I've studied abroad twice now, and one thing I've noticed is the pressure people feel to travel as much as possible. A lot of students post pictures hopping from country to country every weekend, so it can feel like you are not taking advantage of your experience or that you are missing out if you are not doing the same. While traveling through Europe is an amazing opportunity, it is equally important to explore the country and city where you are actually living.
One of the trips included in my program was a day trip to Toledo, Spain. I had previously visited Toledo during another trip to Spain, so I thought I had already seen everything there was to see. After my second trip, I was so happy that I decided to go!
This experience taught me that no two trips will ever be exactly the same. I had the opportunity to visit different parts of Toledo, learn about the city’s history, and admire the beautiful skyline. Most importantly, I had the opportunity to spend time with people from my program I don't always get to see.
My friends and I in front of the skyline in Toledo.
Due to the fact that everyone has different internships, classes, and schedules, we often only see each other during organized events like this. Trips such as Toledo provided a chance to make friends, create experiences, and connect with people who are going through the same study abroad journey as I am. I returned to Madrid, Spain, with so many new friends!
Another memorable trip was to Valencia, Spain. If I had to convince myself to find one complaint about Madrid, it would be that there is no beach. Valencia solved this problem immediately with flatter roads, colorful buildings, and gorgeous coastal views.
We spent time paddleboarding, relaxing on the beach, and participating in a paella tour. The city was so vibrant and full of life. Everywhere I looked genuinely felt like I was walking through the set of a movie. Valencia has easily become one of my favorite places that I have visited in Spain.
Valencia is so colorful, it’s like walking onto the set of a movie!
These two trips are an example of how there is so much beauty within your host country that can easily be overlooked when your focus is always on the next international destination. For many students, studying abroad is already a significant financial investment. Flights, trains, accommodations, food, and activities can add up quickly. Exploring your host country or city can allow you to have a meaningful experience while staying within budget.
Most of the time, this can be a student's first time living overseas or even their first time leaving their home country. It is really easy to feel like you need to maximize every weekend by visiting somewhere new. However, it is important to remember that the study abroad experience itself is already an adventure. Visiting a new country every weekend does not have to make your study abroad time meaningful.
Taking in the moment overlooking the city at Templo de Debod.
Some of my favorite memories so far have come from exploring Madrid. Most of the time, I do not even plan my day because there is always something new to explore or a spontaneous activity to do. It is important to appreciate the place we will be calling home for a few months.