Rome reached 70 degrees Fahrenheit last week, so we naturally chose to board a plane and head to Edinburgh, Scotland. This was my group’s first time leaving the Schengen Area, and with three weeks of rapid travel, we were too tired to plan much.
As we touched down in the ever-so-inclement United Kingdom, we had three simple goals: meet new people, explore the city and see the Highland Cows.
This weekend differed drastically from the previous two, in which activities were given intervals to maximize our limited time. Nevertheless, a lesson I’ve learnt while studying abroad is that whether you account for each second in your preparation or just buy a plane ticket and leave the majority of your trip up to chance, you’re bound to run into unique challenges.
I have a friend in my program who has adopted a particularly interesting mantra in these circumstances, snarkily quipping, “Perfect, just what I wanted.”
Plane delayed? Perfect, just what I wanted.
Lengthy layover? Perfect, just what I wanted.
Hostelmates who choose to set 10 alarms beginning at 4:30 a.m. only to wake up at 9 a.m.? Perfect, just what I wanted.
The remark is reflexive at this point, prompting many of us to laugh rather than dwell on any obstacles.
I’ve started to find myself saying it when difficulties arise. While intentionally blunt, wry and sarcastic, it prevents lingering complaints over typical blunders. There’s no point in complaining about it, so it might as well just be perfect and just what you wanted.
Scotland consisted of ridiculously early flights for some of us, inconsistent and torrential weather, as well as a painful conversation rate. Along with some natural struggles hostel living can pose, we were no strangers to inconvenience.
Despite all of these hurdles, Edinburgh made for an exceptionally incredible weekend. The capital was immensely authentic, altruistic and kind. While certainly a city that’s brimming with pride, companionship is an orientation in the city.
Hiking through the highlands was an unforgettable experience, and certainly a highlight of my semester. Being able to watch Highland cows graze the fields, sheep dogs sprint down the paths and still see miles of the city over the hills was incredible.
Within the city square, we were able to listen to bagpipe players, explore the myriad of castles and get caught up in the whirlwind of rugby fanatics cheering on the country in the Six Nations tournament.
Honestly, I’ve never felt so welcomed in a new place. Everywhere we went, we were embraced and engaged in conversation. Locals and newcomers alike were eager to discuss life at the University, American politics and our travels.
I met several people who found themselves in Edinburgh without any plan at all. Many of them were recent graduates, similar in age to me.
The notion of arriving and settling down in another place is already daunting, and the easygoing component was jarring to hear.
On a dimly lit street outside of a rowdy pub, one recent graduate from the United States discussed her experience with me.
“I had travelled here, and I really liked it,” she shared. “I mean, it’s been really difficult, but I’m not going to limit myself because of little hardships.”
I found this statement to be especially poignant. Learning to navigate ambiguity has already posed a challenge for me, and is one I actively work on every day away from the comforting structure at home.
Edinburgh ultimately was perfect, and just what I wanted. Next week, I’ll be writing from Cadiz, Spain.
Until then,
Emma.
