There are two types of getting lost. One is not knowing where you are. The other is enjoying where you are. When I began my study abroad to Scotland, I did it alone, flying out from New York to London and then to Glasgow where I would be meeting my group. It was a disaster. As a first-time international traveler, I felt lost the whole way. It was not until I reached the dorms that I finally felt sure and safe.
I highly recommend Study Abroad programs. They allow you to experience the culture with people who have similar interests. Also, in your free time, you can usually find someone to explore with you. We once took a day-trip to Inverary where we saw the traditional Highland Games. A friend and I took some time to also visit Inverary Castle and as we left, we noticed a small tower on a mountain high above. We asked if it was accessible and, finding that it was, we decided to hike it. We were wearing flip flops. If you've ever traveled, you know that flip flops are really only for the shower. We ended up hiking the mountain barefoot. It was rough, but reaching the top was worth it: green, spongy grass, a bench, the old stone watchtower, the majestic view of bens (mountains), lochs (lakes), billowing clouds, the castle and the town. As an inexperienced traveler, I would never have hiked that thing alone or even asked about it.
My travel advice is simple: Go with a friend; talk to the locals (they know what's worth seeing); always wear good shoes so you'll always be ready for an adventure; and, whether or not you are the leader, pretend to be so that you will always know what is going on and what your options are. Lastly, enjoy where you are, even if you get lost.
Colleen E. Garrison
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