1. You learn so much from them.

Having a best friend from a different culture is an irreplaceable experience. You learn about everything from their language, their holidays, their traditional foods to even their sense of style. If this person had never entered your life, would you know that in some parts of France they go to school on Saturdays? Or that in Dubai, they don’t keep dogs as pets?

2. You are a crucial part of their experience.

Yes, you learn from them, but imagine how much they learn from you. Your new best friend will forever remember you because of how much you impacted their experience. You helped them learn why everyone was laughing at the word pussycat, you told them the real meaning of those dirty slang terms; and you taught them to each ranch with their pizza. If it weren’t for you, their experience wouldn’t have been the same.

3. The surprise letters and packages.

There is nothing better than getting a postcard in the mail from your IBFF (International Best Friend Forever). It brightens your day to see their handwriting and to read about how they’re doing, even if it is just a couple lines. Not to mention those sweet foreign candies!

4. Time spent with them is precious.

Whether you met your IBFF during an exchange program, at a college or even while on vacation to a new place, the time you spent with them will forever be special. You know that your time together is limited, and most often, you aren’t sure of the next time you’ll be able to hug them. You always are sure to make every minute with them count.

5. You always have a place to vacation to.

Need a trip for spring break, but can’t afford a week stay in a hotel? Your IBFF and their family would love to have you over. (You’ll probably even get a couple free, authentic home cooked meals, too!) Don’t have the money for a personal tour guide, voila! You have one who actually knows what you’d be interested in seeing.

6. Even though there is the distance between you, you’re still connected.

Sure, at first being apart is hard, but you grow used to it. You get used to emailing and skyping, rather than whispering and grabbing some pizza. You slowly realize that any means of communication with them is special, no matter how it happens.

7. When you talk, it’s like you are never apart.

Catching up with your IBFF is like no other. The chatter and giggles are unstoppable and it feels great. Just because they are across the globe from you, doesn’t mean they can’t relate to problems you are having, and help you through it.