Travelling with Global Summers Academy is an incredible experience, full of new places, people and adventures. While it’s exciting to explore, staying safe is a top priority. Here are ten helpful tips to make the most of your program while staying prepared.
The first safety tip is stay with your group. When exploring on your own during free time, you must stay with a group of four or more. In case something unexpected happens, you have the support of your peers who are able to call for help if needed. It’s more fun to be together!
There may not be any locked storage or places to safely store your valuables, so it is essential to 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 when you’re not worried about your stuff!
It’s easy to feel depleted once travelling, especially if your program is going to a hot place. Make sure to always have a personal water bottle available, as stores may not have safe drinking water available.
Eating is also important to keep your energy up. My hotel had a small kitchen and fridge, and my roommates and I liked to keep snacks like granola bars and cereal inside it.
Your passport or travel documents are important! Make extra printed and digital copies in case of damage, loss or theft.
It is easy to get distracted due to the excitement of a new place; it is important to stay aware of your surroundings. At night, be alert to what’s going on around you, especially if you are exploring unfamiliar or busy places. 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. It is important to be aware of common tourist scams; if the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
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.
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 program in the long run. It’s better to rest now than feel worse later.
Lastly, while on a Global Summers program, you will encounter 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.
Travelling with Global Summers is an unforgettable adventure, and following these safety tips will allow you to enjoy every experience with confidence.
Thank you to Student Ambassador Haley M. for writing this blog post!
