College is hard; it keeps us busy and preoccupied day in and day out. However, learning to take advantage of the little chunks of time that are spread throughout each semester (i.e winter and spring breaks, or even if you go abroad for the semester) is so important! If you’re feeling brave and ambitious, use that time to travel and experience new cultures. Not sure where to start? Here are some ideas to help guide you through the process of planning your next adventure!
Do your research – When you’re planning your trip, make sure to search around the internet or make a few calls to be sure you’re getting the best deal on your flight. Consider unpopular times for flying or even what time of year you are planning to travel!
Consider the value of your currency – Choose a destination where your currency is worth more than the local one! You won’t regret it. The conversion is not only satisfying, but it will also save you lots throughout your time adventuring.
Don’t be picky – If you’re anything like me, you would willingly travel anywhere in a heartbeat if you had the time and money. So, when the opportunity presents itself, why be picky?! Whether it’s your destination, your flight, accommodations, or your food, being picky is only going to hinder your abroad experience.
Follow your passions – Part of doing your research also means considering the reasons for visiting each of your possible destinations. So, be sure to consider your passions! If you live for skiing, travel somewhere with endless mountains and snow. If you’re a city girl, narrow your options to urban places. If you’re a surfer, or just love the ocean, consider your destination options with sun, sand, and good waves!
Learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable – I first heard this phrase from my lacrosse coach, and ever since it has served as a reminder to always step outside your comfort zone. While you’re traveling, accept that you are going to be uncomfortable! You are going to be pushed outside of your comfort zone in more than one way. You may even be physically uncomfortable sometimes, maybe on a redeye flight or an uncomfortable hostel bed, but that is okay. Learning to be comfortable with discomfort is a part of life!
Don’t be a tourist, be a traveler – Don’t follow in the footsteps of every other person who has visited that same place. By staying off of the beaten path, you will not only have a more local-oriented, authentic experience, but it is also very likely that you will save some money by not visiting the hot spots flooded with tourists.
Plan ahead – Be sure to consider all possible scenarios that you may encounter before you leave. Be prepared for travel complications, accommodation issues, the weather, and anything else that may be more specific to your destination!
Research volunteer opportunities – Not sure about traveling on your own or with a few friends independently? Consider traveling as part of a service-based organization. There are lots of great groups that have both domestic and abroad destinations that will connect you with a group of people as well as provide guidance to make sure you get the most out of your time wherever you go!
Eat like a local – Don’t get me wrong, a fancy meal while you’re traveling is a must. But, eating like a local is most certainly the most inexpensive way to stay nourished while you’re there. Plus, you’re bound to learn lots about the local culture!
Be confident! – Whatever you do, do not cancel your trip because you’re nervous. If you weren’t’t nervous, it wouldn’t’t be called an adventure anyway!
(Photos: Bali Magazine, Atom Travel, Bali-sightseeing.com, Life Hack)