Despite studying in Seville, Spain, I made the most of my time in Europe by traveling to Paris, France, and Faro, Portugal, and experiencing two different cultures. I would advise anyone studying abroad to visit as many locations as possible and make the most of the experiences because traveling within Europe is far less expensive than traveling from the United States.
Paris exceeded my expectations. I’ll always remember how fortunate I was to have this chance when I looked out of my plane window at the Eiffel Tower. I made an effort to cram as much as I could into three days with my travel buddies. Getting lost in the pouring rain while looking for an Uber, figuring out the Paris Metro system, and receiving incorrect instructions for our Airbnb made the first night and morning particularly difficult. In retrospect, I think that crazy night is one of my favorite tales to share.
We visited major landmarks like the Louvre and Notre Dame, but one of my favorite moments was much simpler — sitting by the Seine River with a fresh baguette tradition, watching people stroll by, waving to people on the boats, and soaking up the atmosphere around me. Paris was truly a dream experience.
Faro, on the other hand, was calm and peaceful in a way Paris wasn’t. The southern coast of Portugal had such a laid-back vibe, with sunny weather, ocean views, and charming cobblestone streets. I loved the food there and enjoyed my time relaxing on the beach and in the water. It was the perfect place to slow down and recharge before my trip back home to the United States.
These trips reminded me that studying abroad isn’t just about the city you live in — it’s about saying “yes” to new experiences while you can. Traveling to Paris and Faro gave me the chance to see two very different places, each with their own beauty, and left me with memories I’ll never forget.