Let's be honest for a moment. On top of planning around any financial concerns or accruing enough time off from work, a huge obstacle for many people looking to travel long term is not knowing what's waiting on the other side.
Want to backpack for a few weeks on your own? Cool. Want to volunteer in a new country and give back to local communities? Lovely. But, what is it really like to jump ship (figuratively speaking) and spend some time abroad? Well, it all boils down to a cocktail recipe of anxiety and excitement. Shaken...not stirred :)
Remember moving into your first apartment? Starting that new job? Making eye contact with a beautiful stranger at a bar? Jumping out of a plane?!?! Chances are you've done one of these (maybe even all four like me), so you know the feeling. You'll start questioning whether you've made the right decision. You're considering leaving your comfort zone to bravely explore the unknown world, only to realize you have no idea where to go, how to react to new elements, when to reveal your most amazingly sarcastic self, etc.
OK, I digress. I make this sound like so much fun, but anxiety and apprehension are part of the thrill. It's normal to have mixed feelings that hit you all at once. Anxiety and excitement. The good and the bad. The pros and the cons.
Are you nervous about your trip? Good. Embrace it, because it'll absolutely be WORTH IT.
My advice? Consider what type of environment (beach, mountain, city) you're looking for, how you adapt to social situations (hostels, tours, public transit), and your personal reasons for wanting to go abroad (why else are you here); these considerations will help you decide what destination will best suit your travel style. I've been lucky enough to live in multiple countries, and I'm still learning about myself and my travel style.
And remember: it will be a big change and it will take time to adjust. Not everyone enjoys it, and to willingly put yourself in these situations---in a different culture, maybe with a different language, probably new customs---the elements that exist out of your comfort zone. It's more than learning the quickest route for your commute or finding the best local coffee shop; your facing (what seems like) a mountain of new challenges, some of which you haven't even though existed until now.
Welcome to traveling, anywhere. But once you acknowledge these different challenges and understand that it'll take time, adapting is only natural. And if this is not your cup of tea, then traveling for short periods of time can be just as rewarding. Don't think you need to live abroad to change your life (there's another article about that here too).
What would I recommend for any first time country jumper:
1. Learn the basics of the local language
Hello, Yes, No, Thank You, Help, numbers 1-10, Bathroom, Beer. I cannot stress how handy this can be for you. I've learned the basics in 7 different languages and it always came to my rescue.
2. Do a little research on public transit
Many people are intimidated by taking local public transit, and I agree it's not easy to figure out in some places, but once you're ready I highly recommend getting out of your Uber habits and jump on a bus, boat or subway and get the local experience.
3. Portable WiFi
You land in a new country and you don't know the first thing about buying a sim card, or maybe your phone is locked into a specific plan. Too bad for you. So why not prevent any hassle and take some internet with you?! Portable international WiFi plans and devices are widely available now, and probably one of the best discoveries I've made in regards to making traveling easier. I personally use a Skyroam Solis device, which has a built in charger and can be controlled off of my smart phone. Works in over 130 different countries :)