One of the best parts of studying abroad is being able to travel to other countries and cities. Planning weekend trips is important and allows you to experience other cultures, but it is also important that you spend as much time in your city of study.
The best time to study abroad may be during your vacation/break and the time before or after your semester. "Is four hours in Rome, a day in Switzerland, and a midnight train through the Pyrenees really experiencing Europe?" If you're traveling every weekend of study abroad, when will you ever find time to enjoy the city you're actually supposed to be experiencing to the fullest?
Spend your free time wandering the streets of your city and discover something new each day. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone! Talk with the locals, try the local cuisine, find non-touristy places and EXPLORE! Traveling to different countries each weekend takes away the time to really immerse yourself in your cities culture.
There are many of different tools to assist your travels abroad. A few useful apps are:
1.) Sygic Travel
You’ll get (happily) lost in this mesmerizing map, which lays out attractions by city. Click on each one for a description and a list of tours you can book on the spot.
2.) Rome2Rio
What’s the most efficient way to get from Wichita to Thailand? Whether by plane, train or city bus, Rome2Rio gives you every possible option for travel from point A to point B.
3.) UTrip
Utrip is the personal concierge you’ve always wanted, but never wanted to pay for. Tell the site your destination, budget, and how much you care about factors like dining, history, shopping, and saving money. Then, watch it create a day-by-day itinerary tailored to your interests.
It is okay if you don't get out everyday, exploring can be quite exhausting! Still make use of your free time by blogging or writing a journal of all of your adventures! It is always great to share your experiences with others, and have something to look back on and reminicse.
For more useful travel tips be sure to visit: https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/10-study-abroad-mistakes-in-Europe
