For over 25 years I spent every summer directing a summer abroad program in the south of France, in the city of Montpellier. I love this city and decided to update my inside tips on this beautiful place as well as share with you my simple pleasures, personal takes on what I love about Montpellier.
You get e-mails about study abroad, you see flyers posted in your classrooms, you hear some friends have signed up already. After much debating and thinking it over, you have decided you also deserve this experience and you sign up to study abroad! Congratulations, you have been accepted! Now what?
Years ago, if anyone had told me that I would work in the travel abroad business for 25 years I would, of course, have laughed. I never intended to make this my career, it was sheer luck and a big divergence from my previous career in the fashion world. I had taken a break from my job for a year and a half to take care of my newborn son and make that my focus.
For many college students, looking for ways to get funds to study abroad can seem like a never ending maze. They are often frustrated and confused about all the red tape that goes along with making their trip a reality. Often, the task seems impossible to achieve. But with a little clarification and a lot of good old fashioned willingness and work, study abroad can become your reality. Let’s talk about a few ways in [Read more...]
I am in Costa Rica directing a five week university study abroad program, UNO Costa Rica. This country is an idyllic place with friendly people, beautiful beaches, breathtaking views, erupting volcanoes and green foliage everywhere. It seems like paradise but sometimes things don't turn the way we planned.
Flying in economy class as we know it is no easy task. The lack of space or leg room, the pitiful miniature bag of peanut snacks, the ho hum service, makes one question if traveling is really worth it. Of course the huge price difference between economy and first class is the reason more travelers don’t, or can’t, opt for the upgrade. But what if you could upgrade your experience and feel like you are in first class? With a total budget of $20.00, I plan on upgrading my economy trip into a [Read more...]
Every frequent traveler has a list of favorite items to bring along . I don’t mean your favorite chocolate bar (that’s a given!) or favorite book to read on long flights. I mean things that can come in handy and can be used for different purposes. Once you have a favorite, it will surely be included in your packing list!
After 25 years in the travel business, I have advised, consulted, given tips and recommendations to numerous travelers. However, the number one question I get with considerable consistency is "Is it safe to travel?" We live in a world where, most of the time, we receive more news than we care to handle 24/7. Regardless of what the news or headlines tell you, traveling abroad does not mean you are throwing yourself in a danger zone. With common sense and preparation, traveling anywhere, whether [Read more...]
If you are a seasoned traveler, this section may seem redundant but don’t skip it, you might pick up some useful tips! Although this is mostly for the newbie flier that has questions about the entire process, all travelers can use a refresher. Flying alone for the first time can be an overwhelming, if not frightful, experience. These tips will help you get over the anxiety and enjoy the trip!
Students preparing to travel abroad often ask, "How much money should I bring?" This is a highly individualized question. Budgeting for a trip you have never experienced before can be mind boggling.
