Arcadia Ireland

Once a routine is established, it is much more likely for your host city to begin feeling like home. However, there are additional things you can do to feel at home during your time abroad. 

Spending time exploring different parts of the city is a great way to get to know your host city. This can be done by taking public transportation to a specific area and spending the day there, or by walking to different places from your accommodations. You might end up finding your favorite area of the city when you least expect it! Another great way to explore is by taking advantage of any free museums; the locals do it as well! 

Both Arcadia and your program are likely providing various opportunities to spend time with others that are abroad and locals. For example, Arcadia hosted a pub quiz and invited the participants of their other study abroad programs to attend as well. I have also been taking advantage of outings organized by my Ph.D. student such as a visit to the Cancer Revolution exhibition at the Science Museum. 

Eating local food is another good way of feeling at home. This can be accomplished by trying certain snacks and foods from the grocery stores, local restaurants, or markets around the city. It is also great to find local cafes and shops to explore the city. 

Overall, it is important to remember that the reasons a place feels like home to you may not be the same reasons for someone else. Figure out what you yourself need to do to feel at home, even if it is something I did not mention above, and use it to make the most of your time abroad and to be at ease in your host city.