As you consider if and where you would like to study abroad, you may be considering opportunities to travel within and outside of your future host country. If you have the time and means to do so, this may influence your choice and impact your view of the potential experience. First, I want to say that regardless of your intentions, the majority of your time abroad will be spent in the city and at the institution you pick. Given that, traveling once abroad is a privilege and deciding on a program should be based on the opportunities, resources, and support of each program. All of that said, I want to give some advice to those, like me, who wanted to explore outside of their city.
Time Management
Remember: studying abroad is an academic semester like any other, not a vacation. While you should take advantage of every opportunity to explore and experience your host country, it can be difficult to stay focused on your studies. That being said, weekends and breaks can be a good opportunity to venture outside of your city and see what the rest of your country, or even continent, has to offer. If you plan on traveling while abroad, time management will be essential. Know your responsibilities. If you know what is due and when it is due, you can plan ahead.
Planning
Planning your trips well in advance is important in ensuring your safety, having a positive experience, and remaining cost effective. Know that things will go wrong, whether flights get canceled or delayed, new responsibilities pop up, or different opportunities come your way. Planning can take many forms, and not all might work for you. Research locations, ideal times for your schedule, and figure out who you might travel with. Most importantly, set some time aside to explore your city. Every location in study abroad has a lot to offer, no matter how big or small the city is. Do not ignore what is in your backyard, as you will find it’s the small things everyday that make your experience.
Costs
Studying abroad can be a major financial cost and investment. If traveling is important to you, you can plan trips for almost any budget. First, some programs or universities will offer low-cost trips. For example, my university has offered a trip to a nearby city for only 20 euros. Airlines often have last minute deals and sales that can help you reach your destination, or discover a city you never considered exploring. Research what costs you will have throughout the programs you are interested in: food, dorm supplies, daily needs, textbooks, etc. Traveling can definitely be cost effective, but make sure to take care of your needs before addressing your wants.
Balancing with Life in Host City
As you adjust to life at your host university, you will meet lots of new people, make plans, and want to explore what the city has to offer. You may learn that the few moments you have to travel are also the moments you want to spend with new friends. On the other hand, you may meet other students just as eager to explore the country. Regardless of the outcome, maintaining a healthy social and academic life at your host city should not be underestimated. Adjusting can be difficult and can take time. No matter how much you plan, there is no predicting how you will feel or what you will want to do until you get there.
Exploring What’s Around You
As I’ve mentioned, I think it’s incredibly important to explore whichever city you choose. In my experience, the best moments are the ones speaking to locals, visiting small shops, and seeing the parts of the city that tourists wouldn’t see on a regular trip. For me, I particularly enjoy the benefits of living in a city designed for walkers and runners, and love finding new parks and amazing views everyday. This is not to say the classic tourist attractions are not worthwhile, as they are attractions for a reason. Take advantage of your city’s transportation system, and research what there is to do wherever you go. Finally, if you don’t know what to do or where to go, ask locals. Ultimately, no one knows the city that hosts you better than its residents.
Sophie Brault
Spring 2024
GW Exchange - University of Navarra
Elliott School of International Affairs
International Affairs Major