Traveling Abroad: A Guide for Beginners

Traveling abroad can be an amazing experience, but it can also be a bit daunting if you've never done it before. There are so many things to think about, from planning your trip to packing your bags. But don't worry, we're here to help! In this blog post, we'll give you some tips and advice on how to travel abroad like a pro.

Plan your trip in advance!
The first step to traveling abroad is contacting your travel agent and having a conversation about where you want to go! Ideally you want to start planning 6 months to a year out. Last minute trips are definitely possible, but you may have to be a little more flexible in your plans!

Pack light!
One of the best pieces of advice for traveling abroad is to pack light. You don't want to be lugging around a heavy suitcase all over the place.  Look into capsule wardrobes to make packing light a little easier. Try to pack only the essentials, and leave the rest at home.

Be prepared for culture shock!
You're going to experience a new culture. This can be a great thing, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. Be prepared for culture shock by doing some research on the country you're visiting. Learn about the customs, the language, and the food. Using apps like DuoLingo to learn basic phrases to get around can make a HUGE difference, you may also want download a translation app for figuring out how to say things quickly in the moment.

Be patient! 
Americans tend to live at a faster pace than many other destinations. When you're making plans, give yourself some extra wiggle room for getting from place to place - schedules don't always run as they're listed especially when it comes to public transportation. Give yourself the time to enjoy the whole experience. 
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Be open-minded!
One of the best things about traveling abroad is the opportunity to experience new things. Be open-minded and try something new (especially new foods), even if they're outside of your comfort zone. Immersing yourself in new experiences is a wonderful part of being in a new country. 

Don't be afraid to ask for help!
If you're ever lost or confused, don't be afraid to ask for help. The locals will be more than happy to point you in the right direction.

Have fun!
Traveling abroad should be FUN. Relax, enjoy yourself, and make some memories that will last a lifetime.

So, what are you waiting for? Let's start planning your next adventure today!