Studying abroad is an adventure of a lifetime. From discovering new cities to making lifelong friends, there’s so much to look forward to when signing up for a summer program. To help you stay safe along the way, Student Ambassador Haley M. has rounded up their top 10 tips for staying safe, staying smart, and making the most of every moment.
Stay With Your Group
When exploring during free time you must stay with a group of at least four. In case something unexpected happens, you have the support of your peers who are able to call for help if needed. It’s also more fun to be together!
Keep Your Valuables Safe
Bring a lock to store your money, passport and any other valuables. I brought a travel pouch to keep my money and passport on travel days and found it beneficial. When walking outside, bring a small bag with all the pockets zipped up and kept close to your body. It’s easier to relax during your summer program when you’re not worried about your stuff.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
It’s easy to feel depleted once travelling, especially if your program is going somewhere hot. Make sure to always have a personal water bottle available as stores may not have safe drinking water available. Eating is important to keep your energy up. The hotel we stayed at had a small fridge and my roommates and I liked to keep snacks like granola bars and cereal inside it.
Keep Copies of Important Documents
Your passport or travel documents are important! Make extra printed and digital copies in case of damage, loss or theft.
Be Aware of your Surroundings
It is easy to get distracted due to the excitement of a new place, however it is important to stay aware of your surroundings. At night, be alert of what’s going on around you especially if you are exploring busy areas.
Keep an Eye on the Weather
The weather can change at any minute, so it’s better to be prepared! Whether you’re hiking through a rainforest, exploring a city, or relaxing on the beach, bringing the right gear can make all the difference. I’d recommend proper walking/running shoes, an umbrella, and a raincoat!
Watch out for Scams
It is important to be aware of common tourist scams, if the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Keep an Eye on Group Chats
The program group chat is an important tool for ensuring everyone’s safety. If an area is off limits or we need to return to the hotel or meeting spot it will be communicated via group chat. Keeping this in mind will help you avoid a potentially unsafe experience.
Prioritize Rest
Global Summers Academy programs are very exciting and it’s tempting to go out every night and explore throughout the day. It is important to rest if you feel sick, lightheaded or unwell. This will ensure that you can continue enjoying your time travelling in the long run. It’s better to rest now than feel worse later.
Watch What You Share with Strangers
While on a Global Summers program you may be encountering lots of locals during your free time. While it is exciting to talk with them, it is important to keep some information to yourself. Your place of stay, room number or detailed travel plans are all information you should keep to yourself and between your group.
