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TAMK International

Theses for International Travel (A Survival Guide for the Bold)

— Riikka Kramer
People standing in a row on a stage.
Thai Chulalongorn delegation.

International work-related travel is not just about hopping on a plane and “seeing what happens.” Oh no—it's a delicate dance of meetings, delegation dynamics, unexpected surprises, and perhaps a suitcase full of goodwill (and hopefully, snacks). Here are some “theses” for surviving, thriving, and occasionally laughing your way through international travel.

  1. Prepare the trip well in advance. The thrill of spontaneity is great…for a vacation. For work travel, think less “last-minute getaway” and more “how many meetings can we squeeze in before takeoff?” Book time for the mutual objectives chat, local stakeholder gatherings, and, of course, the “who else is even coming along?” sessions. Oh, and definitely rope in the local unit responsible for international projects. You’ll thank yourself later.
  2. Assemble the delegation carefully. Remember, it’s not just who you bring, but *who* they are in the receiving organisation. No one wants to be the lone project assistant across the table from five vice presidents. Bring a team with matching titles: heads meet heads, directors meet directors. International project travel isn’t just a trip—it’s a well-orchestrated power parade.
  3. Make meetings genuinely dialogical. Yes, we all know the classic “listening mode,” but can we try listening for real this time? Reciprocity is the name of the game here—show that you’re as eager to hear about their plans as they (hopefully) are to hear about yours. It’s about making those meetings feel less like chess matches and more like friendly board games (minus the Monopoly-style territorial tension).
  4. Remember, you’re always a representative. Wearing that Tampere University of Applied Sciences badge means you’re “on duty” at every step, so channel the responsible representative energy. Keep that cool, collected demeanour in and out of meetings. Even if you’re just trying to decode the public transit map—dignity first, bewilderment second.
  5. Network like a pro. Don’t limit yourself to networking with external partners—this is also your chance to bond across unit borders within your own team. Think of it as a social experiment in unity and collaboration—without the trust falls.
  6. Embrace the art of the unexpected. No matter how well you plan, something will change. A cancelled flight, a rescheduled meeting, a new topic and audience for your presentation, a last-minute dinner where no one speaks your language…accept the chaos. It’s part of the journey, and if all else fails, humour makes a pretty good travel buddy.
  7. Choose your business gifts wisely. Gift-giving isn’t a grab-and-go deal. If you’ve ever seen someone open a gift with visible confusion, you’ll understand. Respect cultural nuances and, if you’re unsure, go classic with something tasteful. At the very least, avoid the “oversized corporate mug” trap.
  8. Extend invitations for reciprocal visits. Nothing says “we value this partnership” like an open invite for a return trip. And yes, it’s a scheduling nightmare waiting to happen, but worth it for building lasting ties. Think of it as setting up a standing invitation—without the calendar chaos…yet.
  9. Make a concrete action plan. The trip may end, but the work continues! Lay out mutual next steps, keep it realistic, and then do this revolutionary thing: follow through. Yes, even if it means the dreaded “email check-in.”
  10. Pack your resilience. Above all, don’t forget to bring a solid dose of resilience. Think of it as your superpower for every situation that doesn’t go according to plan. Resilience—and maybe a backup plan or two—will be your best allies on the international project journey.

In Conclusion: Embrace the Adventure with Confidence

So, brave international project traveller, as you set out armed with a meticulously packed suitcase, a finely tuned agenda, and a slightly suspicious-looking business gift, remember this: you’re part of something bigger than the itinerary. International project travel is about making real connections, building bridges, and showing up with authenticity, curiosity, and just enough resilience to laugh off the inevitable mishaps.

People standing in a group.
The Finnish Ambassador to Thailand, Kristiina Kuvaja-Xanthopoulos and the representatives of Chulalongkorn University and TAMK delegation.

Even when the schedule goes rogue or the coffee’s a little too local, trust that you’ve got what it takes to represent, connect, and make a real impact. Remember, you’re not just a traveller—you’re a global ambassador for collaboration and learning. Go boldly, keep a sense of humour handy, and know that every twist and turn is part of the story you’re building. Safe travels, and may your resilience carry you far!

Text: Anne-Maria Mäkelä and Nina Smolander

Pictures: Anne-Maria Mäkelä

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