Traveling abroad is an amazing opportunity for anyone who is looking to try something new in their life and engulf themselves in a different culture. Many of our candidates have heard from family and friends about why they shouldn’t travel, and we’re sure that you will start hearing that as well when you begin your plans. Here is some common advice that you will receive before traveling abroad – ignore them!
1. There’s Not Enough Time
There are only 24 hours in a day. Perhaps you’re only traveling for a week or two, and you’re being told that you won’t be able to do everything that you want during your travels. Make every moment the best moment when abroad.
Plan your trip ahead of time with things that you would enjoy the most. If you believe that your time may be limited, stick with what you’re the most interested in. You can even take advantage of making friends with locals by asking them for suggestions on great places to visit.
2. You Don’t Have the Money
There are several ways to save money or make extra income for your travel plans. Did you know that you could save almost $2,000 a year on average for opting out from buying Starbucks every day?
Many travelers have taken extra part-time work to save up for their trip. Others have budgeted all of their expenses for savings and even held garage sales for items that they no longer need. There are even some jobs that will allow you to work remotely while traveling – you could get paid while traveling!
3. You Won’t Finish School on Time
There are several ways to travel while continuing your studies! You can look into study abroad programs for a semester or part of summer, or you can look into an intern abroad program related to your major area of study. This may even help speed up your college program, rather than prolonging it!
Even if you choose not to do either program, you can spend summer or spring break traveling abroad, which is a peak time of travel for several other students your age!
4. You’ll have to Travel Alone
So what? Solo travel has had many positive stories from veteran travelers. Not only are you able to do whatever you’d like without asking someone else, but it helps you learn how to enjoy being by yourself.
If your family is worried and does not want you to travel, remind them that eventually, you will have to leave their nest and be on your own – so why not now? Research all of the ways to stay safe during your travels, and check in with them when you have a chance to lessen their worries while you venture out on your own.
5. It’s a Different Language
There are several resources, both online and off, that can help you learn a language. What’s the quickest way to learn a new language? Go to a country that speaks it, grab a language book, and start a conversation with a local! You will make many mistakes in the beginning, but you will be an expert in no time! Plus, you might even make a new friend or two!
So what’s stopping you? Apply now for one of our internship programs!
