If you have studied abroad or plan to do so, the beginning of your story probably goes a little something like this: you grew up in America, you went to college, and you managed to survive. With this test passed, your parents decided to take a leap of faith -and I mean a very big leap- and let you go to Europe without supervision.
If you are one of these students, this may have come as a shock to you. If you are one of these parents, you may currently be regretting this decision.
Yet the simple truth in the matter is that no amount of planning, praying, or parenting can fully prepare any student for this unique experience. Unfortunately, one cannot truly understand the realities of culture shock until they get trapped in it's storm...in a large body of water...holding a metal pole. Regardless, here's a few things to expect while studying abroad that may lessen the burn.
1. Small cups
Yes, this is seriously my first example. No one can prepare you for the sudden loss of cup-size luxury America has raised you on. The nagging pressure of minimization in your liquid intake and the constant need for refills before your order has even been taken are ever-present stresses during meal time.
2. Paying for water
Furthering the issue of cup size, expect that many European countries will deny you the god-given right to free water. After being refused tap water, I have often been compelled to spend anywhere from 2-5 euros on a petite glass bottle of water, which despite being quite charming, are not by any means satisfying. Thankfully, this is not true everywhere in Europe, but always make sure to specify exactly what you want as your water source. If they can, they will try to hook you for the extra money.
3. Paying for the bathroom
Ladies with an overly-active bladder, have coins on hand at all times or risk being denied access to a public restroom. In many train stations and tourism hubs you can expect to find a bathroom attendant collecting coins for stall access. I myself have begun to wonder if this is a legitimate occupation or a savvy homeless person taking advantage of foreign ignorance. Just to be safe, take my advice.
4. Not having to tip
Tipping is not the norm in Europe. In most every case, the tip is factored into a price. You may experience a lingering guilt accompanied by a feeling of uncertainty every time you walk away without leaving the token of gratitude you are used to. Don't worry, you'll learn to cope eventually.
5. Terrible airlines
This could truly be its own article (stay tuned). If you are a college student abroad with a budget, you will undoubtedly have to deal with the lowest ranks of airlines to make your European dreams come true. Never forget to confirm your flight and always print out your tickets before hand, they will take any opportunity to give your seat away. Anticipate delays and avoid connecting flights as best you can. Always check the airlines rules for carry on luggage before you book your flight, many cheap airlines only allow one carry on for flights. This means if you are a lady with a purse, that is your carry on, no exceptions.
6. Nothing will be open on Sunday's:
This is far more widespread than an American, who is used to having most places open despite this religious day, would think. Of course, this trend is not as crippling in big cities due to tourism. However, if you plan to visit a small town "off the beaten path," and the "Body of Christ" isn't quite your thing, expect to have a lot of trouble finding food on God's day.
7. Lack of Chipotle:
No need for explanation.
8. Lack of sense of urgency:
In America, especially in the northeast, there is an expectation of instant gratification when it comes to eating out. If your food isn't out in 30 minutes, the waiter feels an unspoken pressure to apologize and rush the kitchen. Any longer, and the discounts start flooding in. This is simply not the case in Europe. In many places, meals are almost exclusively a social event and it is not abnormal to sit at a restaurant for hours. In other words, if you don't want to dedicate a significant portion of your day to eating out, do not sit down at a restaurant.
9. Hostel showers that work like sinks
There are a lot of poor things I could say about hostels but this by far takes the cake. You know those sinks that you have to continuously push for water to come out? That's how hostel showers are. Expect an endlessly frustrating battle and come up with a war strategy.
10. Constant confusion over basic skills
All the things that you thought you knew in America, you don't know anymore. Though the European time structure and measurement system are technically more simplistic than America's, the constant questions over these skills that you will face are inevitable: what time is 14 again? How many miles is 3 kilometers? How hot is 20 degrees Celsius ? In matters of time, if the number is above 12, the time is the difference between that number and 12. For example, 16:32 is synonymous to 4:32pm. As for everything else, you're on your own
11. Say Goodbye to your Routines
Being abroad, you're in a state of constant displacement. This essentially means if you have any specific routines- working out, meditation, sleeping-they will undoubtedly be disrupted.
12. Different Voltage
For some reason, the world has yet to get on the same page in regards to electricity. This means you'll need to get a universal plug adapter to fit your technological needs.
13. You won't dress as "European" as you think you will
Everyone who has ever been abroad is guilty of buying an article of clothing prior to their trip on that grounds that it is "so European." The truth in the matter is, when all you have is a backpack to get you through a weekend, you're going to pack your go-to clothing. So ladies, if you're a pants gal, don't pack 17 maxi dresses and men, say no to the ripped skinny jeans.
14. Constant foot pain
Splurge on a pair of comfortable and seasonally appropriate shoes. You will probably wear one pair of shoes the whole trip.
15. Wifi struggles
Unless your parents decided to "cash out" on an international data plan, you're going to have to get used to living without wifi. When you have it, it'll probably suck. Expect to have trouble meeting up with people and finding your way without the Maps Ap. Make sure you have a lot of good music on your phone to keep you busy during the constant waiting that comes with traveling.
16. Not being able to find your go to brands of toiletries
I would highly recommend stocking up on travel-sized face wash and deodorant in particular before coming to Europe. You simply cannot depend on an average convenient store to carry the brands you are used to.
17. Mourning every dollar down
Constant spending while traveling is inevitable. Make sure that you budget wisely, give yourself realistic outlines of spending, and that every purchase is worth it. By the end of your trip, every dollar spent will feel like a small tragedy for your wallet.
18. Speaking of small tragedies, expect at least one to happen
Whether it is food poisoning, breaking out in hives, being rushed to the hospital due to an allergy, or puking on a full bus from intoxication, something bad will most likely happen at some point during your travels. Studying abroad puts everyone out of their comfort zone and something could go wrong around every turn, no matter how careful you are. Always have a plan in case of emergency.
19. You will probably mess up your travel plans at least once:
Check your flight dates, check your train times, check how your name is spelt on your ticket. CHECK THEM AGAIN.
20. To be offered a selfie stick too many times a day
For every awe-struck face over old architecture or a stunning view you will give, there will be someone there to persistently offer you a selfie sick for a "good price, very good price."
21. Pick pockets
I realize this point is beaten to death but I'm not sure people understand the extent of this in Europe. No matter how aware you think you are, never put anything in your pockets. These people will go as far as to grab your genitals to distract you from the sly snatching of your valuables. True story.
Despite all of these warnings, you can be absolutely sure of another thing:
22. You will have the time of your life
