Lessons Learned During My First Week Abroad

I’m going to be doing a little recap on my first week abroad. I’m loving every second of it. If you’re planning on going abroad for a long time there are some things that I’ve realized that I think you should know.

• Jet Lag: Wow. Usually it only takes me a day or two to get adjusted, but I think I’m still adjusting. My biggest advice: as you land and get off your plane DO NOT go to bed until it is at least 8 or 9pm. Some people like to take Melatonin before going to bed. I don’t personally recommend it because I feel like it makes me very groggy the following day. You’re going to be cranky but I promise the first day is the worst and then it will get better.
• Hunger: Something I didn’t think about was that my body would need time to adjust to different eating times. Try and stick to your time zones schedule but if not just embrace the fact that you’re hungry and eat because there’s nothing worse than being hangry. This will only take a couple of days.
• Plan! Your trip will be over before you know it: I’m already one week in!! I have a giant London bucket list and there are only three weeks left! You’re going to be tired and disoriented the first few days so it’s understandable to sit back and enjoy the city you’re in for those few days, but you better start planning. If you leave planning to the last minute then it’ll be the end of your trip and you’ll be saying you wish you could’ve had time to check more off of your list.
• Relax: traveling and culture shock can be stressful, so before you go on your trip make sure you make a list of everything you enjoy doing. This could be: going to the gym, writing, having alone time, taking naps, calling or texting someone. Just make sure you stay healthy and less stressed by planning on doing something that makes your mind and body happy. This isn’t something you have to do every day. Just listen to your body.
• Lots of walking: I walk on average about 7 miles a day which is a lot for me and my short legs! Be patient and enjoy the time you have while walking. Try to walk more than using the tube/ metro because it’s so nice to take in the city and walk along with the locals. Find my favorite walking shoes “2 Travel Shoes You Need.”
• Don’t be stressed about getting lost: my friends and I got lost last week and ended up in a better place than where we were originally heading. It’s so fun to be spontaneous and discover new things! Don’t freak out if you don’t know where you’re going it could result in you finding your new favorite place in town. Be safe though!!
• Get out of your comfort zone: you may not know this but some places in Europe are very Americanized. I’ve seen multiple Chipotles and Five Guys here in London. Try new food!! Don’t stick with stuff you can get back home. Surround yourself in the culture and take different classes, go see shows, and try to do everything you wouldn’t be able to do if you were home.
• Water: Always have it with you!! You’ll thank me for this one.

Leave your trip with no regrets! Working on a London Bucket list to post to the blog so you can enjoy too! Is there anything you would like to see on my blog? Leave your answer in the comment section. Hope you’re all having an amazing summer so far!!

With love, Melissa