Research suggests that “97% of people feel happier simply planning a trip.” Traveling has always been one of my favorite hobbies. Since childhood, I’ve loved every adventure, whether it was visiting Story Land in New Hampshire with family and friends or taking a trip to Universal in Florida. I’ve never had a fear of flying; instead, I find it thrilling to explore new places and meet new people.
One of my college goals was to study abroad, and in May 2022, two of my roommates and I embarked on a study abroad session in Greece. This turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. We lived in Athens and attended the American College of Greece. Immersing myself in a new culture with incredible food, stunning architecture, and rich history gave me some of the best memories of my life.
We quickly made friends with people in our building and planned island-hopping trips on weekends, visiting Mykonos, Ios, and Milos. Each island had its unique charm, making every trip special. Sailing around Milos on a catamaran, cliff jumping, and taking in the bluest waters and clearest skies with friends were unforgettable experiences. Meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds in Athens enriched my life with new perspectives.
One of the trip’s highlights was staying in an Airbnb on a beautiful mountain in Mykonos. The view of the ocean from our high vantage point and the amazing pool on the mountainside were breathtaking. Although it was challenging to get around and go downtown, the experience was worth it. Traveling holds a special place in my heart because of the incredible experiences and unforgettable memories it has given me.