Like most college students, we anticipate the visit home to see our family members, friends, old teachers, and generally, loved ones who have contributed to our lives in one way or another. Traditionally, we all take to spending time with our parents' pets and siblings, only to end up on the couch a few days later deep into a Netflix series after the initial excitement has faded away.
For many like myself who come from a busy and hectic family, this facade of rainbows and sunshine fades as fast as my brothers Nerf bullet fly's past my head. So to keep things exciting and entertaining, I have come to a conclusion that the best way to do so is to be a tourist in my own hometown. Not only does this take the imagination and memory lane spectrum to a whole other level, but it makes you fall back in love with the places, old and new. And now as an adult, you can create new memories to generate more stories to tell later on.
Personally, I grew up in the great New York City with large crowds, busy highways, non-stop traffic, attitudes on high, and eye rolls that cut corners like speedy Gonzales from Bugs Bunny. So when I moved to Orlando for college, the culture change was striking. I went from minding my own business and barely saying hello to strangers, to consistently having a chat with every cashier I encounter, and talk about the cake I planned on baking that week. So needless to say, when the time rolls around for me to visit home for a bit, I get creative and a bit extra. Not only was I the fanny pack wearing, water bottle carrying, baseball cap slinging girl, but I was that annoying tourist who took pictures of everything... including gross public bathrooms so I can appreciate Florida's gracious public hospitality upon return.
Not only did I play the role of a tourist, but I created my own personalized list and even got my little brother involved by making him draw a landmark map of places I could see and potentially afford, given the fact that like many I am a broke college student with $28k in debt thus far. So I was looking for cheap, unique, and exciting quick eats. After formulating my plan, I made my way to the streets of New York and thus far have ventured to four of my favorite spots, two new ethnic enclaves, and strutted the streets of New York City aimlessly to enjoy the grand scenery that many dream of seeing.
Even if you don't come from a big city like mine, you too can do the very same with your hometown and make the best of what is around you. It's not just home, it's a new time in your life, and given the time that you've been away, a lot has probably changed. So get out there and sightsee like no other. Shamelessly take pictures like the paparazzi to remember the new memories. Regarding those old friends you missed oh so dearly, you don't need to spend every moment with them – take some well deserved me-time and discover what your home has to offer on your own. It's very eye opening and meditating...I can personally guarantee it.
