Alex: Hey Jamie! I heard you just got back from your trip to Japan. How was it?

Jamie: Oh, it was amazing, Alex! Japan is such a fascinating country. The cultural differences were pretty eye-opening. Have you traveled anywhere recently?

Alex: Not recently, but I love hearing about other people’s travel experiences. What’s one thing that really stood out to you in Japan?

Jamie: Well, one thing that struck me was the level of politeness in Japanese culture. People bow instead of shaking hands, and there’s a real emphasis on manners and respect.

Alex: That sounds interesting! How did you feel about it? Was it hard to get used to?

Jamie: At first, it was a bit confusing! I kept trying to bow at the wrong times. I remember one time, I bowed to a cashier at a convenience store, and she looked a bit puzzled.

Alex: Haha, I can imagine! What about the food? I’ve heard Japanese cuisine is quite different from what we’re used to.

Jamie: Oh, absolutely. The food was incredible, but there were definitely some surprises. For example, I tried natto for the first time—fermented soybeans. The smell was a bit overwhelming at first, but I got used to it!

Alex: Natto is definitely an acquired taste. I’ve heard it’s really healthy though. Did you try any other unique dishes?

Jamie: Yes! I had okonomiyaki, which is like a savory pancake with all kinds of fillings. It’s cooked right in front of you at the table. It was so much fun to make it myself!

Alex: That sounds delicious. I’ve read that Japanese dining culture is also quite different from ours.

Jamie: Oh, for sure. In Japan, there’s this whole etiquette around dining. For example, you should never stick chopsticks upright in your rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual. And you’re supposed to slurp your noodles to show that you’re enjoying the meal!

Alex: That’s so interesting. I guess we have our own dining etiquette too, like tipping at restaurants. How does tipping work in Japan?

Jamie: Tipping isn’t a thing there. In fact, it can be seen as rude. They believe that good service is just part of the job, which is quite different from here.

Alex: That’s a big difference. Did you encounter any other cultural practices that you found surprising?

Jamie: Yes, definitely. I was surprised by the emphasis on cleanliness. For example, public restrooms often have bidets, and people take off their shoes before entering homes. There’s a lot of attention to hygiene and order.

Alex: Wow, that’s fascinating. It sounds like you had a really enriching experience.

Jamie: I did! It was a great reminder of how diverse and wonderful the world is. Every place has its own unique customs and ways of life.

Alex: That’s so true. I’d love to travel more and experience different cultures. Any tips for someone who wants to start exploring?

Jamie: Just be open-minded and respectful. It’s important to embrace new experiences and learn about other cultures with curiosity rather than judgment.

Alex: Great advice, Jamie! I’ll definitely keep that in mind for my next adventure. Thanks for sharing your experiences!

Jamie: Anytime, Alex! I’m happy to share. Where do you think you’ll go next?

Alex: I’m thinking about Europe. Maybe Italy or Spain. Any recommendations?

Jamie: Both are fantastic choices! Italy has amazing art and food, and Spain is full of vibrant culture and beautiful architecture. Either way, you’re in for a treat!

Alex: I can’t wait! Thanks for the tips. I’ll make sure to ask you for more advice before I go.

Jamie: Absolutely, I’d love to help. Safe travels, Alex!

Alex: Thanks, Jamie! Safe travels to you too, in case you have more adventures coming up!

Jamie: I hope so! Take care!

You may also like:

• English Conversations About Success
• English Conversations About Electronic Media
• English Conversations About Garden
• English Conversations About a Foreign Country
• English Conversations About Clothing

English Dialogues About Cultural Differences

Sam: Hey Riley! I saw on Instagram that you just got back from Brazil. How was your trip?

Riley: Hey Sam! It was fantastic! Brazil is such a vibrant country. I had a great time exploring and learning about the culture. Have you traveled anywhere interesting lately?

Sam: Not recently, but I love hearing about other cultures. What was the most surprising thing you encountered in Brazil?

Riley: Oh, there were so many surprises! But I’d say the biggest one was the way Brazilians celebrate Carnival. It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen before.

Sam: I bet! I’ve heard it’s quite a spectacle. What was it like being part of it?

Riley: It was incredible! The parades, the music, the costumes—everything was just bursting with energy. People danced for hours and there was this amazing sense of community and joy.

Sam: That sounds amazing. Did you join in the dancing?

Riley: I did! I’m definitely not a professional dancer, but I gave it my best shot. Everyone was so welcoming, and it felt like the whole city was part of one big celebration.

Sam: That’s awesome! I’ve heard that Brazilian culture is very warm and friendly. Did you find that to be true?

Riley: Absolutely. Brazilians are incredibly friendly and open. I remember one day I was trying to find a specific restaurant, and a local person went out of their way to walk me there and even gave me a few tips about what to order!

Sam: Wow, that’s so kind. What about the food? I know Brazilian cuisine has some unique dishes.

Riley: The food was fantastic! I tried feijoada, which is a black bean stew with pork. It’s a traditional dish and so flavorful. I also had pão de queijo, which are these amazing cheese bread rolls that are so addictive!

Sam: Feijoada sounds delicious! What was your favorite part of the food experience?

Riley: I’d have to say the street food. There’s this culture of having food trucks and stalls everywhere, with things like coxinha—fried chicken croquettes—and brigadeiro—chocolate truffles. I had to try everything!

Sam: I’m definitely adding those to my food bucket list! Did you notice any other cultural differences?

Riley: Yeah, there were quite a few. For one, the concept of time is a bit more relaxed in Brazil. People don’t stress as much about punctuality, which was different from what I’m used to.

Sam: That’s an interesting observation. I’ve heard that in some cultures, time is seen as more flexible. Did you have to adjust your plans because of it?

Riley: A little bit! I had to learn to go with the flow and not get too stressed if things didn’t happen exactly on time. It was a good lesson in being more laid-back.

Sam: Sounds like a great experience. Did you have any challenges while you were there?

Riley: A few! The language barrier was a bit tough. I don’t speak Portuguese, so I had to rely on translation apps and gestures. But it was also fun to try and communicate in new ways.

Sam: That sounds like a real adventure. I bet you picked up a few Portuguese phrases along the way?

Riley: I did! I learned some basics like “Obrigado” for thank you and “Por favor” for please. It was nice to be able to use a few words to show respect for the culture.

Sam: That’s great! It sounds like you had a really enriching trip. Any tips for someone planning to visit Brazil?

Riley: Definitely! Be ready for lots of outdoor activities because Brazil’s natural beauty is incredible. And don’t be afraid to immerse yourself in the local culture. The people are so friendly, and there’s so much to see and do.

Sam: Thanks for the tips, Riley! I’m really inspired to explore more now. Any other travel plans coming up?

Riley: I’m thinking of visiting South Africa next. I’m excited to explore a different part of the world and see what new experiences await.

Sam: That sounds amazing! I’ll have to hear all about it when you get back.

Riley: I will, for sure! Let’s catch up again before I go. Safe travels to you, Sam, on your next adventure!

Sam: Thanks, Riley! Safe travels to you too. Looking forward to hearing more about your South Africa trip!

Riley: Absolutely! Talk to you soon!