Yesterday, I was looking up flights from Saigon to Heathrow Airport in the UK and felt overwhelmed by the information available. Although I have travelled to Spain three times, as well as Japan, Singapore, and a few other countries, this time it felt different. In the past, when we travelled abroad, my ex-husband took care of booking our flights and organising the entire trip because he had friends and family in Spain. He would plan everything, from arranging for someone to pick us up at the airport to deciding where we would stay and what activities we would do.
The Anxiety Steps In
I almost cried when I saw the websites with international flight information. I suddenly became anxious, wondering who would pick me up at the airport and how I would get to my accommodation. Which mode of transportation should I use? I also considered the best time to arrive in the UK. Nighttime seemed less ideal, so I aimed for a daytime arrival. Another concern was choosing a reliable airline and figuring out how much luggage I could bring. Should I pay for an extra suitcase since I have a one-way ticket and am still determining when I’ll return?
Countless questions flooded my mind, leaving me feeling extremely overwhelmed. How will I overcome this overwhelming fear of moving abroad on my own? I couldn’t handle it and had to take a break from searching for flights. However, I had a rough idea of when flights are more affordable. I’ve already registered at the University for accommodation, so at least that’s one task completed. I reminded myself to take things one step at a time. Booking a flight can wait for another day when I can focus on researching and making a well-informed decision. I want to take my time and make the right choice due to my current state of overwhelm. I must overcome my fear and plan my journey more effectively before booking the flight. Thankfully, I still have enough time.
Where Should I Stay?
Registering for accommodation took a lot of consideration, especially since it’s my first time living abroad alone and I’m on a budget. I had to choose between booking a single standard room with shared bathroom facilities or an ensuite room with a private bathroom.
Although the single standard room has a lavabo, the price difference was £51 per week or £204 per month, amounting to around VND 6.1 million per month or over VND 70 million per year if I stay for the entire year of study. I had to assess whether I could afford the extra cost at this stage of my life.
After thoroughly discussing my concerns with close friends and family, I finally mustered the courage to opt for the single standard option, at least for now. I should dip my toes into this new experience and see how well I adapt. If the shared bathroom situation becomes unbearable, I can always switch to an ensuite room. I must be financially savvy at this juncture and not succumb to the temptation of having a private bath.
You Are On Your Own
Eighteen years ago, my dad took me to Saigon, where he found me a place to stay and helped me register at the University. Afterwards, he headed back to Nha Trang while I stayed there. I recalled that there was no overwhelming feeling of being alone back then. For the past eighteen years, Saigon has become my home. Unlike moving to another city within Vietnam where the support of my family is readily available, this time, I’m about to embark on a solo journey to the far reaches of the United Kingdom, flying 10,027 km (6,242 miles) away from Vietnam to a place I have never set foot in before. The prospect both terrifies and excites me beyond words. There’s an unsettling sense of venturing into the unknown, yet a deep-felt enthusiasm to uncover new facets of life.
Planning my arrival abroad better has become an absolute priority. I know everything will be different in the UK compared to Vietnam. I yearn to embrace this unfamiliarity and wholeheartedly immerse myself in the process. This bewildering adventure promises personal growth, a learning experience unlike any other, and I eagerly anticipate every aspect.
Physical and Mental Preparation For Moving Abroad
Every day, I rise early, typically around 5 a.m. or 5:30 a.m., although sometimes before 4:30 a.m. My routine begins with waking up, making my bed, and brewing an extra hot cup of coffee (I like my coffee as hot as possible). I then tend to my beloved plants, conversing with them as if they were old friends. Next, I exercise and indulge in a peaceful meditation session to prepare myself mentally for the exciting journey ahead. Afterwards, I settle down to write, allowing my thoughts to flow onto the page.
Once I’ve completed my writing session, I usually go for an energising walk or bike ride, accompanied by an enthralling audiobook from the Audible app. Along the way, I often stop at my favourite juice stand, where I have formed friendships with the juice lady and her two delightful children. Additionally, my week includes Muay Thai training sessions as I strive to fortify my physical strength and agility. These habits have been ingrained within me since a young age; I have always been an early riser. While working at the bar, I reluctantly adjusted my schedule to accommodate a late-night shift. Still, I am immensely grateful to have resumed my cherished morning routines. They contribute to the well-being of both my mind and body.
Before the world awakens in the early morning hours, I study Spanish—a language I endeavour to speak fluently. I found this time exceptionally productive for language learning, just as when I mastered English. Once I achieve fluency in Spanish, I aspire to explore the realms of French and Italian. Since these three languages share similarities in grammar and are derived from Latin, mastering one will undoubtedly expedite my proficiency in the others. I greatly enjoy the dynamic interplay between English, Spanish, and Vietnamese during conversations. When I engage in internal discourse, I find myself effortlessly switching between these languages—it’s truly a captivating experience.
Now, I would like to ask about your aspirations. What steps have you taken recently to bring yourself closer to your desired dream? I am intrigued by your thought process and would love to learn your insights.