{"id":532,"date":"2017-12-22T18:19:59","date_gmt":"2017-12-22T18:19:59","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/?p=532"},"modified":"2018-07-09T15:41:01","modified_gmt":"2018-07-09T15:41:01","slug":"9-tips-for-traveling-abroad-a-student-perspective","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/2017\/12\/22\/9-tips-for-traveling-abroad-a-student-perspective\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Tips for Traveling Abroad: A Student Perspective"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/a>My first experience traveling outside of the US was on a three week study abroad trip to fulfill a course requirement through the Health Promotion and Human Development Department here at UWSP.\u00a0 I had a plethora of first time experiences on my trip to the United Kingdom and Ireland and learned things about myself, my studies, and the small corner of the world I visited.\u00a0 Fortunately I was able to stay an extra week past my course end to visit relatives that lived in England and do more traveling that allowed my family and I to visit Paris and the Isle of Wight.\u00a0 Even though I only have a month of international travel under my belt I would like to offer some tips for traveling from a novice adventure\u2019s prospective.<\/p>\n

Packing Efficiently and Appropriately<\/strong><\/p>\n

Before you take off to any destination you\u2019ll have to do that pesky task of packing up your suit case with all your \u201cvacay\u201d clothes.\u00a0 What you\u2019re going to bring will all depend on what kind of trip you\u2019re going on and where you\u2019re going, so make sure pack the proper attire for the trip.\u00a0 One piece of clothing I recommend to bring no matter where you go is a rain coat\/wind breaker because they are light enough for warm destinations, great additional layer in mild climates, and can offer security from thieves (we\u2019ll get to that later).\u00a0 I was able to pack a month\u2019s worth of casual and business clothes and shoes into one backpack and a carry-on.\u00a0 My secret is all in how you roll your clothes\u2026yes I said roll not fold.\u00a0 I\u2019ve found that rolling your shirts, pants, socks, and underwear can help save room in your bags.\u00a0 Also, try to eliminate empty space, a great place to for this is to stuff your shoes with rolled socks.\u00a0 This helps maximize storage and if you have dress shoes it can help eliminate crease lines that might form from shoes being stuffed in a bag.\u00a0 Lastly, I brought a second back pack that can be rolled and zipped up that fits into my suit case.\u00a0 I used this backpack during the day while walking around the cities. A small backpack can be filled with trinkets you find while exploring.\u00a0 Below is a video that does a great job explains how to fold, roll, or stuff all sorts of clothing that you might bring with you.<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=Em4lbLf09M0<\/a><\/p>\n

Leave the Phone Alone<\/strong><\/p>\n

Traveling outside of the US most likely means that you will not have cell phone reception where you are headed.\u00a0 This can be a GOOD thing believe it or not! \u00a0Today we are all sucked into technology and it is nice to use traveling as a time to get disconnected for a bit.\u00a0 I recommend not purchasing an international phone package because you can also text, call, or FaceTime once you get back to your hotel room or a restaurant that offers Wi-Fi.\u00a0 \"\"<\/a>Use this lack of access to dive head first into the surroundings and culture around you.\u00a0 You\u2019re in a foreign place and it\u2019s the exact time to look up from the screen & bask in a new and interesting world around you\u2026 so leave the phone in your backpack!\u00a0 You\u2019ll find yourself engaging in deep conversations, fulfilling the urge to go explore the town, and meeting awesome locals to find inside tips on what to see and do in the area.<\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Know the Power<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>Electronics (like a camera, phone, iPod) can come in handy when you\u2019re out traveling. \u00a0It\u2019s also nice to stay connected with friends and family if it is an extended trip.\u00a0 In order to keep those devices charged up you\u2019ll have to check ahead as to what the power supply is in the country you\u2019re traveling to.\u00a0 A simple google search can tell you the voltage and prong style used for each country\u2019s type of outlets.\u00a0 Converters and adaptors are available online or you can be like me and buy it once you\u2019re already in country.\u00a0 It did take me a couple days to find a store that carried adaptors, but the bonus was that I got to spend time adventuring the streets of London browsing shops I\u2019d otherwise never would have seen.\u00a0 Make sure that you\u2019re buying the correct adaptor\/converter for your needs as some just change the plug shape while others help convert the electrical voltage used to run accessories.\u00a0 Things like hair dryers, clippers, and straighteners might require more or less power than what comes through the wall, so double check the adapter you have will meet your needs.<\/p>\n

Boots Are Made for Walking<\/strong><\/p>\n

Walking, walking, and more walking! This form of transportation will seem to be about the only thing you do on your trip besides sleeping in your bed.\u00a0 Pack shoes that are comfortable, wearable for hours, and that you\u2019re not afraid to get a little messy if you go off the beaten path.\u00a0 \"\"<\/a>Sightseeing, going to museums, and venturing around means you\u2019ll be walking for long hours and standing in place at lines to see attractions.\u00a0 Have two or three pairs of shoes packed for different occasions throughout your trip.\u00a0 You will thank yourself for having functional shoes over fashionable shoes- I guarantee it.<\/p>\n

The Hotel is for Sleeping<\/strong><\/p>\n

Finally arriving at your hotel after the long flight is going to\"\"<\/a>
\nseem like heaven, especially if you cross time zones and get serious jet lag.\u00a0 Don\u2019t just go to sleep when you get to the hotel! Try to hop right into the time of day your destination is on.\u00a0 Once you are settled in to your room leave. (Yes really leave!) You\u2019re on vacation for a reason and you won\u2019t experience anything about that place or culture from within the walls of your hotel room.\u00a0 Get familiar with the local streets and surrounding area. \u00a0Explore what is close to you and try to remember distinct features so if you get turned around you can find your hotel easier.\u00a0 I found tons of stores, restaurants, and landmarks within ten to fifteen minutes of walking distance and I discovered most of them by wandering around.\u00a0 Having a good sense of direction and understanding of where you\u2019ve walked is necessary if you are going without someone who knows the area.\u00a0 I enjoy the feeling of getting \u2018lost\u2019 in the world around you because you may never know what you may find, especially since most of those things will not be in a travel book. There is nothing better than finding restaurants and stores with friendly people- those are the hidden gems.<\/p>\n

Zip, Zip it Up\"\"<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

When traveling anywhere it is important to keep your belongings safe and secure, whether it is locking them in your hotel safe or carrying them on you while you\u2019re walking.\u00a0 When selecting bags to bring on your trip, use ones that have zippers on them to access pockets since it makes it harder and louder for someone to open them.\u00a0 Avoid buttoned, magnetic, and open bags\/purses because pickpockets will see your bag as an easier target.\u00a0 Zippered bags can also be sealed with mini locks that fit through zipper tabs for extra security.\u00a0 For ladies with purses, wear your purse on the front or side with a hand on the bag always.\u00a0 Wear backpacks in front of you, unless traveling in a group of people where others will have eyes on your backpack when you\u2019re in front of them.\u00a0 Here is where that wind breaker\/rain jacket that we packed in our suite cases now becomes in handy.\u00a0 The jacket can become an extra shield against would be thieves and snatchers that are on the streets.\u00a0 Wearing your purse and backpack under your jacket not only keeps them dry if it is raining, but also stops anyone from cutting your straps and taking off with your belongings.\u00a0 We encountered police officers that would always remind us to move our bags and wallets to the front because of pickpockets that were on the tubes (subways) of London.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dive into Culture<\/strong><\/p>\n

Of course, traveling is about seeing massive landmarks, awesome human-made structures and unique environments. But it is also about seeing HOW people live in these places.\u00a0 Experiencing different languages\/accents, customs, and viewpoints are really what makes traveling to a new destination amazing.\u00a0 Since you\u2019re spending a significant amount of time in a whole new culture, embrace and surround yourself with the unknown, the different, and the seemingly odd.\u00a0 One of the most fascinating realizations I made when traveling and talking to people were the mindsets and views people had about the world.\u00a0 The way people thought and viewed the community, citizens, and their environment were different than how I thought about them and it was great to hear their thought process and perspectives as to why things are done the way they are.\u00a0 Learning about the culture you\u2019re surrounded by is just as impressive as any mountain peak or tourist trap. Get out there and strike up a conversation with someone and just listen to how they talk about and reference their home.\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Your taste buds are on Vacation Too!<\/strong><\/p>\n

This is probably one of my favorite tips that I can offer to any leaving the US\u2026and it is of course related to FOOD!\u00a0 I love cooking and eating delicious food. (I mean who doesn\u2019t) \u00a0While on your travels you will stumble across bizarre foods and new takes on food you think you already know.\u00a0 London was an amazing location to visit because they had so many ethnic foods around the city, it was impossible to try them all before I left.\u00a0 Get out there and try something even if you have no idea what it is. It\u2019s okay to let you taste buds take a leap of faith into the culinary unknown.\u00a0 One of my favorite sub and soup chains to eat at was \u2018Pret A Manger\u2019 and you can find them on almost every block around London. \"\"<\/a>The food tastes so fresh and the variety they offer will satisfy all appetites.\u00a0 \u2018Pret\u2019 is a perfect fit for traveler because it is quick and allows you to grab and go while on your adventures. \u00a0Even though I was out trying new foods, I could not resist to urge to try McDonalds to see what the differences where between the US and the UK.\u00a0 Now, I\u2019m not sure if it was because I busy eating all sorts of delicious food, but UK McDonalds kind of sucked, it was pretty plain tasting.\u00a0 The only positive I had from McDonalds was they had awesome ice cream flavors that made up for the boring McNuggets.\u00a0 The meals in Ireland were fantastic, everything we ate was hardy and filled you up.\u00a0 Bacon and cabbage was one of the best meals I had while in Ireland, but being a true Wisconsinite I had to try their \u2018fish \u2018n chips\u2019.\u00a0 Fish \u2018n chips are pretty standard wherever you go but I recommend going to places along the coast to find the best fresh platters around.\u00a0 Of course, when in Ireland you HAVE to have a Guinness, for those older than 18 (as the drinking age is lower in Europe than the US), because they just are not the same back home.\u00a0 For every new attraction or site you see you should taste a new cuisine. This will ensure you trip is as tasty as it is beautiful.<\/p>\n

1000 Words in a picture<\/strong><\/p>\n

Once you return home you\u2019ll want to share your experiences and stories with friends and family and how better else to do so than pictures.\u00a0 The frustrating part of telling a story to someone is when you know you took an amazing picture that will tie the whole thing together\u2026and then not being able to find it in your sea of memories.\u00a0 I\u2019m not a person to take a thousand photos of every tree, building, or mountain that I see.\u00a0 I find it better to take pictures that have specific meaning, are intriguing to me, and that can easily tell a story of my experience.\u00a0 Take pictures that will bring back memories of when you took it, pictures that you can envision exactly where you were standing and how you were feeling when you snapped it.\u00a0 \"\"<\/a>Taking pictures in this manner will not only cut down on clutter, but it will allow you to tell a memory with every picture from your trip. Organizing your pictures while you take them can be immensely helpful so when you get home you don\u2019t have to worry about figure out what pictures were taken where.\u00a0 Create albums on your phone or have different SD cards for your camera to help sort out your photography process.\u00a0 Lastly, if you are using your phone to take pictures make sure you have a way to back those pictures up in case you break or lose your phone.\u00a0 Google photos, Dropbox, Shutterfly and Shoebox, among other apps, allow for unlimited storage once you connect to Wi-Fi to sync your photos.\u00a0 Sync your phone periodically when you get to your hotel to ensure you never lose a memory.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Written by Brady Lepak 2017 HPHD Adventure Tours Practicum Student<\/em><\/p>\n

Photo Credits: Brady Lepak, Cheyenne Woepse, Liz Fischer, Katie Uhlenbrauck, Sallie Scovill<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

My first experience traveling outside of the US was on a three week study abroad trip to fulfill a course requirement through the Health Promotion and Human Development Department here at UWSP.\u00a0 I had a plethora of first time experiences on my trip to the United Kingdom and Ireland and learned things about myself, my…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":109,"featured_media":559,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/532"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/109"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=532"}],"version-history":[{"count":33,"href":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/532\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":569,"href":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/532\/revisions\/569"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/559"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=532"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=532"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.uwsp.edu\/adventuretours\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=532"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}