In the wise words of Nicki Minaj, “Let’s go to the beach, each, let’s go get away.” Whether you are heading to the beach, mountains, or city, traveling abroad is thrilling and exotic. For those who have experienced this, or those who are planning on venturing abroad, here are 10 moments that typically happen when you pack your bags and head across the sea.
1. The initial panic when meeting all of the people on your trip
The first time you meet your fellow adventurers is going to be a little intimidating, especially since they are important in your traveling experience. Don't panic though! Things will get easier as your trip continues.
2. The first group dinner
This moment is normally filled with name games, stories of your hometown, and weird foreign food. Once the first group dinner is out of the way, you will feel a little more comfortable with your new friends and you will have a better idea on how to navigate the menu next time.
3. The confusion felt when using public transportation
Public transportation booms in many places in the United States of America, however, there are many places where is it lacking as well. For those who reside in the latter, public transportation can be a scary thing. It’s a good thing you have your new friends to help you out.
4. The first early morning class
Typically, when studying abroad, your professors will give you morning classes so you can have free time in the afternoons to explore. This is a great process once you are accustomed to waking up early. However, that first morning of classes is always rough.
5. The slow ease you begin to feel
At some point in your study abroad experience, your anxiety will ease and you will realize that there was nothing to be afraid of after all.
6. The moment you master the public transportation routes
Once you have experienced this calming feeling, things will begin to flow easier. As mentioned before, public transportation is sometimes tricky. Eventually, you will master your chosen country's public transportation and be able to get anywhere and everywhere.
7. The moment a tourist asks you for directions because you seem like a local
Once you have mastered the public transportation and you have your new family by your side, confidence will radiate off of you, therefore, giving tourists the notion that you are no longer one of them, but a local.
8. The moment you realize those strangers are becoming your family
Yes, they will become your family. Your home sickness will vanish, your calls to your mom will be less frequent, and your talk about home will slowly die off. All of this because you have found a family in your study abroad peers.
9. The moment this foreign place begins to feel like home
“Home is where the heart is” becomes true and relatable. You finally realize that you have brought your heart with you on this adventure and it is loving every step of the way.
10. The hugs, ugly cries and goodbyes when it all comes to an end
This moment will solidify your love for your new friends and this unique place. Although it will be sad, it is a moment in your life that you will forever look back on, remembering the time you found a home and a family abroad.
