by Melissa Aguilar |
Lizzie McGuire’s school trip abroad is nothing but magical: late night escapades with a dashing local … and that whole being-mistaken-for-a-pop-star thing. While not every study abroad student’s experience can be magical all the time (there’s still homework and class), even the not-so-fun experiences contribute to the semester of a lifetime. The Beacon caught up with seasoned UP study abroad students for insight for those preparing to go abroad — whether as a student or casual traveler.
Fremantle, Australia
Jessica Armatage
What is a common misconception about the culture you lived in?I know when I was first thinking about studying abroad to Western Australia (WA), my initial fear was how to avoid the insane, dangerous and life-threatening wildlife. All I had really heard about Australia was that everything was trying to kill you. While it is important to keep an eye out for any wildlife and to be safe, the only wildlife I encountered in WA was some cockroaches, which while they are nasty, won’t kill you.
What little-known places should people definitely go to when in your country/city?
In Fremantle, WA, there are TONS of little cafes and food places that are absolutely incredible. Here are a few of my favorites: San Churros, Little Creatures, Run Amuk, Blink Café and Cicerellos.
In terms of what to do in Fremantle or Perth, I highly recommend a visit to King’s Park, a walk or run along Dog Beach, going to the Fremantle Markets and Cottesloe Beach (which is one of the most incredible beaches I’ve ever visited). Taking the ferry from Fremantle and going to Rottnest Island is a lot of fun as well, there is a ton of hiking, exploring, biking and is home to the happiest animal on earth, the quokka!
If possible, I also highly recommend going to an Australian Footy game. It is so different from any sport we have in the United States, so it is super interesting to watch, learn and play (even if it is very confusing initially)! If you have any chance to do some more traveling, I also think South-Western Australia is a beautiful area of the country and that sometimes gets overlooked. I was lucky enough to visit places such as Margaret River, Denmark, and Albany, which are full of amazing beaches, sites, restaurants and activities, such as hiking and tree-climbing.
What is something you think is overrated/people could skip in your country?
Honestly, I can’t think of anything! WA is a place full of adventure and fun, so there is nothing I would not recommend doing or seeing. It is an AMAZING experience!
Do you have any tricks you’ve learned while traveling or have any tips?
I always like to pack at least one day’s worth of clothing in my carry-on luggage, just in case my luggage gets lost. Also, try your best not to over pack. I know this can be difficult, but the more room you leave in your suitcase, the more room for cool souvenirs you have to bring home! I’ve also learned that international credit cards can be super helpful (Chase has a great one!) as you don’t have to worry about exchanging cash, ATM withdrawal fees, or exchange fees.
What advice would you give to people preparing for a semester abroad?
I think it’s important to realize what misconceptions/stigmas other countries have about the United States, and to show that other cultures that these stereotypes are just that, misconceptions. As a studies abroad student, you not only represent the University of Portland, but the United States culture as well, so I think it’s important to show others just how awesome the U.S. can be! Also, while abroad try to make the most of every moment, because there is so much to do and see!
Salzburg, Austria
Emily Pellatz
What little-known places should people definitely go to when in your country/city?
For food: Reyna Kebap, Crêpe D'or, The Heart of Joy Cafe (great study spot!). Go to Innsbruck, Austria for a more restful trip, great photo opps, and skiing!
What is something you think is overrated/people could skip in your country?
The Sound of Music tour - you'll end up seeing most of the attractions just by exploring Salzburg!
Do you have any tricks you’ve learned while traveling or have any tips?
Learn military time, pack light, buy a hostel sheet, keep your purses/bags on your person, save up money for travel & shopping before you go. Hotels and B&Bs were hardly more expensive than hostels where I traveled to. "Splurge!"
What advice would you give to people preparing for a semester abroad? Decide how you're going to study when you're abroad beforehand. I studied on the trains/buses to and from my travel destinations on weekends. Once you're there you won't want to study.
Granada, Spain
Estefania Morales
Common misconception:
Many people think that going to Spain will be filled with flamenco and tapas but there is so much more… One can simply immerse in the history that goes back to the Arab culture and is evident in Andalucía, the southern region of Spain, in various forms such as architecture.
Places:
I would recommend visiting the Mirador de San Miguel in Granada, Spain. This viewpoint looks over the entire city of Granada including the Alhambra and parts of Sierra Nevada. Great place to see the sunset!
Overrated:
Try to skip the tapas bars located in the touristy areas of Granada. I recommend going to Calle Pedro Antonio de Alarcon or Calle Gonzalo Gallas, two streets that have many tapa bars where Spanish meet in the evenings to socialize. The bars tend to get very loud and busy around the typical tapas time (8 or 9 p.m.). But they’re definitely worth it because you get a free tapa (only in Granada) when you purchase a drink!
While traveling:
Pack light! This will let you move fast and without any chaos especially when it comes to airport security checkpoints. It’s better to just have one bag, preferably a backpack. Be sure to leave extra space in your bag when traveling so that you have enough space for souvenirs when you return. Also, always carry a valid ID (driver’s license or international card) and a student ID for discounts. I would recommend asking if there is a student discount, even if it’s not advertised.
Advice:
Studying abroad often brings anxiety before students set foot in their country of study; this is normal, especially if you haven’t traveled outside the U.S. before. Don’t stress too much, though, just have an open mind. Things might be a little rough at the beginning as you begin to acclimate to the culture, food, and language. So stay positive and know that things will get better. Eventually there will be a point where you won’t want to leave! Also, don’t lock yourself in your room watching Netflix while studying abroad! You’re only there for a few months so take advantage and make the most of it! Try to go out every day after you’re done with classes, even if it’s just for a walk around the city.
Melissa Aguilar is copy editor for The Beacon. She can be reached at aguilarm16@up.edu.
