Carthage College, where I did my undergrad, was known for their J-Terms and every 4 years the choirs would travel. Well freshman year it was Tanzania, and senior year it was Europe. Yup we got to go to France and Germany. This story is lacking in airport drama and rushing passports, but still has the memorable experiences. We went to the London castle and saw all the crowned jewels. Then we took the Eurostar to Paris, talk about fancy and stressful. It was amazing although I started feeling claustrophobic the longer we were underground. But when we got off and we were in Paris.. wow!
By the time we got there it was later in the evening, but the lights were on at the Eiffel Tower. And man it was pretty. The elevator was down but young, spry me was able to walk up those stairs to the second level. To witness Paris from a lit up Eifel Tower in January at night.. breathtaking. From there we went on over to Germany.
We were taken to see the Berlin Wall (or remains of it). I actually went to H & M for the first time, before it came to the US or before I knew about. There was a lot of shopping that happened there, because by this point you know that’s what I do. From there we were hosted by families. We got home cooked meals and to spend time with German families. We sang at some very large cathedrals, where the acoustics were phenomenal.
Travel Tip:
Planning ahead is so important. The last thing you want to do is take a trip somewhere and visit places that are closed. Thank God for the internet. You can literally do all your planning in advance and from the comfort of your own home. With technology the way it is, you have convenience at your fingertips. Of course this type of planning is optional and based on what type of trip you are taking, but if it’s a sightseeing one, make sure you are ready for it.
Personal Tip:
A reoccurring theme is encouraging you to be happy. But going beyond happiness because sometimes that’s temporary and based on what’s happening around you. Do things that bring you joy. But first figure out what those things are. As long as you are not causing harm to yourself or others, always seek to find joy. And this is a message I direct to myself first, because a little joy goes a long way!
Black Gurl Traveler 