Is it overrated? Probably.
Does that make it any less fun? I don’t think so.
New graduates listen up, this is mostly for you. Those still struggling through 9 am classes, you’ll find top notch ideas too! Here’s why you need to travel before work.
Why Should I?
Just like a lot of things in life, it’s subjective. What I want out of it might not be what you are looking for. Personally, I like it because I get to experience something that I otherwise might not be exposed to. And what better time than before starting your full-time job?
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Realistically, once you start “real” work, you’ll probably be too occupied to take a stress-free vacation for quite some time. Even if you do, it’ll mostly be for getting away from work. That totally defeats the purpose.
Don’t expect to “find yourself” when you travel. Do it because it’s incredible in itself.
Travelling is too darn expensive!
I mean you can always ask your parents for money but there is no fun in that. The feeling you get when you do something all by yourself is unparalleled. Sure its cliché but where there is a will, there is a way.
You can be smart about your travel plans and work towards saving up some $$$. Internships are the best. If you are the creative type, consider freelance work – graphic artists, freelance content writers, etc. Check out services like fiverr to make some quick money.
Related: 5 Ultimate Things You Can Do After Graduating
Also, travel cheap. You don’t need to stay in 5-star hotels nor do you need to break the bank on food. Again, your priorities might be different than mine but it’s worth thinking about where should you splurge. Airbnb and CouchSurfing are lifesavers.
Even if you can only foot the bill for part of the expenses, it is still better than nothing! Start planning your grand grad trip early and make smart choices.
Travel and vacation are different
Travelling inherently means skimping on things for getting something far superior: An unfiltered insight into diverse cultures. It’s not about pulling luxurious trips but about making invaluable memories. Vacation, on the hand, is what you do in your mid-30s when you have a grumpy significant other and ungrateful children to get away from.
Remember, it’s not about WHERE you go or WHAT you do, as long as you do something out of the ordinary. I don’t care what anyone says – university is stressful. It makes no difference whether you did engineering, pre-med, English literature, or something else. It wasn’t easy. Ya’ll deserve some self-loving every once a while. Go for it!
Image Credits: Google Images
