Jasmine, Travel & Tourism student, Crete

The motivation

I thought it would be a good experience to work abroad, find out what it was like to work in the hotel and to live independently. I also wanted the chance to experience the culture of a different country for a long period of time.

The placement

I worked at a hotel called Hotel Fortezza. I was on reception in a customer service role, giving customers their room keys and helping to give them information about the hotel and local area. I helped with check in and ensured guests had completed their arrivals cards.

My biggest learning experience has been learning the new language and  learning how a receptionist works, the ins and outs of the hotel and how it runs.

The location

I loved the fact that our accommodation was right by the beach so I could go to the beach every day after work. 

I was also able to go to the old town which is only a 30 minute walk from us and is very traditionally Greek with cobbled roads. It’s so beautiful and there’s a lot of nightlife.

One of my biggest achievements was taking buses to different places. When I’m at home, I’m not confident with getting buses different places, so I’m really proud I was able to do this in a different country.