Embarking on the journey of sending your child off to college is an emotional rollercoaster. From the throws of bed decorating and shopping sprees to the excitement of college acceptances flooding social media feeds, it’s a whirlwind for sure! Amidst this chaos, however, lies a hidden gem that many parents overlook: the future opportunity to visit their children when they venture abroad for their studies.
As a mother of two college students at Indiana University, and a seasoned travel advisor orchestrating countless trips for parents visiting their children overseas, I can attest that this is indeed a remarkable perk. It’s not just about them – it’s about us, the parents, seizing the chance to explore amazing cities like Barcelona, Florence, Prague, or even the far away destination of Australia.
When my son, now a senior, headed off to his study abroad journey in Madrid last year, my mind immediately began to wander. As a travel advisor who is immersed in travel planning every day I was already envisioning our own adventure. Madrid, a city I had yet to explore, presented an exciting opportunity. The allure of Barcelona’s Gaudi architecture, coupled with the prospect of immersing ourselves in Madrid’s vibrant culture while indulging in tapas and paella. And why stop there? Vienna, steeped in our family’s history, beckoned with its promise of culture and culinary delights like the famed schnitzel, just a short flight away.
So, while your child navigates the intricacies of roommate searches and you find yourself already mapping out flights for parent’s weekend, take solace in the fact that while they embark on this transformative journey, you too have something extraordinary to anticipate. Just ensure your passports are primed and ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
About the author – Abby Kastin is a travel advisor affiliated with SmartFlyer, a full service luxury travel agency, and a mom of two college age students at Indiana University. Follow on Instagram: @abbykastintravel
