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The Experience of Travelling and Learning
When travelling in other countries, we expect to meet different
people, see different sights and do different things. However,
the most valuable learning that comes from travel is not that
we are different, but that we share so many common needs and
feelings. Many of my experiences abroad have been gained by
staying with families who live in the country that I am visiting.
 When
a student first meets their host family, they will feel nervous.
They ask questions, such as 'Are they going to like me? Are
we going to be able to communicate? Have they got a sense
of humour? Will I feel comfortable in their company?' Having
hosted students myself, I know that host families are also
feeling nervous, and ask themselves the same questions. 'Homestay'
experiences can introduce a whole new element into your learning
programme - even if it is for a short period before moving
on to college or a volunteer programme. The learning that
comes from interacting with families of the culture that one
is visiting can be so much greater than the learning that
is derived from staying in just hotels and hostels. Mixing
the type of accommodation can bring a variety of benefits.
I have often travelled with groups of young people, and it
has been remarkable to see their self-confidence blossom.
Travelling to new cultures and interacting with
strangers teaches one as much about oneself as it does about
other people. The challenge of new experiences will push one's
personal barriers back. Coping with situations that have not
been previously encountered can show you that you are capable
of achieving, or succeeding at, so much more than you had
thought. Learning about different cultures can teach you things
about your own culture - things you had erstwhile neither
appreciated nor understood. Spending time with friends from
another culture will challenge stereotypes that may be held
by both parties. Some of the greatest joys of travel are gleaned
from knowing that your preconceptions were wrong.
Many of the opportunities offered through voluntary
work/projects can bring you into contact with volunteers from
a wide range of countries and cultures. In this circumstance,
being in a different country might well allow you to meet,
learn and challenge your preconceptions with people from a
variety of backgrounds. When travelling, do not only look
for the differences - seek the common areas that bring you
closer together. Do not expect to learn just about others
- revel in the learning that you obtain about yourself!
Author
David Shaddick
Chief Executive EIL UK
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