By Ellen Smith
Congratulations on choosing Cape Town as your study abroad experience! When I chose this program, I had no idea where, when or how to start preparing. If you’re like me, or even if you are just planning a short trip to Cape Town, I’m here to help!
When preparing for your trip, you want to make sure to take out the South African currency (rand) before leaving. This is just in case you need some cash when you first arrive, or if your credit/ debit card doesn’t work at certain places. Personally, having both a credit and debit card was necessary for me when I went abroad because of how many times one or the other would not work.
Another thing you want to remember is that the seasons are switched. So if you are going in the fall, like I did, you will arrive in Cape Town during their winter. Their winter is not even near as brutal as our winter’s, but it is smart to be prepared for every kind of weather when you are packing. The temperature in the winter is 68 to 73 degrees during the day. Nights will be a little cooler, usually in the 50s. If you are planning on traveling during Cape Town’s s summer months (December-February) the highs are in the 80s and lows are in the 60s.
Cape Town is the most beautiful city. The view from the top of any of the peaks cannot be simulated through an image. The strong breeze from the top of every mountain rushes through your veins and reminds you how good it feels to be alive.
If you go through Arcadia University (the program Susquehanna offers) you will be introduced to your program leaders a few months before your trip. They are at your disposal for any questions or concerns you or your family have about your trip. Much of what they have in store for you will be more on the touristy side of Cape Town but is still really exciting and nothing like anything you have ever done before, so make sure to take advantage of the planned activities! Even if it sounds “boring” or you “had too much fun the night before,” do it! Seize every opportunity. It’s interesting to interact with locals and try out things they like to do for fun. You will be able to find so many secret spots to eat, drink and explore by just walking around.
I realize that many of the places and tips I’m giving you are very general. This is because every person’s individual experience will be different. You will want to make assumptions and form theories about how your abroad experience will go, but you must force yourself to shut that part of your mind down. In my opinion, in order to have the best experience abroad, you must go into your trip with no expectations. Leave the stereotypes at home.
If you are able to take anything from these tips, remember to smell the roses! Remember to take a breath sometimes. Smell the air. Look at something you love and stick that feeling in the back of your head for later. You are about to embark on a journey you have never experienced before. Things will get over- whelming at times but don’t forget to look at the people around you, because before you know it, you won’t be able to anymore and all you’ll be left with is pictures.
The editorials of The Quill reflect the views of individuals members of the editorial board. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the entire university. The content of the Forum page is the responsibility of the editor in chief and the Forum editor.
