Culture shock comes in all shapes and sizes, but one aspect that I have remained conscious of in the Netherlands is the Dutch concept of personal space. As a general rule, in Minnesota people stay far away from each other. This can be attributed to the fact that everything is large and very spread out, so mindful distance keeping is possible. If a collision – or even a close call – does occur, it is usually met with a gasp and an “I’m so sorry!” or “Please excuse me!”

But in Dutch society, where millions of people are crammed together into buses, supermarkets and streets, such formalities do not exist. Honestly, it wouldn’t make sense, and wouldn’t be the least bit practical, given the frequency of bodily contact with strangers. Still, it’s a bit of a shock to smash together with an unfamiliar person, gasp an apology, and have them either ignore you completely or look mystified at your reaction.

Now, when I find myself back in Minnesota, I’m the one wrinkling my brow at someone’s exaggerated apology. Who cares? Let’s just move on. No extra communication necessary.