Moving abroad is exciting – new food, new people, new adventures. But after that excitement has faded, you may just find yourself standing in a Czech supermarket looking around confused, wondering what tvaroh is and why it seems like nobody is smiling. This is culture shock.
I remember the first time I tried buying laundry detergent, I almost ended up with fabric softener. And in the States, it’s normal to smile at strangers, but when I did that for the first time here, they looked at me like I was unwell.
Culture shock is real, and it hits everyone differently. But the good news? You’re not alone, and it gets better.
What is Culture Shock?
Culture shock is the sense of disorientation you get when everything is unfamiliar – the language, the social norms, the food, and even the public transport. That feeling you’re getting may feel like more than just homesickness. It’s feeling like a fish out of water.
Experts describe the “four stages of culture shock”:
- The Honeymoon Phase: Everything is great. Brno is great, the trams are great, and you are obsessed with rohlíky.
- The Frustration Phase: Why does customer service feel so cold? Why is everything closed on Sundays? Why do I feel like I need a Czech translator just to read the butter options?!
- The Adjustment Phase: You will start to adjust. You will pick up a few Czech words, find your local café, and feel a bit less lost.
- The Acceptance Phase: It may not feel like home just yet, but you are starting to thrive.
Source: InterNations- Culture Shock
Tips for Handling Culture Shock
1. Don’t isolate yourself.
Even if you feel overwhelmed, don’t go into hiding. Try to attend a local meetup or join a Facebook group like Expats in Brno, Prague Expats, or Life in Czechia. These communities are active and full of supportive people who have been where you are right now.
2. Learn a few basics.
Just knowing “Dobrý den” (Hello) and “Děkuji” (Thank you) makes life easier. Plus, locals really appreciate the effort – even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect.
Try learning a few more words like “Prosím” (Please/ You’re welcome), “Na shledanou” (Goodbye), or “Mluvite anglicky?” (Do you speak English?). It helps with daily interactions and shows you have respect for the culture.
3. Create new routines.
Find your new “normal” – a favorite park, a coffee shop, a Sunday farmer’s market. Familiarity will bring comfort.
4. Accept that it’s ok to feel weird.
You are not “awful” at adjusting – you’re human. Everyone reaches a wall sometimes.
5. Ask for help when you need it.
Foreigners.cz can help you with everything you need, from visas to healthcare to housing and more. This can be a big lifesaver when you are stressed.
You’re Not Alone
Adapting to life in Czechia – or anywhere new – can be challenging, overwhelming, and even lonely at times. But it’s also an incredible opportunity for personal growth, resilience, and discovering new sides of yourself.
Culture shock doesn’t mean you’re failing – it means you’re changing, learning, and stepping outside your comfort zone. That’s brave.
And the good news? You don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. Whether it’s dealing with paperwork, finding a doctor, or simply wanting to feel more settled – we’re here to support you every step of the way.
You’ve made it this far. Let’s keep going – together.
Need some help? Check out our Relocation Services here!
Read more about the differences in culture between the United States and Czechia!
Photo source: Canva
