Culture Shock in Slovenia: Small Things That Feel Big

Moving to a new country comes with excitement, expectations – and surprises. When I first arrived in Slovenia, I quickly realized that culture shock isn’t always about the big, dramatic differences. Sometimes, it’s the small, everyday things that quietly catch you off guard and make you feel like a stranger in a strange land.

Here are a few small (but powerful) things that surprised me the most in Slovenia:

1. Silence in public transport and shared spaces

In many countries, public transport is full of chatter, loud music, and laughter. In Slovenia, people truly value silence and personal space. Whispered conversations, calm voices, or even complete silence are completely normal – and it made me feel like I had stepped into a peaceful parallel universe.

2. The order and discipline in queues

Slovenians follow the rules, and standing in line is serious business. No cutting, no pushing – just patient, respectful waiting. Coming from a more chaotic environment, I was both surprised and impressed by how orderly everyday life can be.

3. The politeness of greetings

Slovenians may seem reserved, but they are polite and respectful. Saying “Dober dan” (Good day) or “Lepo pozdravljeni” (Kind greetings) is not just tradition – it feels genuine. That small gesture made a big difference in my early interactions.

4. Bureaucracy with many layers

What looks like a simple task – registering your residence, enrolling your child in school, or finding a doctor – can feel overwhelming at first. Slovenian bureaucracy is structured and clear, but it requires patience and a bit of guidance. These small steps felt like big hurdles until I got the hang of it.

5. Respect for personal space

Slovenians deeply respect privacy. It’s not unusual for a neighbor to keep a polite distance or for strangers to avoid eye contact on the street. At first, this seemed a bit cold – but over time, I came to understand it as a sign of personal boundaries and mutual respect.