Traveling around the world surely teaches you many life lessons; however, it’s not just the travel experience itself that gives you some perspective, but the people and foreign cultures do as well. There are many cultural expressions and cultural sayings that you might come across during your time on the road; pay attention to those as they might change the way you see life.

Cultural Expressions That Will Give You Some Perspective

Here are 10 cultural expressions from different places around the world that are deep-rooted in each culture. These aren’t just cultural sayings, but rather life mottos that turned into a way of life. Hopefully, these could help you see life differently or give you a push forward.

“Hakuna Matata” – East Africa

No, not the Lion King song! Hakuna Matata, which means “no worries” or “there are no troubles” in Swahili) is one of the most commonly used cultural expressions in East Africa. That’s more of a trademark of cultures such that of Kenya and Tanzania.

The phrase was definitely popularized amongst the English-speaking communities thanks to the 1994 Disney hit. And as the animation film’s famed song suggests, Hakuna Matata is more than just a phrase; it’s a philosophy. It basically tells you to stop worrying, and that everything’s eventually going to be alright.

It’s also a beautiful invitation to follow your heart and stop dwelling over the past. So, no matter how much life gets tough, or gives you lemons, enjoy it and greet it with a smile. If you apply this philosophy, your life can indeed change for good.

“Pura Vida” – Costa Rica

One of the most famous cultural expressions that you might have heard before is Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida”. The Spanish phrase literally translates into “pure life” or “simple life”, but what does it really mean?

Pura Vida is more than just a phrase; it’s a vibe and lifestyle deep-rooted in the Costa-Rican culture. In a similar manner to Hakuna Matata, the term also reflects a worry-free attitude, but it’s also a simple way of appreciating life. It’s an act of becoming aware that life’s what you make it and it doesn’t define who you are. And it is definitely a notion of unity that brings Costa Ricans together.

You don’t just use it when facing a disappointment or a misfortune; it’s also a hello and goodbye, and it could be used as a response for a casual “how are you?”

“Hati Hati” – Bali

Hati is the Indonesian word for “heart”, while Hati Hati means “watch your heart”. This could be used in situations where you’d be telling someone to be careful, but it indeed has a much deeper meaning.

If you’ve ever been to Bali, then you probably know that the Balinese people and their culture are one of the warmest and kindest. So, if someone tells you “hati hati”, it’s more of a beautiful reminder to take it easy. So, when you’re feeling stressed, facing a challenge, feeling anxious, remember to watch your heart. Hati Hati!

“Go Slow” – Caye Caulker

Via Lara of Both Feet On The Road

Caye Caulker is a stunning little Caribbean island off the coast of Belize. If I would ask you to picture paradise island, Caye Caulker is the type of island that would come to mind, even if you’ve never been.

The near absence of cars, the clear blue water, and the slow pace at the island are the perfect example of a laidback island lifestyle. It comes as no surprise that the island’s motto “Go Slow” can be seen and felt on every part of it. A leisure stroll pace is about as fast as the fastest person on the island goes. Within one day, you notice you’ve picked up on the slow pace too, and you’ll notice things you’ve never paid attention to before you embraced Caye Caulker’s motto of going slow. The pleasant breeze, the birds’ singing, and the warm smiles of the islanders.  

As an enthusiastic backpacker who always wants to see and do too much in too little time, Caye Caulker’s motto has been really helpful to remind me to relax and unwind every once in a while too.

You don’t have to see and do everything there is to see and do at a place, just go slow and enjoy the vibe! It’s not only good for your mind, but also for the local economy as you’re spending more money in one place, which makes Caye Caulker’s motto perfect for responsible travelers!

“Rush Slowly” – St. Kitts

Via Steph & Lewis of Book It Let’s Go!

Upon arrival to St. Kitts, you’ll notice almost immediately the slower pace of life. Everyone from taxi drivers to bar staff will take their sweet time with activities that back home may only take 5 minutes; on St Kitts, it’s not unusual to wait 20 or 30 minutes. We have even waited up to an hour to get our bill in a restaurant and that can be attributed to the island’s motto “Rush Slowly”.

Rush slowly goes hand in hand with the traditional Caribbean concept of “island time”, whereby time on the island seems to move slower, so the days feel much longer. This is apparently a direct consequence of the comparatively small size of the landmass in close proximity to the vast ocean.

Living on St Kitts, we have learned that “rush slowly” is literally a way of life here and it’s much more than just a laidback attitude. It’s in the core of the Kittitian people who live by the idea that even things that could be done quickly shouldn’t be rushed. This is so that you can savor every moment and you can embrace another popular island motto which is to “live de life”!

“Mañana, mañana” – Spain

Via Christin of Christin has Fernweh

Do you ever have that feeling that you’re rushing through life? That you work from weekend to weekend? That you’re busy doing all kinds of things and at the end of the week you don’t feel like you’ve accomplished anything of importance? Always busy with household chores, admin, and appointments?

Many living in a fast-paced environment end up stressed and anxious. I even grew up in a society like that myself. I feel great when I get stuff done; for a moment.

When I moved to Spain, I noticed how much slower the pace of life is. The Spanish still get things done, but in a much less stressed out way than I was used to. They’re not rushing from A to B. They seem to always have time for a cup of coffee at a terrace café; the Spanish make the time. They taught me to decelerate; to differentiate between urgent and important in my personal life because not everything needs to happen today. It’s like it’s on the list from day one, but it’s not possible without compromising life quality; it can still be done tomorrow. Tomorrow: mañana.

“Mañana, mañana” is a way of life in Spain, driving many of us, dopamine addicts, crazy when we first encounter it. But in my observation, it gives people a more peaceful life.

“Itadakimasu” – Japan

Via Katriona Li of Earth to Katriona

In Japan, placing your hands in a prayer position and saying ‘itadakimasu’ before you eat is a ritual; everyone does it. Just take notice the next time you visit the land of the Rising Sun. But what does it mean and how significant is it on the Japanese way of life? 

Itadakimasu is an expression of gratitude and respect for the food you are receiving. It’s the silent nod of appreciation for the farmer that has labored intensively to supply that food on your plate. It’s acknowledging the chef’s work of love for your dish. It’s demonstrating gratitude to Mother Nature for growing the food that will nurture your body.

It inherently ties back to the Japanese way of life as respect for the world around you and it’s a fundamental aspect of Japanese culture. In fact, this concept is rooted in Japan’s oldest religion, Shintoism. The religion believes that gods and spiritual beings are found everywhere in the world around us, from the mountains and the water to your home. If you treat the world with respect and gratitude, then happiness, wealth, and prosperity will come back to you.

Incorporate a little practice of Japanese customs in your life; try saying ‘itadakimasu’ the next time you eat and send a little thank you to the universe. It will make you a more appreciative and grateful person, and that’s something we all need more of in this world!

“No Stress” – Cape Verde

Via Paulina Rupia of Paulina on the Road

Life mottos learned from travelers in Cape Verde, or Cabo Verde (as the locals know it), provide a lazy beach escape from the monotonous and stressed life. The life motto taught by this mesmerizing island country is ‘no stress’. When you travel to Cape Verde, it’s all about living the moment. 

Cape Verde, comprising 9 islands, is located in the Atlantic ocean. It has become a tourist hotspot just recently. That’s why it’s still not developed much and gives you a chance to explore the rural beach life of the locals. About one-third of the population lives in remote valleys and coastal areas; you’ll find both European and African cultures there. 

Walking on white sands and watching the sunset on a remote beach will make you feel like the only person in the world. Dip into cool refreshing water or relax on a hot sunny beach or if you’re a sports person, go for scuba diving, kiteboarding, sailing, or windsurfing. You can also explore the landscape, comprising high mysterious mountains, shimmering water, and the golden sand of Santa Maria on Sal island. There are other tourist spots famous for either crazy adventures or amazing landscape. But if you’re bored with your urban life and want to relax without any stress, you should travel to Cape Verde.

“One Love” – Jamaica

Via Daniel James of Layer Culture

As a traveler to the island of Jamaica from a very young age, I have always been fascinated by the way the Jamaican people live. If it’s not getting the chance to sample some amazing Jamaican food or dance to the chilled out reggae vibes, it’s interacting with the people themselves. Jamaicans, in general, are very respectful people, and no matter what background you come from as a Jamaican, or a visitor, there is one saying that you will have heard; One Love!

As a visitor to the island, you’ll see this saying around the streets, in the neighborhoods, written on walls, and sometimes even on the back of food products. Almost every Jamaican has uttered these two infamous words at some point, but what do they mean? After asking my grandad who lives on the island, he told me how the two words are a colloquial expression of unity. Meaning, that no matter where you come from that you express universal love and respect for all people. No matter whether you’re black or white, rich or poor, every man or woman, you command the same level of respect.

One thing I learned on my travels to Jamaica is that the saying “One Love” is very contagious and you find yourself saying it during and after spending time on the island; it’s like catchphrase for the Jamaican people. So, no matter where you are from, or who you know, the important thing to remember from this phase is universal love and respect for all people around the world.

“Atithi Devo Bhava” – India

Via Ketki Gadre of Explore With Ecokats

In the ancient Hindu Scriptures, there is a Sanskrit phrase called Atithi Devo Bhava. Atithi means “guest”,  Devo means “God”, and Bhava means “to be”; hence, the phrase holds a sacred meaning and translates to “the guest is God”.

As an Indian residing in India, I have seen Atithi Devo Bhava being practiced in its purest form since my childhood. A tuk-tuk would suddenly stop in front of our house and relatives whom we have not spoken to in years would pay us a visit. They would stay with us and eat with us and we’d all have a really good time. There would never be complaints about why they visited unannounced; in fact, they would be encouraged to extend their stay. In my family, there would always be extra food made, just in case someone visits us! Such was the practice and to some extent, it still continues; the only difference would be the days when relatives call and visit.

Thus, Atithi Devo Bhava is a code of conduct that has made Indian hospitality renowned around the world for its genuine desire to place the guest above all. The tourism of India practices “Atithi Devo Bhava” as its special campaign to spread awareness about ways to extend hospitality to tourists visiting India by adopting an honest and helpful attitude, as well as maintaining cleanliness and hygiene. International tourists are most likely to get invited to weddings, dinners, or to visit locals’ homes while walking on the street. They will be greeted with a namasté and smile, and experience lovely hospitality whether they’re in Kerala, Kashmir, Gujarat, or Manipur.

Does your country have any cultural expressions that turned into an inspiring way of life? Drop a comment below and let me know!

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