Tiffany Kascak, the Lions Abroad marketing intern, writes:

Free time is a very important time, especially while studying abroad. This is a time where you have more opportunity for your own choices, creativity and learning outside of the course curriculum. Most students divide free time into one of the following categories: being active, relaxing or catching up on coursework. Here are some examples of how my classmates and I accomplished all three of these areas.

Hiking on Magnetic Island

Get active: You’ll be visiting some of the most beautiful places in the world, so being active can include anything from running and hiking to swimming and kayaking. On my North Queensland, Australia program, my group discovered the immense system of hiking trails on Magnetic Island, which we explored during program time and again on a free afternoon. We headed toward Balding Bay, and the trail was exhilarating and fun. Be sure to take your camera and stop for pictures, which will also give you a chance to catch your breath. Regardless of your program destination, your local field guide or the accommodation’s front desk attendants can provide you with hiking maps or their suggestions for the trails best suited to your preference.

Relax a bit: Your program will be jam-packed with activities, so be sure to relax in some of your free time so you don’t get exhausted. While in Port Douglas, Australia, my group spent a free day on the beach there just hanging out and chatting together. A short 10-minute walk from our accommodation led us to the beach. Students on the New Zealand program said some of their favorite places to relax have been: Hagley Park in Christchurch, Queenstown Gardens along Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown and Lake Matheson in Fox Glacier.

Hit the books: Yes, you do have coursework to complete during your program. Thus, some of your free time will need to be dedicated to reading your course book and writing modules. Each student knows himself or herself best when it comes to homework or study habits. You can find an area of your accommodation to study privately or in a group. If that doesn’t satisfy you, try packing up your study materials and heading to a nearby coffee shop (they’re bountiful in Australia and New Zealand!). Many coffee shops offer WiFi as well if you plan on multitasking.

Hopefully your free time is used wisely during your program! This free time can be a learning experience in itself if you make good use of it.