Advice On Spending the Holidays Away From Family

This is the first year I’ll be away from my parents at Christmas, ever.

It’s also the first time I’ll visit Bali.

And the first time I’ll celebrate with 15+ new treasured friends, who in all true cheesiness, have become my family away from home. The sisters and brothers I never had.

This month has been the one that’s pulled at my heartstrings, as I see Instagrams of New York covered in snow and hear my parents are forgoing a tree because they don’t feel festive. I’m so thankful for this experience and so happy to be here, but sometimes, ya miss traditions and people you hold dear.

That’s why I talked to a psychologist for Travel + Leisure to give her best advice on how to deal with homesickness during the most wonderful time of year.