My last day in Prague was honestly really tough for me, filled with moments I will not forget and bittersweet goodbyes. My day started with a tasty lunch at a Czech hamburger restaurant at around 11 a.m. with my cousin and her family. I shared stories about my trip in Prague with them. Spending time with family in a different country like Prague, has really showed me how travel can connect us in unexpected and very meaningful ways. It is so unexpected to see family on a study abroad trip that we didn’t plan together.
After my lunch I headed to the hotel, then later that afternoon I met up with some of my classmates to go shopping at the mall. As we walked through the mall and the stalls of the nearby Christmas Market, we picked out souvenirs, and enjoyed our last cup of mulled wine for the trip.This casual afternoon with my new friends reminded me that study abroad isn’t just about what you see it’s also about who you’re with and the memories you create together, and I have met so many new friends and amazing memories.
Later that evening, we prepared for our last group activity which was a river cruise on the Vltava River where we got to enjoy a nice buffet style meal. It was so magical, the perfect ending to our stay in Prague. Sailing along, we admired the city lights that reflected on the water surface and took in the great views of all the famous landmarks we had seen during the trip such as Prague Castle and Charles Bridge. The whole place felt magical like the whole city, it was that perfect moment, taking everything this trip had given us.
For me one of the most unexpected and most memorable parts of this trip was the friendships I made along the way, thats because it is hard for me to connect with people easily with my anxiety but everyone was so nice and welcoming making this trip so much more enjoyable. I never realized the connections and memories I would have made before the trip. From exploring the city to sharing meals and drinks and figuring out new experiences together, such as late nights at the clubs and returning to eat McDonald’s in the lobby late, we formed bonds that I know will last far beyond this trip. Many of us are already making plans to hang out back in Miami, and I couldn’t be more excited to keep these connections alive. The sad part is that some of the friends I met live in Pennsylvania, which will make it hard to see each other, but we all want to go on a cruise this summer. The memories we’ve made whether laughing at a food tour, wandering through markets, or simply enjoying chatting in the bars over drinks, have brought us so close, and I’m so grateful for the people who became such an important part of this journey.
At the end of the cruise, reality began to set in, we had to prepare for an early departure. When we got back I had to pack and I took a nap, but most people went out one last time, I knew I would miss the bus if I went out. After my nap it was already 2 a.m, so we got on a bus and we were on our way out to the airport since all of our flights were scheduled to leave at 6 a.m.
This wasn’t a trip just about the discovery of Prague but also in a way, it was about personal growth and the development of my personal brand as a student and traveler. Study abroad is a chance to show qualities such as adaptability, curiosity, and the ability to connect with people. Even though I have already done a study abroad in Japan, I felt like I grew more durning this trip. It was a chance to experience life, learn from cultures, and make memories that will last a lifetime which we will never forget.
As I look back at this trip, and I realize that I am leaving Prague with so much more than souvenirs. I have gained a better understanding of history and culture of Prague, created amazing memories, and friendships that mean so much to me. I have learned from this experience how to adjust to new places because every country has a different way of during things with different traditions, but also how to appreciate different perspectives of other cultures, while also learning to enjoy both big adventures and simple moments such as just short walks through the city looking at the Christmas lights. In the end all of the people and friends that I have met and the things I learned have changed me in ways I never would have expected, and I am so grateful. Before coming onto this trip I did not have many expectations especially since we never really met the class besides one time, but now as the trip is over, I know that those memories will stay with me for the rest of my lifetime. It really was hard to say goodbye but I know its not forever. Even though the trip is over, the friendships and lessons will always be a part of me. I hope to keep in contact with everyone.