european vacation planner

Passports and Visas

The passport is one of the most important things to be considered when going on vacation. If you haven’t applied for the passport, it’s advisable to do so at your earliest convenience. It may take up to eight weeks or longer to process your passport.

Also, experts recommend your passport be valid for at least six months after the required end date of your stay. You should also look into the expiration date of the visa or work permit if the country you’re traveling to, requires one. The requirement of the visa and work permit depend on various factors and varies from country to country.

A visa is an endorsement or stamp placed by officials of a foreign country on a U.S. passport that allows the bearer to visit that foreign country. The cost and duration of a visa depends on the country and the type of visa. These documentations should be given the utmost care. If the documentation or the paper work is incomplete it may result in you being refused to enter the concerned country.

There are certain other important aspects that one should look into to avoid unnecessary expenditures. If you are going abroad for your studies then the following factors should be taken into consideration.

Packing Packing can be a real challenge. Firstly find out the exact luggage restrictions. It’s recommended you carry less than the required limit. Keep in mind that these restrictions apply on your way back as well. It’s most likely that you may accumulate stuff while staying abroad, so make space! Most important please pay attention to new restrictions for permissible carry-on luggage items. Do have identification on the outside and inside of the luggage. It’s advisable to carry a backpack. Check the zippers, and check to ensure the buckles are strong and comfortable. The smaller the luggage, the better. Always pack light. Items that you’re considering to take ‘just in case’ should be left at home. Don’t take items that you just can’t afford to lose. Carry clothes that are comfortable and require little care so that you can save on your laundry charges. Bring clothing that can be mixed and matched and used over and over again. Another option is to ship all your lighter items once you’ve reached your destination.

• Inquire with your school/advisor about receiving credit for your internship. Check the scholarship details and any awards the institution may offer as well.
• Medical insurance is extremely important. It should meet the necessary International requirements. Ask your provider for details.
• Having an International student ID card would be of great assistance. This card will provide discounts in many countries. You may get discounts on airfares, rail and ferry fares, and you may get discounts to attend certain museums and other attractions.
• Photocopies of Documents: It’s a wise thing to have the photocopies of all the important documents, for example, credit card details, driving license, ID cards, signed checks, insurance details etc. Just, in case, you happen to lose any of these you can show the photocopies for proof. Give a copy of these documents to someone you can trust. If something were to happen, they can assist immensely.

Medical and Health Issues Get a thorough check-up before you go abroad. Have a first-aid kit for emergency purposes. It may prove to be of great use in case of emergencies. Your kit can include some basic stuff like band-aids, antibiotics, sunscreen etc. If you wear glasses remember to take an extra pair. A prescription mentioning your type of glasses is also a good idea. The same goes for contact lenses as well. Bring an extra pair, preferably, disposable ones and bring lots of solution for the lenses. Once you get your medical insurance make sure that it provides you with international coverage. If you’re under medication ask your physician for a letter that describes your physical condition. Carry the required medicines and prescription along with you. Above all make sure you have a balanced diet, adequate sleep and exercise regularly.

Language Language is yet another important aspect for almost any trip. Try to learn the language of your host country. Knowing the country’s language would be of great help. Listen to tapes of the particular language, or enroll into some language courses. At a minimum, learn the basic words and phrases like “thank you,” “please,” “how much. Once you reach your destination, don’t be afraid to approach people. If you’re able to communicate in the local language there’s nothing better than that. Try your best to be as fluent as possible with the local language. You may never know what’s in stock for you for this sincere attempt.

Communication International phone calls can be quite expensive. Make some small research for the best deals and offers for calls abroad. E-mail is yet another cheap option. Many countries have cyber-cafes which allow you to access the net at affordable costs. Use ‘Skype’ or MSN Messenger for phone calls from the computer. The advantage is that it works for free. All you need is a headphone or a microphone and speakers and you can talk for free for hours and hours. Pre-paid paid phone cards are also a great alternative to long-distance phone calls. Rates are usually cheaper this way and you don’t risk giving someone else access to your phone or credit card account.

Accommodation: Hostels are comparatively considered to be low-cost overnight accommodations. Depending on the location and season the charges may vary. If it’s during a busy season prices are expected to go high. If possible make reservations in advance. The bedrooms and bathrooms are separate for male and female in hostels. But if needs are you can opt for a family or a private accommodation. There usually is a self-service kitchen where you can prepare food .Apart from this there are common rooms for socializing so that the travelers can share their experiences.

Culture Most people begin their work abroad with high expectations. Certain things do not work the way they expect which results in frustration and negativity. Hence one should try to learn about the culture and accept the realities. Once you learn to accept and adapt to the new life you can sail through the culture shock with ease.

Bon Voyage!

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