Culture Shock and How I Got Over It: A Personal Story from an Asian girl in Ostrava

Yes, really. Stick with me, because I’m about to share my top 5 cultural shocks - from the mildly strange to the truly unexpected. Some were frustrating, some magical, and all were eye-opening. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to step into a whole new world and slowly turn it into home, this is for you. 

5. No Bidet or Water Spray 

Back home, every bathroom has a bidet spray or at least a bucket. So arriving here and discovering the lack of both was… jarring. How I coped: I switched to wet wipes and adjusted over time. It’s not the same, but it works! 

4. Early Closures & Holiday Shutdowns 

Shops close early - even earlier on weekends. On holidays, the whole city practically shuts down. The most memorable shock? It was on my birthday on December 24, when everything was closed. I wandered cold and hungry until a small food stand and one open café saved my night. How I coped: I now research Czech holidays and plan ahead. If the city shuts down, I’m well-stocked. Honestly, I admire their strong work-life balance - it’s worth celebrating. 

3. A Beautifully Structured Education System 

University life here is much more independent. Lecturers give you the material, but it’s up to you to keep up. That said, I love how organized and passionate the professors are. Students are motivated, and the system feels purposeful - my favorite part of life here! 

2. Winter Wonderland & Fairytale Sunsets 

As someone from a tropical country, my first snowfall was magical, like a dream. The sidewalks get slippery, but snow boots and layering help. And the sunsets? Stunning. Soft pastels that make the whole city glow. It truly feels like a fairytale. 

1. Reserved Social Culture & Language Barriers 

People tend to be quiet and reserved. Smiling at strangers isn’t common, and it can feel a bit cold at first. The language barrier adds to the awkwardness, especially with Czech being so different from my native tongue. How I coped: I stopped taking silence personally. I’m learning basic Czech phrases and using Google Translate when needed. Over time, I’ve built some really warm friendships. 

Bonus Shock: Efficient, Affordable Travel 

One of the best surprises? You can travel almost anywhere from Ostrava by train or FlixBus quickly and cheaply. Compared to Myanmar, where long trips are exhausting, this freedom is such a gift. 

Final Thoughts 

Culture shock is part of moving abroad. But so is the growth that comes with it. The surprises, the small wins, the awkward moments – all of them shape who you become. I still miss many things from home, but this city on the edge of the Czech Republic is slowly becoming mine.