As I settle into my new home away from home in Auckland, New Zealand, I have once again begun to explore the culture and sights all around. This is my third time studying abroad and the fifteenth country I’ve visited. In all that traveling, I have encountered many fellow Americans abroad, and unfortunately, many of them are less-than-thoughtful travelers.
There is a common thread through much of what they say, and as I’ve settled into New Zealand, I’ve heard it all again: “New Zealand is so much nicer than the U.S.”
On the surface, this seems like a compliment, but it’s an insult to both countries. New Zealand and the United States are very different, so it’s impossible to assess which is better. This attitude that one must be better is detrimental to traveling thoughtfully. Comparing the two will only result in the traveler not understanding New Zealand and not appreciating the U.S.
It’s hard to make accurate observations when in a country for such a short time. Things on the surface often do not reflect the problems the locals might face. It’s best not to say things about a country unless you’ve done the research, heard the locals talk, and interacted with the culture. I’ve found that someone making a statement like “New Zealand is better because…” comes from a place of ignorance or not understanding the culture. It’s good to focus on learning rather than rushing to make assumptions.
Similarly, the U.S. is a huge country, and each state has its own culture, history, and problems. So, what may be a problem in one state could very well not be a problem in another, so it’s very important for people who go abroad not to make generalizations about America at large.
Comparisons are always a bad idea. A thoughtful traveler never has to bring down one country to lift up another. All countries are so diverse and different that making comparisons that make one good and the other bad never helps with cultural understanding or appreciation. Always opt for merely learning about the host country on its own, and try not to let the cultural influence of other nations cloud the perspective of the host country.
These things are crucial to understanding the host country and truly getting to know the culture of a people group. Although it can be hard to leave expectations and bias at the door, it will result in a more freeing experience in which one can learn far more than when inhibited by comparing cultures and norms.
I have thought much about this in my travels, and entering New Zealand has been no different. I have been eager to explore the culture here and have been able to truly appreciate New Zealand’s unique and diverse flora and fauna.
Hannah Major, Grove City College, is interning abroad in Auckland with TEAN.
