Education Abroad

Apps & Communicating with Home

Useful Apps

Apps are often the cheapest way to communicate with friends abroad and at home. Many people abroad use apps more than traditional texting or iMessaging. Examples of common communication apps include:

WhatsApp
WeChat
KakoaTalk

TextMe
Viber
Text Now

Skype
Google Voice
Facebook Messenger

Apps also serve as useful resources to help you navigate and maximize your travel and time spent abroad. Examples include

Google translate
Maps.me
Google maps

Yelp
Uber
Lyft

Hostel World
Airbnb
GlobalTips

Social Media & Communicating with Home

While social media can be an effective form of communication and facilitate a sense of connection, overuse can have negative consequences for physical and mental health. Frequent social media use can amplify feelings of homesickness or inadequacy as you compare your experience to others. Remember, managing social media use is all about keeping things in perspective, and the more time you spend communicating with people at home, the less time you spend immersing yourself in your host country. Make an effort to spend time in the present and enjoy your experience abroad for what it is.

Pro-Tip: Unplug from technology

It can also be beneficial and rewarding to unplug every once in a while. Here are some ways to go technology-free while abroad:

Try navigating with a real map and ask locals for directions if you need help. People appreciate when you make a genuine effort to speak in their language, even if you don’t speak it perfectly.
Practice saying hello or ordering food in the local language without referencing a translation app.
Write a letter or send a postcard.

Social & Dating Apps

Many social and dating apps that are popular in the U.S. are also commonly used abroad. For apps such as Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge, users may have a variety of intentions when using the app. Some users may be seeking a romantic relationship while others may use it as a way to connect with locals and get insider tips on things to do. Please be aware of common risks associated with online dating and be aware that expected behavior in dating culture may differ from norms in the U.S.Review the Sexual Health & Safety webpage for more information.

If you decide to use dating apps, no matter your intentions, keep the following in mind:

The same app could be used for different purposes within your host country.

The host country vocabulary used in online dating apps may not have the same meaning as it does in the U.S. This may apply even if English is being used.

Your on-site support can provide clarification regarding dating and relationships in your host country.

Disclaimer: Providing information about specific apps and companies within this section does not constitute an endorsement by the University of Colorado Boulder or the Education Abroad office. The Education Abroad office does not endorse their use or guarantee their quality. The listings are provided for your information only.

Last Updated May 2025