things I learned

Now that I’m home, everyone asks me one of two questions: where was your favourite place or what did you learn?   It’s too hard to pick just one city but my favourite place to be is always on the water so anywhere near water wins my heart.   As for what I learned, here are a few random thoughts: (Note: the idea for this blog and many of the tips came from Anastasia Chapman, our fearless program leader – thanks Momma Stasia!  xo)   There’s nothing like a four-hour ferry ride to make new friends Figure out the currency conversion before checking into a spa for the weekend Always pack snacks   Make friends with someone who has access to the airport lounge  Castle walls are slippery in the rain Keep an extra deodorant stick in your backpack   A nap is always a good idea Check the level of the tide before you go cliff jumping Always hang on in the back of an open-air Jeep – you never know when you might fly over a sand dune   When eating street food, choose the stall with the longest queue Renting a beach umbrella is a smart idea The best way to catch an early flight is to stay up all night   Flushing toilet paper is an overlooked luxury If stray dogs can figure out the metro system, so can you Back up all your photos   Treasure the friends who offer a hand, wait for you and walk slowly up the mountain You can never get rid of sand in a backpack Pretending to take a photo is a great way to check out guys   Don’t run a half marathon when you aren’t in shape Eat outside every chance you get Google Maps is one of the best inventions ever   A glass of port beneath a castle, in a Jeep, with friends always tastes better It’s okay to sleep in a sandy bed, it means you had a great day Catch a sunrise or sunset every day – it’s always worth it   Starting a campfire requires newspaper and a lighter Find the balance between enjoying the moment and capturing the moment Stray dogs may bite you   All you need is a jar of peanut butter The best secrets are found down narrow, cobblestone streets If the place is called “Hot Mess”, it’s likely you’ll be one too   Food poisoning is a surprise cleanse you didn’t know you needed It’s cold at the top of mountains Uber is amazing – use it, love it   Always keep a few coins and tissue in your pocket (you never know when you need a bathroom) The best way to see a city is by bike Buy tickets in advance for something you really want to see   Workspaces provide free tea Make sure your train ticket seat faces forward Don’t be afraid of getting lost – that’s usually when you find the best places   Learn to take two-minute showers in Europe Midnight bike rides through the city make you feel alive Always pack a swimsuit   A smile will take you a long way in any language Say yes often!