Being Independent

Now that the decision is made and Europe is currently listed under the "lives in" section on Facebook, it is time to work on that independence. Embrace the solitude of being alone; not having to worry about what anyone else wants to do, or listen to what they have to say. The only thoughts and desires are those inside the mind of the new world traveller, and with endless places to go and and infinite amounts of things to see, the journey begins here.

First off, explore the city. Chances are there is a lot more history there than in the entire U.S. as a whole, so take advantage of it! Enter the gorgeous museum everyone is recommending and spend a couple of hours inside. Check out the artwork, read the descriptions, and maybe even jump in on a tour.

                                              (Museo Del Prado Madrid, Spain) 

When all of the sights are seen and history is no longer of interest, put in some headphones and just walk. Do not plan a destination or time to return home. Just go out alone, bring a little money, listen to the best playlist on iTunes, and get lost. Getting lost finds the best places: hidden neighborhoods, parks, and less popular areas that are rich with culture and away from the tourist buzz.

If there is a local restaurant on the corner, go grab dinner and a drink, and order something that sounds mysterious. If it's gross, just don't eat it, it was an A+ for effort. Also, try to branch out and talk to a waiter or someone else sitting alone at the next table over, it could be the Prince of Egypt for all that is known. Or, more likely, it could be a well-connected local that will make the next four months a lot more memorable, as he reveals the best places to go and brings more friends into the picture.

Since meeting new people abroad is so important, there is never a reason to buy a map. Most of the time, the people walking around on the street know their way around the city and are more than willing to offer directions. So, when completely turned around and lost, ask somebody for help. If the language is foreign, use the most common words of that language or even hand gestures to at least try and communicate. But, if all else fails, there are always cabs...cheater.

And lastly, do not call friends and family every single night. Go sit and get to know the hospitable family sharing their home, or enjoy the roommates in the next room experiencing the same adventure abroad. Remember, there is nothing going on at home that compares to having Europe in arms reach, and all focus should be on the here and now. Put what is going on in the same room first, and let those people at home get in touch every once in a while, if they're lucky. Allow and embrace the independent growth that will occur over the next four months, and do not let anything inhibit the process.