From the Bronx to Granada: City Girl takes the South of Spain. Here are 4 tips to adapt...

I would always get confused whenever someone listed “traveling” as one of their hobbies, because traveling always felt like something people just did whenever they had extra money to spend. During rush hour, the commute from The Bronx to Brooklyn could even feel like “traveling.” Full transparency, after studying abroad for 2 months, I have found ways to make traveling less of a chore and more of an experience. Here are some tips and advice for those looking to travel. Also, I have included some of what got me through my first month of studying abroad.

1. Don’t be afraid to document– like everything

How many times have we heard the saying, “put the phone down” or “live in the moment” while experiencing something new and different? It might sound a bit controversial, but this can be one of the best parts of discovering a new place. It's like saving a piece of your trip and allows you to relive the experience. Something as simple as making a digital photo album, writing in a journal, or even creating a TikTok gives life to your memories outside of your head. Intimidating, I know, but trust me, you will be glad you captured that one moment when looking back.

2. Play Around with your style.

If there’s one thing that I have experimented with the most, it's my sense of style. A lot of the time, we associate our style with our sense of self, and since being here in Granada, Spain, I have found that there is a direct correlation between my evolving sense of self and my fashion choices. I’m playing around with different colors, finding timeless pieces that are flattering on me, and investing in the way I present myself. You’ll be surprised by the ways you are able to open yourself up when you aren't under the microscope that is the New York City fashion scene.

3. Self-care does not stop at JFK! (or any international airport, for that matter)

I am guilty of splurging (just a tad) on things and items that have made me feel like my best self, and I have absolutely no regrets. If self-care for you is getting your nails done once a week, go ahead and book the appointment. And if self-care for you involves dancing alone in your room with headphones in, then go for it! I’ve found that now more than ever, I use my self-care rituals as a way to keep me grounded.

4. Set Clear Intentions For Your Trip

Whenever we travel or go on vacation, it is hard to live in the moment at times. We are constantly thinking about our lives back at home, wherever that may be. I am guilty of this, and one way to combat it is to set clear intentions for your trip. Allowing yourself to partake in downtime is crucial because it is very easy to spread yourself too thin and burn yourself out. One way to do this is to ask yourself what you would like to discover about yourself, what you want to accomplish by the time the trip ends, and what you will take back with you once you re-enter the “real world.” To maximize your experience, you have to hold yourself accountable and be honest with yourself about what you want to get out of it.