A Long Way from Home… How to Cope with Homesickness
It’s often said that travel broadens the mind. And no doubt it does. But find yourself in a place completely out of your comfort zone, with weeks away from home ahead of you, and it can also be a bit mindnumbing – not to mention a little scary.
It’s only natural to feel homesick every once in a while, but you needn’t let it get in the way of your incredible plans. Take a leaf out of our well-thumbed travel guide and in no time you’ll be back on the beaten track.
Keep a diary
Keeping a diary on your travels can provide a fantastic way to unwind and reflect on all the things you have achieved. Diaries could provide a great source for details, phrases, tips and customs that you would otherwise forget. Plus it’ll give you a chance to re-live your adventures once you’re home and provide a fantastic read.
Have a break
Routine can get dull after a while so take some time out every couple of weeks to treat your self to an expensive meal, an extravagant night out or a well earned excursion. This will not only recharge you batteries but give you plenty to talk about when you return.
Don’t rely on others
It’s great to enjoy the bonding experience of sharing your time with others, but a lot of us can’t cope being around somebody 24/7. The more people you talk to, the more you can draw upon different experiences and knowledge. Don’t forget to get some alone time too.
Take a closer look
We all hate to admit it, but sometimes endless sight-seeing can become monotonous if you don’t know the site’s significance. Learn some history (most sites will have some stories attached to them) and it will help you to appreciate what you see. You could also try sketching or writing about what you do as such tasks will encourage you to have a closer look and take in every detail.
Ask the locals
No guidebook can ever know a place quite like the people who live there. Asking people doesn’t only build bonds and communication skills, but you have a better chance of finding the type of location you’re looking for.
Learn a language
Learning a language is one of the most worthwhile way to spend your spare time as it allows you to immerse yourself fully in your surroundings. It also passes the time and provides a goal that you can share with travellers and locals alike.
Phone home
It’s important to contact home once in a while in order to catch up and keep worrying at bay. Talking with those at home may even help to remind you why you came travelling, what you hoped to get out of it and have a clearer focus on what you want to achieve before you go home. Plus you can give your friends a break by talking about all your adventures to a pair of fresh ears.
Homesickness is just a natural response to unfamiliar surroundings, but it doesn’t last for long. And remember why you wanted to travel in the first place – wasn’t it the humdrum of home that you were sick of in the first place? So deal with it the way you would with any other hiccup along the way. And before you know it, your new destination will truly be your home from home.
