Two summers ago, I was given an amazing opportunity to spend the summer in Germany with German students from all over the globe. It was the trip of a lifetime: I learned some very real lessons I'll remember for the rest of my life.
1. Pack Light
This seems like a no - brainer, right? Something your Mom has only told you a zillion times. But you are excited to go and a lot of times this excitement makes us think of every scenario that could happen...and, of course, which outfit would be needed for said scenario. I suggest packing everything you think you will need, and then take half of it out of your suitcase. You will be happy that your bag is lighter when you are adventure-ing from one place to another. This will also allow you to bring more things back. And trust me, you will love your new foreign finds WAY more than your normal Forever21 clothes.
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2. Try To Look Less American
My friend, who is also from the States, showed up the first day in Berlin wearing a monogram necklace the size of her chest and I showed up wearing an American University t-shirt. For better or for worse, people around the world have pre-conceived ideas about who you are based on your nationality. I am not saying to become an ex-patriot, but try and tone it down. It might be best to leave your American flag sunglasses at home.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/188098747/american-fl...
3. Stop Saying, "This Is Different"
About a week and a half into my trip, I realized that I had said something along the lines of "This is different" several times a day. Of course it's different!Instead of telling others about how you do things 'back home', embrace all the new customs coming your way. Slowly, your international friends will forget you are a born-and-raised Yankee.
4. Buy Spider And Bug Spray The Moment You Get Off The Plane
Youth Hostels. That is all I have to say.
5. Invest In The Ultimate Backpack
A good backpack will go into town and into the woods with you. Find a backpack that is medium sized, has comfortable shoulder straps, and is made to last. I borrowed my friend's Patagonia Rufugio Pack 28L and loved it so much that I bought my own for college.
(My backpack and I after a long, tiring hike in Rathen, Germany)
6. Go To Church
If the country you are in has a long and interesting history of religion, some of the coolest events the country has to offer will probably be centered around their religion. Be respectful and follow along!
7. Zip It, Clip It, Or Loose It
Three days into my Euro trip, my brand new water bottle was casually taken out of the side pocket of my backpack. I had never before been in a place where pick-pocketing was a problem. I learned the hard way that this is the case in many places around the world. To combat this problem, bring lots of clips, light weight rope, and a few zip-ties.
8. You Might Feel Like A Rockstar
Although you have taken off your monogram and stereotypical t-shirt, your American behaviors will still show. In many places, young Americans are perceived as super cool by the youth of other countries. I felt like a total celebrity sometimes! Girls asked me about California and boys said my accent was "Sexy"! My mid-west, Missouri accent? Ok, sure!
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9. DO NOT DO IT FOR THE 'GRAM
Let yourself get sweaty, mess up your hair, and take pictures to remember special moments; NOT to brag about online. When you let go of the pressure to be perceived as perfect, then your trip only becomes that much more perfect!
(Abigail Donahue)
10. Be Prepared To Never Want To Come Home
You will be crying your whole way home, trust me. So happy it happened, so sad it is over. But try and be happy through yours tears! Hopefully you meet incredible people, made life long friends, and maybe even had a foreign romance ;)
(Abigail Donahue)
The most astounding thing you will leave with is the new sense of just how small the world is. Nothing will ever be too far or too different if you just accept the challenge and go!
