Did you know that before starring in films like The Royal Tenenbaums and Iron Man, a 15-year-old Gwyneth Paltrow lived with a host family in Spain? Or that on his way to becoming a Hollywood leading man, Bradley Cooper expanded his horizons by studying in France?
In fact, a ton of celebrities have gone abroad and learned a lot from the experience. Let’s see what some of our favorite actors, singers, and TV personalities have to say about traveling and exploring the world with these celebrity quotes about travel!
“Every single journey that I’ve embarked on, I’ve learned something new.” — Shailene Woodley
Take it from Divergent actor and Hollywood hippie Shailene Woodley—going abroad is an opportunity for adventure and discovery.
True understanding of culture comes from experiencing the world from a different point of view. When you study abroad, whether for two weeks or a full school year, you get to see what it’s like to be a teenager in another country.
“You get educated by traveling.” — Solange Knowles
Traveling also inspires singer/songwriter Solange, the artist responsible for this year’s runaway hit “A Seat at the Table.”
Studying abroad is a great way to learn by doing. You can practice your language skills while having a conversation with your host family or discover cultural traditions by taking part in holiday celebrations. But most importantly, when you travel you get to explore parts of yourself you never knew were there.
“When I was 15, I went to a small town outside Talavera de la Reina [Spain] and I had the most wonderful experience. It really changed my life.” — Gwyneth Paltrow
Gwyneth had a life-changing study abroad experience when she was a teenager, and so could you!
Many exchange students are lucky enough to find their second home in another part of the world. They keep in touch with their host families for decades and return to visit their host countries regularly. Studying abroad in high school is the start of a life-long journey, and you never know where it could lead!
“Southeast Asia has a real grip on me. From the very first time I went there, it was a fulfillment of my childhood fantasies of the way travel should be.” — Anthony Bourdain
To find inspiration for his creative recipes, TV chef and author Anthony Bourdain likes to travel around the world and sample local cuisine.
Studying abroad gives you the chance to try lots of new things, especially food! You might be surprised by what ends up becoming your new favorite meal! Lots of “foodies” go abroad to destinations like Italy, Thailand, or Indonesia to discover exciting new dishes.
“Traveling is a big part of my life, and I want to share that with the people close to me.” — Candice Accola
When she’s not starring on the popular CW show “The Vampire Diaries,” Candice Accola enjoys traveling with her friends and family.
Studying abroad is a great way to build connections. In fact, AFSers often make the best friends of their lives during their exchange. Living in another country gives you the chance to bond with local high schoolers, other exchange students, and your host family.
Visit www.afsusa.org/study-abroad to choose YOUR study abroad program and destination.
Already know where you want to travel? Start your journey here.