From arts to history to language to STEM, many educators are looking abroad for their student travel options, and for good reason. International travel has many benefits, such as boosting young people's confidence and expanding their horizons. It also requires a bit more planning than a domestic student tour or a local field trip.
Not to worry — Team Brightspark has your back! If you've decided to bring your classroom to life across the globe, here are our top tips for getting ready for your trip.
1) Better safe than sorry
Additionally, some countries require certain vaccinations, or they suggest you bring particular medications along just in case. If you have regular prescriptions, make sure you visit your doctor before departure to get refills and ensure you have enough doses for your trip. And regardless of where you travel or your medical conditions, it's always a good idea to bring a "survival kit" - this can include pain relievers, antibacterial ointment, bandages, hand sanitizer, and even earplugs and snacks for a long flight.
2) It pays to be prepared
Many groups fundraise to help cover the cost of the trip, but students and chaperones will still want to bring along spending money for additional meals or any souvenirs. Learn the general exchange rate in your destination, so you can have a sense of how much things cost in dollars and make your funds last. Try to convert your dollars into local currency before you depart. Not every country is as credit-friendly as the U.S., so you'll want to have cash on hand. If you need to exchange cash once you've landed, try to find a bank instead of a conversion center; you'll save on fees and get the most accurate exchange rate. While you can exchange bills back to dollars once you return home, you cannot convert coins, so make sure you use up as much loose change as possible before you leave your host country.
Bonus tip: Unlike the U.S., many countries use coins for large denominations. Pay close attention to the amount you have in both coins and bills, as they can add up quickly!
3) Speak the language
If you're traveling to a country where the primary language isn't English, you certainly don't need to be fluent to make the most of experience, but it will benefit you to learn a few key phrases, such as:
- Please and thank you
- Yes and no
- Hello, goodbye and excuse me
- Numbers 1 - 10
If you do come across English speakers throughout your travels, make an effort to accommodate language barriers. Stay away from slang phrases, and speak plainly to avoid any miscommunication.
4) Pack it in
If you're packing any electronics, make sure you bring an adapter that works with your host country's outlets.
5) Reading is fundamental
Before you go, research your travel destination. Learning about the history, customs, or laws of a new country can influence what you pack or how you present yourself. You should also look up the best ways to get around, find local eateries to try, and get a grasp on the general layout of the city in case you get lost and need to find your way back. Many travel apps will give you tips and information to help make your trip a success, but you don't need to rely on digital tools. Purchase a travel guide and download offline maps of the locations you'll be visiting in order to feel connected even if you can't get online.
6) Hit the road
Inspire a lifelong love of travel.