While the opportunity to travel and learn is a fantastic one, there are a few do’s and don’ts to remember so that you can get the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime trip. Yes, you are there to learn, but also to become immersed in a new culture and way of life, which could teach you more skills than any lesson plan in a classroom could.

1. DO Make Sure The Course Is Right For You

It’s easy to think that any opportunity to learn away from home is beneficial, and while the chance to explore the wider world is never one to be missed, make sure that you select a course that will actually benefit your career and further education choices.

Choosing a course to study Ancient Greece won’t help you to further your dream of becoming a doctor, but it would help someone interested in archaeology. Make sure the course material is right for you and that you will get the marks and credits you need. Keep in mind prerequisite courses while making your decision as well.

2. DON’T Expect The Same As Everyone Else

You have your reasons for choosing this particular course and opportunity, but not everyone will get the same out of it as you will. Expecting to have the same experience as other classmates or even people who took the course before you, will limit your experience and can remove some of the value of the course.

If you read about people having a horrible time or not liking the food, this can sway you from forming your own opinions and becoming biased during the program, if you even still decide to go.

3. DO Plan And Budget Ahead Of Time

With school fees and spending money while away, there is a lot to budget for, so it’s best to start this as early as possible. Talk to the school to see what they recommend you have with you as essentials, and make a plan to ensure things like travel insurance are dealt with in enough time prior to departure.

The last thing you want is to find out your passport expired the day before you go.

4. DON’T Wait For Things To Come To You

If there are things you need before you travel, don’t wait for them to magically come to you. You may need to follow up with a phone call or email to make sure you have everything you need. Leaving things to the last minute usually spells disaster.

The more you can be prepared for your time away, the better!

5. DO Create The Best School-Life Balance Possible

There will be lots of studying and classroom time while you are away, but if you don’t take the time to enjoy the country you are in, the experience is wasted.

Take the time to enjoy your downtime, explore the local area, take part in local events, and get to know the people around you. This is when you can learn much more than what you do in the classroom, and you can gain the most incredible experiences.

6. DON’T Treat It Like A Vacation

It’s not a holiday. You are still required to take part in lessons and group activities, and even study in the evenings and on weekends. This is not a reason to take as many photos as possible for your social media and thousands of followers.

Have a balance of learning and playtime to make the most of this experience.

7. DO Indulge Yourself

There is nothing wrong with trying new foods and experiences. That’s part of the benefit of the program: you can indulge yourself to a point. New culinary adventures await in the small cafes and restaurants. Street performers display stories and cultural references you won’t see anywhere else.

These indulgences will give you stories to tell for weeks when you get home.

8. DON’T Follow The Crowd

While there is safety in numbers, especially in a new country, don’t limit yourself to full-group activities. You have the option to take the road less travelled and explore with a small group of fellow students.

By stepping away from the crowd you can explore and discover things on a more intimate level and at your own pace.

9. DO Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone

New things are always scary and yet exhilarating at the same time. By having the confidence to step out of your comfort zone you can see and explore so much more of the areas around you.

Maybe you wanted to try the local street food, but the group moved on too quickly, you can go back and take in the sights and smells later and take that bite. You may even like it.

10. DON’T Fear The Unknown

Going on a trip like this with preconceptions of what others have experienced before can lead you to becoming fearful and putting up barriers. This means you could miss out on all the amazing things the country has to offer and prevent you from learning more.

11. DO Explore On Foot Or By Bike

By taking a walk or even renting a bike, you can begin to explore what surrounds you and helps you to get to know where you are. This is a great way to get your bearings and also overcome homesickness.

Learning where you are early on helps you to settle and enjoy the program.

12. DON’T Forget To Buy Some Souvenirs

Souvenirs are more than trinkets; they’re tangible memories of your journey, capturing moments and cultures. Choose items that reflect your experiences and support local communities, allowing you to share and relive your adventures with others.

We Can Show You The World

There are a lot of people who go to other countries and become so stressed with money, exploration, and the culture that they forget to have fun.

By planning ahead, and being open to the experience, you can gain so much and have the most amazing time of your life.

Global Summers Academy offers an amazing array of programs in some of the world’s most amazing countries. Call 1.844.357.2621 or go online and see where we can take you!

The post 12 Do’s and Don’ts of Studying Abroad appeared first on Global Summers Academy.

Aside from the experience you get by travelling the world and learning about new cultures and history, getting to know the locals widens your horizons and can result in long-lasting friendships.

Follow Your Interests

One of the most important things about any summer abroad program is that it is something you enjoy and are interested in. There is no point taking time to go to Greece and exploring the ancient gladiatorial colosseums when you are more interested in the Costa Rican rainforests and wildlife.

When you are on a course that piques your interest, it becomes a lot easier to talk to the other people in the class, as you have mutual interests. It can lead to conversations with others around you, widening your social circle.

People are generally attracted to others who get just as passionate about their interests, as it allows them to be more relaxed and comfortable in new situations.

Learn to Live like a Local

Branching out to learn more about local culture opens your world and provides a safe setting to become friends with your new travel partners. Exploring the city with follow students gives a great opportunity to get to know people.

It also allows you to further immerse yourself in the language and culture and create more opportunities to meet and engage with new people.

After-School Activities

Getting involved in an activity that you would do at home can help with homesickness, as well as making new friends. This activity doesn’t require a connection with why you are on the program, but something else you would do.

Sports is a team-building exercise and a healthy activity that gives a physical and mental break from studying.

Nature clubs allow you to explore and take in the sights that tourists don’t typically see, and music clubs permit you to take a breather and relax in another passion of yours.

Open Your Mind And Explore

Exploring the local area, taking the road less travelled, and wandering down the beaten path are all ways to get to know your surroundings better, experience local culture, and get to know the new and fascinating people you’re travelling with.

Volunteering

Getting involved in the local community doesn’t just look good on college applications and resumes, but is a resource regarding getting a well-rounded education/experience and meeting new people.

They are a great way to spend a little of your downtime and take your mind off studying for a short time. While you don’t need to befriend everyone in the area, making a few connections is beneficial. It helps you to acclimatize to your new surroundings.

Phones Down, Eyes Up

Technology runs a high percentage of our lives, and most of us feel lost without it. Yet, we don’t realize what we miss when we are continually on our screens.

Taking the occasional picture or video to capture a moment is worthwhile and allows us to show people at home our adventures. If we don’t take the time to look up, we miss things around us.

We also run the risk of coming off as unapproachable and anti-social when we are constantly looking down. By unplugging for a day, we see so much more of the world and people, allowing us to engage and interact with real people.

Friends For Life

You have chosen to study abroad for many reasons, and you don’t want to miss a thing. But trying to take everything in all at once is overwhelming and can lead to more intense homesickness.

When we take a moment to move away from the textbooks, put down our phones and look up, we see the real world, not just what is in books. We get to engage with the people who make up the world.

Taking part in celebrations and extra-curricular activities and exploring the side streets allows you to learn so much more and engage with the local people. You might find your new best friend out there in the crowd.

Get started on your journey to culture and friendship by contacting Global Summers Academy at 1-844-357-2621 or going online for more information today.

The post How to Make Friends During Your Summer Abroad Program appeared first on Global Summers Academy.

Doing so through a study-abroad program can give you invaluable experiences that go far beyond social media posts. Still, by looking deeper into the reasons to undertake a study-abroad program, you can make an informed decision about whether or not you want to take up this once-in-a-lifetime chance.

Experience a Country Firsthand

Most people only get to see the world through TV shows and internet searches. They may often dream of what the sights, sounds, and smells of a new country would be like.

Studying abroad not only allows you to see a new country, but also gives you the experience that regular tourists don’t get. As most programs discourage you from tourist resorts, you can experience the country like nothing you see in travel brochures.

With the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path areas, you get to see more of the world and experience its true cultures, often not seen by tourists.

View the Living Culture

Experiencing new foods, customs, and daily ways of life gives you something that no textbook could ever teach. This is education on another level.

While you can explore and learn about a country’s history at home, actually living through it daily allows you to expand your education. This education will also be delivered in methods you are not used to back home.

By joining classes at the partnering school, you can see how and what other students learn about the rest of the world. This learning approach gives you a wider knowledge your classmates at home miss out on.

Practice a New Language

One of the great things about travelling the world and visiting other countries is that you can practice your native language and really test your skills.

While a lot of countries can and do speak English, many are more comfortable in their mother tongue. This gives you an invaluable chance to learn a new language by speaking daily with the people of your host country.

Classroom settings are a great place to start, but holding conversations regularly in this new language actually helps the language to develop and stay in your mind for longer. Learning French in France? It doesn’t get much more immersive than that!

Learn New Hobbies

Being immersed in new cultures gives you the chance to experience unique things, and you may find that you gain new interests at the same time.

Activities that may seem mundane at home to some, like macrame (the art of knotting cords or thick strings to form decorative patterns) or cooking, can take on a new life when experienced in another country.

Being exposed to how other cultures pass the time, you can learn new skills and find different interests that you can continue with at home. These talents can shine a new light on things, and you may find that you can interest others in them.

Make Life-Long Friends

With study-abroad programs, it is very possible to make new friends who will stay with you for life, even after you return home.

Real connections are sometimes hard to make with people you spend all your time with, especially if you have different interests. Getting to know people through study-abroad programs gives you the chance to meet others who may enjoy them.

These connections can last a lifetime, and with the internet being such an accessible tool, there is no reason that you cannot remain in regular contact.

Post-Graduation Benefits

Aside from the amazing experiences you gain while being in this new world, the benefits will continue after graduation.

School admissions look favourably on people with more to show under “Extra Curricular Activities”, and this goes a long way for most universities. Once you have completed further education and know what you want to do for a career, you may be able to return and find employment where you went to study.

Students who have had this opportunity state that they have a new perspective on life. In fact, their personal development changes; they become more accepting of different cultures and gain a drive to learn more.

Our personal development is typically dictated by our experiences. This is not to say that people who study abroad are better, but they can be more rounded and have a more open mind.

Experience It for Yourself

Global Summers Academy has a team of experts in travelling and studying abroad. Working with well-travelled teachers with firsthand knowledge, your study-abroad program will be like no other.

With amazing opportunities and experiences planned out so that every student can get the most out of their time away, and with programs to help you learn what you want, such as language or history, there is no better school to guide you.

Whether it’s the Parthenon in Greece or the rainforests of Costa Rica, you can explore these regions and other amazing and breathtaking countries that are rich in history, science, and culture.

For more information, call our dedicated team at 1-844-357-2621, or contact us here to see our current programs, and get excited about travelling and learning all at the same time.

The post Are Study-Abroad Programs Worth It? appeared first on Global Summers Academy.

While your Insta feed blows up with fantastic picture opportunities to make your friends and family back home jealous, there is so much more you can experience and learn.

Although culture shock and homesickness may be a thing you experience in the beginning, there are things to combat this and allow yourself to become fully immersed in this new culture.

Know Your Surroundings

Once you have settled into your “home” for the duration of your time away, take a walk around.

Go to the local grocery store, not the big box stores you see all over, no matter which country you are in, but the little local corner store that might be down a side street.

Here, you experience the local food and products you won’t find in the bigger stores.

This tactic allows you to try new foods and other things, giving you a taste of the more traditional dishes and treats.

Explore the immediate area and see what sites there are around you. While this may be harder if you are in a rural town, there are still things you can experience. Local post offices will have information about the town and nearby places to explore.

Take local transport in a town or city and avoid the tourist traps. See how people live when they are not in the spotlight for sightseers.

By knowing what is around where you are staying, you get to see more of what it is like to live in this part of the world. It can also give you landmarks to find your way back if you go further to explore than initially planned.

Avoid What You Know

It’s so easy to seek out the nearest McDonalds or other Western fast food restaurants, as that is what we are used to. Or big shopping malls because they are familiar and you feel safe there.

By intentionally looking for what you are used to, you miss out on everything this new place offers, which can only worsen the homesickness and culture shock.

Talk To People

Ask questions about the local history, the people in the area, what people enjoy for entertainment, agriculture, and anything at all. The more you ask, the more you can learn. It also allows you to make connections and friends, especially if your study abroad program lasts more than one or two weeks.

One thing that helps combat culture shock is finding a local coffee shop where people like to hang out. It not only allows you to speak the language, but you can meet new people and try the local food and drinks.

Something that helps you feel more at ease and that you would typically do at home goes a long way in helping you settle in a new place. You can immerse yourself and combat culture shock and homesickness all at once.

Attend Local Events

Before you go, look up what events and festivals may be happening when you are there.

There are so many things that people in other cultures celebrate that you may not be used to, so getting a little knowledge beforehand will help. Still, there is nothing like attending a festival of any size to get a sense of the country, its values, pride and history.

While you don’t have to create a float and join a parade, taking part can be simply attending, buying local souvenirs or sampling the street food, but just immersing yourself in the fun, colours, music, and people will help you to get a new appreciation for the culture.

Know Before You Go

Do a little research about where you are going before you go. There may be some hidden gems you didn’t know about, which will help prepare you for the journey ahead.

Google some of the more interesting facts about where you will prepare yourself, and this will help you enjoy the experience, and you will find that embracing the culture is a lot easier.

Global Summers Academy is the expert in studying abroad. With an exciting range of programs to explore, they can prepare you for the journey ahead.

With instructors who know the country and customs, they are the best people to turn to for a fully immersive, inclusive and exhilarating learning experience. Call today at 1.844.357.2621 or fill out the online form, and we will reach out to answer all your questions.

We look forward to learning with you soon!

The post Cultural Immersion: How to Live Like a Local During Your Study Abroad Program appeared first on Global Summers Academy.

Engagement

Learning outside the sterile environment of the classroom has a much better chance of engaging the student and when students are engaged, they learn. Conversely, when they aren’t engaged nothing gets achieved.

A recent study from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education also shows that students retain much more of what is taught if the educational settings change. “Oh, I remember, we talked about that in the cathedral in London”, is a typical comment.

Some of our courses never use a classroom and we have seen some of our best outcomes from those.

Class Size and Student Quality

Last year our average class size was 12. This is half or less than students experience at home and allows for personalized, experiential education where teachers have time, flexibility, and space to address individual learning styles and provide extra care.

Overall, about 98% of our students are on a track for university, and many to the best ones in Canada and abroad. This makes classes easier to teach at a higher level than most students experience at home. And this provides better university preparation.

Block Teaching: One Course: One Month

Unlike at home where students are taking four, six, or eight courses simultaneously, ours are doing just one. This helps maintain focus, avoids scheduling issues, and particularly helps students who have anxiety and/or organizational challenges.

Quality Teaching

For many teachers, the experience of delivering their courses in context is a dream come true whether that is French in France, Biology on the Great Barrier Reef, or Classical Civilization in Greece. Not surprisingly, we have huge interest in these positions and can select the best whether they come from private or public school settings. We then use student, family, and administrative feedback to assess the teachers and hire back the best.

Support

These are anxious times and students need more academic and personal support than ever. Our faculty and staff are available 24/7 for our students whether that is to talk about an essay or personal struggles. As well, we place a very high value on kindness and peer support, and we have seen lifelong friendships built during these programs.

Global Summers Academy programs are available for students from grades 9 to 12 and offer a wide range of secondary school courses in Europe, North America, Central America, Oceania, and Asia. We will continue our tradition of experiential learning, teaching mainly outside of the classroom walls. Reach out today by calling us at 1-844-357-2621 and speak to one of our friendly and professional course leaders, or visit us online to find out more.

The post Why does Experiential Education work? appeared first on Global Summers Academy.

There are so many experiences that are once in a lifetime, and who knows if you will make it back to this unique country, so make the most of it.

Before you travel, research where you are going, so you know what things you will be able to do, and then make a bucket list. Here is a guide to help you get the most out of your travels.

1. Guided Tours

Guided tours are the easiest way to take in the sights. Guided tours will take you to places that may be otherwise inaccessible, and the person or people conducting the tour will have a wealth of knowledge, so you can ask questions and explore.

While many tours will take you to tourist-geared places, you may be able to find other tours that go off the beaten path and away from the “commercial” historical places. They will also know of exciting places only known to the residents in the area. They are a great resource that you can tap into!

2. Visit the Tourist Hot Spots

Tourist hot spots are popular for a reason. They allow you to see history up close. There are information guides, photo opportunities, and bragging rights to say that you saw some of the most iconic things man has made.

How often do you get to say you stood near the Parthenon in Greece or Buddha in Thailand? Take a ride in the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris or a gondola ride in Venice.

3. Do Something Out Of The Ordinary

They say you should do one thing a day that scares you. While exploring new lands and cultures, this is an excellent opportunity to do just that.

How about taking a cooking class in Greece or learning to be a coffee farmer in Costa Rica? Not only do you get to do something that your friends or family will never get to experience, but you can learn more about the country and the culture by doing things the locals do all the time.

4. Rent a Bike

On the days when you can take a break, rent a bike, or get a bus pass and explore. Make sure to have a map with you or your phone with a travel plan and updated maps of where you are in case you get lost, but then go and “get lost.”

Biking allows you to take the back and country roads and explore outside the town or city where you are staying.

A bus pass can take you to neighbouring places to explore, widening your experiences during your summer abroad program.

5. Eat Local

You can find fast food restaurants worldwide like the ones you are used to at home. And while these are good to help combat homesickness, check out the local restaurants and cafes.

Here, you can experience real, authentic foods that you wouldn’t necessarily get anywhere else. Bakeries are a hot spot for new breads and treats. Small restaurants off the main streets will have unique local dishes not found on big restaurant menus.

The people in these smaller places will be happy to talk to you about the foods and help guide you on a culinary tour, suggesting the foods to try out and where to go to find them.

6. Take a Dip

There are places in the world that are famous for their water, whether it’s the turquoise waters of the Whitsunday Coast or the stunning coastline off the Greek Islands.

Wherever you go, check out lakes, beaches, and swimming pools. You never know when you can swim in some of these seas and lakes again.

Take it further and check out the opportunity to go snorkelling or even diving to see the sea life under the water up close and personal and swim with the dolphins and sea turtles. These are all experiences like no other.

7. Go For a Hike

The scenery all over the world is different and beautiful. Take some time to hike in the surrounding parks or mountains.

Enjoy the panoramic views that you don’t get at home. Take a picnic, relax, and absorb the fresh air and sights. You might even see some wildlife that you don’t get at home.

Walking trails are ideal to allow you to explore the local nature reserves, and while the exercise is always a good thing to blow away the classroom cobwebs, you will get to see sights that you just don’t get at home.

8. Festivals

Depending on the time of year, many countries host some of the most famous and exhilarating festivals that you should check out.

These are great ways to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the country you are in. Bastille Day in France, the Palio in Siena, Aegina Fistiki (Pistachio) Festival in Greece, or even running with the bulls in Spain.

While these festivals usually happen for religious reasons, you don’t have to be to enjoy them, but they will give you a greater understanding of why the people celebrate the way they do.

The experiences gained from being in the middle of the party will be like nothing you have ever experienced before, and the stories will make all your friends and family back home jealous.

Book Your Summer Experience Now

Global Summers Academy is the school to go to for studying abroad. With programs worldwide, you can experience some truly magical things.

Call 1.844.357.2621 today and speak to one of our coordinators, or fill out the form online and see where we can take you.

The post Summer Study Abroad Bucket List: 8 Things to Do for the Best Experience appeared first on Global Summers Academy.

With summer abroad programs, your school will be able to give some insights as to what you are expected to do and what the school can provide while you are away.

For example, the school may be able to provide breakfasts and dinners, while you have to make arrangements for your own lunches. They may also pay for planned excursions at your destination, but free time is at your own expense.

In this blog, we will be discussing the best tips and tricks for managing your finances during your study abroad program. To learn more, keep reading head.

Contact Your Bank

This should be one of the first things you do for a few reasons. First, they can give you an idea of the exchange rate. While this won’t be accurate until the day you travel, they can advise on what the trend is. This can give you insight into how much your money will be worth when you convert it.

Second, advise the bank and credit card company (if you have one) that you will travel and provide the dates. This will prevent them from stopping your cards due to potential fraud activity in another country.

Third, find out the fees should you need to use your cards while away. Where possible, you should use cash; this is easier on your budget and helps limit overspending. Additionally, if the fees to use your cards abroad are too high, this is an incentive to keep them for emergencies only.

Understand the Cost of Living at Your Destination

Many websites and apps can show you estimates of what things cost in other countries. These may include dining out, grocery shopping, and various attractions. Combined with the exchange rate information, this can help you plan your daily spending estimates and overall budget.

Explore the Real Local Culture

Tourist areas are where you will typically find all the buzz and excitement. Such spaces aim to show tourists only a hint of the local culture, allowing them to sample various dining options and encouraging the purchase of overpriced items, for example.

By straying a little off the main path, you can explore the real culture of a place and even find off-the-map cafes and restaurants where you can taste the actual food of the region. These places are also a lot cheaper, as they usually cater to the locals as opposed to tourists.

Also, look into shopping at the local groceries rather than a big box grocery outlet. This will help when you budget for essentials, such as toiletries.

Accommodations

Where are you staying? Knowing where you are staying will help you when it comes to meals. If all meals are provided, any money allocated can be distributed elsewhere. However, if only one or two meals are provided, then you need to take into consideration spending more to purchase food.

Find out if there is a kitchen that you can use. Cooking and preparing your food will drastically reduce your costs. Just like at home, it is cheaper to make your own meals rather than constantly dining out. If your study abroad program lasts more than a week, then food costs will get expensive quickly if you dine out constantly.

Take Public Transit

This seems like a pretty simple piece, but it will save you quite a bit of money! Opt for public transportation such as the underground or buses, rather than taxis or ride share apps. Many locations also have the option to rent city bikes – another great opportunity to explore the city!

Downtime Options

Obviously, you won’t always be studying; there will be downtime where you can explore and do your own thing. Research the available activities. You can find out a lot about your destination online.

For instance, check out things like museums, local theatres, and shopping opportunities. Allow yourself an entertainment budget, and factor in travel costs such as for buses or cabs.

Many tourist destinations will offer student discounts. You should utilize this benefit where possible, as it will help save and improve your budget.

Look for Simple Souvenirs

Buying several souvenirs for yourself and others always seems like a mandatory thing to do when you travel. However, this doesn’t mean that you need to blow over your entire budget to get the most expensive things for every family member and friend.

Keeping souvenir items small, simple, and personal often means more to your loved ones. The fact that such items also tend to be the cheaper option doesn’t hurt the budget either.

Plan Ahead and Save

When you start researching online, create a spreadsheet or invest in a budget planner. This allows you to record the average costs for your destination. You can list each cost by category (such as entertainment, travel, and food). This way, you can easily see how much you should have available when travelling.

Label your priority items. Is it more important to have money for food over shopping, or would you like to spend more on excursions rather than gifts? Once you understand your priorities and their costs, you can start saving.

Fortunately, Global Summers Academy is here to help you with the summer study abroad program and course you’ve been dreaming about. Reach out today by calling us at 1-844-357-2621 and speak to one of our friendly and professional course leaders, or visit us online to find out more.

The post Budgeting 101: How to Manage Your Finances While Studying Abroad appeared first on Global Summers Academy.

However, you should ensure that you have everything in place ahead of time and know what to do in case of emergencies. A prepared traveller has more fun and learns more without the worry of what to do if something goes wrong.

Your program manager and travel provider can provide you with information about the program, and make recommendations on how to prepare to make the best of your studies.

However, there are more factors to consider before studying abroad. By following this checklist, you can prepare for the best and most enjoyable once-in-a-lifetime experience.

1. Financial planning

Travel is expensive, and studying abroad can be more so as you also pay for the course. Start saving as early as possible to ensure that you can afford to take the program you want and that you can afford the experience, as well as having enough spending money to enjoy your time travelling during the summer.

When the time draws closer, it is advisable to contact your bank to let them know your travel dates. That way, if you use your debit or credit card while away, they won’t flag it as a possible fraud and block your cards.

With everything being done almost exclusively online these days, make sure you have updated your banking passwords and apps so that you can easily and securely access your funds while away.

Try to keep some spending money on hand so that you have hard cash with you. You may get a good exchange rate when converting to the local currency, but this will also eliminate bank fees and charges for using your cards.

2. Visa and passport renewal

When you finally decide to take the leap and go for it, check your passport to ensure it has not expired or would expire while you are away. Give yourself plenty of time to send it out to renew before you are due to leave. To travel to most countries, your passport needs to expire more than six months after you are set to return home. Double check your passport to ensure the dates line up!

Some countries (especially since COVID-19) now require visas or health documentation to travel but check with the school to confirm. Again, you should allow yourself adequate time to apply for the visa and other documents to avoid delays. Check to see if your travel provider will assist with this process as well.

Now would also be a good time to find out where the local embassies are in the country you are travelling to. For emergency purposes, you can go to your country’s embassy for support. While this is something everyone tries to avoid, it’s good to know before you travel, just in case. That way, you are not panicking and making an already bad situation even worse.

3. See your doctor

Your doctor’s office has more services than your yearly checkup. While this is always advisable, some countries will have medical requirements prior to travel, and your doctor can either do this checkup, or they can refer you to a clinic that can.

These requirements are usually non-invasive and simple, like updating your vaccines and medical history, blood pressure tests, and heart checks. So, it’s nothing to worry about, but you should make sure they’re done ahead of time.

There is usually a form that needs to be completed, so there may be a fee associated. It’s best to check this and add the cost to your budget.

4. Insurance

There is nothing worse than the feeling you get when something goes wrong, and you have no insurance to help you out.

The most-bought policy is travel insurance. It ensures protection and coverage for cancelled or delayed flights, lost luggage, or accommodation issues. However, don’t forget about health insurance. There is nothing worse than breaking a limb in another country, for example, and having to pay the medical bill out of pocket while trying to work out how to get home again.

While you will need to add this consideration to your budget, the policies are not that expensive and are definitely worth it in the event of an emergency. It’s better to have such a policy and not need it than to be without it altogether.

5. Customs and culture

While you are travelling to explore new lands, learn a new language or skill, and take in the sights and history, it is beneficial to understand the local customs. Failure to do so could get you into a lot of trouble for inadvertently insulting or offending the locals.

Knowing things like how to dress or greet someone could be the difference between a great time with friends and a poor time at the local police station.

6. Emergency contacts

Taking part in any study-abroad program is fun and exhilarating. You are away from home, family, and friends while exploring a strange and unfamiliar land.

You should always know how to make contact with your family and friends at home while travelling. This allows them to follow your adventures, and know that you are safe. This way, if you’re unable to check in, they can then alert the authorities on your behalf.

Keeping contact with family and friends while travelling can be tricky. Before you leave, make a copy of all your emergency and important numbers, both on your phone and on a notepad in your luggage.

Reach out to your phone provider and consider adding a roaming package to your plan. This helps to reduce costs, but it also means that your phone will work in other countries.

Confirm where you are staying and let your family and emergency contacts at home know, so they can reach you when needed.

7. Pack with efficiency

You won’t need to bring a lot with you, but there are a few essentials to take. Keep in mind that things like personal hygiene products can be purchased while you are away, so those items can be packed sparsely. There are also laundry services available, so you don’t have to pack every item of clothing you own.

Here are some other things to consider:

• Clothing: Pack appropriate clothes for the weather in the country you are visiting.
• Shoes: Ensure you have a good, sturdy but comfortable pair of walking shoes and one nice pair for formal events or downtime.
• Comfort: Take one or two of your favourite personal items to help combat homesickness.
• High-ticket items: Things like chargers, tablets, phones, laptops, and cameras are highly sought after. So, pack what you need, take photos of the items to prove that they are yours, and try not to keep them all together.

Don’t forget to have fun!

Once you have everything done, in place, ordered, and packed away, remember to have fun. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity should be enjoyed to the fullest.

For more information on our study-abroad programs, call Global Summers Academy at 1-844-357-2621 or contact us here.

The post 7 Things to Do Before Studying Abroad: A Complete Checklist appeared first on Global Summers Academy.

However, it’s not as simple as grabbing a bag and jumping on the first plane. To make sure you get the most out of this experience, it’s best to plan ahead and go with someone who will make sure you can balance study and play.

For international summer programs, Global Summers Academy has some of the best opportunities for students who are 13-19 years old to earn an Ontario credit. When looking to travel and study anywhere, though, there are some key factors that you should think about before you book. These include the following:

1. Eligibility

Some programs may require certain requirements before you can book, including, for example, prerequisite course completion. Reach out to the school directly or check out their website to confirm their requirements.

2. Cost

Travelling abroad is not cheap. So, you need to make sure that you can afford the trip and look at how you can save up the money ahead of time. When booking, a deposit and administration fees are required upfront, and then the balance is due at a certain date to secure your place prior to travel.

Ask about funding: is there any assistance depending on your circumstances, or maybe a scholarship or bursary you could apply for?

If not, there are some fun ways to raise the money to help pay for the course. Remember, you will need to take some spending money so you can enjoy things while away, such as fun leisure activities and buying gifts for friends and loved ones back home.

3. Visas

Requiring a visa for travel and studying abroad will depend on certain aspects, including the following:

• Where you are going
• How long you are going for
• The destination’s international travel requirements

Every country has different requirements. Your school or travel provider will be able to advise you in more detail about what is needed, especially at the intended time of travel. With COVID-19 still being an issue in some parts of the world, travel requirements are constantly changing. Many travel programs will assist in the Visa process as well, so please ask!

4. Plan ahead

For any type of trip, you should always plan ahead. For studying abroad, the more time you have to plan, the better! This allows you time to save some money and make the required payments.

You can also research the different courses available and the class sizes. This way, you can choose the one that most appeals to you or is the most applicable for future learning or work experience.

Additional research into where you are going ahead of time will also help you adapt to the different cultures and customs you may not be aware of. For example, making sure you don’t offend people while you’re in a foreign country is always a good thing.

5. Housing

Depending on the program and the arrangements the school has with its international counterparts, housing will vary. Ask what to expect, as residences can range from dorm rooms to private homes to hotel rooms.

This will help you better prepare and plan what you can take and leave behind. This can also help you to get ready for things like homesickness and culture shock ahead of time.

6. Insurance

Travel insurance is essential for all travellers. This coverage protects you against financial loss in terms of cancelled or delayed flights, lost baggage, and medical expenses should you get sick or injured on the trip.

Some programs will cover such loss or have it as an additional option. Find out what the program covers and see if getting personal travel insurance would be better or not.

COVID-19 is still at the forefront of many people’s minds. Does the school offer additional insurance regarding this issue? Is this coverage necessary for the destination you are going to explore for a few weeks or longer?

Your school will be able to recommend if any other insurance is required, either by them or the country you are travelling to. It’s always best to find this out before you go.

7. Language barrier

Most countries will speak English. However, depending on how far you will be venturing away from the usual tourist locations, English may be less widely spoken in certain areas.

If you are learning the native language of your destination, then this is a great opportunity to improve and use it daily. If you have never learned the language or are unsure what language is spoken, check to see how much this will be a barrier in your studies.

8. Leisure time

Ask how much time you will spend studying and doing school activities compared to how much free personal time you will have.

Aside from learning about another country and its lifestyle, you need to take a break and explore or unwind during your off-time. This will help you focus on your studies when it’s time for some serious work.

Of course, studying is the reason why you are there, but the life experiences you receive from travel and exploring are just as important. It’s all about balance!

Enjoy Your Travels!

At the end of the day, you need to enjoy the learning experience and your time away. When you consider the above-mentioned factors carefully, you can better prepare and find the course that will benefit you the most.

By asking about everything from class sizes to visas, housing, and language issues, you can prepare ahead of time as much as possible. Remember, though, to have fun with the experience. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to dive into new worlds and cultures, and you should soak it in and enjoy it as much as possible.

Global Summers Academy is your studying abroad school that will put the fun into learning and help you have a safe and enjoyable trip with memories to last a lifetime. For more information on our programs, you can call us at 1-844-357-2621 or contact us online.

The post 8 Factors to Consider Before Studying Abroad appeared first on Global Summers Academy.

If your child is planning to spend part of their summer (or more!) abroad to continue their studies, as a parent, it’s normal to be nervous or anxious about your child’s new adventure. 

You may be wondering what steps you and your child should be taking to prepare for an extended trip overseas.

While this should be an especially exciting time for your child, it’s very important for them to keep safety, comfort, health, and budget in mind when planning their itinerary and packing checklist. 

There are certain items that should not be neglected and a number of important things that need to be checked off their to-do list before departing. 

Read below for our comprehensive guide to everything that your child will need for their time abroad. 

Consider location and climate

First, when packing for a trip abroad, be mindful of the location and climate, as well as the length of your child’s stay. 

Check the local weather forecast and pack clothing accordingly. Even if they’re travelling to a typically warm climate, always pack a sweater and long pants just in case. It’s also typically a bit cooler on the plane, so being sure your child has layers is important for a comfortable trip.

Most of the time, warm climates will get colder in the evening, and there might be the occasional chilly, windy or rainy day. 

Always bring comfortable walking shoes, as you never know when they may be on their feet for an extended time. 

Packing essentials for any trip include a bathing suit or shorts, pajamas, sandals, sneakers, a jacket, and at least one dressy outfit (in case of any formal occasion or restaurant dress code). 

Keep documents up to date

If your child is travelling abroad in the near future, you will want to make sure all their travel documents (passport, driver’s license, visas, etc.) are up to date and valid. 

Check the rules and regulations of the country they are travelling to, and make sure your child meets all requirements to travel.

This may mean getting additional vaccines or proof of a negative COVID-19 test or recovery, depending on the country they are travelling to. 

Make sure these documents are accessible to your child while travelling. This may mean printing out physical paperwork or keeping a digital copy on their phone.

Pack lightly if possible

Packing as lightly as possible for your child’s trip will help them manage their luggage easily and leave room for any souvenirs or purchases they may return with. 

Of course, it’s much easier to travel lightly if your child is only abroad for a week or less. 

When the trip extends to over two weeks, packing lightly becomes more difficult. However, there may be a local laundromat or accessible washing machine where they’re staying, should they need to wash and wear clothing multiple times.

Travel with local currency

It’s always a good idea to equip your travelling child with some local currency. 

Although most locations will take credit/debit, there may be few instances where the local currency comes in handy. This will also give them some peace of mind should they encounter unexpected circumstances. It would be wise to have about two hundred dollars in local currency for the first week or so, and your child will be able to use local ATMs to take out additional funds as needed. 

Leave valuables at home

When studying abroad, no one should have to worry about valuables, expensive items, jewellery, or designer clothing. 

Your child should be focused on immersing in a new environment and having a good time. 

This means leaving valuables at home where they are safe and secure. This way, precious items will be safe from theft and won’t be in danger of becoming damaged or lost during travels. 

Don’t forget adapters and converters

The outlets when travelling abroad are likely to be very different from the ones used at home. 

Remember to invest in a universal adapter that can be used in different outlets and to research which converter is needed, depending on which country your child is visiting. It’s also important to note that some devices (think hair dryers or straighteners) may not be compatible with the voltage in the country your child may be travelling to: please check the voltage range on these items before departing. 

Comfort is key

It’s definitely best to keep comfort in mind when packing for your child’s travel abroad. They will most likely be on their feet for extended periods and require convenience and comfort. 

Forget high heels or tight and restrictive clothing. Instead, go for casual clothing that you can wear easily for hours on end. 

Toiletries and hand sanitizer

Last, but certainly not least, remember to pack your airline-approved toiletries such as face wash, cream, sunscreen, shampoo, and conditioner. 

Being mindful of COVID-19, it’s also good to have some hand sanitizer or disinfectant with you throughout the journey.

While it may take some cautious planning and extra preparation, studying abroad can be a wonderful and valuable experience for any student. 

Don’t miss out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn more about the world in a safe and enriching manner.

For more information on a study abroad program or to find out about student travel for your child, please call Global Summers Academy at 1-844-357-2621 or contact us here. 

Our representatives would be happy to help guide you through some very exciting and educational travel opportunities in the near future. Please contact us to find out more and to get started on the experience of a lifetime.

The post Study Abroad Checklist: Everything Your Child Needs While Travelling appeared first on Global Summers Academy.