Growing up in Poland, I was always taught not to ‘stick my nose’ into other people’s business. However, during a recent trip to Armenia, it was precisely the ‘nosiness’ of the locals that truly made my time there remarkable.

In contrast, an earlier visit to New York City, where the overall disinterest those around me had towards other people, left me feeling unsettled and out of place in the city.

The perception of Armenians as ‘nosy’ people can be linked to cultural characteristics rather than a definitive trait. In many non-Western cultures, including in Armenia, there is a tendency for individuals to be more involved in each other’s lives, which can be described as “sticky”.

This term reflects a communal approach where personal boundaries may not be as rigidly observed as in more individualistic societies. Armenians often express concern for one another, viewing it as a form of care and support rather than nosiness.

From the moment I arrived in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, I was struck by the friendliness and curiosity of the locals. No matter where I was, everyone seemed to pay interest to those around them – they were constantly ‘people watching’.

Coming from Poland, this was new for me – as in many places I’ve visited, mainly in Europe. Yet somehow, this mere acknowledgment by others created a sense of belonging and comfort in me I hadn’t expected.

In stark contrast, my recent trip to New York City for a summer journalism course, left me feeling isolated and disconnected.

As I wandered the streets, I felt the general indifference of the people towards one another. It seemed that everyone was so absorbed in their own lives that they had no time or interest in engaging with those around them.

The indifference of those we approached made me feel less confident to explore the city on my own. I found myself constantly second-guessing my decisions and feeling like an outsider looking in, rather than a welcomed guest.

Breaking down barriers

While some may view the curiosity and engagement of Armenians as intrusive or nosy, I believe this type of interaction is a benefit to travellers.

By engaging with locals, visitors have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the culture, customs and way of life in the country they are visiting. It also helps to break down barriers and create a sense of connection between visitors and the local community.

This kind of warmth and friendliness can make a trip more enjoyable and memorable. Knowing that there are people who are genuinely interested in your experience and willing to help can make a traveller feel more confident and secure.

These two trips made me understand how it is the people who have the biggest impact on your experience, trumping everything else.

As a teenager who loves to travel, I encourage all visitors to embrace the ‘nosiness’ of locals and see it as an opportunity to learn, grow and connect with the world around them.

After all, it’s the unexpected encounters that often make the best memories.