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Expat Advice: Culture Shock in Valencia, Spain

Jun 20, 2020

Share Your Experiences with Culture Shock

Valencia, Spain

An expat who studied anthropology has adjusted to life in Valencia and talks about his approach to avoiding culture shock.

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Valencia

Did you receive any cross-cultural training for your move abroad? If yes, was it before or after the move?

Studied Anthropology In Sydney, Australia

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If they speak another language in your new country, do you speak the language? If yes, did you learn the language before you moved or while abroad? If no, are you planning to learn the language?

Yes, learnt Spanish in last 5 months.

Were you worried or concerned about culture shock before you moved abroad?

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How significant was the culture shock you experienced when you moved abroad?

Did not experience culture shock or any other shocks, including COVID-19.

Expats often talk about going through the "stages of culture shock." Examples include the honeymoon phase, the irritation-to-anger stage, the rejection of the culture stage, and the cultural adjustment phase. Do you feel like you went through these or any other stages as you settled into the new culture?

What, if any, were some of the changes you noticed in yourself that might have been caused by culture shock? These might include things such as anger, depression, anxiety, increased eating or drinking, frustration, homesickness, etc.

None. I am a perpetual traveler & embrace change wherever I experience it.

What are some things you appreciate most about the new culture?

The ability to interact & communicate to understand another view of the world.

What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?

Cannot think of any.

Did you "commit" any embarrassing or humorous cultural blunders? If you did and you'd like to share them, please do tell!

Pronunciation of words in local dialect but I boldly embrace errors & place empathy towards others above my fears.

Do you have any advice or thoughts about culture shock you would like to share?

I don't believe in culture shock. If anyone choose to be shocked then it will happen, if the choice is not to be shocked then no shock will happen. Keep an open mind, because like a parachute, it works best when it is open.

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