Life Outside of Work as an Intern Abroad

If you’ve ever considered interning abroad, you might wonder what life is really like outside of work. Spending three to six months living in a foreign country, like Peru, can feel daunting, but with the right approach, it becomes an enriching experience. Here’s a glimpse into life outside of work and how to build a routine while immersing yourself in the local culture.

Life Outside of Work

This blog post will explore the gritty details of living abroad in Peru. Sometimes, it might feel daunting to acclimate to living in another country for such a long stretch of time, but the key to success is building a routine and sense of community for yourself.

Find a Community Niche

Establishing a local support system is essential for avoiding homesickness. At Globalteer, our at-home office provides the perfect opportunity to befriend coworkers and have built-in friends to explore Peru with. Attending events around the neighborhood or larger city center can foster a greater sense of community. Local cafes like D’wasi, Catfetin, and Florencia y Fortunata are great places to make new friends.

Befriend the Locals

While it’s enjoyable to meet fellow travelers, it’s important to focus on befriending the locals. Connecting with people who are only in town for a short while can be isolating.

Find a Tutor or Try a Language Exchange

If you're living abroad and aren't fluent in the local language, I highly recommend finding a tutor or language exchange to help improve your Spanish.

Take a Class, Get a Membership, or Join a Sports Team

Developing a sustainable schedule is exceptionally helpful when interning abroad. Attending weekly classes or joining a sports team is a fantastic way to build your social life and create a healthy routine.

Go on Tours

Cusco is a tourist hub in Peru, meaning hundreds of tours are offered throughout the city. If you’re interested in hiking, Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley, Lake Humantay, or the Seven Lagoons are must-visit places. But avoid overcharging by booking tours in person.

Embrace the Nightlife

Cusco has a vibrant nightlife scene. There are many bars throughout the city offering live music every night. For a more local vibe, embrace the red neon haze of Casa Palacio.

Take Weekend Trips or Use Vacation Time

Peru is the third-largest country in South America, offering many opportunities for weekend trips. Lima, Arequipa, and Puno are just a few of the amazing destinations you can visit.

Conclusion

The best way to embrace life outside of work as an intern abroad is by expanding your comfort and working to make new connections. Enjoy the little moments and find the lifestyle that brings you the most meaning. Don't hesitate to find a Globalteer internship that suits you, so you can experience living abroad! 

For more details, check out the full blog here: Read the full guide