My college trip to Europe was a significant chapter in my life. It wasn’t just about visiting new places; it taught me valuable lessons in simplicity, cultural understanding, and creating lasting memories. In this travel diary, I’ll share the heart of my European adventure, reflecting on personal growth and the meaningful experiences that shaped me during those transformative days abroad.
From College Struggles to Trip to Europe
In my junior year at The University of Texas at Austin, I found myself grappling with academic challenges. Having been on probation twice due to poor grades, college felt like a tough terrain. Unsure of my major, I had changed it six times, making my graduation seem like a distant goal. Eventually, I settled in majoring in Sociology and minored in Spanish, effortlessly navigating the language due to my bilingual upbringing in English and Korean.
Eager to graduate quickly, I chose sociology as it offered the fastest route out of college, given my accumulated credits. Unlike my siblings in medical professions, studying had always been a struggle for me. Adding to the complexity, I was recovering from a recent breakup with my first boyfriend, leaving me somewhat heartbroken.
In a bid to escape challenges, I decided to study Spanish at the University of Salamanca in Spain for the summer. The program involved a large group of students participating in an exchange program, staying with host families. This opportunity sounded like exactly what I needed at the time. It marked my first trip to Europe abroad, adding an extra layer of excitement to my decision to venture off.
My Unforgettable College Experience in Salamanca
After diligently saving from my part-time restaurant job, I eagerly signed up for a once-in-a-lifetime college trip to Europe. The anticipation was palpable as we landed in Salamanca, where I would spend six weeks with my host family. They turned out to be a young couple, both in medical school pursuing their dream of becoming doctors, along with their adorable one-year-old son. Despite their small home in a quaint town, the atmosphere was cozy, and the family was incredibly welcoming.
Sharing a room with my roommate, our accommodation’s proximity to the university allowed us to easily walk to classes. The University of Salamanca’s centuries-old buildings created a unique atmosphere. It reminded me of the narrow streets and historic architecture of my birthplace, South Korea.
Life in Salamanca marked a departure from my usual routine. As we explored the town, late-night concerts and bars became our go-to activities, immersing us in the vibrant local scene. Additionally, adapting to the Spanish tradition of siesta, taking naps when all the shops closed, added a unique rhythm to my daily routine. This experience was different from anything I had known; nevertheless, it became an unforgettable chapter in my life.
Lost and Found in Madrid
One weekend in Salamanca, my friends and I decided to take a train to Madrid, Spain. Upon arrival, we switched to a bus to reach our destination. Unfortunately, the trip took an unexpected turn when I discovered that someone had stolen my wallet from my backpack, likely during the bus ride. Being young and naive, it was a devastating experience.
Despite not having much cash in the wallet, the real blow was losing my passport, a crucial document. We reported the incident to the police in Madrid, but they couldn’t take immediate action. They explained that thieves often discard items they don’t need and advised me to check back in a few days. Faced with this setback, my friends and I decided to cancel our trip and return to Salamanca.
The next day, I promptly contacted the police station. Fortunately, they had located my wallet with everything intact, except for the small amount of cash. A relief to recover my essential documents, the incident served as a lesson in vigilance in touristy areas.
Solo Backpacking Trip in Europe
After my study abroad program in Salamanca ended, I decided to embark on a six-week solo backpacking trip around Europe. Looking back, I had no concrete plans or destinations in mind. Armed with a Eurail pass, I set off for France, my first stop. The allure of the romanticized country, particularly the iconic Eiffel Tower, motivated my visit.
Upon arriving in France and disembarking the train, I found myself followed by a young man speaking French, a language I didn’t understand. Feeling uneasy, I quickly sought refuge among other backpackers to distance myself from this unfamiliar individual. After a few hours, I managed to lose him. However, this experience taught me a valuable lesson in the importance of caution, especially when traveling alone as a young woman.
After a few days in France, I boarded the train again to explore different parts of Europe. Along the way, I met interesting people, including Swedish brothers I encountered in the Netherlands.
Opting for cost-effective travel, I primarily used trains, often taking night journeys to save on accommodations. Hostels catering to backpackers became my usual stay. As I traveled through Portugal, the Netherlands, and Belgium, I finally flew back home after almost three months away.
While I enjoyed the overall experience of my trip through Europe, reflecting back, I recognize the value of better planning. As a first-time solo traveler, I was naive about navigating the challenges that arose. Additionally, concerns about safety and encountering obstacles made me wish for a more thought-out approach.
Europe Trip: Lessons in Maturity and Resilience
Choosing to go to Europe at that time turned out to be a significant decision. It broadened my perspective, fostering an appreciation for the luxuries I have and recognizing global disparities. Additionally, the solo backpacking journey emphasized life’s unpredictability and the importance of embracing both positive and negative experiences.
Leaving the comfort of home also exposed me to financial responsibility and the obstacles life presents. As I navigated through unfamiliar territories in Europe, I gained valuable life lessons, contributing to my maturation. This newfound maturity played a crucial role in my ability to complete school upon returning, ultimately earning my degree. The journey not only expanded my horizons but also instilled resilience, aiding in overcoming challenges and achieving academic goals.
Someday, I hope to make another trip to Europe to revisit the places I explored in my younger years. The prospect of returning to those familiar locations carries a sense of nostalgia and a desire to see how those places may have changed over time. It’s a journey I look forward to, cherishing the memories of my previous adventures while creating new ones in the process.
Explore my recent travels by checking out my post on Chiang Rai, Thailand.
