5 Unfamiliar Foreign Habits Different From Indonesia

Hey guys! Ever wondered about those everyday habits people have abroad that seem super different from what we do here in Indonesia? It's always fascinating to explore cultural nuances, right? Let's dive into five common examples that often raise an eyebrow or two for Indonesians venturing overseas. These aren't about good or bad, just different ways of living!

1. Personal Space is a Big Deal

One of the most noticeable differences when you're in many Western countries, like the US or parts of Europe, is the concept of personal space. Back home in Indonesia, we're generally a very warm and physically affectionate society. Think about it: we often stand closer when we chat, a friendly pat on the back is common, and crowds in public transport or markets are just part of the everyday hustle. We're used to a certain level of physical closeness. However, in many foreign cultures, especially those influenced by Northern European or North American norms, there's a much larger bubble of personal space that people expect. Standing too close during a conversation can feel intrusive or even aggressive to them. This means during casual chats, on public transport, or even when queuing, you'll find people maintaining a greater distance. It’s not that they’re unfriendly; it’s just a deeply ingrained cultural norm. For Indonesians, this might initially feel a bit cold or distant, but it’s simply a different way of showing respect for individual boundaries. Remember, when you're abroad, try to be mindful of this. Give people a bit more room than you normally would. It's a small adjustment that can make a big difference in how you interact and how comfortable others feel around you. This emphasis on personal space also extends to homes and private areas. While Indonesian homes might be more open to guests dropping by spontaneously, in many foreign cultures, an appointment or a heads-up is often preferred before visiting someone’s place. It’s all about respecting their private sanctuary. So, next time you're chatting with someone from abroad, consciously take a small step back – they’ll likely appreciate it! It's a subtle yet significant cultural cue that speaks volumes about respecting individual autonomy and comfort zones.

2. Tipping Culture: A Whole Different Ballgame

Ah, tipping! This is a big one that often confuses and sometimes frustrates Indonesians when they travel. In Indonesia, tipping isn't a mandatory or expected part of the service culture. While you might leave a small tip for exceptional service, it's usually voluntary and often seen as a bonus rather than a standard practice. Many restaurants and services in Indonesia already include a service charge in the bill, making tipping feel redundant. But guys, when you head to countries like the United States, Canada, or even some European nations, tipping is practically an obligation. In the US, for instance, service staff often rely heavily on tips for their income, as their base wages can be quite low. It's common to tip around 15-20% of the bill for restaurant servers, bartenders, taxi drivers, hotel bellhops, and even hairdressers. Forgetting to tip, or tipping too little, can be seen as incredibly rude and stingy. This can be a shock to the system! Suddenly, a simple meal out can become significantly more expensive than you anticipated. It’s essential to do your research before you travel. Understand the tipping customs of the specific country you’re visiting. In some places, like Japan, tipping is generally not practiced and can even be considered offensive because it implies the service wasn't good enough on its own. So, it’s not a universal rule, but where it is expected, it’s crucial to comply. Budgeting for tips is a key part of planning your trip abroad to avoid awkward situations and ensure you're showing appropriate appreciation for good service. Keep a mental note (or a written one!) of the percentage expected and be prepared to factor it into your expenses. It's a financial and social dance that's quite different from our own.

3. Queuing and Orderliness: The Art of Waiting

If you've ever been in a crowded Indonesian market or waited for public transport, you know that sometimes, 'queuing' can be a rather… flexible concept. While many Indonesians do understand and practice queuing, in densely populated areas or during peak times, the lines can get a bit blurred. It’s often a more communal, sometimes chaotic, experience. Now, contrast this with many countries, particularly in East Asia (like Japan and South Korea) and Northern Europe, where queuing is an almost sacred ritual. People form neat, orderly lines for everything – boarding buses, buying tickets, waiting for a table at a restaurant, even waiting for the elevator. Pushing ahead or cutting in line is considered extremely impolite and will likely earn you disapproving stares or even a verbal reprimand. This adherence to orderliness is fascinating. It reflects a broader societal emphasis on fairness, respect for others' time, and collective responsibility. For Indonesians, this can be a refreshing change or a slightly frustrating adjustment. You might find yourself waiting patiently in a perfectly formed line, wondering why everyone else is so calm about it, while your instinct might be to try and get things done faster. It highlights how different cultures approach shared resources and public spaces. Embracing the queue is part of respecting the local culture. It shows you understand and value their social norms. So, when you see a line, join it and wait your turn. It’s a simple act, but it’s a powerful way to integrate and show you’re a considerate traveler. This discipline in public spaces is often a marker of highly organized societies, where efficiency and mutual respect are paramount. It's about understanding that everyone is in the same boat, and respecting the system ensures a smoother experience for all.

4. Directness in Communication: Say What You Mean?

Communication styles vary wildly across the globe, and this is a massive area where Indonesian indirectness contrasts sharply with foreign direct communication. In Indonesia, we often prioritize harmony and avoiding confrontation. This means we might use subtle hints, read between the lines, or employ intermediaries to convey messages, especially if they might be sensitive or critical. Saying 'no' directly can be difficult, and we often opt for softer, more ambiguous responses to spare feelings. It’s a way of showing politeness and consideration. However, in many Western cultures, particularly in places like Germany, the Netherlands, or even the US, directness is often valued. People tend to say what they mean, and mean what they say. Feedback is often given straightforwardly, and disagreements are expressed more openly. While this can sometimes seem blunt or even rude to an Indonesian ear, it's usually not intended that way. It's seen as honest, efficient, and transparent. Misunderstandings can arise easily here. An Indonesian might feel hurt or offended by what they perceive as harsh criticism, while the foreigner might be confused why their directness is being misinterpreted. Conversely, an Indonesian's indirect approach might be seen as evasive or unclear by someone accustomed to directness. Navigating this requires a conscious effort to adapt. If you're communicating with someone from a direct culture, try to be clearer and more straightforward in your own communication, even if it feels uncomfortable. And when receiving feedback, try to understand the intent behind the words – often, it’s about problem-solving, not personal attack. Developing intercultural communication skills is key to successful interactions abroad. It’s about learning to code-switch your communication style depending on your audience, ensuring your message is received as intended and fostering better relationships across cultural divides.

5. Punctuality: Time is of the Essence (Really!)

Finally, let's talk about punctuality. In Indonesia, while we generally respect appointments, there's often a more relaxed attitude towards time. Being fashionably late, or 'jam karet' (rubber time), is something many of us are familiar with. If a meeting is at 7 PM, arriving at 7:15 or even 7:30 might be perfectly acceptable, especially in social settings. The focus is often more on the eventual gathering rather than the precise start time. But, guys, when you step into many other cultures, especially in Northern Europe, North America, and East Asia, being on time is paramount. Being late, even by a few minutes, can be seen as disrespectful of the other person's time and can signal a lack of seriousness or reliability. In professional settings, punctuality is non-negotiable. Arriving late for a business meeting or even a casual coffee appointment can seriously damage your reputation. This cultural difference in perceiving time can lead to significant misunderstandings. You might feel rushed or stressed trying to adhere to strict schedules, while your hosts might wonder why you're so anxious about a few minutes here or there. The key is to adjust your mindset. Understand that in these cultures, time is viewed as a valuable, finite resource. When you agree to meet at a certain time, that's the time you're expected to be there, ready to go. It’s about showing respect for the commitments you’ve made and the people you’re meeting. Plan your journey, account for potential delays, and aim to arrive a few minutes early if possible. This adherence to schedules isn't just about being polite; it's often a reflection of a culture that values efficiency, organization, and respect for shared agreements. It’s a fundamental aspect of building trust and maintaining good relationships in many global contexts. So, set those alarms and be ready to impress with your timely arrival!

Exploring these differences isn't just about avoiding faux pas; it's about broadening our horizons and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse ways people live around the world. Which of these differences surprised you the most? Let me know in the comments below!