I felt I learned those same very qualities.
I learned the most being solo and traveling by myself in China.
I used to like (still do) studying and practicing key language before going to the bank or going out shopping and etc.

That solo learning process is a journey itself in adapting to the country.
Although nowadays, you can scan & translate those non-picture Chinese menus with apps. Some of the apps even bring up a picture of the meal on your phone. I used it before, although I don't like that crutch. It ruins the surprise before it reaches my table. Also didn't want to fall into that lazy habit of not reading the menu.