Monday, September 27, 2010

What not to do in Mexico. (besides drink the water)

Culture is an important thing in many societies and disrespecting set culture is the equivalent of a slap in the face. (We know you don’t want that) However, when we visit another culture for the first time, we are unaware of their customs and beliefs and we are surprised when we see something that isn’t normal in American society. This is known as culture shock. One such example that I have experienced in my life was when I visited Mexico about 6 years ago. I was so excited because it was my first time leaving the country and I was looking forward to visiting Chichen Itza and other famous ruins. When we arrived at the hotel, I helped unload the luggage and since I was a little winded, I put my hands on my hips and didn’t think anything of it. All of a sudden, I noticed that a lot of people were looking at me strangely and were afraid to go near me. I decided to ask the receptionist why everyone was looking at me and at first she didn’t want to answer me but when she heard my question, she realized that I was unaware of Mexican culture. In their culture, putting your hands on your hips is a sign of hostility and anger. As soon as she told me I felt a little embarrassed cause I'm here to enjoy myself and now people see me as this young boy with anger problems. As I look back on it, I can’t help but laugh a little because of how naive I was.   

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Introductions

What's up Intenet world!! My name is Christopher Feliciano and this is my first ever blog so dont get at me if you dont like it. (Just dont read it then). I'm a Native New Yorker born and raised in the Bronx. Everyone that knows me would tell you that Im a HUGE sports fan and I wouldnt disagree with them. My favorite sports are baseball, football and basketball but I dont restrict myself to only those. My other interests include playing video games and listenting to music. As far as music goes, I dont have a particular preference I listen to any kind of music thats out there. My favorites though are Linkin Park, Paramore and Jay Z. Another one of my interests is traveling. Since I was a child, I would always go away to different places and I enjoyed it. Visiting other states and other countries and seeing their cultures and traditions really interest me and make the trips more enjoyable for me.

Now you guys know a little about me; do with it what you will.