Getting the Best From a Study Abroad Education Program

As well as providing academic credits, study abroad education programs help students' personal development. Students often find that a study abroad education program helps their organizational, educational and personal development skills. This is a result of experiencing a different culture in a different place. A study abroad education program can widen a students perspective on the world and introduce the student to other cultures. The experience of living and learning in a different environment forces students to develop new skills which will enhance career prospects in today's global market.

Customized Educational Travel

Some educational travel companies offer the option of trip customization. This means that group leaders and tour managers work together to create a fulfilling educational experience for students beyond a set itinerary. Group leaders usually start with pre-prepared itineraries and then change elements to suit their needs. Educational travel companies are willing to change cities visited, accommodations, transportation and meal arrangements if necessary. They can also offer special tours for groups with particular interests, such as music or drama.

Discounted Educational Travel

If you are not a student or are studying in a school that does not qualify for the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), there are still options for discount educational travel. Travelers between the ages of 12 and 25 can apply for an International Youth Travel Card (IYTC). Like the ISIC, the IYTC offers discounts on educational travel. These include discounts on eating out, shopping, staying in hotels or hostels, discounts on communications and reduced admission to attractions. This is a useful card for young people to get before starting an educational travel tour.

Legal Matters

Customs vary from place to place and it is easy for people to fall foul of local laws without realizing it. Here are some travel tips to help you avoid legal problems on your educational travel tour.
- Make sure you are aware of local laws on purchasing or using drugs. There are many countries where purchasing drugs carries a mandatory (and long) prison sentence.
- Watch out for local laws about gun ownership and use.
- Some countries prohibit photography of public buildings, airports and other places of importance. If this is the case, avoid taking photos and buy a postcard instead.

Europe Travel on a Budget

Once students have arrived in Europe from the US, they may want to visit different countries. Believe it or not, one good option for cheap Europe travel is to travel by air. Most of the major European airlines have no-frills air carriers that offer air travel in Europe at a fraction of the normal airfare. No frills airlines do not offer meals and restrict baggage very tightly. However, this is a good option for student air travel as it keeps the travel costs down.