After dating a great guy for a year, our seemingly idyllic relationship crumbled under the reality that he would soon be moving away. And so, with the tossing of a grad cap, we were over, and I was catching a flight to Italy to begin studying abroad.
The first few weeks were horrible, I won’t lie. However, those short weeks passed and soon I was on my way to Italy, ready for the adventure of a lifetime. Here are the 6 reasons I got over my breakup abroad, and why you will too:
1. Travel is the best distraction
Traveling often required super busy days. My schedule was jam-packed between studying in the mornings, exploring a new city after class, and planning weekend trips outside of Florence. I didn’t have time to dwell, I was too busy soaking up the wonders around me! It is impossible to be unhappy when you are exploring places you’ve been ogling over for months.
2. Distance (both literal and figurative)
9 hour time differences, international phone plans, and 6,000 miles between myself and my ex made it impossible to see each other, and much more difficult to communicate, which is so important for setting post-relationship boundaries.
3. Learn to be alone, and love it
When you are in a relationship, you are never really alone. Your significant other is always just a text, phone call, or distance away, which is one of the hardest things to adjust to in the aftermath. Not having that additional source of support can be hard, but traveling will teach you how to achieve happiness on your own. I quickly grew accustomed to eating, exploring, and enjoying time with just myself.
4. Out with the old, in with the new
After a breakup it can feel like your ex’s ghost is everywhere. You put on a shirt and remember it was their favorite on you, you see a movie trailer and think, “Oh, _____ would love this,” you pass by your “special” place. Going somewhere completely fresh helps to eliminate this, because everywhere you go will be unique and uncharted.
5. Date yourself
I was so excited to visit Paris, BUT, since it is one of the most romantic cities in the world, I was worried that its charm would leave me feeling lonely. However, I fully embraced dating myself. I fell in love with the city, all the while treating myself to delicious meals I didn’t have to share, spending all the time I wanted staring at art, and choosing my own itinerary.
6. There are plenty of men in the world
One of the best parts of traveling abroad is meeting people from all over the world. Sexy accents? Great dance moves? Men who dress well? You name it and you will find it! Staring at beautiful European men day after day definitely cured my break up blues. Even if you aren’t ready to get out in the dating world just yet, a little window-shopping doesn’t hurt!
So get on out there and plan a trip. If you can’t go as far away as Europe, even a weekend getaway will be a perfect escape.
