Being Culturally Aware

  I've learned in my past experiences with traveling that being culturally aware and understanding of others cultures and customs is a huge key when visiting different countries.  When I went to Panama, my first mind set of the people were that they all hated Americans, or "Gringos" as they call us, and that they wouldn't be helpful or nice to us at all.  But when I got there, I saw that they are possibly the nicest people I've ever met.  I tend to go across the pond to Ireland and Scotland with a different, more open mindset of their culture, seeing as I didn't do such in my previous trip.  Being aware of a culture is also key to not disrespect the people.  Here in America, we think everything we do is right and that everyone in the world should follow and abide by the "American" way.  But what works for us, doesn't necessarily work for them.  With a different background and culture, no way is the right way for two sets of cultures and we should all see that, and also be able to understand and influence others around us of this knowledge that we are going to come and acquire!