Tagged: Immigrants

Feb 15

No, it’s not you – they just like to stare

For people coming from North American cultures, it is often hard to get used to what can feel likeMarc Shandro opposite cultural norms in other places. I’m going to talk about two – personal space and staring.

I think that the whole personal space phenomenon only exists within the US borders (Canada may be included, too). For most other people, standing at arms distance to speak with someone is unheard of – much less practiced. For instance, in most Spanish and French speaking countries, it is customary to greet people, even for the first time, with a kiss. Right there you eliminate the possibility of keeping a “safe” distance. Once that barrier has been breached, it is likely that the rest of  your conversation will be held at a very close proximity. The funny thing is, when I am in cultures with this norm, I’m perfectly fine. But, if someone dares to try the same thing while I’m in the states, I am practically offended. It’s like my mind shifts its expectations depending on the geographic location.

the b@man As for staring, it can also feel like an invasion of personal space. I remember going to Haiti on vacation as a teenager and felt so self-conscious because people kept staring at me. Contrary to American culture where when someone is caught doing this they immediately feel shame, you can actually have a staring contest (which you will surely lose) with Haitians. They are not at all bothered by being caught staring – nor do they feel the need to explain why they’re doing it. I find Venezuelans to be similar – although, they try to be a bit more discrete. It’s a good thing I’ve already shifted my norms ;-)

Photo credits: Marc Shandro and B@man

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Dec 27

Auxiliares de vuelo, a prepararse para el aterrizaje.

It’s official! We are now an immigrant/expat family living in Caracas, Venezuela.

As expected, it’s been exhausting trying to get settled. What has given me the motivation to get up and continue the never-ending unpacking is this…

This is the view I get to wake up (and go to sleep) to from now on. I am a self-proclaimed small town gal, so this big city living is going to be interesting. I am starting to get used to the sounds of the cars honking (who knew noise could rise so high) and the smells – yes, cities smell differently to me.

I’m going to let you in on top secret information – my mission in Caracas (which I chose to accept) is to eat at as many restaurants as humanly possible. As I progress with this arduous task, I will share my findings with you from time to time – only because I completely trust you ;-)

In the next few days, I will post about my first impressions of Caracas.

Saludos,

Deborah

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