Some Gringos can take it… others can’t, but by following a few tips to fit in and keep your sanity you increase your chances of survival in adjusting to life in Honduras.
- Learn a few Spanish phrases and use them. “Hola” and “gracias” are probably two words you knew before you came here. Use them regularly and slowly incorporate other Spanish phrases into your vocabulary. (For improving your Spanish I like Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish)
- Don’t forget where you came from. You can decide how you do this. I like to surf the internet for news from my home town and talk to family and friends. It makes you appreciate where you came from and where you are now.
- Be patient! This one I cannot stress enough. Things are going to come up in Honduras that are going to make you want to pull your hair out… but getting stressed about little bumps in the road does nothing to improve the situation. Take a deep breath and try to find something good in the situation.
- Go to the beach, the mountains, the river. The rigors of everyday life in Honduras, plus the added stress that can come from cultural differences can be enough to make you crazy. Take a little break to remember all the beautiful things Honduras has to offer. You won’t find mountains like these back home.
- Treat yourself. Things like a trip to Pizza Hut or a pedicure may not seem like a big deal, but the minute you are chowing down on that cheesy slice or enjoying
being pampered at a fraction of the price for what it would take in the States, you’ll understand what I mean. Sometimes these things work as a little reminder of back home, and sometimes they remind you of how great it is to be in Honduras.
The adjustments can take a little bit of time, and things that didn’t bother you in the beginning can catch you off guard down the road. Be pro-active when it comes to fitting in and keeping sane and you’ll not only be happier, you’ll be healthier as well! (Except if you eat at Pizza Hut everyday of course…)
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