Author Archives: Brea Harris

Hi everyone! It’s your travel buddy, B here! I am always hunting for the next opportunity to travel. I’ve found so much passion in traveling, people, culture, and fashion - so I’ve decided to create a way to share my experiences with you all here! Let’s go on a journey around the world together. Always remember, there’s so much happening in the world around you and it’s never a waste of money when spending it on a new travel experience. Let’s do this!

Interview: Visiting 16 Countries at 16 Years Old

I had the opportunity of speaking with Madisen Thomas. Already an avid traveler at 16 years old. Her family has made it a point to travel internationally every year since she turned one. Therefore, she’s visited a whopping total of 16 countries in her 16 years of life already.

During this time with COVID-19, she’s uncertain as to when she’ll be able to travel internationally again. So during our interview, we discussed her perception of future travel, her past travel experiences and how it’s turned her into the young woman that she is today. The following is the actual transcription of our conversation.

Brea: So, Madisen you have been traveling every year ever since you were one. That’s amazing how your family made it a point to introduce you to that so early. I think there’s something really inspiring in all of that. So that’s why I wanted to speak with you today because I think it’d be great for people your age, younger or even much older than you and I to become inspired enough by your story to travel.

So, first thing – you’ve visited 16 countries in your 16 years of life already. Where have you gone?!

Madisen: I’ve been to Singapore, South Africa, Mexico, Antigua & Barbuda, France, the Bahamas, Honduras, Belize, Grand Turk, St. Thomas, Canada, Jamaica, Japan, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic.

Brea: Wow, amazing. So, those are the 16 countries that you’ve already visited. Which country has been the most memorable and how come?

Madisen: Um, I would have to say, South Africa, because I never have really seen animals like elephants and giraffes in their natural habitat. And not in zoos or anything. So that was really an amazing experience seeing them and how they cope in their environment. And not only that, but Africa itself is amazing because there’s just different types of parts cities and fields and everything. I went to Cape Town, which is very, very beautiful. They have beautiful mountains and even little penguins.

In a village not far from Johannesburg, we went on safari. We stayed in these houses with ceilings made of straw. We would go on a little truck and every morning. It was very, very early. We’d have to wake up at four or five in the morning.

Elephant on safari crossing dirt path — Photo by Madisen Thomas

Brea: That must be the best time to see animals or something, right?

Madisen: Yes, exactly.

Brea: So would you mind talking a little bit about culture and what that means to you when you visit these different places? Do you feel accepted when visiting new places with unfamiliar faces?

Madisen: With the places I’ve gone they’ve all been so accepting which I’m very thankful for. But I think the coolest part is that I’m also spreading my culture around at the same time as they’re spreading their culture around. And I just think if people had the chance to just immerse themselves in a culture different from their own, like even just hearing a different language even, it can really open your mind up to see exactly how much of the world, you’re really missing out on.

Brea: That’s truly so inspiring and super insightful. I can tell your experiences are crucial to your outlook on the world. That is amazing.

So, let’s talk about the future. Has COVID-19 changed your perception on travel?

Madisen: With all that’s going on right now, it has made me more aware of the importance of hygiene. I mean, I’ve always known hygiene is really important, but you never really actually think about it.

Like, for example, cleaning your seat on a plane, no one would usually do that before. But nowadays, everyone does it. But as for my perception, nothing will ever stop me from wanting to go to other countries at all.

You shouldn’t live in fear or anything. You should do whatever you set your mind to because you only live once. So just try to live life to the fullest. After all of this is done, I will definitely be ready to get back into traveling.

Brea: I love your response there especially to not live in fear. I think that’s such a wonderful point. The fact that you’re 16 and can say that is what makes me believe travel is super important. I believe it’s your exposure to various cultures that has helped form you into the young woman you are today. You have so much knowledge and wisdom on the subject. Travel is so important!

Madisen: Thank you for saying that. I believe that is true too.

Brea: Do you have any advice for anybody out there that’s your age or for anyone that hasn’t ever explored somewhere else? Any advice that you’d want to give them?

Madisen: I would say take it one step at a time. Just try one thing at a time because I know people who haven’t been out of the states they’re born in or anything. For people my age, don’t ever think that you have to travel really quickly to faraway places. Just try to explore as much as you can, especially while you’re young, when your brain can still absorb a lot of things.

I would definitely encourage anyone who can, to travel.

Madisen in front of the Singapore River in Singapore

Studying Abroad is Good for You…Literally

I get asked time and time again, “If you had the chance, would you study abroad again? Or, “Was studying abroad a good experience for you?” I always answer yes to both of these questions. I love traveling and having cultural experiences and this is what I attribute to my happiness. But even if I weren’t this way, I would still study abroad. From my personal experience and talking to people I met abroad, studying abroad is what broadens your worldview and makes you more understanding of people. These are qualities that I believe are necessary because our lives are involuntarily becoming more global each day. It turns out, there’s even research that backs the positive effect studying abroad has on a student. The Association of American Colleges & Universities conducted a research study in 2017 to help highlight the facts and figures that come from students studying abroad.

“Global learning, whether it occurs in local communities or abroad, provides an array of skills and experiences that follow students throughout their civic and professional lives.”

Improves Interpersonal Skills

Social skills are not just important in our social lives. It’s all just as important in the workplace. Studying abroad has helped students all over the world sharpen these skills. These are the findings from AACU:

majority of respondents said that their study abroad experiences improved skills in fourteen out of fifteen “key skills desired for employment in today’s workforce.” Technical and software skills were the least likely to be developed
Approximately three-quarters of respondents saw “significant” gains in several areas: intercultural skills, flexibility/adaptability, self-awareness, curiosity, and confidence.
More than half of respondents also reported significant gains in problem-solving, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Study abroad experiences that were highly structured, and especially experiences that included group projects and activities, “emerged as a common factor among [respondents] reporting significant gains in collaborative, interpersonal, teamwork, and leadership skills.”
Life and physical science majors were the most likely to study abroad in an academic field outside of their major. In interviews, these respondents “often described study abroad as one of the only opportunities during their undergraduate studies to develop skills like flexibility, written and verbal communication, interpersonal skills, and intercultural skills.”

Improves Career Outcomes

More than three-quarters (78 percent) of survey respondents said they discussed their study abroad experience in a job interview, and 53 percent said that their study abroad experience helped them secure a job offer.
Students who considered their career prospects when choosing a study abroad experience were more likely to say that the experience had an impact on their career. The report recommends that global learning programs “integrate clear employment-related learning outcomes into the design of study abroad programs.”

It is very rare that a research study can provide 100% positive findings. The data from this study helps me describe how studying abroad changed my life and others lives too. We’re in a time of uncertainty right now, a time where we’re not sure if studying abroad will be nearly as encouraged again. But I believe that one day, even if it’s 20 years from now, it will. If you’re not interested in studying internationally, there are also many opportunities that allow for you to study domestically. If you’re in the US, there are many opportunities to study in another state. If you’re interested in studying abroad and need more information on doing so, contact your school study abroad or global education office.

Singapore Edition: 5 Things You Must Do During Your Visit

Singapore is a destination that has lots to keep you engaged and entertained! It’s a perfect destination for the entire family, friends, or even just solo. There’s numerous attractions, impressive architecture, and let’s not forget the food (the food will not and cannot be left out)! Well let’s dive right into 5 of the most amazing things I think you should experience when visiting Singapore.

Little India

Little India is filled with loads of Indian culture; you’ll feel as if you stepped right into India. Some of the most enticing attractions here, including one of Singapore’s oldest temples, the Veeramakaliamman Temple. This is a colorful and impressive site, but most importantly a place of worship for Hindu people. The entire temple is covered with numerous colorful Hindi deities and is open to the public to explore respectfully. If you love Indian food as much as I do, be sure to have lunch in Little India. The nice thing about Little India is there are many food options that cater to vegetarians! But don’t worry, there are plenty of delicious options for the omnivores too.

Lau Pa Sat

This is one of the many and I mean many hawker centres of Singapore, but I wanted to mention this one exclusively because I fell in love with it. During my first week in Singapore, this spot was recommended to me by a local Singaporean as one of his favorite places to eat from each day. The nice thing about Hawker Centres, is that they truly offer authentic meals that all – including Singaporeans – choose to enjoy. Try some of the delicious chicken satay skewers, or indulge on some truly authentic southern Indian dishes. And please make sure you try a big bowl of Ice Kachang, you won’t be disappointed.

Bugis Street Market

This is an amazing undercover stop for cheap shopping in a super chaotic environment. People, both locals and tourists alike, are all over the place, crowding the street trying to get into the small stores that make up the market. When you’re getting off the MRT at the Bugis stop, you’ll be inside of a typical mall called Bugis Junction. Take some time to walk around here if you want a chance to escape the SG heat, but don’t buy anything quite yet! Wait until you make it to Bugis Street Market and see if anything catches your eye there first. This market is a bit hidden, not super noticeable. But it’s directly across the street from the mall you arrive in. So cross the street and honestly just follow the big crowd of people, I guarantee they’re heading to the street market.

While you’re on this side, I have another amazingly sweet recommendation for you. And that is – BELLEVILLE PANCAKE CAFE SG! If you have never had the opportunity to taste the beauty of a meringue pancake, you are missing out! Originally from Japan, souffle pancakes may very well be the best kind of pancake there is. They’re fluffy, jiggly, soft, light, and sweet. All of these qualities make each bite just melt into your mouth.

Gardens by the Bay

Truly one of the most impressive displays I have ever seen! If you’ve read any of my previous posts, you’ll see I’ve already mentioned Gardens by the Bay in great detail. Take some time to go see one of their light shows. There’s two light shows every night – one at 7:45 PM and the other at 8:45 PM. Each show lasts 15-minutes and is 100% free admission! You will not be disappointed by this experience.

Marina Bay

Marina Bay is an iconic attraction in Singapore. Anyone visiting Singapore is here and any pictures you see on Google of Singapore are most likely at the Marina Bay. It’s a beautiful and impressive site with lots to keep you entertained. The bay features many hotels, restaurants, bars, one of the most expensive malls in the world, and you guessed it – a light show on the water!

Here’s a tip: Marina Bay is relatively close to the Gardens by the Bay. The light shows are at different times so that by the time you finish watching one show, you can catch the next one. There are two light shows at Marina Bay: one at 8 pm and the other at 9:30 pm. Each show is also 15 minutes each.

What is it Like? Preparing to Study Abroad at NTU as an American Exchange Student

If you were to ask me today, “On a scale from 1-10, can you rate your overall experience studying at Nanyang Technological University as an American exchange student?” I would respond with a solid 8.5! Which is very good, I might add, being that I was in a foreign country, on the other side of the world, without family and friends for 5 months! I assure you this is a fantastic score indeed. But, if you were to ask me to rate preparing, as well as my first couple weeks at NTU, you would get a rating much closer to 2. And this is why.

Limited Support from My Home University

My situation was quite different from most exchange students in this program, unfortunately the support I was counting on in the beginning from my school’s study abroad office in America was no more. The school decided to dissolve the office right before my departure and provided me with a new person as support. I won’t name any names, but this person was extremely absent for most of my time abroad, meaning with the many times I would contact them, they never responded to me. So, I had to get creative.

My tip for you, if you’re interested in studying abroad, and feel there’s limited resources initially provided to you, is to not allow this to influence your decision. There’s a way to get through it and it works. I recommend finding two or three people from your school with authority in other areas, as it relates to your education, and keep in touch with them throughout your entire exchange. For instance, in my case, I stayed in touch with my department’s co-chair as well as the provost of academic services. I understand that these people sound quite important and busy, and it is true they certainly are, but they were more than willing to help me because I was taking the initiative. I was serious about enjoying my experience and attending classes; this made them want to be serious about helping me. Be sure to check out the NTU site to stay on top of pertinent information relating to the program.

Uncertainty with Registering for Classes

Unfortunately, something they don’t tell you ahead of time, is how difficult it can be to register for classes. I don’t want to deter you from choosing NTU as your study abroad uni, but I believe it is important to remain transparent about the experience. For students like me (a student of the business school) or students apart of any of the more popular colleges there is a major battle with getting registered for classes. I want to warn you, you’re going to request courses months before you leave for Singapore, but do not count on taking these courses, there will most likely be changes. So, in order for you to be more prepared, I want to highly recommend that you select at least 10 courses and no less. Also, be sure to get all of these approved by your school, I promise you will feel much more prepared by doing this. It’s a major headache going all the way to Singapore and then finding out you haven’t been approved for any courses because there’s no room left in them.

Man, it’s Hot in Singapore

What you may not be prepared for and have little to no control over, is the overwhelmingly warm temperatures in Singapore. Check out these tips on how to make Singaporean heat a bit more manageable. It hardly is ever below 70 degrees Fahrenheit and can be pretty humid and sticky. Coming from America, we barely see these kinds of temperatures, and certainly not year round, so be prepared for it. I personally didn’t mind the warm temperature, but many were struggling to bear it. There are some really good things about it being so warm though, NTU has an outdoor pool regardless of what time of year it is, and endless amounts of sports that you can join too. The weather is also what contributes to the lushness of the campus; I honestly have never seen a more beautiful campus with all of the flora and fauna that lives there.

Enjoy some more photos of the beautiful Nanyang Technological University campus!

View outside my dorm’s window at Crescent Hall

Studying in a tranquil oasis at the Art & Design Building

The Rules are the Rules – Studying Abroad in Singapore

Before leaving for Singapore last fall, anytime I would mention to both strangers and acquaintances alike that I was getting ready to study abroad in Singapore, they all had the same reaction, “What?! Isn’t it super strict there? So strict that you can’t even chew gum?!” And my quick response would always be yes. Their reactions caused me to do all of this obsessive research, before leaving, on the rules and the penalties for breaking those rules and personal stories relating to breaking the rules… It was honestly quite intimidating at the time.

Now that I have returned from spending five months in Singapore, as an exchange student, I can honestly say while all of these rules are very real and enforced…probably, there was never a moment where I felt watched or bothered by being in Singapore due to these rules.

This post is meant to be both informative, but also lighthearted because I think rules shouldn’t be intimidating, but rather looked at as helpful and orderly laws that are implemented for the general public’s safety and comfort. After all, Singapore is credited as being one of the world’s safest and cleanest cities.

After watching this humorous yet informative video on YouTube from Asian Boss, I realized there are rules that Singaporeans aren’t even aware of in Singapore.

Check that out here:

Here is a quick run down of the rules that were mentioned in the video:

No Gum Selling or Chewing

Chewing gum in Singapore is illegal and while the personal chewing of it doesn’t have a direct consequence, if a person is caught disposing of chewed gum anywhere other than a trash can or is caught carrying large amounts of it (most likely will be considered smuggling) will result in an SGD $1000 fine if you are caught by an officer.

No Loud Singing in Public Without a Permit

Singing in public is only allowed for those who can do it – literally… a person must have a permit in order to be allowed to sing outwardly. If the person is caught by police without a permit to do so, they may be imprisoned for at least 3 months.

Don’t Connect to Another Person’s Wi-Fi Without Their Permission

A person’s Wi-Fi is considered their property, so when a person chooses to connect to a Wi-Fi network without the permission of the owner, that is considered trespassing which is illegal. Therefore, the consequence for doing this, if caught, is an SGD $10,000 fine or three years in prison.

Always Flush the Toilet!

If a person is caught using the toilet and not flushing afterwards, they could be subjected to paying an SGD $150 fine. However, it’s not entirely clear how this is enforced nor monitored…

Study Abroad 2 Learn: Supertree Grove

Today’s SA2L post, is all about Singapore’s magnificent Supertree Grove. I had the pleasure of experiencing this at least three different times and everytime I went, there was something new that I hadn’t noticed before. I was in awe each time while there, and was in awe even more after taking some time to research the reasoning behind the very existence of these so called Supertrees.

First thing – there’s way more to this attraction than just pretty lights, flora and fauna, and weird gianormous robotic looking trees. These were created for a very specific purpose and contribute immensely to Singapore’s initiative in making their city in a garden rather than the other way around. The Supertrees are obviously man-made but they make an amazing difference to the environment by utilizing the energy of the sun and then converting that energy to power up numerous conservatories that are below the trees.

You see, these gigantic trees are particularly eye-catching but the trees are actually apart of something much larger which is the garden itself, “Gardens by the Bay.”

The trees supply this energy to two large conservatories made up of plants that come from various parts of the world:

“The biomes are the equivalent size of four football fields and will become the new home for 220,000 plants from almost every continent.” “The remainder of the Bay South garden will pay homage to the ethnic makeup of the country. In the Heritage Gardens, visitors can explore the Chinese, Malay, Indian and Colonial-themed areas and learn about the links between plants and Singapore’s history.”

– CNN, Lauren Said-Moorhouse

This part of the garden does cost, while walking around and viewing the Supertrees Rhapsody show is free admission.

The Supertree Grove is an impressive science and environmental project indeed, but it also acts as an extraordinary space for entertainment as well. Every night, there’s two shows and the supertrees are the stars – literally! This includes an impeccable 15-minute light show set to music that is different each weekend. The three times I visited, I experienced a Singaporean music themed show (in honor of Singapore’s Independence Day on August 9^th), a Disney music themed show, and a musical theater themed show. I loved them all and fell into an intrinsic trance while laying down in the vast grass field below staring into the sky while the lights danced on the tree’s branches.

The Journey Begins

Hi everyone! It’s your new travel buddy, B here! I am a Fashion Merchandising student based in Chicago, but I am always hunting for the next opportunity to travel. I’ve found so much passion in traveling, people, culture, and fashion – so I’ve decided to create a way to share my experiences with you all here! Let’s go on a journey around the world together!

Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter. — Izaak Walton

📍Las Olas Beach, Florida