Adjusting to Life Abroad: Finding Comfort in the Little Things
An opinion piece by Morgan Vales
Moving abroad is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences you’ll ever have, but let’s be honest, it’s also one of the most challenging. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed by the newness of everything: new place, new home, new friends, new language, and even new smells and sounds. It can be scary, and sometimes you’ll feel lost, but this is also a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The key is to remember that while it’s okay to feel scared, you don’t have to let that fear consume you. Instead, focus on ways to fill your soul and find comfort in the little moments.
Embrace Your Surroundings
When you’re feeling uncertain or anxious, one of the best ways to ground yourself is by stepping outside. In Perugia, a simple walk to Giardini Carducci, a quaint park just five minutes away from the fountain in the city center, can help clear your mind. From here, you can take in the breathtaking views of the city below. It’s peaceful, and the view overlooking the city is breathtaking. Standing there, you realize you’re part of something bigger, and that helps put everything into perspective. In those moments, I remind myself that I’m safe, and this experience, while challenging, is incredible. You can also walk through town, and soak in the beauty around you. Even in moments of doubt, realize this is an experience that you’ll treasure for the rest of your life.
Navigating with Ease: Mastering the Mini Metro
Exploring new places can feel daunting, especially when you’re still getting used to a new language. But don’t worry, Perugia’s Minimetrò is a simple and convenient way to get around. It’s around a five to 10 minute walk to the nearest station. When you arrive, you’ll find bright red ticket machines. You can switch the language to English, making the process easy, even if you’re not fluent in Italian yet.
I recommend purchasing a 10-ticket pass, which gives you the flexibility to explore without constantly buying single tickets. For instance, you can ride the metro to its last stop and find yourself near a beautiful park called Barton Park, where you can enjoy a coffee, a croissant, or simply relax to the sound of music playing from the park’s speakers. If your feeling artistic you could even bring paper to draw or paint. It’s a small escape that can make a big difference when you’re feeling lost or homesick.
Finding Joy in Cooking and Sharing Meals
One of the most heartwarming ways to make a new place feel like home is by cooking for yourself and others. Italy offers countless opportunities to indulge in delicious food, but there’s something incredibly fulfilling about preparing your own meals. Research new recipes, shop for ingredients, and experiment with dishes that excite you.
For me, one of the most comforting traditions I brought from home is cooking for my friends. Every Wednesday, my “meme” which means grandmother used to cook family dinners. Recreating that sense of warmth by inviting friends over for dinner has helped me stay connected to home. It’s a small but meaningful way to make Italy feel more like my home.
Discovering New Foods and New Friends
Food isn’t just about nourishment but it’s a social experience here in Italy. Make it a goal to try a new restaurant or café each week. Invite new friends to join you on these little culinary adventures. Not only will you get to know different people and places , but you’ll also build a guide to the best places to eat and grab gelato in Perugia. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the local culture while making connections.
Bring Life into Your Space with Plants
Feeling at home in your new apartment can be tough, but something as simple as adding plants or flowers can make a world of difference. My roommate brought home lilies on our first weekend here, and I was surprised at how much joy they brought into our space. Now, waking up to the sight of fresh flowers and plants is one of the highlights of my day. I would say the market is the best place to go to get the most beautiful plants and flowers and reasonable prices.
Discover the Market: A Treasure Trove of Finds
One of my favorite weekend activities is visiting the Saturday market at the last metro stop, Pian di Massiano. It’s in the parking lot right next to the Minimetrò stop. It’s the perfect place to find just about anything. The market is a goldmine for clothes, almost like a giant outdoor Goodwill, where you can rummage through tables stacked high with dresses, jackets, and almost any piece of clothing you can think of for about 2-3 euros. You never know what hidden gem you’ll discover!
Most of the clothes are incredibly affordable, with items priced between 1-5 euros, but there are also some pricier stalls with pieces hanging on racks, ranging from 6-20 euros. The market is also packed with fresh fruits, veggies, baked goods, and even sandwiches if you get hungry while browsing. If you’re an early riser, get there around 8:30 AM, when the market is quiet, and you can wander through the rows of tables at your own pace. It’s such a unique experience—you have to see it for yourself.
Finding Your Routine and Embracing the Adventure
Moving abroad is never going to be easy, but it doesn’t have to feel impossible either. Whether you’re taking a walk through town, cooking a meal for friends, or just enjoying the peace of a park, these little routines can help ground you. And when you feel lost, remind yourself that you’re in the middle of a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s okay to be scared, but don’t forget to enjoy the beauty of where you are and how far you’ve come.
This journey is yours, and while it might feel overwhelming at times, remember that you’re not alone. This experience will shape you in so many ways you can’t yet imagine. Take it one day at a time, find joy in the little things, and trust that you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.