How can I start?
So you’ve had the desire to travel, but the idea of going it alone, is intimidating. This is understandable, particularly if you aren’t accustomed to traveling. Or if people in your circle haven’t done it, nor discuss it, and may even give you weird looks for bringing up the notion of traveling… And that’s without mentioning the idea of traveling solo! Yes, that can be discouraging. But go ahead and be the first in your circle to do something “different”!
Parlez-vous français?
A good way to start traveling solo, is to do a language program, particularly if you have a desire to learn a new language. I’m not talking about a foreign exchange program through a university, but if you have that opportunity, definitely go for it! I’m talking about taking lessons from an independent language school, that specializes in teaching foreigners the local language.
Can you pass the butter?
What I like about these schools, is that they generally offer a home-stay, option where you can stay with a family during your program. Staying with a “strange” family, may seem, well… strange! But it’s not! That, alone, can be a rewarding part of your travel experience. You can practice what you have learned, eat their food, get advice on where to go and where not to go, participate in family activities, and see what it’s like to be middle-class, in that country. It’s your family, so even if it is for a week, or longer, they will look out for you.
My first home-stay experience was very ideal, and I enjoyed it a lot. It revealed to me the above points, which I hadn’t even considered, until I was in the situation. When I saw the benefits, I was more pleased with the experience, and more confident to travel again!
Samba, anyone?
So that’s the lodging benefit to doing a language program, another benefit, is the social aspect. There will be other students in your classes and at the school, and you all can get together after classes, if you choose. Also, most schools may offer cooking and dance classes, tours of local attractions, and other outings. So if you are new to a place, and new to travel, a language school can be a reliable option to get familiar and comfortable with your destination, so you can have the time of your life!
Parlez-vous français?
A good way to start traveling solo, is to do a language program, particularly if you have a desire to learn a new language. I’m not talking about a foreign exchange program through a university, but if you have that opportunity, definitely go for it! I’m talking about taking lessons from an independent language school, that specializes in teaching foreigners the local language.
Can you pass the butter?
What I like about these schools, is that they generally offer a home-stay, option where you can stay with a family during your program. Staying with a “strange” family, may seem, well… strange! But it’s not! That, alone, can be a rewarding part of your travel experience. You can practice what you have learned, eat their food, get advice on where to go and where not to go, participate in family activities, and see what it’s like to be middle-class, in that country. It’s your family, so even if it is for a week, or longer, they will look out for you.
My first home-stay experience was very ideal, and I enjoyed it a lot. It revealed to me the above points, which I hadn’t even considered, until I was in the situation. When I saw the benefits, I was more pleased with the experience, and more confident to travel again!
Samba, anyone?
So that’s the lodging benefit to doing a language program, another benefit, is the social aspect. There will be other students in your classes and at the school, and you all can get together after classes, if you choose. Also, most schools may offer cooking and dance classes, tours of local attractions, and other outings. So if you are new to a place, and new to travel, a language school can be a reliable option to get familiar and comfortable with your destination, so you can have the time of your life!