International Programs / Study Abroad

Travel Tips

 

Packing and Luggage   

  

Choosing Luggage

When choosing your luggage some important criteria are durability, versatility, security and comfort. Check with your airline for luggage restrictions, but in most cases you cannot bring more than one small carry-on bag and two pieces of checked luggage. Further restrictions on size may be imposed by your program directors due to the nature of the program.

Most student travelers prefer backpacks that are comfortable to wear and can easily hold all of their gear. Backpacks also allow for mobility and leave a traveler’s hands free to snap photos or open doors. It’s important to be realistic about the kind of travel you will be doing. If you intend to travel quite a bit on your off-time, then a backpack might be the best choice for you.

Securing Your Luggage

Make sure that your luggage has sturdy luggage tags (both inside and out) clearly indicating your name, permanent address, and phone number. You should also buy locks for your luggage and even your daypack. Since key locks can be opened or picked, choose combination locks and keep the combination solutions in a secure place. Some travelers even purchase bicycle locks to secure their backpacks on luggage racks in trains or to a railing at a train station or airport. New travel security regulations do not allow you to lock your checked luggage when flying, but you should still bring a lock for use during your stay.

 

Packing Tips

·        Number One Packing Rule: TRAVEL LIGHT! After you lay out all of the clothes you think you need, only take half.

·        If you cannot wear something more than one time or in more than one situation, don’t bring it.

·        Choose one basic color like black, navy, brown or gray, and go from there. Don’t be surprised to see students wear the same clothes more than once a week. Also, avoid clothes that wrinkle easily or are dry clean only.

·        Pack dark clothes, this will lessen the number of times you do laundry (sounds dirty but you will learn).

·        Take a limited number of shoes, but make sure that the shoes you do bring are comfortable, versatile and match most of your wardrobe.

·        Pack only small quantities of things you can purchase in your host country (i.e. soap, shampoo, toothpaste).

·        Depending on your destination, you might consider bringing enough contact lens solution, non-prescription medication, sun block and insect repellent to last the entire length of the program.

·         Bring enough prescription medication for the length of the program and bring a copy of your prescription.

·        Pack valuables, essential medication, and important documents (passport) in your carry-on luggage. Also consider packing a change of clothes and basic toiletries in your carry-on luggage just in case your checked luggage is lost.

·        You might consider bringing: a backpack for class or day-trips, a sleeping bag for camping or hostel stays, and a dress set of clothing.

·        Do not take anything that wouldn’t want to lose.

·        Work from a list and check things off as you pack them. Create an inventory list of the items you pack in your checked baggage, in case you need to make an insurance claim on lost luggage.

·        Consult www.onebag.com for more tips.

 

Communication while Traveling   

 

The following information is for your reference. We recommend that you research thoroughly the options available for your program and city of destination.

 

Local Telephones

You should not expect to have access to your host family’s telephone for phone calls or internet access. You should always plan to use a cell phone or public phone. Keep in mind that many countries use calling cards rather than coins in the public phones. Calling cards are available locally.

Cell Phones

Similar to the U.S., cell phones have become very popular and readily available in most countries. Be aware that international rates on a U.S. cell phone can be very expensive and an international plan does not indicate that your rate at home holds true abroad. In many cases, a foreign cell phone can prove to be an affordable way of communication because long-term contracts are not required in some countries. You simply purchase a cell phone, SIM card and then buy minutes as you need them.

Mail

Depending on your program, you may have mail sent directly to your home address or to the host institution. In most cases, arrangements for receiving any packages sent from the U.S. should be made with the host institution or with the local post office. Please be aware that mail can take a long time to arrive and you may not receive packages before you return to the US.

E-mail and Internet

In most countries e-mail and internet are widely accessible. You should expect to find and pay for your own internet access. In some cases, your host institution will provide internet access and recently more home stay families have internet access. But this is not a standard feature of home stays. Programs such as Skype or AIM offer audio chat options that allow users to talk or video chat with each other using a microphone and camera. These programs are generally free to download, so look into these options before you go. DePaul student e-mail accounts can be accessed from anywhere at http://studentweb.depaul.edu.

Blogging

A personal blog may not only help you to stay in touch with family and friends, it is also a great way to document your experiences and is an acceptable medium for your journaling requirement. Be advised, however, that anything placed on the web is public information and discretion should be used when commenting on people, places, and events.

 

Minimizing the Stress of Unwanted Attention and Prejudices   

 As a traveler you are likely to attract attention from others, and at times when you want it least.  Others will know that you are a stranger or visitor; it’s hard to hide. You may not be considered an ethnic or religious majority in the United States, but by going abroad you become, in a sense, a minority. There may not be a lot of U.S. students studying in the area so, in that sense, you are a novelty—someone new and different who stands out from the locals. Sometimes the locals’ curiosity, interest, ignorance or misunderstanding of you can be unpleasant. If a comment offends you, try to be tactful with your response, or if you are very upset, leave the room. Remember that sensitivity to diversity may not take the same forms abroad as it does in the United States, and some comments are simply made out of ignorance, not malice.

The unwanted attention can be annoying and frustrating at times.  And, sadly to say, may even put you in discomfort or danger.  This is true for all of you.  But, unfortunately, we most often hear reports of unwanted attention and harassment along boundaries of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual harassment and disability.

Women

Women travelers may need to take certain precautions to reduce risk and unwanted attention. This can range from a mild nuisance to a serious threat of danger. Acceptable treatment of women in your host country may be very different from the kind of treatment acceptable in the United States. The way women interact with men in the United States may not be socially acceptable in other countries. What’ is considered “being friendly” in the United States may be considered flirting or a sexual invitation in other countries. Sometimes any reaction (positive or negative) to unwanted attention can bring on even more of it. Personal space considerations vary in other countries, so make sure your behavior clearly shows the boundaries with which you are comfortable. To avoid trouble and unwanted attention, ask local women and your program’s administrators about what is considered “appropriate” behavior and dress for women. Dressing appropriately and traveling in groups are always good ideas. 

Minorities (Ethnic and Religious)

Political turmoil or lack of tolerance can make some ethnic and religious groups a target for mistreatment or even violence in many countries. Political rallies and certain dates like anniversaries of historic events also spur ethnic and religious conflicts. Certain hate crimes may not even be considered crimes in your host country. With regard to religion, the risk or censure you attract depends on your level of religious involvement abroad. If others at the location where you will be studying have been attacked for practicing the religion you practice, any signs of your religious affiliation may put you at risk as well. To avoid these kinds of situations, it is beneficial to do some research about the social climate in your host country.

Lgbt Students

It is important for gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender (LGBT) students to be aware that the way sexual identities are defined and understood will vary by country and culture. In some countries, even modern ones, homosexual sex itself can result in severe state-sanctioned punishment up to and including the death penalty. It is usually not homosexuality that brings about such punishments, but rather the sex act. You might want to consider how a possible threat of discrimination or punishment might affect your experience or activities in your host country. Generally, acceptance and tolerance of LGBT issues is increasing in some parts of the world, but other countries and individuals remain intolerant. Make sure to research the prevailing LGBT issues abroad, as well as the laws related to them.

 

Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities abroad can also be the victims of prejudice and stereotyping. People with disabilities report being stared at, ignored, unassisted, and/or talked down to more frequently abroad than they tend to be in the United States. In many countries, there are no standards or requirements for providing access for people with disabilities. Wheelchair ramps, handicapped parking spaces, Braille signs, and other aides may be non-existent in parts of the host country, especially rural areas. It is again important to do the necessary research in your host country to see if there are support services for both physical and intellectual disabilities. We strongly encourage students to disclose information regarding their condition(s) well before leaving. Consult with study abroad about your modification needs early. Some locations are more accommodating than others and our program’s staff abroad may require some time in order to facilitate your needs. Be sure to bring all documentation, prescriptions and medications with you and consider disclosing your disability to trip mates and host university staff if pertinent. And it new needs arise contact your program director immediately. Unfortunately, even though you request that your special needs be met, it may be impossible in some cases for your program’s staff abroad to assist you. For more information visit DePaul University’s PLuS website at http://studentaffairs.depaul.edu/plus.  

Traveling Beyond Your Host Country   

  

Term Long students purchasing their own tickets have considerable flexibility to travel before or after their programs. Some Short Term students may be able to extend their return ticket after their program ends. Many students choose to extend their stay for one week or up to three months. Students who are able to stay beyond the dates of the program often choose to travel, either with groups of other students or independently. Many times a fee is assessed to changes made to flight plans after they have been purchased. In addition, airlines often have date restrictions when it comes to changing the day of departure. Be knowledgeable about the changes that can and cannot be made on your ticket.

You may want to plan ahead to stay after your program, but leave yourself open. It is a good idea to plan specific travel after you begin your program, not before. Dates may change and new opportunities and priorities can arise. We cannot guarantee the program activity excursion dates until you are on site. You should wait to make your own plans until you know your local schedule.  

 

Travel Resources 

As you prepare for your travel abroad, be sure to explore all of the available travel resources. Don’t limit yourself to just one medium; consult books, experienced travelers, maps, and the internet to find out more about your anticipated destinations. The following suggestions should help to get you started on your research.

 Travel Guides

As most travelers will tell you, a comprehensive and reliable travel guide will soon become your best friend while abroad. In the past, student travelers have used Lonely Planet, Let’s Go!, Rough Guides, Moon Publications, and Eyewitness travel guides. The Study Abroad Program Office has a range of guidebooks to different destinations and students are encouraged to use them as a resource. Guide books can give you historical background and information about the cities and sites. They can give you insight on popular attractions as well as hidden discoveries. Use guides to plan your trip prior to departure and to help you once you arrive.

Maps

In addition to a good travel guide, you should have a map of the cities and countries you plan to visit. Maps are essential and help you get a grasp on a new city quickly. Keep in mind that for some cities, the most reliable maps are only available on-site.

Phrasebooks

Pick up a good phrase book that will help you communicate in the language of the countries you plan to visit. Knowing how to say “please,” “thank you,” “where’s the restroom,” and “how much” in the local language is essential.

Talking With Other Students & Locals

One of your best resources will be other students who have participated in your program. They will be able to tell you where they traveled and give you ideas about what to expect when you go abroad. You can request to have students who have studied abroad in the past and are willing to share their experiences contact you. It’s never a bad idea to ask local students, who are attending your host institution, for ideas on travel. They are the ones who know the country best. They can help you with tricks of the trade and additional insights.

Internet

Without a doubt, the Internet has become one of the best resources for student travelers. Surfing the web is a great way to get an idea of the what, when, where, and how of your planned travel. Use it to find tourism info, read reviews, and check out deals. Being informed of all of your options is the best way to make the most of your travel.

Student Travel Agencies

Traveling within your host country and beyond means using a different transportation system. You should research your options thoroughly (i.e. How do I get from Paris to Milan, Harare to Johannesburg, or Osaka to Tokyo?). Consult student travel agencies to find out about air travel and train or bus passes for other countries. STA Travel is one of the largest student travel agencies. Additionally, Kayak is a great website that searches all airlines to find you the best deal. Student Universe is another top provider of travel services for students. Most rail passes must be purchased in the U.S. prior to departure so research early.

Rail Europe http://www.raileurope.com/us  (877) 257-2887

STA Travel http://www.statravel.com  (800) 329-9537

Student Universe http://www.studentuniverse.com  (800) 272-9676

Kayak http://www.kayak.com

If you are flexible, the cheapest option may be to make your travel plans with a student travel agency on-site. It is more affordable to buy your train and air tickets while you are abroad. When you arrive in your host country, talk to the program staff and other students to find out where the best deals are.

Your Host Institution’s International Program Office

Many institutions have international student offices containing a great deal of information on the best ways to travel as a student. Often times they have guidebooks and other resources that may be too expensive to collect on your own. They may also be able to provide you with information about student trips, regional sights, and discounted local attractions. Before your orientation is over, make sure you know where the office is and don’t be shy about stopping in.