Studying abroad is a whirlwind of adventures. It happens so fast, and often next thing you know, you’re about to head home! Make a bucket list of all the things you’d like to accomplish while you’re abroad to make sure you make the most of your once-in-a-lifetime journey. Here are 14 amazing ideas to get you started.
Number 1. Taste new local foods
Get a taste of the local flavours! Whether you want to take a safe bet and go for a chocolate croissant, or you’re feeling a little more adventurous and are willing to try something totally out there (like crocodile), one of the best parts about travelling is the opportunity to try new exotic dishes.
Number 2. Try your host countries sport
Take advantage of living in a new country by trying out their sports! Who knows, you just might discover a hidden talent for surfing, sand boarding, or even sky diving!
Number 3. Watch the Sunrise
Get an early start to the day by waking up to watch the sun rise! Peaceful moments while travelling can be hard to come by, so take a moment to enjoy the start of a brand new day of adventures. Alternately, if a night out becomes a really, really late (or early) night, you can watch the sunrise, then wind down and crawl into bed for a restful sleep.
Number 4. Discover local music
Nothing beats live music! Get lost in the rhythm of new cultures, and don’t be afraid to dance. Some of the best memories are made by spontaneously stumbling upon the local talent and dancing the night away. Your taste in music might grow dramatically, and you’ll have amazing new artists to introduce your friends to.
Number 5. Meet a new animal
No matter where you go, there’s bound to be some sort of creature that you can’t find at home. Maybe you can snap an adorable selfie with an Australian quokka, or maybe you can hop on a camel in Morocco and go for a ride! Whatever the creature, be kind and try to be willing to step outside your comfort zone.
Number 6. Go for a picnic at a scenic location
Eating out can get expensive; the prefect alternative is to pick up an easy meal and take advantage of the local scenery! Food automatically tastes better when you’re eating under the Eiffel Tower or on the beach. Beware of seagulls and pigeons!
Number 7. Indulge in outrageous desserts
Treat yourself! Go crazy for a monstrous milkshake, or attend a donut festival and sample all the goods! Better yet, post some great pictures of your fancy treat and get all of your friends back
Number 8. Check out all the touristy spots
You’re a tourist, duh! It would be a shame to visit a new city and skip out on the noteworthy buildings or monuments, so get right in there and embrace the tourist life. You don’t need to go crazy seeing every single notable place, but don’t be afraid to look like a tourist.
Number 9. Refresh your wardrobe
Other cultures are full of incredible patterns and colours. Instead of getting a tacky souvenir, buy yourself a trendy clothing item or accessory! It will be a constant reminder of your time abroad, and it will be so unique from anything you could find back home. You’ll return home well travelled and extra stylish!
Number 10. Befriend a local (or several)
The locals know best about what’s worth seeing. They can point you towards all sorts of neat, hidden gems that tourists don’t know about! Talking to the locals is an incredible part of travelling, although language barriers can be a bit of a challenge. Do your best to communicate, even if it means making a few grammar mistakes or even miming out an entire conversation. Put yourself out there!
