Being in a relationship while studying abroad – why you should go for it

When pursuing your studies overseas, you are forced to step out of your comfort zone and any form of familiarity is out the door, even when it comes to your partner.

But with that said, this could be an opportunity to use any cultural differences you might have and bond over them.

For instance, trying each other’s local cuisine by going to a restaurant in town or cooking a meal for one another is a great way to connect. It’s like they say, “the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach”.

Another example of creating new experiences with your partner overseas is to find an activity unique to the city you’re in and try it out together.

This could be anything from taking surf lessons in Huntington beach California to watching a performance at the Sydney Opera House together.

Let your imagination run wild!

Whether you’re dating a local in your study destination or someone who has also embarked on their university journey abroad, spending quality time and exploring places beyond your city can be a fun way to get to know your partner on a deeper level.

In a survey from the U.S. Travel Association, couples who travel together are much happier than those who do not. Not only do they become notably more satisfied in their relationships, but they also learn to communicate better and end up feeling closer to one another by the end of the trip.

If you’re reading this, use travelling as an opportunity to bond and grow deeper in your relationship with your partner.

Visit neighbouring countries or cities by taking a short flight, or plan a road trip weekend together to tap into your adventurous side even more.

Travelling allows you to see the world through a different lens with your significant other by your side, making the experience even more memorable.

It’s expected that you and your partner would be visiting each other’s homes from time to time, granting you a sneak peek into what life would be like once you start living together.

Occasionally, you might find yourself doing household chores together, grocery shopping, and even just chilling after a long day.

Doing these little things with one another allows you to see a different side of them when they’re in their most comfortable state and teaches you a lot about their personality and habits at home.

Once you’ve grown deeper in your connection and bond with one another, you’ll eventually become comfortable and less inhibited as a couple, and realise you can be completely yourself when around them.

Once you’ve reached this stage of the relationship, you’ll get to see their full personality and true nature regardless of whether it’s good, bad, or ugly.

Undoubtedly, it’s one of the best feelings when in a romantic relationship.

Studying overseas holds a wealth of opportunities and room for growth for students, and this also includes having a dating life while abroad.

While it may only be one part of it all, it’s still a valuable experience that people can learn and benefit from in the long run.

This ranges from learning how to coexist with another person while away from your loved ones, appreciating each other’s cultural differences and practices, and finding someone with whom you can share your life in the eventual future.

While IDP might not exactly be a professional dating guru, our education counsellors are equipped with anything and everything you might need to know when embarking on your exciting overseas study journey.

Whether it’s choosing your dream course, finding the right study destination for your needs, or getting settled in university, we’re here to guide and support you at each step.

Ready to make the first move? Book your free counselling session with us today to get started.