12 Things I learned from Traveling abroad with my BFFs
TRAVEL: it's the only thing in life that makes you richer.
I'm a firm believer that everyone should travel across the globe at least once in their life. There's no greater experience than emerging yourself in a new culture: the sights, sounds, foods & people - and who better to experience it with you than your bestest friends?!
When I was 21, I backpacked across Europe with my two BFFs. Our adventure forever changed how I view of this beautiful world.
Here's what I learned -
SAY YES TO SOMETHING NEW. I may sound like a broken record here butttttt...step out of your comfort zone and say Y-E-S to something you never imagined yourself doing! Don't regret the missed opportunities of exploring & experiencing when you had the chance. Your time is now!
TRY THE GYRO. Fact: I didn't want to try the gyro in Italy BUT I did and it was delicious. Don't let strange sounding food items detour you from tasting culinary magic. Even if you end up hating it, give it a TRY!
DANCE ON THE TABLE. I'm not talking girls gone wild, but if you attend a Greek restaurant or festival where this is common place - join in on this cultural experience & DANCE!
TAKE THE LONG WAY. I'll be the first to admit that I don't venture far without consulting with Siri or my phone GPS - but for just this once, set aside the maps, close the apps and be on your way. Let me be clear, I'm not advising that you blindly wander foreign streets, BUT I highly recommend you stroll down the cobblestone roads, follow the aroma of fresh baked bread & step off the straight & narrow guided path. You never know where you'll end up, what you'll find or who you'll meet!
SPIN ON THE BULL'S BALLS. Not only does stepping on the bull's balls in Torino, Italy bring you good luck, it forces you to live in the moment - have fun with it like I did! (pictured below)
SMILE. Take a moment to appreciate where you are right now and have gratitude for how you got there. It's SO easy to get caught up in the logistics and planning of this once in a lifetime trip. Don't let the days pass you by without acknowledging how incredibly LUCKY you are to be where you are right in this moment. Don't blush, your happiness is showing!
DO WHAT THEY WANT TOO. I get it. When you envisioned your trip half way across the world, maybe visiting the museum wasn't on your must-do list. Remember: this isn't the YOUR trip - it's everyone's trip equally. Be considerate of what each one of your BFFs wants to do too!
SAY CHEESE. Take AS MANY pictures as humanly possible :) Pictures are worth a million words. Have fun capturing the memories you'll be sharing with your kids one day!
FLY ON THE BROOM STICK. If you have the chance to visit London, go to the Hogwarts studio tour & do the flying photo op. Because when else will you be able to live out your childhood dreams of flying on a broom stick?! + every HP fan will be insanely jealous.
HELLO, MY NAME IS. We met SO many incredible people along the way - many of whom we still keep in touch with today! Say HELLO, exchange experiences & make new friendships. Chances are you'll learn something new & you now have a crew to meet up with at the Irish Pub!
I MISS HOME TOO. No matter the amount of time you're traveling, being far away from loved ones can be hard. Everyone gets homesick. Lend your shoulder to cry on, your ear to listen & your heart to show your friend you love them.
WAIT, WE DID WHAT?! As your time abroad comes to an end, reminisce on all the new memories you & your BFFs have made! Laugh, cry & cherish your amazing friendship!
XO, The Future Miss You
PS. I ALSO learned that warmer clothes are a must when visiting Europe in May. Note the jean jacket (my only jacket) in almost every photo...
