If there’s one thing I’ve learned from travelling, it’s that you have to expect the unexpected. No matter how much you plan, prepare, or organize before the trip, something will go wrong. It’s not a matter of if, but when. Whether it’s a cancelled flight or forgetting something at a hotel, something is bound to happen that you didn’t plan for. However, that’s part of what makes travelling so amazing. It’s those unexpected and sometimes sucky experiences that not only stay with you but define your trip and become the memories you look back on most fondly.
As I’ve been getting ready for my faculty led trip to Italy, Slovenia, Austria, and Germany this summer, I am researching things to see, what food to eat, how to get around, and all the other details to make sure everything goes smoothly. I am also trying to keep in mind that all this planning can only do so much. Although it is always good to be prepared, you also have to be okay with the fact that everything you planned might go out the window. If you embrace that, you’ll be able to enjoy the spontaneity and excitement that comes with new experiences, but if you’re more attached to your plans than the experience you’ll feel like it was a failure.
With all this in mind, I can’t wait until the trip begins and I can experience these new, exciting and amazing countries for all they have to offer, no matter how unexpected the journey is!