What inspired you to go abroad?
I was inspired to go abroad because I wanted to gain international experience, improve my English, and learn from professionals in the hospitality industry.
Living and working in another country helped me become more confident, independent, and prepared for my future career. I still continue my life in Antalya.
Why did you choose the Hotel Management Program?
reception
I chose the Hotel Management Program because it combines academic learning with real work experience in international hotels. The Academy of Tourism and Business in Antalya offers excellent practical training, experienced instructors, and strong connections with leading hotels.
It was the perfect opportunity to develop my professional skills, improve my English, and start building a successful career in the hospitality industry.
What was your favorite part about Antalya?
My favorite part about Antalya was its unique combination of beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and a welcoming atmosphere. I loved exploring the city, enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle, and meeting people from different cultures.
Antalya is full of history, amazing food, and breathtaking views. It is the perfect place to study, work, and enjoy your free time. Living there made my international experience even more memorable and inspiring.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
What made my experience abroad extraordinary was the combination of professional growth, new friendships, and life in Antalya.
Working at the hotel helped me become more confident, improve my communication skills, and learn how international hospitality works. My supportive team, the beautiful city, and the chance to meet people from different cultures made this experience truly unforgettable.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff was always kind, patient, and supportive. They helped me adapt to a new working environment and were always ready to answer my questions.
Thanks to their encouragement and daily communication, I even started learning Turkish. They made me feel like part of the team from the very first day, which made my experience much more enjoyable and rewarding.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
Looking back, I wish I had started learning Turkish earlier. It would have helped me communicate even better with local people and enjoy the culture more deeply. I would also have liked to travel more around Turkey and explore more of its beautiful cities.
Overall, my experience was amazing, and I would happily do it all again.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
Iran tour as a part of the Academy
A typical day started with breakfast before my shift at the hotel. I worked at the front desk, where I welcomed guests, answered their questions, and helped with check-ins and check-outs. Every day was different, which made the job exciting and interesting.
After work, I often spent time with my colleagues or friends, explored Antalya, relaxed by the sea, or practiced my English and Turkish. Each day helped me grow both personally and professionally.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
During my free time, I enjoyed walking around Antalya, relaxing on the beautiful beaches, and exploring the city's historic places. I also loved trying traditional Turkish food and visiting local cafés with my friends.
Sometimes we went shopping or took short trips to nearby attractions. These moments helped me experience Turkish culture and made my time abroad even more enjoyable.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed in a staff residence (lojman) provided by the hotel. I shared a room with three other guys, and we had our own private bathroom and shower, which made living there very comfortable.
The residence also had a swimming pool and a cozy lounge where we could relax, drink coffee or tea, and spend time together after work. It was a great place to make new friends and feel at home during my internship.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Be ready to learn, work hard, and step outside your comfort zone. This program is not only about studying hotel management—it is about gaining real international work experience, improving your language skills, and growing as a person.
Stay open to new cultures, communicate with your team, and make the most of every opportunity. If you have a positive attitude, this experience can truly change your future.
Would you recommend the Hotel Management Program to others? Why?
Yes, I would definitely recommend this program to other students. It offers the perfect combination of education and real work experience in the hospitality industry. I gained valuable professional skills, improved my English, started learning Turkish, and met amazing people from different countries.
The Academy of Tourism and Business in Antalya provided excellent support throughout the entire program, making this experience both enjoyable and unforgettable.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
I believe the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is personal growth. Living in another country teaches you to be more independent, confident, and open-minded. You learn to communicate with people from different cultures, improve your language skills, and gain valuable international experience.
It also helps you see the world from a new perspective and prepares you for future career opportunities.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
my new friends
My time abroad gave me confidence, practical skills, and a clearer vision of my future career. I continue my studies at the Academy of Tourism and Business in Antalya, where I can gain professional experience through internships starting from the first year.
Thanks to my international internship, I feel more prepared for my future career in hospitality and motivated to keep developing my skills.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel is about much more than visiting new places. It is about learning from different cultures, meeting new people, and challenging yourself to grow.
My experience in Turkey helped me become more independent, improve my professional and language skills, and create friendships that will last a lifetime.
Meaningful travel changes the way you see the world and helps you become a better version of yourself.
