If you're anything like us, “what should I do after work?” is a question that pops into your head almost daily during an internship. We totally get it—after a long day, it's tempting to crash on the couch and binge-watch Netflix. But if there’s one thing we've learned from interning abroad, it’s this: time flies. Before you know it, the experience is over, and you don’t want to look back and wish you’d done more.
So if you're feeling a little tired but still want to make the most of your evenings, here are 7 great things to do after work during your internship abroad—perfect for mixing fun, rest, and personal growth.
1. Go Out with Friends and Explore the City
Your evenings are a golden opportunity to explore your host city and build connections. Don’t wait for the weekend—gather a group and:
- Try out a new restaurant or café.
- Catch a movie at a local cinema.
- Check out live music or a local event.
- Go for a scenic evening walk.
Socializing after work not only makes your time abroad more enjoyable but also helps you create a network of friends and contacts that could benefit you professionally in the future.
2. Take a Night to Relax and Recharge.
Yes, going out is great—but don’t overdo it! After a full day at your internship, it’s okay to have a cozy night in to watch a movie or your favorite show, read a good book, or do a bit of journaling or sketching. Sometimes, a relaxing night is just what you need to feel refreshed and ready to tackle the next day with energy.
3. Be Productive: Update Your Resume or Start a Blog.
Weekday evenings are perfect for catching up on life admin or doing something that future-you will thank you for. This could include updating your CV with new skills or experiences, or starting a personal blog about your time abroad, which is great for marketing, writing, or journalism careers. If you're in a creative field, work on a portfolio, and regardless of your career field, you can start setting small goals for your long-term career plans to help you feel energized and inspired for the next day!
4. Catch Up with Family and Friends Back Home.
Feeling homesick? You’re not alone. A quick FaceTime or Zoom session with loved ones can boost your mood and help you feel connected.
- Share your latest adventures.
- Ask about what’s going on back home.
- Schedule regular calls to stay in touch.
Your support system back home will love hearing from you—and it’s a great way to process your experiences.
5. Join a Club or Take Up a New Hobby.
Avoid falling into the screen-time trap every evening. Instead, join a local club or find a new hobby that gets you out and about. If you're part of one back home, join a local sports team or an art or language exchange for familiarity in your new country. Alternatively, try something completely new—maybe dance classes, cooking workshops, or hiking groups.
It’s the perfect way to meet new people, learn new skills, and truly immerse yourself in the local culture!
6. Plan a Weekend Trip or Local Adventure
One of the best uses of your evening is planning exciting getaways for the weekend. Create a travel bucket list of nearby destinations, book transportation and accommodation in advance (look into budget options like hostels or Airbnb), and map out your itinerary—where to eat, what to see, and what to do. Planning ahead means you’ll spend less time stressing and more time enjoying your weekend adventures.
7. Organize Your Life One Task at a Time
Even when you’re abroad, life admin doesn’t stop. Taking care of small chores throughout the week keeps things from piling up.
- Do a load of laundry.
- Tidy your room or workspace.
- Go grocery shopping and prep meals.
Try doing one small task per evening—that way, you stay on top of things while still having time for fun.
An internship abroad is more than just work—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So don’t waste your evenings wondering what to do. Mix in some fun, relaxation, and productivity to make the most of your time.
Whether you’re exploring the city, chatting with friends, or planning your next adventure, each evening is a chance to create memories you’ll look back on for years to come.
