How do I prevent, or cure homesickness?

Question

Im going to europe (alone) in a week. Im pretty sure the non-english speaking countries not make me feel much at home so i'll probably stay around england, but what do you think?

Answer 1

if it is that bad dont go

Answer 2

I think that if you just stay in England because of a fear of not feeling of being welcome then you are missing a big opportunity!

If you are flying all the way over to Europe then it is a real waste to not at least try and explore & learn.  You never know, you might actually find that it is even better on mainland Europe, but you won't know if you try

It's natural to feel a little homesick if this is the first time you are away from home, but the best way to overcome this is to just delve straight into exploring and getting out there and seeing all you can see.  Lots of backpackers come over and travel around alone, so if you are staying in a hostel then you will inevitably meet other people, form friendships and generally (at least for the majority) have a wonderful time that usually means you don't want to go home again

Yes England is nice (as is the rest of the UK btw), but don't stick to it just because of fear of the unknown.  We don't bite over here either!

Answer 3

Make an itinerary, and stick to it.  don't just stick to England.  They are great people, and all, but so are the people everywhere.

Your best bet to beat homesickness is to keep busy, exploring, etc.  And to remind yourself just how COOL it is that you get to do this!  Not everyone has the opportunity.  Get out, have a good time.  I did a full year, essentially on my own, at age 20, in Europe.  Lived in Spain and travelled as much as I could.

Take advantage of this time, beause you might not get the chance again, and you may regret not doing as much as you could.

Answer 4

England, in fact the UK is beautiful, I quite understand you when you say you'd stick around its shores:) but don't miss other places and so many new discoveries! English is widely spoken almost all over Europe, and even if it's not, so what? Don't let that stop you. Explore, discover, enjoy the differences and savour the experience. You won't regret it. Travelling is all about new sensations, new knowledge, new scents, landscapes and people. There will always be someone who speaks English, trust me.

Let yourself go, forget about barriers and you'll meet none.

Welcome:)

Answer 5

I think you'll be just fine. Exploring countries that have much or less similarities with your home can be great experience. My homesickness usually gets me after the 7-10 day, so you are safe, don't worry. ;o) You can always call home on the other hand

Good luck and enjoy the trip

Answer 6

I travel alone often.  You can rest assured that most of your time will be exploring, therefore there will be no time for loneliness.  

When I would encounter something, whether fantastic or otherwise, and felt a pang of loneliness when I couldn't share it with anyone, I immediately found the closest internet cafe and wrote home.  That helps tremendously.

I tended to run into tour groups on trains, sparked up conversations with them - even was invited to meet a group for dinner, you will be surprised the people you will encounter.

I have traveled to non-speaking countries alone as well, If an American notices another American, that can spark up a communication as well.  

You will be just fine.  Have a great time.