by a.con

Created on: March 23, 2007   Last Updated: March 26, 2007

As much as I love to travel, there is definitely no place like home. While traveling can be an escape from the so called "real world" of life, it can be lonely sometimes.

While I was traveling through Australia for 6 months, I found many ways to not be so homesick. First I had pictures of my hometown, family and friends right with me all the time. This helped me to not only be able to see my hometown and family when I was missing them most, but it also made me remember how much I am loved at home. So besides having packed photos, bring with you letters from your loved ones or a favorite stuffed animal, sleep shirt, etc. When you start longing for familiar faces and places, you'll have a little bit of home right there with you.

Another thing that helps me get along is to call home and email home. When I traveled I usually called home once a week or so. It is different for everyone, but calling home allows you to not only tell your friends and family all about your adventures but also hear what is going on at home so you won't feel so left out. A quick call to hear your dad's voice or your boyfriend's story about bathing the dog after he was skunked can be comforting. You might want to arrange a time to call or so you'll have something to look forward to.

One of my favorite things to do when I travel is also to keep a journal. This way you can look back on your experience and relive it in a sense. When I look back at my journal from Australia I can actually still feel the way I did when I was writing. It will also help you to remember things you want to share with your friends and family at home. This was one of the best things I could have done while traveling.

And last but not least, stay active. When you are busy and having a good time you will be less likely to become depressed or too homesick. Just remember that you are traveling for a reason and eventually you will be returning home. And there is never any shame in leaving early if you are too homesick. Now go out and enjoy the world!

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