Travel Tips
Thorough preparation will ensure that your trip can be enjoyed without discomfort or harm.
Pack light – Ideally take only one suitcase and one carry-on bag. Luggage restrictions vary by airline and space is especially limited on trains and coaches, so please plan accordingly.
Carry on – your toothbrush, your prescription medications, your deodorant. And if you can, one change of clothing.
Take one pair of comfortable shoes – at least! Study tours often involve long and off-road walks.
Do not pack it – If you can’t afford to lose it (financially or emotionally).
Make photocopies of your passport and visa – Leave one with family or a friend and another tucked into your bag. Or, better yet, scan your passport and email a copy to yourself.
Do not forget chargers and batteries – Also remember to purchase an adapter to cater to different voltage requirements.
Take notes – Believe it or not, once you get home chances are you will not remember your tour guide’s name, or the artist whose worked you loved so much, or even the city where you stayed. Write it down.
Learn the following phrases: Please. Thank you. I’m sorry – Pre-departure orientation sessions will teach you these and much more. (Like, how much is that shirt?)
Little packs of tissues – can make a big difference, especially during long road trips.
Budget – for at least one night out, a cell phone (if needed), and make sure to have an emergency fund for access to extra money if needed.
Keep useful contact information handy – including the coordinator’s telephone number, your embassy information and the hotel telephone number and address.
Consume with care – Water can be unsafe for drinking in some countries and street food is ill-advised.
Be on time, every time – One person can delay an entire group and if the delay is great, the remaining schedule may be seriously disrupted.
Help Your Neighbours – If everyone watches out for everyone else, you reduce the chances of accidents, losses, or even minor inconveniences, and increase the likelihood of everyone having a wonderful tour.
Know currency exchange – This currency conversion programme can be very useful.
