Studying abroad is the opportunity of a lifetime. It may be your only chance to live in another country and fully immerse yourself in a new culture. Last semester, I studied in Madrid, Spain for four months. While I was there, I learned how to speak Spanish (not fluently, but much better than before). Local baristas and waiters became my friends. Cafe con leche and tinto de verano were the only beverages I ordered. A strange neighborhood quickly became as familiar as my backyard.
Spain was amazing, but when the weekend rolled around, it was time to hop on a plane and head off to a new country. Portugal, France, Germany and Greece were only a few hours away! I will always cherish the experiences I had while I was abroad, and the lessons I learned about travelling will stay with me forever. Here are just a few of the tips I picked up along the way:
1.Sleep is overrated
Don't forget that even though you're living in a different country, you're still in school. Tests, essays and homework assignments don't go away, so you have to find a way to balance out play time and work time. To say you will feel exhausted is an understatement. Just remember that you'll be able to get plenty of sleep when you land back home, so take advantage of everything you have while you're still there.
2. Photos are the best souvenirs
No matter where you go, there will be gift shops and vendors ready to sell you whatever knick-knacks and snow globes they have on hand. It's great to pick up a postcard or key chain for your friends and family, but for yourself, the thing you will treasure the most are the photos you take. They are personal to you and will do the best job of reminding you about your experience. Don't be afraid to invest in a good camera before you go!
3. It's possible to travel cheaply
Travelling is not wickedly expensive if you're willing to work a little bit harder. For example, a five star hotel in the middle of the city is going to hurt your wallet, but an Airbnb with one bed is very affordable. Eating food from street vendors versus fancy restaurants will save you a few bucks too. Book your flights on Ryanair for the lowest prices. Plus, don't forget to ask for student discounts! You'll be surprised which places offer them. There's ways to cut corners without tarnishing your experience.
4. Put your phone down
It's tempting to update your Snapchat with every little thing you see, but please,avoid that. Learn to live in the moment and experience everything with your own eyes, not through the screen of your phone. Sure, your followers may be interested to see what you're doing in Paris or London, but you should focus your energy on soaking up what is in front of you without interference from social media. Save it for when you're back in the Airbnb.
5. You can live out of a suitcase
If you're just going somewhere for the weekend, you shouldn't have to check a bag. Pack lightly and squeeze everything into a carry on. Just bring the essentials, forget about everything else!
6. Travelling gets stressful
There is nothing worse than missing your flight, forgetting to pack your phone charger, or getting totally lost. It's not fun, but it's all part of the journey. It will feel overwhelming at the time, but you will be okay and it will make you a better traveler by the end.
7. Eat the local cuisine
McDonald's may be found throughout the world, but that doesn't mean McDonald's is what you should be eating as you travel the world. If you are in Italy, order all the pizza and pasta you want. If you are in Greece, go for the feta, Greek salad and moussaka. If you are in Germany, bratwurst is delicious. This is some of the best and most authentic food in the world, so devour it!
8. Embrace being a tourist
You are most likely not from the country you're visiting, so it's okay to act like a tourist. Whip out your camera and snap a pic. Ask someone for directions if you don't know where you are. (Also, keep track of your belongings to avoid being pit pocketed)
9. Travel while you're young
Who cares about being broke? You're young, you're in your prime! Take advantage of seeing the world while your body is still physically fit enough to walk long distances, eat exotic foods and function on a small amount of sleep. The time to travel is now. Don't wait until you're old and stiff.
10. It's a small world after all
Before studying abroad, countries like Greece and Spain seemed light years away. However, now it seems impossible that an entire ocean separates the United States from Europe. A plane ride really can take you anywhere. It may take you a lifetime to see every country, but it's possible. The world is not as big and scary as it appears.
