Greenheart Travel

Category: First Time Traveler

The Dos and Don’ts of Being a High School Exchange Student in Ireland

By Madeleine Casteel, High School Abroad Ireland Fall Semester 2024

Being a high school exchange student in Ireland is an adventure filled with constant drizzle and warm conversations. It is a chance to step out of your comfort zone and create memories you’ll carry forever—but only if you play it right. Based on my experience, here are some dos and don’ts to make the most of it.

Do Say “Yes”
When someone invites you to join a Gaelic football match, take a weekend trip, or try black pudding for breakfast, say yes! These experiences, the spontaneous ones, are the ones that will stick with you long after you leave. I was hesitant at first because I like planning things all the way out, but pushing myself to participate opened doors to friendships and so many moments I would have never had otherwise.

Don’t Overcommit
That said, don’t feel pressured to do everything. Taking time for yourself isn’t “wasting” your experience—it’s keeping your battery charged. Some of my favorite days, and actually most of my days, were spent in my host home, drinking tea, journaling, and letting myself just be. Balance is key.

Do Step Outside Your Comfort Zone
Ireland is the perfect place to try new things in a low-pressure environment. Whether it’s striking up a conversation with someone in the shop uptown or volunteering to read aloud in class, lean into the unfamiliar. My shaky attempt at a speech in my American accent wasn’t perfect, but my debate team loved the effort, and I loved the support. Take advantage of the fact that your time is limited and you won’t see a lot of these people again! Use your free-will as much as you can.

Don’t Hold Grudges
Living in close quarters with new people can sometimes create tension. Let go of small annoyances and don’t waste your time holding onto petty drama. I learned that forgiving quickly keeps things positive and helps you make the most of your relationships.

Do Dress for the Weather
Irish weather is a character all on its own. You’ll need a solid raincoat and waterproof shoes. Forget umbrellas—they won’t survive the wind. People might tell you that the locals don’t wear raincoats but it’s completely untrue. If it’s raining, everyone has clothes for the weather. Being prepared meant I could enjoy Ireland rain or shine (but mostly rain).

Don’t Forget to Document the Journey
The days can blur together, so find a way to remember them. Journaling is a MUST and it’s a great habit to have when you get back home. A random, mundane memory about walking home in the rain or a joke about your host sibling will feel like finding gold when you look back later.

Do Connect with Other Exchange Students
Of course, getting to know locals is important, but don’t forget about the other exchange students around you. They’re going through the same ups and downs, and there’s something comforting about being able to laugh (or vent) with someone who really gets it. Those friendships can become some of the strongest bonds you’ll make.

The Bottom Line
Being an exchange student in Ireland is about more than the postcard-perfect views. It’s about all of the in-betweens and everyday choices you make. You decide what your study abroad will be. It’s not always easy, but trust me, it’s worth it!

February 24, 2025
The Biggest Culture Shock of Argentina: The Schedule
By: Naomi, High School Abroad Argentina Alumni, 2024 FTT Winner

Hi! I’m Naomi and I spent six months in Argentina for my student exchange. Before leaving for my trip, I was most definitely expecting to experience culture shock. However, I was surprised by the parts of the culture that ended up being the hardest for me to adapt to. Today I want to share the most challenging cultural aspects for me and how I worked through those differences.

Longer Days

In Argentina, the daily schedule is vastly different from what I was used to in the United States. The time you are awake is much longer and much of the “day” is spent at night. Most people wake up at around seven or eight in the morning and are awake until midnight or one in the morning. For reference, I had a schedule similar to this on weekdays:
- 7am to 9am wake up & eat breakfast
- 9am to 11am clean, exercise, prepare food, & homework
- 11am to 12pm lunch
- 1pm to 6pm school
- 7pm to 8pm merendar (snack)
- 8pm to 10pm sports
- 10pm to 11pm dinner
- 11pm to 12am family time & hygiene time
- 12am to 1am go to bed
On the weekends, the day becomes even longer, and it is common to not sleep much at all. People often will stay awake until 6 am and sleep for 3-4 hours before starting another day. Another distinction is that on the weekends people do not do much during the day. It’s only really towards the late afternoon and night that people will start hanging out with friends, going shopping, etc.

For me, this routine was a very hard change mostly because I was not expecting such a dramatic difference. When I finally actively realized that my schedule was going to be widely different here and that trying to keep the same routine I had in the U.S. was not the right option, I was able to adjust much more easily. It sounds like such a simple thing, but the mental switch allowed me to seek the help I needed to adjust to a new situation. While going through this process of adjustment, communicating about how I felt was crucial. It is nerve-racking to talk about how you might feel tired or uncomfortable with people who are unfamiliar to you. Despite this, it is very important to break down that barrier and share how you are feeling, especially with your host family. Once I addressed the problem with my host mom, we were able to create a plan to confront the problem I was having and resolve it, instead of me having to suffer through it on my own.

I was able to adjust to the new schedule fairly quickly after talking with my host mom and was able to enjoy my days a lot more. So, if you end up struggling with this new routine, don’t be afraid to talk about it with your host family. I guarantee it will help you!

Four Meals a Day

Another difference in daily life is that there are typically four meals a day in Argentina:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Merendar
- Dinner
This fourth meal is added because the days are so long that you need some extra fuel to keep you going. As in the U.S., it is common to have a snack after coming home from school, merendar is the same idea.

Another difference in Argentina is the size of meals. Lunch is the most important meal of the day, meaning it is also the largest. It is also very common to have lunch with your whole family (similar to traditional American dinners). All the other meals trail behind lunch and tend to be relatively small and variable. For example, it was not uncommon to not eat breakfast or dinner some days.

These differences were not as hard to adjust to. The biggest hurdle I encountered was communicating how I felt about not eating breakfast or dinner. Communicating about food or lack of food can be hard, but communicating how you are feeling about what you are eating is always the better idea. Once I asked about what meals would typically look like, I was able to feel more comfortable about the eating schedule and also plan food I wanted to eat or make on my own time, without feeling bad about it. Again, communication here is key.

Conclusion

Overall, I found that most of the problems and cultural differences I ran into could be solved through communicating with my host family about how I was feeling. They are your support system in-country and they want you to be happy and comfortable too. So, don’t hold back when problems arise, and good luck on this new adventure!
January 27, 2025
Money Saving Tips to use while Abroad in Spain

Zev Feldman is a First Time Traveler Winner and participant on Greenheart Travel’s Teen Summer Language Camp Spain Program

Salamanca, a historic city in western Spain, is renowned for its beautiful architecture, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant student life. While traveling to such an enchanting destination can often seem costly, there are numerous ways to explore Salamanca on a budget without missing out on its many charms. Here are some money-saving tips that will help you enjoy your trip to Salamanca without breaking the bank.

Cost-Effective Transportation

Salamanca is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. Walking not only saves money but also allows you to fully appreciate the city’s historic streets and architecture. For longer distances, the local bus system is efficient and inexpensive. A single bus ticket costs only a couple of euros, making it a very budget-friendly option. Additionally, renting a bike can be a fun and cost-effective way to see more of the city. Several rental shops offer reasonable daily rates, and the flat terrain of Salamanca makes biking an enjoyable experience. With many attractions close to each other, walking or biking around Salamanca will keep your transportation costs minimal.

Free and Discounted Attractions

Many of Salamanca’s iconic sights can be enjoyed for free. The Plaza Mayor, a grand square surrounded by impressive buildings, is a perfect example. It’s a great place to relax, people watch, and soak in the atmosphere. The Plaza also has lots of free concerts and spectacles The old and new cathedrals, though there is a small fee to enter, can be appreciated from the outside at no cost. The Casa de las Conchas, known for its unique façade adorned with shells, is another stunning sight that doesn’t require an entry fee. It is also the public library for the other book people out there.

Salamanca also boasts several beautiful parks and public spaces, such as the Huerto de Calixto y Melibea, a romantic garden offering panoramic views of the city. Additionally, if you’re a student, carrying your student ID can provide discounts at various museums and attractions. Many institutions offer reduced prices or even free entry to students, making it easier to explore the cultural richness of Salamanca on a budget.

Another great way to explore Salamanca is by joining free walking tours. These tours, usually operated by knowledgeable locals, work on a tips-only basis. They provide insightful introductions to the city’s history, architecture, and culture, and are a fantastic way to get acquainted with Salamanca without spending much money. One of the tours that I went on is the walking Graffiti tour, here are a few of the graffiti that I saw:

General Money-Saving Strategies

Using discount cards such as the Salamanca Tourist Card can provide savings on attractions, tours, and dining. These cards often include entrance to multiple sites and discounts at various restaurants and shops, offering excellent value for money.
To avoid extra charges, consider using a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees. These cards can save you a considerable amount on currency exchange fees and are widely accepted throughout Spain. It’s also wise to withdraw cash from ATMs sparingly, as frequent small withdrawals can lead to high fees.
Planning and budgeting your trip carefully can also help you save money. Research and list the must-see attractions and look for any free events or festivals happening during your stay. This way, you can allocate your budget effectively and ensure that you don’t miss out on any key experiences.
By implementing these money-saving tips, you can fully enjoy the wonders of Salamanca without straining your budget. Whether it’s cost-effective transportation, exploring free attractions, or utilizing general savings strategies, there are plenty of ways to experience Salamanca’s rich culture and history while keeping expenses in check. So pack your bags, plan smartly, and get ready to discover this beautiful Spanish city without breaking the bank. Happy travels!

January 13, 2025
Exploring Fukuoka as a First-Time Traveler in Japan

Alana is a First Time Traveler Scholarship winner who attended Teen Summer Language Camp Japan in the summer of 2024. She told us about exploring her temporary home in Fukuoka.

By Alana, Teen Summer Language Camp Japan-Fukuoka Summer 2024

One of the expectations I had for Japan before I arrived was that I would be able to see many sights and do a lot of things, but I thought I would only be able to do those things with the school. I imagined everything would be too hard to get to by myself, but I quickly learned that that was not the case. I realized that there was always something new to try out and that places were relatively easy to get to even if they were far away. In Fukuoka, I was never bored and I always found something to do whether it was with friends or by myself.

I saw so many beautiful places including the white Torii gate at Sakurai Futamigaura, the five story pagoda at Tochoji Temple, and the Shinto Shrine in Dazaifu along with all the Torii gates located in it. With friends however, we visited more of the shops in the city and many restaurants where we tried many different dishes. We went to many Jump Shops, and different pop-up stores in the mall at Hakata Station. Canal City Mall was also a good place to go as there were many restaurants, clothing stores, and arcades. Hanging out with friends from school was also a lot of fun, as we all came from different parts of the world and therefore thought about things differently. We all were able to go together to places we each wanted to explore and show each other the things we liked and enjoyed.

For this reason my biggest take away from this experience was to come out of my shell and truly experience everything to its fullest. To talk to new people and make new friends, to learn about a different culture than mine, to go to places with people or alone to which I usually would not go to. I tried to not let my shyness stop me from trying new things and overall, I was able to experience so much and I am so grateful for this trip as I think it allowed me to grow as a person and let me see the world in a new light than I did before.

Learn more or apply for Greenheart’s Teen Summer Language Camp Japan.

December 18, 2024
From Sailing to Crepe Making: A Month of Fun in France

By Jade, Teen Summer Language Camp France: Saint-Malo, Summer 24

One of the most unique and rewarding experiences of my life was my time spent in Saint-Malo, France this past summer. I was not only immersed in French culture but was also surrounded by a melting pot of international students who all shared my sense of adventure and curiosity about the French language. The program I attended brought together people from all over the world, and what I thought would be a purely French cultural exchange turned out to be much more. I wasn’t just learning French and living with a host family – this experience introduced me to various cultures and languages that I had never anticipated.

When I first arrived, I expected to learn about French customs, language, and lifestyle. But soon I realized that my days were filled with meaningful connections with students from different parts of the globe. It was fascinating and heartwarming to witness people from such diverse backgrounds coming together, bonding over shared experiences, and learning about France together. From the very start, my classmates and I exchanged stories about our respective cultures, and I walked away with not only a deeper understanding of France and French culture but also newfound knowledge about countries and traditions far beyond its borders.

My host family was a key aspect to my learning. They were kind, caring, and treated me like one of their own. Every day, I was immersed in French—whether it was during meals, conversations, or when they recommended places for me to explore. They even showed me how certain foods were meant to be eaten the traditional French way! Because they only spoke French at home, my language skills improved tremendously, and I began to feel more confident using the language. I cannot imagine a better way to experience France and to really learn the language from locals.

At school, I had two teachers, each with their unique teaching style, yet both equally efficient in making learning fun and interactive. I remember one memorable activity where we went to a French supermarket to find various items, helping us practice vocabulary in a real-world setting. Every day was filled with opportunities to learn, not just from textbooks, but from experiences.

We also had an instructor who took us on exciting trips and activities after school. From mini-golf to crepe-making, there was always something new to look forward to. Saturdays were reserved for bigger adventures, like visiting the stunning Saint Mont-Michel or exploring the walled city of Saint Malo. One of the highlights was sailing, something I had never done before, but with the support and guidance of the staff, I felt safe and ended up loving it!

Reflecting on this month-long journey, I can truly say that it shaped me in more ways than one. I became more independent, learned not only about French culture but also about the cultures of my fellow students, and gained a newfound appreciation for different ways of life. This trip will forever remain a cherished memory, and I am incredibly grateful for the friendships, experiences, and lessons I gained along the way.

Learn more about Greenheart’s Teen Summer Language Camp France in Saint-Malo or Arcachon

November 25, 2024
My Host Family in Japan Opened My Eyes to the Culture!

Alana is one of Greenheart Travel’s First Time Traveler Scholarship winners. Hear about her experience while on the teen summer language camp Japan program

In the beginning of my program I was a bit worried about what my relationship would be like with a family that I have never met before. Would they lead a lifestyle very different to mine? I thought it would be hard for us to connect because they would have different values or expectations. I though that our differences both in culture and lifestyle would be too big and that we would not see eye to eye.

However, these differences were exactly what brought us together. Living with my host family was honestly one of the best experiences I had in Japan. We both got to teach each other about our cultures and language, something that I had never experienced before.

Because of my host family, I was able to experience many different local dishes that they would make for breakfast or for dinner. The daily morning meal would always consist of a bowl of rice and miso soup. This was something that I was not accustomed to at all back home, as I usually settle with bread and milk for breakfast. However, in Japan, I was set on wanting to try as many traditional or home cooked meals as I could, even though my regular diet does not include much fish or meat. With my host family, I ate eel for the first time, had delicious curry that they made, omelets, yakisoba, okonomiyaki, and tried many new flavors I had never tasted before. Although it was hard to adjust to these new foods, I really enjoyed being able to eat the food my host family prepared.

I believe that my stay with my host family allowed me to experience firsthand what life is like in Japan, go to local festivals, as well as to enjoy many traditional home cooked meals. Because my host family also had young children, they were able to teach me a lot of everyday speech and I was constantly surrounded by the Japanese language. My host family really encouraged me with my studies and I truly think that without them I would not be as motivated to learn as I am now.

Learn more about Greenheart Travel’s Teen Summer Language Camp Japan Program

October 18, 2024
Leaving my Home Country for the First Time

By: Kennedi-Grace

Kennedi-Grace attended Greenheart’s Teen Summer Language Camp South Korea program during the summer of 2024 as a First Time Traveler Scholarship Winner.

Leaving my country for the language camp South Korea program was hard, but leaving my home was difficult. As a frequent flyer, I felt confident about my ability to navigate the booking, check-in, and airport mapping process but was still nervous of all the unknowns of traveling by myself. But as I sit three to four hours early to my flight, I realize that it’s okay to be nervous because at least I was prepared. I’m still unsure what I was anxious about exactly. Whether it was because I was leaving America for a foreign country like South Korea or because I was traveling to it by myself. Maybe it’s a bit of both, but here are some things I did to ease the anxious feelings.

Early? No, prepared.
Living in Hawaii one thing that was a little difficult was finding a flight from this small island to halfway around the world. I eventually found a flight that met the program requirements but it was from another island through a different airline that wasn’t stationed on my island. So I booked my own flight, for the first time, and I booked the earliest flight out. I landed five hours before my direct flight to South Korea and will admit it would seem early for any normal person that has flown frequently but it didn’t feel that way to me. I felt prepared. Having the time in between helped because I no longer felt like I was rushing. I felt like I had time to make a mistake. Obviously, you hope for everything to go smoothly but sometimes you have to prepare for the worst to be grateful for the best.

Two Weeks Ahead of Schedule

Here’s a couple of things I did at least two weeks before my departure:
1. I packed everything
2. I made a to-do list
3. I confirmed all my flight information
4. I looked at the airport maps for the places I was going to

As soon as the language camp South Korea program sent me the packing list I immediately checked the weather forecast and packed it according to the packing list. The packing list helped me pack smart instead of overpacking and helped ease the stress of being unprepared for the trip. Then I created my Morning-Of List this is a list that I check off before I leave the house to ensure I won’t leave anything important at home while “rushing” out the door. I did the exact opposite of rushing out the door the morning of my departure. The morning-of, I got up to my alarm, which was set 45 minutes before I planned to leave the house. Then I got ready and sat down on the kitchen table to have a cup of tea with my grandma before I left home for two weeks. Just before I left the house for the ride to the airport I did a final check through of the Morning-Of List. I felt at ease even though I was about to depart from my home to a whole new world all by myself.

Word of advice

To future first-time travelers – it’s okay to feel nervous and anxious, I would even encourage it because then you’d be able to create your own preparedness routine. Don’t worry about being too early because that gives you time to prepare yourself mentally. And one more thing, the morning of my departure I still somehow forgot to eat breakfast. No one is perfect, but you can be prepared

August 26, 2024
The Picky Eater’s Guide to Salamanca, Spain

By Zev, Teen Language Camp Spain-Salamanca, Summer 2024

Traveling to a new destination can be both exciting and daunting, especially for picky eaters concerned about finding familiar and enjoyable food options. Salamanca, Spain, renowned for its historic charm and vibrant student life, also offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to various tastes. This guide provides essential tips for picky eaters to navigate and enjoy the food while you study abroad in Spain.

Familiar and Comfort Foods

For those who prefer familiar foods, Salamanca has several international restaurants and fast-food chains. McDonald’s, Burger King, and Subway are present in the city, offering the same menus you’d find back home. Additionally, there are several Italian restaurants, such as Pizzeria A’Margellina and Ristorante Pavarotti, where you can enjoy classic dishes like pizza and pasta, which are often safe bets for picky eaters.

Spanish Cuisine with a Picky Eater’s Twist

While Spanish cuisine is a highlight for many, it can be intimidating for picky eaters. However, many Spanish dishes are simple and flavorful, with familiar ingredients. For instance, **tortilla española** (Spanish omelet) is made with eggs and potatoes and is usually a hit with everyone. **Croquetas**, typically filled with ham or chicken, are breaded and fried, offering a crispy exterior and a creamy interior that appeals to many tastes.

Tapas, small dishes served in bars, can be an excellent way to try new foods without committing to a large portion. Visit places like Cuzco Bodega and Casa Paca, where you can find a variety of tapas, including patatas bravas (fried potatoes with a mild tomato sauce) and pan con tomate (bread with tomato), which are simple yet delicious. By sampling tapas, you can discover new favorites without the risk of ordering a full meal you might not enjoy.

Markets and Supermarkets

For picky eaters who prefer preparing their meals or seeking familiar snacks, Salamanca has several supermarkets and markets. **Mercado Central** is a local market offering fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. Here, you can find ingredients to make simple meals. Supermarkets like **Carrefour** and **El Corte Inglés** have sections with international foods, including pasta, cereals, and snacks from various countries. These stores are ideal for stocking up on essentials that align with your taste preferences.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Salamanca also caters to vegetarians and vegans, which can be a safe haven for picky eaters who prefer plant-based foods. Restaurants like **El Laurel** offer a diverse menu with vegetarian and vegan dishes that are flavorful and satisfying. Even traditional Spanish restaurants often have vegetarian options like grilled vegetables, salads, and vegetarian paella.

Dessert and Coffee Shops

When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, Salamanca has plenty of options. Cafés and pastry shops are abundant, offering treats like **churros** (fried dough pastries) and **tarta de Santiago** (almond cake). **Valor Chocolate** is a famous spot where you can enjoy churros with a cup of thick, rich hot chocolate. For coffee lovers, places like **Café Novelty**, one of the oldest cafés in Salamanca, provide a cozy atmosphere to enjoy a cup of coffee with pastries or sandwiches.

Practical Tips

To make your dining experience more enjoyable, learn a few basic Spanish phrases related to food preferences, such as “**sin carne**” (without meat) or “**no picante**” (not spicy). This can help in communicating your preferences to restaurant staff. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for modifications to dishes; many restaurants are accommodating.

Salamanca offers a variety of food options that can cater to even the pickiest of eaters. From familiar international cuisine and simple Spanish dishes to fresh market ingredients and delightful desserts, there’s something for everyone. With a bit of exploration and open-mindedness, you’ll find plenty of meals to enjoy in this beautiful Spanish city.

August 8, 2024
Greenheart’s First Time Traveler Scholarship Winners for Spring 2024!

Every year, Greenheart makes scholarships available to First Time Travelers. These scholarships are intended for those who have never traveled out of the country and want to immerse themselves in another culture. Here are just some of the winners of the 2024 First Time Traveler Scholarships and their thoughts on travel!

Name: Clara

Program: High School Abroad in Sweden

Why is the opportunity to travel for the first time exciting for you?

It opens a whole new world of experiences and opportunities, immersing myself in different cultures, trying new foods, exploring breathtaking landscapes, and meeting people from all walks of life. I’m getting a chance to break free from familiar everyday life and embrace the unknown. I’m excited to be in the shoes of a Swedish teenager and experience everything that comes with it. I’m hoping to be able to explore and soak up everything around me.

Name: Alana

Program: Teen Language Camp in Japan

What does Greenheart Travel’s Mission, “Travel for a Change,” mean to you?

“Travel for a Change” to me, means the opportunity of becoming more aware of other places and cultures in the world. It signifies the internal change that one will go through while experiencing all these ways of living life that are unlike our own. With the opportunity of traveling and visiting new places, you will learn new cultures, food, fashion, languages, and more. While you travel and come across all these experiences, you will gain a broader understanding of the world. The places you visited will leave an imprint on who you are and who you will become as a person therefore, changing you from who you used to be into someone with more comprehension of cultures and lifestyles.

Name: Naomi

Program: High School Abroad in Argentina

What does Greenheart Travel’s mission, “Travel for a Change,” mean to you?

To me, “Travel for a Change” means that travel breaks down barriers and prejudices between the traveler and those being visited. Furthermore, travel also builds bridges in the places of those barriers and prejudices. These changes that occur while traveling ultimately allow our world to be a more loving, accepting, and connected environment. As people begin to be more accepting of other cultures through travel, the world becomes a better place.

Name: Sadie

Program: High School Abroad in Italy

What does Greenheart Travel’s Mission, “Travel for a Change,” mean to you?

To me, traveling for a change also means you evolve who you are as a person and your perspective on what may be considered ‘normal’ because it provides the opportunity to see how others live! That’s why I want to actually live with a family in Italy. To live and invest in relationships with others around the world is a truly rewarding experience. Travel also forces you to grow as a person by stepping outside of your comfort zone, learning to handle responsibility, navigating different forms of transportation, learning about different currencies, language and relating to others with different backgrounds and traditions. I think travel has the capacity to help teens like me grow and gain so many more tools than what may be possible without the experience of travel.

Name: Madeleine

Program: High School Abroad in Ireland

Why is the opportunity to travel for the first time exciting for you?

Ever since I was young, my main goal has been to see the world. I’ve always recognized that there is much more to explore beyond my backyard. From the gorgeous hills of Ireland to the seaside cities in Greece so many call home, there are countless people to meet and endless astounding views. To not only get to travel outside of America for an extended period of time but to also be fully immersed in the day-to-day experience of the citizens there, is a first-time, life-changing experience. I am excited to connect to new people and to be able to return to the United States with a new outlook on my life!

Name: Kennedi-Grace

Program: Teen Language Camp South Korea

What does Greenheart Travel’s Mission, “Travel for a Change,” mean to you?

“Travel for a Change” implies traveling with the intention of being a forever learner. To learn how to make a change in your community by learning the values of the different cultures around the world. To make a difference in the communities we are a part of, we need to be able to see ourselves from a different perspective. To learn what it means to be a community and learning to come together despite our differences.

Name: Zev

Program: Teen Language Camp Spain

What does Greenheart Travel’s Mission, “Travel for a Change,” mean to you?

For me, travel symbolizes more than just visiting new destinations; it’s a transformative odyssey that promises to shape my worldview, enrich my understanding of diverse cultures, and foster a profound sense of empathy and connection with the world. Stepping beyond the borders of familiarity, I anticipate encountering unfamiliar landscapes, immersing myself in vibrant cultures, and forging meaningful connections with people from all walks of life.

Name: Jade

Program: Teen Language Camp France – Saint-Malo

Why is the opportunity to travel for the first time on your own exciting for you?

I have never gotten on a plane by myself to a foreign country. I’ve never needed to navigate my way to a destination, nor been forced to figure out how to find my way – no less all by myself. The idea of living in a foreign city, with a new family, and leaving my home family and friends behind is something I’ve never done before. While it is all a bit intimidating, it is at the same time exciting, interesting, and adventurous!

Name: Anna

Program: Teach Abroad Thailand

What does Greenheart Travel’s Mission, “Travel for a Change,” mean to you?

“There is a famous quote that says, “The sky is the limit, but there are footprints on the moon.” Like the Greenheart mission, this saying means that we create our own limits. We are not constrained to one location, aspiration, or situation unless we force ourselves to do so. Traveling can be intimidating, but it can also be the most rewarding accomplishment of a lifetime if we allow ourselves to have it. We are the creators of our own destinies, so only we have the power to step outside of the boxes in which we confine ourselves.”

Learn more about Greenheart’s First Time Traveler Scholarships

May 16, 2024
Chiang Mai Favorites: A Teach Abroad Participant’s Favorite Things List!
by: Milena Schembri

Milena Schembri is a First Time Traveler Scholarship winner who traveled and taught English in Thailand with Greenheart! You can read all about her travels and experiences in her other two blogs. Milena also included a list of favorite things from her time abroad and wanted to share!

I’ve included a list of my Chiang Mai favourites below for those who are interested:

Restaurants /Food:
- Koh Soi: MUST TRY. Its a traditional Northern dish that you can only get in Chiang Mai
- Big Big Shabu Shabu: all you can eat fish and meat where you grill your food yourself! Also
  has all you can eat ice cream!
- Slow Fish: Good seafood options
- The Riverside Bar & Restaurant: Right on the river. Nice to go to at night
- After Life: Cool hippie vibes, and amazing Koh Soi
- Food4thought: Good Brunch/Veggie Options
- Goodsouls: Good Vegan/Veggie options
Coffee Shops:

Chiang Mai is the city of coffee shops. There are endless amounts
- Paapu House: Good breakfast cool vibes
- Free Bird Coffee Shop: Hippie hangout spot! Great coffee
- Fern Forest Cafe: A bit more pricey but really nice outdoor seating
- Elefin Cafe: So cool! If you want to see elephants but don’t want to pay a ton, you can go to
  this coffee shop and see Elephants here for free!
- Yesterday Cafe: Cafe/Cocktail bar
- Mars Cafe– Instagram hot spot
- One Nimman Cafe: Great coffee in an awesome area
Things to Do:

My favourite waterfalls
- Must do sticky waterfalls! It’s sooo cool you can climb up the waterfall like Spiderman!
  If you only have time for one, do this! It’s free entry too. Cute to spend an afternoon
  here.
- Montha Than Waterfall– closest/easiest to get to from the city
- Tat Mok Waterfall
- Mae Sa Waterfall
- Walk around the city square. Filled with temples and cute shops
- Elephants: I went with a company called Phupha Elephant. These elephants are owned by a
  Hill Tribe family and wouldn’t be able to survive in the wild since families have owned them
  for so long. You could book a tour with this company and you get lunch and transportation is
  included.
- Huai Tueng Thao Reservoir: You can hangout by the lake here at these little huts! Cute
  afternoon!
- Doi Inthanon: MUST DO if you have time. It’s the highest point in Thailand. Do the Kew Mae
  Pan Nature Trail.
- North Gate Jazz co-op: If you like Jazz music this place is sooo cool! Bands go up and play
  live Jazz music at night. It gets quite busy around 8:30. Tuesday night is the best night!
- Karen Village Jungle Hike
- Doi Suthep Temple
- Drum Circle @ Paapu House
- Jing Jai Market: cute Saturday/Sunday Morning market! They always have live music.
- Sunday Night Market in the City Centre. It can get really crowded but its cool to see all the
  street food and temples
- Zoe in Yellow: A bunch of small bars in a little square. I only went on New Years, but there’s
  also a Reggae bar right next to it which is cool.
- Freedom Yoga
- Free Yoga in the Park
Where to Stay:
- Chiang Mai has a main City Square surrounded by fortress walls! SO cool! This is prob the
  best place to stay if you want to be able to walk to a lot. If you stay in here your’re near a
  bunch of good restaurants and things to do. My friends stayed at Mad Monkey Hostel and
  liked it! – Its a party hostel
- I looveee Nimmanhaemin area. It has a lot of cute coffee shops and restaurants. Definitely
  visit here if you don’t stay here
.
March 5, 2024