My
First Trip Abroad Growing up in a small town in the countryside, I never thought that I would have the chance to travel abroad. However, when I was 16, I was given the opportunity to go on a school trip to France. I was over the moon with excitement and couldn't wait to leave. The day of departure finally arrived, and as I boarded the plane, I felt a mix of nervousness and exhilaration. I was travelling alone for the first time, but I knew that this was an experience I would never forget. Arriving in Paris, I was immediately struck by the beauty of the city. The Eiffel Tower stood tall in the distance, and the streets were filled with people speaking a language I had never heard before. I quickly realised that I had a lot to learn about this new culture. Over the next week, we travelled to various cities and towns, experiencing the local culture and trying new foods. I was amazed by the stunning architecture of the cathedrals in Chartres and Rouen. I also loved visiting the local markets and trying new foods like escargots and crème brûlée. However, the most memorable part of the trip for me was staying with a French family in Normandy. They were incredibly welcoming and friendly, despite the language barrier. I was amazed by how different their daily routine was compared to mine back home. They ate dinner late in the evening and spent hours sitting around the table, talking and laughing. The trip took me out of my comfort zone and helped me to see the world from a different perspective. It opened my eyes to new cultures and ways of life, and taught me that there is so much more to experience beyond my hometown. Travelling abroad has since become a huge passion of mine, and I am grateful for that first trip to France which ignited my wanderlust. It remains a special memory that I will always hold close to my heart.