Culture is not just about religion it is about norms that are taught to us since we were little. Ever wondered why parents enforced these rules that one as a kid regretted and took for granted. It was to prepare us for the real world. Culture has to do with a lot of rules that one has to follow through. This is why learning those cultures rules would be a great way of exploring culture. It will help understand how different cultures are and how they communicate. A great way to do this is through subculture communication.
Advice for next time one is in a different country or state communication is the key