicate through nuance and tone. The way people speak (or remain silent) offers deep insight into social values and interpersonal dynamics.
A country’s literature, creation stories, myths & legends, and oral traditions also reveal how its people make sense of the world. What do you know about a country’s people’s beliefs and superstitions? What (cosmological) explanations do they have of the world?
Whether it’s epic poetry, folktales, fairy tales, fables, historical novels, or contemporary fiction, written and spoken narratives preserve memory and convey values. Look up national and regional authors to get to know more of a destination through storytelling.
READING TIP: Learn Japanese, find the best travel journal prompts, go on a language holiday in Norway, get inspired by author Paulo Coelho quotes, get better at storytelling, or read about the history of travel writing.
RELIGION, SPIRITUALITY & WORLDVIEW
Each culture is underpinned by unique values, philosophies, and worldviews: core beliefs about success, freedom, beauty, happiness, time, nature, the environment, social justice, community, well-being and the meaning of…
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