Kyra Bär, 25 years old and in her third year knew she wanted to take the Grand Tour the minute she clicked on the NHL Stenden website. As a German studying in The Netherlands, she wanted to study in English, and she wanted to travel around. "And to then read on the website how many possibilities there are to go abroad, it was definitely one point that was a part of the decision to study here.” 

In her second year, she decided to take the Grand Tour. Kyra needed some time off, and was in need of something new. 

How to pick the right destination 

She initially focused on where she wanted to go and then chose her minors consequently. "I wanted to get as much culture out of it as possible. I was thinking about Qatar for a while, but it didn't get me as much as South Africa. Both minors really were perfect for me. At first, I was mostly interested in the innovation part." The minor turned out to focus more on change management. But it doesn't seem to matter that much: "Change & Innovation is an amazing minor, I really enjoyed it. It has a lot of useful ideas on how to become a better manager.” 

South Africa surprised her in a big way 

When she first got there, she was in for a surprise. "The expectations I had about South Africa were just proven wrong - in a good way. You have a lot of ideas and stereotypes, and nobody really knows what's happening or could happen. So you go there with these stories in mind: you'll get robbed, don't trust black people, and so on." 

But upon arrival at the airport, she went into a cafe, and instantly, all these stories were proven wrong. "I just ordered a cup of tea. And people behind the counter started singing along the order. And I was completely freaked out because people were so happy, and I was so tired from my ten-hour flight." 

It turns out that South-African people are generally really happy people and are super friendly and caring. They also really appreciate tourists. “So many people here are living from tourism.” 

You can do anything here - just don’t be stupid 

So, South Africa is different from the stories in the news. It certainly isn't unsafe. You have to watch your step, however. "In all the morning lectures, there was the dean or student council, and everybody kept on telling you 'don't be stupid.' There are just a few rules you have to stick to. If you stick to those, you're fine. And with those rules in mind, I never felt unsafe or helpless." 

With that in mind, you really can do anything here. "From typical hikes or trails to surfing, canoeing, and climbing. I made a canoe trip today, my second one actually. I'm gonna do a bungee jump tomorrow. I started learning surfing here. For people who like water: Port Alfred is an amazing spot to learn surfing and get involved with the locals." 

Besides going on adventures, the natural beauty of South Africa is unparalleled. "There are lots of parts that are untouched. You just go into nature and explore yourself. And safaris, of course, you can do tons of safaris." You don't even have to go to Kruger park: "The other day, my mom and I were just driving, and I said: 'Look, mom, there's an elephant there!’ - and she didn't even react! She thought I was joking. That's South Africa." 

But there's another, more modern side to South Africa as well, as Kyra points out. "Cape Town developed a lot since the World Cup of 2010. It has a really nice vibe and lots of hipsters and food markets. It's very modern. I really enjoy the city. There are two mountains in the city. You can watch the sunrise there, which is amazing.” 

Some advice on going there 

So if you're thinking about going on a Grand Tour, you might want to consider South Africa. "I would definitely recommend doing one minor there. It's a beautiful country with beautiful nature. And so many people here live from tourism. They are very grateful ad appreciate you coming here." 

However, if you want to go, don't be fooled. "Get in touch with people who went there or used to live here. Don't trust the stories on the news. You only hear the bad stories - only the bad stories end up in the news. Trust on their stories instead.” 

The future 

Spending time in Port Alfred has certainly loosened her up. "South African culture taught me a lot about seeing things less seriously. If something doesn't work, it doesn't work." She also points out that friendliness goes a long way. "People here are so friendly. A nice and friendly 'hello' and 'how are you doing?' can change the entire conversation." 

In the future, she would like a position in change management. "I would like to advise companies on that. Not that I'm an expert." But everybody needs a change now and then: "Not in a negative way, but sometimes changing could really help you out." Kyra has certainly tried out some changes herself. Next stop? Becoming mindful in Bali. 

If you want to read more about Kyra’s travels, go over to her blog.

Are you currently studying abroad? Or did you use to, at one of our foreign campuses with the Grand Tour, or at one of our partner universities? Want to share your story, just like Kyra? Let us know. Send an email to exploretheunknown@nhl-stenden.com.