Where did the five weeks of studying abroad go? I can't believe the study program is over :( It felt as if we just landed in Athens in the extremely hot weather and got eaten alive by vicious mosquitos. My journey abroad was a dream come true. I am so happy I decided to attend the global seminar. Our professor Dr. Anagnostaras is funny and flexible with our class schedules. He made the class exciting and enjoyable. For the last day of lecture, he brought delicious snacks and refreshments for everyone. Overall, the class had a nice balance between lectures and excursions. We were able to adjust to the Greek lifestyle fairly well and do light traveling to the islands. I gain new experiences in traveling such as always be aware of your surroundings and belongings. Also, I made long-lasting memories with the friendly people of Greece.
Yet the best part of this trip wasn't just about traveling and trying new food, but it was making new friends! I made 7 new amazing friends, which we call ourselves the seven souvlaki or the gyros gyros 7 "007" lol I honestly, don't know where to begin with these, "KRAZYY GURLS"! From our late late late night talks to our overnight bookings to different islands, we somehow always pull through. I don't think my trip abroad would have been the same without these lovely ladies. We cried and laugh together through all the bug bites, stomachaches, coughing and etc. We ate way too many digestive cookies, gyros, and drank too many lemon sodas, but like any good friend you simply can not say no. It's crazy to think that we were once strangers at a university and never crossed path until our program. These ladies made it happened and brought so much joy in my life and to the people of Greece. Together we visited a total of 5 islands. We went to Naxos and Ios first. Then we went with our class to Kos and Patmos. Finally, when we thought our traveling adventures were coming to an end, we surprised ourselves with a short trip to Santorini. We kept a positive vibe and made it to Oia, the perfect destination to watch the most breathtaking sunset.
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| **An amazing picture of the seven souvlaki ladies striking the most iconic poses in an alleyway in Naxos, Greece** |
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| **Waiting for the sunset in Oia, Santorini** |
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| **Catching some views by the beach along Santorini** |
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| Oia before the sunset |
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| Oia after the sunset |
At LAST, I can gladly and proudly say that this trip has definitely been the highlight of the end of my junior and first year at UCSD. I'm beyond happy to be a part of this opportunity and travel to so many new places. It has been a great trip and I will surely miss the people and the beautiful scenery. **Also the pretty neighborhood kitties and kittens found everywhere in Greece!***
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| **Pretty Kitty in front of an ice cream shop in Nafplio, Greece** |
MORE RECOMMENDATIONS!!
I would recommend future students to book their plane tickets early so they can avoid the stress and reduce cost. In addition, once you get your class schedule book all your travels whether it be to a different country or visiting some islands. I highly recommend if you have check-in luggage and you want to visit some countries to do it during one of the weekends in Athens. This will save you a lot of money from having to pay 40 euros and up for check-in bags. You can easily bring a carryon-bag for free to visit some of Greece nearby countries. Lastly, we got a good deal online to go on the London eye ride and the river cruise. So make sure to check online before you buy anything. Also be careful and scams and people who will try to overcharge you for touristy places.
Bonus pictures of me in LONDON, UK, and ROME, ITALY! :)
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