5 Clever Things That I Learned Traveling Abroad, And You Should Learn Them Too | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post

5 Clever Things That I Learned Traveling Abroad, And You Should Learn Them Too

No matter where you go, its always a learning experience.

57
Kayla Simon

In This Article:

Recently, I took a ten-day trip from my comfy suburban neighborhood, far from my comfort zone to Europe. There was always something new going on every day, so we were always kept on our toes. It was probably the best trip I have ever been on, but with every new thing that comes, there is also a new lesson to be learned.


Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

There is always something going on. When you aren't familiar with the area you are in, you could end up getting hurt.

Watch your belongings.

When you are traveling in a place that you are unfamiliar with, especially in crowded spaces, watch your belongings. If possible, make sure they are in front of you at all times. I learned this one the hard way when I was pick-pocketed.

Respect the space around you.

If you are a visitor at any monument or historical area, respect what is around you. If there is an area that is roped off, it means don't go there. Don't just throw your trash anywhere you please. If you are in a chapel or any historical place of worship, be respectful and don't talk. Put your phone on silent. Some people go there to pray and have to be interrupted by noise. Don't let your toddler stand on the ledge of the Colosseum.

And possibly the most important of all, if you are taking pictures somewhere, be mindful of if the pose you make is appropriate for the situation and setting you are in.

Don't make eye contact with street vendors.

If you don't want people coming up to you trying to force you to buy their product, do not look at them. The street vendors are more likely to keep pressuring you if they notice you are paying attention to them.

Do not be afraid to just walk away.

This is one thing that I found the hardest. When someone that is selling something on the street at any major tourist attraction, they are presistent. They start an interaction with you, and they are fully prepared to continue it until they have your money in their hands. If they hand something to you and don't let you give it back, do not be afraid to just set it on the ground and walk away.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

The Daily Struggles of Being a College Commuter

It's not all morning coffees and singing along to the radio.

446
The Daily Struggles of Being a College Commuter
morethanwheels

I've been in college for four years now. I spent half my time as a commuter and half as a resident so I've experienced both sides of the housing spectrum. One thing I've learned comparing the two is that my struggles as a commuter far outweigh anything I went through while living on campus. Commuters have to deal with the problems school brings along with a slew of other issues; I've filled up my gas tank in the worst kind of weather conditions and napped in random places in public more times than I'm proud to say of. This is a list of some of the most challenging aspects of being a commuter.

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

15 Times Michael Scott's Life Was Worse Than Your Life

Because have you ever had to endure grilling your foot on a George Foreman?

3241
Michael Scott
NBC

Most of the time, the world's (self-proclaimed) greatest boss is just that, the greatest. I mean, come on, he's Michael Freakin' Scott after all! But every once in a while, his life hits a bit of a speed bump. (or he actually hits Meredith...) So if you personally are struggling through a hard time, you know what they say: misery loves company! Here are 15 times Michael Scott's life was worse than your life:

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

12 Midnight NYE: Fun Ideas!

This isn't just for the single Pringles out there either, folks

17522
Friends celebrating the New Years!
StableDiffusion

When the clock strikes twelve midnight on New Year's Eve, do you ever find yourself lost regarding what to do during that big moment? It's a very important moment. It is the first moment of the New Year, doesn't it seem like you should be doing something grand, something meaningful, something spontaneous? Sure, many decide to spend the moment on the lips of another, but what good is that? Take a look at these other suggestions on how to ring in the New Year that are much more spectacular and exciting than a simple little kiss.

Keep Reading...Show less
piano
Digital Trends

I am very serious about the Christmas season. It's one of my favorite things, and I love it all from gift-giving to baking to the decorations, but I especially love Christmas music. Here are 11 songs you should consider adding to your Christmas playlists.

Keep Reading...Show less
campus
CampusExplorer

New year, new semester, not the same old thing. This semester will be a semester to redeem all the mistakes made in the previous five months.

1. I will wake up (sorta) on time for class.

Let's face it, last semester you woke up with enough time to brush your teeth and get to class and even then you were about 10 minutes late and rollin' in with some pretty unfortunate bed head. This semester we will set our alarms, wake up with time to get ready, and get to class on time!

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments