Maybe you have and maybe you haven't, but when you're in your twenties, traveling outside of the country (and your comfort zone) is pretty much a must. Whether you're going to Europe, Asia, or even just Mexico, leaving the country on your own is a bigger deal then most of us twenty-year-olds would like to admit. This past week was my first week ever being an ocean away from my family, friends, and the parts of my life that I would consider the "normal" that lie in the comfort of being in a country I call home. Although very similar to the United States, there are so many new (and exciting) (and scary) experiences that come with being abroad and here are a few I felt were notable enough to share.
1. Language.
Although this may seem like an obvious mention, the language barrier becomes more prevalent than you could imagine. Simple things from asking for the check at a restaurant to asking where the bathroom is (that's a fun one to act out, trust me) become an immediate issue. Just after entering the airport this past week, I found myself struggling with the most simple of tasks such as asking for directions, buying bus tickets, and converting my dollars to euros.
2. Food.
Being one of the SOLE reasons we 20 year olds venture abroad, food is extremely important. As Instagram may lead you to believe, the food in foreign countries is beautiful, exotic, and most importantly, delicious. But what Instagram doesn't tell you is when and what you will be eating for every meal. (You know, those meals that aren't the perfectly pictured macaroons, the gorgeous gelato or the pristine pizza in the shape of a heart). First, I don't know about countries outside of Europe, but I know in Italy, they eat LATE. Not only do you have to adjust to the 6 hour jet lag, but now you have to eat at 9-10 pm??? It's hard enough being awake, and now you must enjoy your longed-for gelato at 11pm? And how must you fill your meals that aren't picture perfect? Well, if I'm honest, I've eaten Italian cereal with milk every morning this week (**gasp) and although it's not Instagram worthy, it's practical and affordable and TOTALLY realistic because, believe it or not, Italians do eat things other than pastries for breakfast.
3. Manners.
When entering into a different culture, things that may be socially appropriate in the US may not be appropriate while abroad. Small idiosyncrasies within your everyday actions such as paying for items, eating a meal, and even eye contact frequency can change when venturing into another country. Since I've gotten to Italy, I've learned that it's considered rude to hand someone money when paying. Instead, you place the money down on the counter in front of them. I've also learned (the hard way) that while eating in a restaurant, waiters will leave you alone until either asked to come back or making intense eye contact. This can lead to either a peaceful meal or two very hungry people waiting to order their food for over an hour. Also, Italians LOVE eye contact. To the point that it's uncomfortable. Very unlike the US.
