Overcoming Culture Shock as a Nigerian Traveler: What to do

Traveling to a new country is exciting – new foods to try, places to explore, and cultures to experience. But in reality, stepping into a foreign land as a Nigerian traveler can sometimes feel like stepping into an alien world.

Culture shock is real, but don’t worry; it is also manageable. Think of it as part of the adventure, like figuring out how to convert naira to dollars or realizing you packed moin-moin in your hand luggage.

If you are worried about blending in and enjoying your travels without the occasional “Why are they staring at me like this?” moment, here is a guide to help you overcome culture shock and make the most of your trip.

1. Do Your Homework Before You Travel

Culture shock hits harder when you have no idea what to expect. A quick search can save you from awkward moments – like trying to greet someone with a handshake in Thailand, only to find out bowing is the custom.

Before you travel, research:

• Local greetings and gestures. Are hugs okay? Should you bow?
• Food and dining habits. Can you eat with your hands, or is that a cultural crime?
• Dress codes. Nobody wants to feel overdressed or underdressed.

Remember, ignorance isn’t always bliss, especially when it comes to cultural norms.

2. Learn a Few Local Phrases

You don’t need to become fluent in Spanish, French, or Mandarin before your trip, but learning a few basic phrases can go a long way in helping you connect with locals. Words like “hello,” “thank you,” “please,” and “sorry” are lifesavers.

Pro tip: Write them down or use language apps. Locals will appreciate your effort, even if your pronunciation is a bit “Nigerianized.”

Fun fact: Trying to pronounce “Bonjour” properly in Paris might earn you a smile – or at least a little patience.

3. Adjust to the Food (And Spice Levels)

As a Nigerian, you are used to food that tells your taste buds, “Wake up!” But in many countries, food can be mild, sweet, or even raw. Sushi? Salads? Boiled potatoes with no pepper? Be ready for a culinary culture shock.

To adapt:

• Carry small packs of pepper or suya spice because not everywhere understands the importance of “spicy.”
• Start slow. Don’t order the spiciest local dish unless you have confirmed it is “Nigerian-spicy” and not just “mild.”
• Be adventurous. You will miss out on amazing cuisines if you stick to jollof rice every time.

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4. Respect Their Time Culture

Nigerian “African time” won’t fly in countries where punctuality is sacred. In places like Germany or Japan, being five minutes late might as well be a crime.

How to cope:

• Always check schedules and arrive on time (or even early).
• If you are running late, inform the people you are meeting promptly.

If you are early and waiting feels awkward, pretend to scroll on your phone. Everyone’s doing it anyway.

5. Be Open-Minded About Social Norms

In some cultures, personal space is a big deal. In others, strangers can hug you like a long-lost family. Nigerians are naturally warm and expressive, but not everyone is ready for your hearty laughs or “how far?” banter.

Quick fixes:

• Observe how locals interact and mirror their behavior.
• If in doubt, keep it simple by smiling and nodding.

Pro tip: If someone seems reserved, it is not about you; it is just their culture. Don’t overthink it!

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6. Prepare for the Weather

If you are used to Lagos heat, landing in a wintery Europe or chilly Canada can feel like stepping into a freezer. On the flip side, tropical countries may feel hotter than Abuja on a sunny day.

How to adapt:

• Pack for the weather! Don’t forget scarves, gloves, or sunscreen, depending on your destination.
• If the weather overwhelms you, stay indoors until you adjust.

And yes, layering is your friend – don’t pack only agbada and Ankara!

7. Manage Your Expectations

Culture shock often comes from expecting things to work exactly as they do back home. But newsflash: not every country has an okada ready to whisk you to your destination in two minutes.

Adjust your mindset:

• Expect slower service in some places. Do not see it as rudeness but as their pace.
• Public transport might be more organized (or chaotic) than in Nigeria—go with the flow.

Pro tip: Be ready for the unexpected and enjoy the ride. You are on an adventure, after all!

Read also: Visa requirements and application processes

8. Be Financially Savvy

Foreign currencies can make you feel like you are spending Monopoly money. A meal in London can cost the equivalent of an entire week’s food budget in Nigeria.

To avoid financial culture shock:

• Research average prices and budget accordingly.
• Use apps to track your spending.
• Avoid converting every cost to naira in your head—it’ll stress you out.

Trust me, the first time you see a bottle of water for $3, you will thank me for this advice.

9. Stay Connected to Home

Feeling homesick is normal, but it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Sometimes, all you need is a little reminder of home to feel better.

What to do:

• Call family and friends regularly.
• Carry small items that remind you of home, like Nigerian food items or your favorite Afrobeats playlist.
• Find Nigerian restaurants or communities abroad. They exist almost everywhere, from London to Dubai.

Nothing beats hearing “Omo Naija!” when you are far from home.

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10. Laugh at Your Mistakes

You will make mistakes. You might use the wrong greeting, fumble with chopsticks, or accidentally enter a train without a ticket. It’s okay!

Instead of getting embarrassed:

• Laugh it off and learn from the experience.
• Share your funny stories with fellow Nigerians. It is part of the travel adventure.

Remember, no one expects you to get everything right. Just be respectful, curious, and willing to learn.

Stop and read this if you are traveling abroad soon!

Final Thoughts
Culture shock is part of the travel experience. It is what makes your journey memorable. With a little preparation and a lot of flexibility, you will not only survive but thrive in any new culture you encounter. So, pack your bags, step out of your comfort zone, and explore the world with an open mind.

Have you experienced culture shock as a Nigerian traveler? Share your stories in the comments; someone out there needs the laugh (or advice)!