Scorching Spain and shining sand. The eclectic cultures and landscapes of Southern America. Mini paradises surrounded by Caribbean azures. Parties, newfound cities and exotic friends, the best year of your life.

That’s the mirage my trusting eyes focused on when I signed up for seven months of teaching for my year abroad. Several forms and meetings later, hearing previous assistants applauding the value and fun of the year out, I was wholly convinced. These months would be the most memorable of my university career. I was destined for northern France near the historical gem of Mont St Michel and, promised bicycles and baguettes galore, I waved goodbye to Glasgow filled with expectation. Planning, packing, poring over Google maps – no preparation could have softened the blow of what I actually experienced.

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