Living or moving into in a foreign country is never an easy thing to do. Not only do we have to adapt with the language, but also we have to get used to the culture and the little things we have taken for granted. For instance, I remember that in my first few weeks here in New York City, I was always walking in the wrong side of the road. In Indonesia, people drive and walk on the left side of the road. The thing was that I knew and was aware in the US that the traffic is on the right, and crossing the street always made me nervous. But what I didn't realize was people also walk on the right side. I could not figure this out for my first few weeks here. I always walked on the wrong side of the road, on the sidewalk, in the subway station, in the hallways, in the supermarket. I was so frustrated! I was always in the middle of other people's way, and I also felt that people were always in the middle of my way. Finally I started to realize it and trying hard to follow the 'American's way'. However, it was not easy to break the habit of walking in the left side. It took me a few months before I finally got used to walking on the right side. Now it feels normal to me. However, I guess when I go back to Indonesia, I will be confused again, because I have to switch to walking and driving on the left side again.
Do you feel the same? Do you have any similar experience?
4 comments:
I feel exactly the same!
In my coutry, the trafic is on the left side of the road, too!
But I have already gotton used to American style!
In my country,we walk and drive on the left side,too.
Few months ago, I bumped a big man.
He looked angry and I felt pain.
I was little scary...--:
So I was able to change my habit.
Sumiko, your husband let you drive like that?? Wow, that must have been scary for him. =). So, does it feel normal for you to drive in the US now? Does anyone have another kind of experience in adjusting to the US culture besides walking and driving? You guys can post your stories too...
Have a fabulous weekend to you all!
I had driven in CA!! As aki said,Japanese traffic rules are opposite in the United State's.So at first, I drove the way of reverce! My husband must be scared...Also, When I blink direction light, somehow the wiper begun moving. Yes, even the function of the car was made all oposite!!!I often feel empty ><
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