The United Kingdom: An Introduction to International Travel
Traveling abroad can be a little intimidating. Sometimes there are language barriers, customs that are unfamiliar to you, and a multitude of other differences that can turn an exciting vacation into a stressful one if it’s your first time overseas. Luckily, you don’t need to dive head first into a vacation that will leave you frustrated on your first international trip. Instead, you can dip your toes into something a bit more familiar, but will still give that worldly experience you’re looking for. For those wanting such an adventure, nothing fits that criteria more than the United Kingdom (UK)!
1- Multiple Cultures & Countries
The United Kingdom isn’t just England. It’s also Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (plus the Republic of Ireland is right next door), with each country having their own unique culture and sites to be seen! England is home to famous classics such as Big Ben in London, Cambridge, and Stonehenge; providing the perfect well-rounded experience you can expect in the UK. Wales features some of the most beautiful mountain ranges and medieval styled towns you can find in the UK, with Snowdonia National Park and Cardiff being two notable examples. Scotland, home to Highlanders, bagpipers, and golf, has a rich and vibrant history and landscape with must-see destinations like Edinburg and Loch Ness.
2- English
No, not the people, the language! One of the hardest barriers an international traveler faces communicating with locals. While it’s true that for many destinations you may be able to find someone who speaks English or another language you know, you always run the risk of not being able to communicate easily in a foreign country which doesn’t speak English as a primary language. When it comes to the UK, English is the primary language so you won’t run into any issues asking for directions or trying to order a nice meal (outside of a few slang terms).
3- Flying
Perhaps one of the biggest first time hurdles when it comes to international travel is the flight. Being stuck in a small seat for several hours with little to do can be a bit daunting for the first time. Traveling to many parts of the world from the US can easily result in a 10-hour flight or much…much longer depending on where you are headed. When traveling to the UK can you can expect (roughly) a 6 – 7-hour flight, giving you a chance to know what to expect when you are ready to travel even farther the next time!
4- Laws
Depending on the country you visit, it can be very important to learn the laws of the land before planning a vacation; the last thing anyone wants to do on vacation is get in trouble! Like most European countries, the UK has many similar rules and laws when compared to the US that make it easier to know what you should and shouldn’t do. However, it can never hurt to take a quick glance at anything that might pertain to you and your vacation just in case—especially when it comes to driving laws.
If you are ready to dive into your first International adventure, look no further than the UK! It’s the perfect mix of different but just enough of the same to make that first time overseas as easy and enjoyable as possible.