Independent traveling is one of the best aspects of studying abroad, without a doubt! It’s both a time to explore your host country’s culture and enjoy a wonderful break from schoolwork! But you should be careful to not underestimate the time it takes to properly plan a trip and make the most of your holiday. Thinking and…
Author: jlmartin@rollins.edu
Stinky Tofu and White Snakes
Fields of rice paddies alongside a dirt road; elderly locals cooking and selling unique food on streets; the smell of tea plants during their peak season; cloudy mountains hovering in the landscape, preserved forests and waterways; tiny boats paddling down a canal lined with close-knit homes; traditional art being protected and displayed; public dancing and martial arts; the Beijing opera, folk stories and pipa…
“You said this food is WHAT?!”
Whenever I’d asked my friends about their study abroad experience in Shanghai, they’d casually mention the kind locals, vivid nightlife, beautiful countryside, pollution and the lack of toilet paper in public restrooms. What they would never fail to mention is the genuine joy and satisfaction that comes from eating Shanghai–and thus, Chinese–cuisine. “Well, sure. Who doesn’t adore…
T-12 Days and Counting…..
Greetings! There’s just under 2 weeks left before I leave for Shanghai, China and begin my semester abroad! I’m very excited and somewhat nervous, but that’s just natural 🙂 I just think: “Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” and I’m good! I am focused on making this semester the best and most memorable…
Day Trip to Toledo-Martin
On one of the last Saturdays I went 30 minutes by train south of Madrid to the small, traditional town of Toledo; and for only 20euro. Being the famous “City of 3 Cultures” (Christian/Arab/Jew), Toledo is one of UNESCO’S World Heritage Cities and still maintains its Middle Ages layout. The hilly streets are cobble-stoned, the…