As many students pack up to head back to colleges across the country, some are being offered the opportunity of a lifetime- a chance to study elsewhere, in a new country far from home.
Although things like seeing the Eiffel Tower or St. Peter's Basilica is fun and very important, much of the fun abroad is found in the adventures that are a little off the beaten path. The trips and the activities that you probably wouldn't do on a family vacation.
I did a little research, asked some people who have already walked the roads we will soon travel to, and compiled a list.
1. White Water Rafting in Austria
For those looking for a sporty way to spend your time in Austria, this is a great option. You can spend a few hours or a full day or two rafting down the river. This is a personal dream of mine, and it was recommended to me by a girl who spent several weeks traveling Europe after graduation. Nothing about it screams 'typical' to me.
2. Valley of Waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen --Stechelberg, Switzerland
This beautiful valley may be well-known, but it isn't by any means touristy.
3. Concerts in Prague
On any given weekend, there are several concerts going on here. Check out this schedule. In short, Prague is a hoppin' place to be.
4. Jokulsarlon, Iceland
Glacier lagoon in Southwest Iceland. Maybe take a swim.
Don't actually swim, it's cold af.
5. Oktoberfest
This is a staple to abroad goers in Europe. From what I hear it's a bunch of traditional music and also a WHOLE lot of beer.
6. Find a local spot wherever you are, avoid places meant for foreigners.
I know this seems like common sense, but often it's easy to enter the first inviting place you see when traveling in some place new. Try to find a place meant for the locals. You'll learn a lot more about the culture that way and you probably will spend less money too (places that cater to foreigners often hike up prices).
7. Parasailing in Switzerland
This is the DREAM. As long as you aren't afraid of heights, take a literally leap of faith and enjoy the view on the way down. I mean JUST LOOK.
8. Campinmygarden.com
Alright, so this is just a website. But it come highly recommended by nomadicmatt.com. If you're looking for a place to stay, and you don't mind sleeping outside, check this out.
9. Get lost
If you can't find anything new to do, take a few hours to get lost. I am sure you will find something memorable.
10. Breweries in Belgium
Belgium has a whole lot of beers made there and you can take a tour of these breweries. Here's a list of some of those top beers.
11. Chocolate Museum in Barcelona
12. Melissani Lake in Greece
I don't know if this really needs an explaination on why this is super cool. It just is. The picture says it all.
13. Ice Bars
14. Treat Every Day Like an Adventure
When I asked around, this came up over and over again in one way or another. Most of their favorite days abroad were the days that they were not expecting to be that great. Something happened that didn't feel all that great or fun, but they turned into the best memories. So make sure that you don't waste a day because something goes 'wrong'. It could be the perfect thing to make your trip go right.
