Foreign travel, for dummies.

We like to think of ourselves as experts in travel. We’re quick through the airport, we take only what we need, and rarely forget key items. Well, the last part isn’t true, but two out of three ain’t bad.

There are definitely times, though, when we’ve been reminded that no matter how well planned, travel in and of itself is an uncertain endeavor. Some of the best lessons learned while traveling abroad have also been our most embarrassing.

First and foremost, nothing compares to the pure joy of getting lost in a foreign city. Whether it's misreading a map or taking a wrong turn, you're bound to find yourself in some pretty strange situations. But don't worry, it's all part of the adventure!

Take 2: the right direction

Most recently we found ourselves in Sayulita, on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It’s a tiny town, which one would think impossible to be lost in. But we’re overachievers around here, so not only did we manage to “lose” our AirBnB, we also found a way to go the wrong way down one of the only one way streets in town.

During a national holiday. Go us!

Next up, let's talk about language barriers. Have you ever tried ordering food in a foreign language? It's a recipe for disaster! I once tried to order a vegetarian dish in Chile and used bravado and bad Spanish acquire a lamb stew. Whoops! But hey, at least I got some protein in my diet, right?

Oh… I meant “sin carne…”

And let's not forget about cultural differences. You might think you know a thing or two about a foreign culture, but trust me, you have no idea. Emily has made multiple trips to Turkey, but her first visit will always be the grandest adventure.

Wanting to “fit in,” and “experience the culture like a native,” she accepted an invitation to a Turkish bath. What ensued was a going over akin to what I imagine walking through an automatic car wash might be like. She was oiled, rolled, pushed and prodded, and well…

If you’ve never heard her tell the story, you are missing one of life’s great laughs.

When Em tells a story, prepare for tears of laughter

But the best part about foreign travel is the stories you come back with. Who needs souvenirs when you can regale your friends with tales of getting lost, ordering stewed meat instead of a salad, and being cleansed by 300 lb Turkish women? It's the gift that keeps on giving!

Getting out there, especially through foreign travel is not only valuable for broadening your horizons and expanding your worldview, but it also frequently leads to high comedy and a collection of stories to last a lifetime. So pack your bags, grab your phrasebook, and get ready to laugh your way around the world!