These days, cycling tours have become more popular than ever. You should be able to find one in most holiday destinations you travel to. Not only do these tours give you the perfect opportunity to enjoy stunning views up close, but it is also a more eco-friendly way to travel.
If this isn’t something you have attempted before, it is only natural to be curious. Well, the following tips will help you prepare for the road ahead so that you can have the best trip possible.
If you are headed out on a cycling tour far from home, you will probably rent out a bicycle. Fortunately, most companies make an effort to maintain their bikes and inspect them for any damages before renting them out.
However, if you are planning on covering a long distance, you have to deal with the risk of your bike breaking down. As such, the longtime mechanic in this Bike Radar article recommends that you run an inspection of the cycle. This includes the wheels, tires, chain, and the shifting ability of the gears.
If you want complete peace of mind, you may want to take the bike into a shop before your trip. This way, you can have experts take a look at it to make sure that everything is running smoothly. Although this can seem like overkill, it does give you some additional safety if you are planning to cycle in a remote area.
If you don’t cycle regularly, you might be more than a little rusty once you start. In turn, the first few hours or days of your cycling tour may not be that pleasant. To avoid this scenario, it is a good idea to head out on a test run.
In an ideal world, you should build up your fitness level day by day. If you are short on time, try to go for a test run a few days before the big trip. Don’t go just before, as you may find yourself pretty sore on the day of.
In case you aren’t able to prepare your body for the excursion, make sure to take regular breaks during the tour. This may extend the time that it takes to complete the trip, and you will be far kinder to your body.
Even if the tour takes a few days, it is best not to pack more than is necessary. After all, you will be responsible for balancing the load on your bike. If you take too much with you, it will only weigh you down.
If you are traveling in a well-populated area complete with various stores, it is best to only take items such as the necessary clothing, rations, money, documents, etc. You will be able to pick up anything else as needed. If you are headed to a remote spot, you probably won’t find any stores close by, so take as much as you can.
For a few days’ worth of travel, you will probably use a cargo rack or panniers on your bike. You need to make sure that the weight is properly balanced. Only using a cargo rack? Then make certain that the back isn’t so heavy that it will lift the front or put too much pressure on the back wheel.
With panniers, each side needs to be equally balanced. This will ensure that you aren’t on the verge of constantly tipping over as you ride.
In some areas, the weather tends to be predictable, while in others, you could experience all four seasons within a day! The risk of ever-changing weather is higher when you go on a longer cycling tour.
To stay on the safe side, make sure to prepare for all types of weather. Always wear sunscreen and a light, long t-shirt to prevent sunburn on sunny days. Take a raincoat that you can easily slip on if it does start to rain. Always take a jacket or warm clothing for the night.
Even if you have a modern marvel of a bike, there is a good chance that your tire pressure will drop during your trip. In turn, this will compromise the steering and can also slow you down. This is why it’s important to take a pressure gauge pump on your travels.
The gauge will let you know if your tire is deflated. As Amy Law at Cycling Global explains, road bikes will have an ideal PSI of around 60 to 100. Off-road or mountain bikes will clock in around 30 to 50 PSI. More often than not, the PSI will be given on the tire.
If it isn’t, simply press the tires between your fingers. While the tire will depress slightly, it should still feel firm.
It doesn’t matter if you are in a remote area or a populated one – always stock up on rations. See a water fountain or someplace you can fill up your bottle? Drink the water currently in your bottle and fill it up.
The same goes for snacks and food. Don’t wait till you run low on your supplies. Instead, buy energy bars or other long-lasting food when you have the option. This will ensure that you never go hungry. After all, cycling is hard work and you will get hungrier than usual the more you tire yourself out.
There you have it – the top tips for the best-ever cycling tour. Keep these guidelines in mind and you are sure to have a smooth and fun trip!
Are you preparing to take your bike on the road for a long-distance trip in the coming months. Unfortunately for motorcyclists, it’s riskier to get on a bike than to get behind the wheel of a car. Per miles traveled, motorcyclists are roughly 29 times more likely than passenger car drivers to be killed in a crash.
This makes safety of the utmost importance. Here are 12 road safety tips that can help you reach your destination without an incident!
Riding a motorcycle is very different from driving a car. While you may feel comfortable on two wheels, it’s critical that you take a rider education course and hold a valid motorcycle license.
Failing to complete training and testing not only increases the chance of an accident but also puts you in hot water if you are ever pulled over.
If your motorcycle isn’t already equipped with a crash guard, consider making this modification before your next journey.
The purpose of a crash guard is to prevent your bike from fully tipping over in an accident. When it does its job, a crash guard can help prevent injuries and even end up saving your life.
These devices are available in all types of materials, from aluminum to mild steel to stainless. Find the right crash guard for your bike, budget, and safety needs, and get it installed as soon as possible!
Motorcycle maintenance is an essential part of road safety while also helping protect resale values for used motorcycles over time. Neglecting your bike could result in a breakdown or malfunction that puts your life in jeopardy.
Before you ride, be sure to perform a quick check of all of your bike’s systems. Confirm that your brakes, tires, headlights, indicators, and fluid levels are all in good order!
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that the lives of 1,872 motorcyclists were saved because of helmets in 2017. Needless to say, making the decision not to wear one can be a lethal mistake.
Invest in a DOT-approved, full-face helmet that shields every area of your head, including your eyes!
A helmet isn’t the only protective item a motorcyclist should be wearing. If you want to give yourself the most protection possible, you’ve got to make sure that you’re equipped with protective gear from head to toe.
Sturdy materials such as leather or nylon can soften the impact of an accident and help you avoid road rash. Protect your hands and feet by investing in a high-quality pair of gloves and close-toed boots, respectively.
Learn about essential safety precautions before your next motorcycle adventure! Get tips to keep you protected on the road, from taking a rider training course to performing a pre-trip check of your motorcycle. One important recommendation is to install crash guards to shield your bike in case of a fall. Packing for your trip? Don't forget to explore your motorcycle saddlebags for additional storage space!
Visibility, or lack thereof, is one of the most common reasons for collisions with motorcycles.
Particularly if you plan on riding during sunrise, after sunset, or through the night, it’s important to wear clothing that makes you fully visible to other drivers. Before investing in a black leather jacket and dark jeans, consider the additional visibility that bright clothing will afford you!
You can also increase the visibility of your motorcycle by adorning it with bright decals and other reflective accessories.
Before you embark on your trip, be sure to check the forecast for the days when you’ll be driving. While passenger cars—and especially those with four-wheel drive systems—may be able to navigate adverse conditions, it’s not always safe for motorcyclists to test the elements.
Besides snow, ice, and rain compromising your bike’s ability to grip the pavement, inclement weather can leave you wet and cold—making for a miserable riding experience.
It should go without saying that motorcyclists should never be under the influence of drugs or alcohol when hitting the road, yet motorcyclists are overrepresented in drug-and-alcohol-related traffic fatalities. According to one study, motorcyclists were intoxicated in 36% of fatal crashes.
To avoid a tragic accident, keep drugs and alcohol out of your system whenever you anticipate needing to use your motorcycle.
If you plan to drink, make sure you also have plans for getting home that doesn’t involve you taking control of a bike or any other vehicle. Depending on your level of intoxication, it can take your body up to 18 hours or longer to become fully sober again. Allow yourself ample time to recuperate before getting on your bike.
Motorcyclists are notorious for lane splitting, weaving in and out of traffic, and failing to use signals.
If you want other drivers and riders to cooperate with you, it’s important that you respect them and drive responsibly. Maintain safe traveling distances, drive defensively, use hand signals whenever possible, and avoid any aggressive behavior.
While there are many different types of vehicles that use the road—passenger cars, small trucks, large trucks, and of course, motorcycles—it’s critical that all drivers and riders obey traffic rules in order to maintain order and harmony.
What’s more, lane splitting—a tactic that many motorcyclists practice in order to avoid crawling traffic—is illegal in most states.
Road rules exist to keep all drivers and riders safe, including you! By following all of the rules of the road, you can help preserve not only your own life but also those of others.
As a motorcyclist, it’s important to remember that you are bound to the same road laws and speed limits as all other vehicles.
Always obey the posted speed limit, even when you feel that you can safely exceed it. The faster you ride, the more you reduce your own reaction time and the reaction time of other drivers.
While many drivers may be able to escape a road hazard with little more than some minor damage to their vehicles, some motorcyclists aren’t nearly as fortunate.
Common road hazards such as potholes, bumps, uneven pavement, gravel, oil, or sand can easily cause you to lose control of your motorcycle and put you in immediate danger.
In this article, we will show you how to pack a bug out bag. Since the coronavirus warnings from the CDC were first issued, many people resorted to panic. It caused supply chains to surprisingly run out of items to sell.
This is where your bug out bag comes in. The bug out bag is necessary in case you want to leave your location immediately. It is handy during emergencies or in cases where you suddenly need to go somewhere else.
The bug out bag is an item of necessity typically overlooked by many people. They are probably busy with their everyday lives or ignore the advice of survivalists. However, a bug out bag can aid you during times of trouble. The bug out bag has many different purposes.
During times when a disaster occurs, war breaks, or a viral infection spreads uncontrollably, your bug out bag can help you escape quickly. Leaving a compromised area with dwindling supplies and danger levels rising is your first survival step.
If we discuss an exemplary scenario where everyone outside your home is considered hostile, your bug out bag should somehow carry some weapons and tools. For example, many people prepare paracords for karambit knives. They wrap these sturdy cords around the curvy handle to have some material where a heavy-duty rope can be constructed.
The situation and craftsmanship above are only the tip of the iceberg. Whatever your bug out bag should have inside, it is up to you to modify its inventory to your purposes. Survival in different areas whether urban or rural requires a basic bug out bag loadout where you can add more items. You should also consider changes in the weather, wild packs of animals, and your basic needs.
The bug out bag is somewhat familiar to most of us. We have probably seen some secret agents of our favorite movies and TV shows have one. It is why many people mistake the bug out bag as another tool in a professional agent’s inventory. They will then fail to construct a bug out bag on their own unless reality calls for it.
Our times of today are slowly revealing potential catastrophic disasters lurking behind the shadows. We won’t know when the next pandemic might hit. Many of us are even unaware if a zombie outbreak, giant earthquake, alien invasion, or war might ensue. It is better to prepare with a well-equipped bug out bag.
When some sort of regional or international calamity erupts, your bug out bag can reduce your time of preparation. Instead of rummaging through your personal and household items in a rush, it is better to now prepare your personal bug out bag. You will have the peace of mind of being prepared while having all the necessities for survival on an ad-hoc package.
The world can really be a dangerous place, more so if some disaster strikes up your neighborhood. External forces can cause you harm as you navigate different terrain geographies. You might receive cuts, bruises, scratches, or injuries while traveling. A well-stocked aid kit can mitigate any infections or life-threatening injuries.
While traversing through different locations, you might be exposed to poisons, airborne viruses, or allergies. Toxic fumes can also appear in different areas. It’s better to filter the air you breathe in.
The world is teeming with predators lurking in the shadows. In case you find a safe spot to rest, it is better to have some form of shelter to shield you from wild animals, the weather, and changing atmospheric temperatures.
The worst enemy of a person is dehydration. One human being can die of thirst within a 3-day duration. Having some equipment to carry, filter, and store water is essential to your survival. Who knows? It might be some time before you can stumble upon a clean water source.
Whenever you’re out in the wilderness or get stranded someplace isolated, building a fire has many uses. You can use it to cook some game catch, keep you warm, and signal for rescue. Having the proper tools to build a fire is important to have in your bug out bag.
You can end up traveling across locations during the nighttime. As we have all known since the time of our ancestors, nighttime is when the most dangerous predators are out hunting. It’s better to have some form of light source for navigation.
You don’t wanna run out of your comfort zone without having a replacement of extra clothes. An extra set of clothing can help you sanitize yourself after a day in the wild. Sweaty clothes can cause infections much more if you’ve attained wounds while traveling. Apart from that, extra clothes can keep you warm and protected from different regional conditions.
It’s really hard to travel through patches of land without the help of proper navigational tools. You might get lost on your own and get stuck someplace you are not familiar with. Your bug out bag should have some basic traveling tools to avoid this scenario. We need to remind you that learning about the basics of navigation can aid you while using these tools.
We don’t know when the next calamity might happen. A bug out bag can ease your mind and help you escape quickly. We hope this article has given you some of the basic items to store in your bug out bag.
Though most people look for addiction treatment options close to home, traveling for rehab has become an increasingly common practice in recent decades. This is thanks in large part to cheaper airfares and also because of a growing recognition of the benefits of travel itself.
Below are some of the reasons to consider getting treated at a rehab facility away from home. Get in touch with the team at Dallas Drug Treatment centers if you’re interested in finding rehabilitation centers in Dallas and other parts of North Texas.
Traveling for rehab and treatment has been associated with several advantages for people with substance use disorder (SUD). Some of the benefits include the following:
As with many other mental health conditions, SUD can be more challenging to treat if the patient continues to experience the same emotional triggers and dysfunctional environments day in and day out. While the support of friends and family can be critical for SUD treatment, they may also be a negative presence early in recovery. After all, one’s normal everyday situation is what led to the problem in the first place.
By traveling for rehab, recovering individuals can get a fresh start in an entirely different environment. This can help them break with negative habits far more effectively than if they stayed in the same place where their condition deteriorated. Making this kind of move can drastically reduce the number of substance use triggers being experienced, ultimately helping the patient experience new perspectives and be more optimistic about their recovery.
While familial support is critical, the presence of family members can be a distraction. Having family members communicate with the patient before they are emotionally stable can also worsen relationships and hamper long-term recovery. This is why most residential rehab programs will seriously restrict communication and contact for the first few weeks.
However, it’s not just the patient that benefits from this time apart. Their family members probably need a break too, even if they may not feel it.
Seeing a family member suffer because of drugs or alcohol can be especially traumatic and emotionally taxing. This is especially true if the patient was abusive or underwent drastic personality changes.
Chances are that family members also need to see a therapist to address the traumas and other mental health issues that they experienced. If nothing else, just having that time apart can allow them to be more emotionally ready for family therapy and workshop sessions later in the patient’s recovery.
Getting treated elsewhere provides additional barriers to drug-seeking behavior, which can be critical in early recovery. It’s much more difficult for patients to simply leave the program or find drugs when they’re in an unfamiliar place. This is especially true if they enter a rehab program in a relatively remote location. This can buy the patient more time to heal, which can be difficult if they can easily access their drug of choice.
There are a few circumstances where traveling for drug rehab is the more affordable option. Of course, this is relative to the cost of treatment in one’s hometown as well as the specific demands of a particular SUD case. Medical tourism businesses in places like Florida, Israel, and Thailand have made a point of offering relatively high-quality healthcare at rates much lower than normally found in most of America.
Another circumstance where traveling could be the cheaper option is if the patient enrolls in a lower-cost outpatient program elsewhere, rather than in a comparatively more expensive residential program close to home.
Residential programs can be more expensive in general because of room and board as well as the 24/7 staffing. However, they can effectively isolate patients from drugs and alcohol, as these programs are usually in secured facilities. Outpatient programs can be much more affordable but they offer no real way of keeping determined individuals away from their substance of choice.
By enrolling in an outpatient program located in away from a patient’s usual triggers, huge cost savings can be made. As another bonus, unlike in a typical residential setup, outpatient programs usually allow the recovering individual to continue work or school, either through a remote arrangement or by taking opportunities at their temporary hometown.
Most of us know that travel can be good for our mental health. However, recent research suggests that the benefits go beyond simply helping us decompress and feel good. The new experiences associated with travel have been associated with the accelerated growth of new brain cells.
This suggests that travel can help patients form new connections in their brains that bypass the defective ones created by drug use. It may also help do the same for trauma and other mental health disorders that often contribute to drug use.
Traveling for drug rehab isn’t for everybody. People with severe SUD or travel anxiety might be better treated at facilities close to home. But for those with the means and the right circumstances, it can be a good strategy for maximizing the odds of recovery.
Getting SUD treatment far from home can give the patient the distance necessary to concentrate on their recovery, prevents early relapses, allows their family members to take a needed break, and helps supercharge their healing. In some circumstances, it might even be cheaper to seek treatment elsewhere. Given these benefits, traveling for rehab is something everyone with an SUD should consider. Good luck, and be well!
Having to rush to get things can be pretty stressful, and expediting a passport is no different. Unfortunately, life circumstances, like a death in the family or a last-minute international business trip, happen, requiring an expedited passport.
You may think you’re in the clear if you already have a U.S. passport, but there are some odd circumstances where you might have to rush and get a new one. For example, if you have to take an emergency trip to South Africa, you will need two blank visa pages in your passport. You might also be required to get a new passport if you look radically different from the photo in your current one.
Regardless, you’ll want to know how to prepare yourself if you need to get an expedited passport. Take a look at these six tips for getting an expedited passport.
For starters, you need to know what type of time window you are working with. There are big differences between trying to get your passport within ten weeks versus two weeks.
If you are working within a window of ten or more weeks, you probably won’t need to expedite your passport. If it’s less than four weeks or a few days, you need a valid reason and proof as to why you need your passport expedited. If approved, you can expect your passport to arrive within three business days.
There are two main reasons people need to get expedited passports: A life-or-death emergency or an urgent international trip. Sometimes the two will overlap. You will need to show proof of international travel like a plane ticket or reservation in both situations.
In the case of a life-or-death emergency, you will need to call your respective passport agency and explain the circumstances. You will also need to show proof of the emergency, like a death certificate or signed letter from a hospital or medical professional. It’s crucial the letter is in English or translated into English by a professional.
If you have less than four weeks to get your passport, you will have to apply in person. The main issue is getting an appointment.
Getting an appointment is competitive as spots are limited. Generally, the appointments you see online are what’s available, so trying to call may be futile. Your best bet is to try and schedule an appointment as soon as you know you need to make a trip. If you can’t find an appointment right away, continue to monitor throughout the day and see if one will open up. Sometimes people may cancel their appointments, which can free up a slot.
It is crucial to have all the documents you need to apply for a passport. Failure to have the right documentation can result in having your application delayed or denied.
If you’re applying for a first-time passport, you will need to have the following:
• A completed application form
• Proof of U.S. citizenship
• A photo identification document like a driver’s license as well as a copy
• A check (In some cases, a credit or debit card may be acceptable)
• A photo that meets passport requirements
• Documents that show why you need an expedited passport (Like the aforementioned death certificate and international plane ticket)
Additionally, it is crucial to ensure all your documentation is accurate and complete. For a detailed guide on ensuring your documents are ready, consult reliable resources that can provide comprehensive and current guidelines.
If you are renewing your passport, you will also need to submit your current passport. If you lost your passport or it was stolen, you will first need to fill out a form to report its status.
While not necessary, it’s certainly helpful to have a second set of eyes to check and see if you filled out the appropriate application and have the right documents.
It helps to have someone who has gone through the process of acquiring a passport. It’s even better if you know someone who has had to get an expedited passport.
This one can go a bit without explaining, but you will have to pay extra to have your passport expedited. The general rate to have your passport expedited is $60.
What may not be as evident is the cost for any additional necessary documents you need. For example, if you need to take a photo that meets passport photo requirements, that may cost you extra if you take a photo through a professional service.
Trying to get an expedited passport can be a tough and intimidating challenge, but it’s worth pursuing, especially in a life-and-death circumstance.
While it’s not guaranteed you’ll be able to get an expedited passport, the best you can do is try and hope everything works out. Do everything you can to make the process go smoothly, and don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t work out in the end.
The road trip is a tried-and-true American tradition. It’s a way of seeing a country that you never have before. One thing that’s so marvelous about America is all the hole-in-the-wall roadside attractions. Some of them you might know about and plan to see, while others spring up like magic and demand a couple of hours of your time.
If you’re going on a road trip over the coming months, you might not have a ton of money to spend. You may want to think about some money-saving tips that can reduce the trip’s overall cost. What follows are some of our best penny-pinching traveler suggestions.
Whether you’re looking for Georgia road trip hidden gems or trying to find the best biscuits in the Carolinas, you always want to pack wisely to save money. For instance, you might bring along some towels and sunblock if you know you’re going to spend some time on the beach. Bringing these items will be cheaper than if you have to pay for them onsite. You can bring along a smartphone charger, so you don’t need to buy that, either. It’s smart to take along a flashlight and some spare batteries if you know you’re going camping. You might consider bringing along a tent and a sleeping bag if you don’t mind roughing it. You can save some hotel room money if you’re okay with sleeping outdoors for part of the way.
You might need to bring along money for road trip snacks, but you can avoid that if you bring your own options from home. There’s no need to spend your cash at every gas station on chips, candy, or beef jerky if you bring some trail mix you made before you left. You might bring some sandwiches along on a cooler. They will be okay for a day or so, and you won’t need to stop and spend money at fast-food restaurants or diners. You can also look for coupons before you leave. In some states, coupons for fast food places like KFC or Burger King come in the mail. You can even find them and print them out from certain websites.
You might have an older vehicle, and if so, it’s always smart to get a tune-up before you take a long road trip. A mechanic can check to see if you need any air in your tires and fill them up accordingly. They can check all your fluid levels, look at your suspension and alignment, and check for any other possible problems. You definitely don’t want a roadside breakdown, or you’ll have to find the nearest mechanic. You will pretty much be at their mercy, and they might try to gouge you on replacement parts.
If you own an electric car, you’ll have to find places where you can recharge it along your route. There are more charging stations in some parts of the country than others, but there are smartphone apps you can use to locate them. Few people have electric cars yet, though. Assuming you have a gas-burning vehicle, you can download a phone app that shows you where the cheapest gas is around you. There’s one called CheapGas that locates the best deal nearby. If you’re filling up the whole tank, or close to it, those money-saving apps make a difference. If you have a hybrid car, that will also save you money on long road trips.
You can save cash by planning out your route ahead of time. If you know what states you’ll go through and where your eventual destination is, you can figure out what you want to see along the way. You might pre-book hotel rooms along the route on the nights when you’re not camping. That can save you from any issues if you’re in the busy season’s height, and there are few vacancies. You can plan a trip around famous eateries, popular roadside destinations, or whatever else most attracts you. The more plan details you fill in beforehand, the more structure your journey will have. Of course, you can also take a trip with fewer details planned out beforehand. That might cost you a little more money, but some people enjoy the spontaneity. You’ll have to consider whether you have the time to deviate from your planned route if you spot something that begs investigation.
It might seem that the market for travel bloggers is oversaturated. However, this is not necessarily true. If you can create a unique approach to a travel blog, you will develop a devoted following of fans who will literally follow your every move.
While not all would-be travel bloggers are successful, there is no harm in throwing your hat in the proverbial ring. Here are some reasons why being a travel blogger is the most incredible job in the world.
As a travel blogger, you are likely to meet and interact with other people you might otherwise never have encountered. This can lead to the formation of lifelong friendships that will endure well after your trip is finished.
Having your faithful furry friend with you makes meeting people even easier. Most people use cute dogs as a conversation icebreaker. They will stop to pet a gorgeous canine and then get chatting with its owner. Do not be offended if some people are more interested in meeting your dog than you.
Being a travel blogger means that you get to travel the world, experiencing sights and sounds few others could dream about. If you have sponsorship for your blog, the trip is likely to be complimentary. Yours is simply to go on vacation, enjoy every aspect of it, and document your experience online. Look for potential sponsors and approach them for a business collaboration to fund your travel adventures.
As a travel blogger, you should take the roads less traveled by to keep things unique and interesting for your readers. It requires an element of risk-taking as you might need to steer clear of well-known areas, resorts, and attractions. Getting to grips with the people who live in an area, embracing their culture, and choosing to make them part of your travel blog will endear you to many readers.
Your travel blog could inspire someone to take the trip of a lifetime that could forever alter the trajectory of their lives. Knowing that you have played a role in making someone’s life better is exceptionally satisfying, especially when inviting a guest to your live stream to share authentic stories in real time.
You can also inspire the locals you meet on your travels who might otherwise never have known anything about travel blogging. Additionally, your blog can raise awareness about people on the other side of the world, encouraging your readers to reach out and help them.
If you love dogs and travel, you could create an interesting blog that will keep your followers riveted. Most people find dogs adorable, and having one will add an extra dimension to your blog. Not only that, but you will have a faithful travel companion to share your experiences with.
Dogs are much easier to get along with than humans. They are always glad to see you, happily eat the same meal every day without complaining, and seem to know when you are not having a good day and need an extra snuggle.
At OurFitPets, there is strong advocacy for readers to adopt rescue dogs, such as Cavapoo rescues. These dogs are a cross-breed of the cavalier king spaniel and poodle. These dogs are very affectionate, loving, and loyal. They are not that difficult to maintain, although good grooming now and then does them a world of good.
Dogs make for funny photo opportunities, and including these snapshots in your blog will make it even more popular. Most dogs do not even need to try to be hilarious and cute at the same time. Somehow, it seems to come naturally.
Studying abroad can be a pleasant and memorable experience for any student, but given the current ongoing global pandemic, it’s been more stressful than ever trying to navigate all the restrictions.
While getting set up to study abroad can be a challenge under normal conditions, it’s become even more challenging under the current pandemic. You may have heard of some of your fellow students outright canceling their study abroad plans due to the sheer uncertainty of everything.
If you feel you’re up to studying abroad, you’ll need to put more work in than normal. These five tips can help you navigate studying abroad during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This is a challenging one to navigate. The travel restrictions of various countries are constantly changing, and you absolutely need to keep up with any restrictions that have been put in place due to COVID-19.
It helps to use sites or tools that constantly post updates on any COVID-19 outbreaks. It’s also important to know what restrictions any country has placed on visitors, such as any requirements to have testing once you land or any periods of quarantining you may need to undergo.
Failure to comply with any country’s restrictions could end badly for you and jeopardize your study abroad experience. It’s best practice to stay up to date with news updates from your own country and your destinations.
Safety should be your top priority under any circumstance, but it’s even more crucial with the ongoing pandemic.
Traveling and experiencing a different culture is an extraordinary experience, but if you are in any way at risk of developing significant complications from COVID-19, you should strongly consider postponing your travel plans, if at all possible. It may not be ideal, but your health is worth it.
If you do feel you can safely travel and live in another country, you should be aware if there are any limits to the amount of time you can stay. Some programs have limited the duration students can stay in a respective country, so it’s vital to be on top of these restrictions.
While you should always talk to an advisor when planning out your study abroad experience, it’s more crucial than ever before.
Your advisor should know of any changing school policies toward international travel or restrictions that have been put in place. They can also guide you in what direction to take if you need to change your plans.
While advisors might be busier than usual, you should still reach out to them if you have any questions or concerns. What matters the most is for you to know your school’s policies.
Networking with other students who have traveled or are currently studying abroad during the pandemic is a good practice to follow.
Other students can help you better understand what to expect and how to navigate certain obstacles like quarantining yourself. They can also help put your mind at ease by answering some common questions like “What was the experience like?” or “Did you feel safe?”
Any student you reach out to doesn’t have to have traveled to the same country you plan to go to, but it certainly helps. Any insights you can gain from your fellow students will help you.
If there’s one thing people will generally tell you, it’s to have a backup plan. It’s a common rule to follow for most travelers, and it’s no different when it comes to studying abroad.
As much of a bummer as it might be, you might have to consider canceling your plans to study abroad if your schedule won’t allow for it. If you can, consider postponing it to a date that might work better in your favor.
Some schools have developed alternate solutions, such as a virtual experience. While not the same as being fully immersed in another culture, it allows for the “study” part to be experienced.
Studying abroad can be a pleasant experience, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. You just have to be prepared for anything that comes your way.
With hard work, patience, and effort, you can still live your study abroad dreams.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday seasons are the busiest long-distance travel periods of the year. The number of long-distance trips increases by up to 54% during that period compared to the rest of the year. Traveling during peak season may be cumbersome but the following tips can make managing your holiday accommodation simpler:
Holiday prices are more expensive but you can still get better deals the further in advance you book your tickets. Aim for 60 days in advance with accommodations and flights to take advantage of the cheapest rates.
Booking online could save you time and money. Booking your holiday accommodations online allow for the security of familiarizing yourself with the accommodations prior to arrival and bookings can be guaranteed immediately. Always remember to review the cancellation policy before you book.
You don’t have to rely on just one site when searching online for holiday travel deals. Shopping around will help you find the best deal. Sign up for newsletters from airlines you use frequently and the airlines servicing your potential travel destinations. If you do this well enough in advance, you may be able to take advantage of some of the annual deals that they offer. Many online travel agencies offer loyalty benefits for members including cheaper flights, tours, rental cars, and accommodation packages.
Getting a first-hand account of the accommodations, availability of the amenities, and all of the other intricacies of your potential travel destination before you leave home could make your trip safe and satisfying.
Maybe your potential travel destination is for adults only and you’re traveling with family? Reading customer reviews about your accommodations will make you more prepared for your holiday trip.
Getting creative about where you’ll spend your next holiday season could save you money, enhance your travel experience, and offer you access to more than your traditional holiday experience.
A hospitality experience affords holiday travelers the opportunity to stay with a local in the area that they’re traveling to. Often, these locals were once fellow travelers and enjoy housing other passengers on their journeys. These locals share their customs and traditions, give tours, and are a resource for your visit. Homestays can help you meet new people, save money, and see
new places.
Usually, it was business travelers who took advantage of all that corporate housing has to offer but it is becoming increasingly common for holiday travelers to do so. Traveling experts agree that corporate housing offers the convenience of a fully furnished apartment or suite that includes a full kitchen, all major appliances, and all utilities. Click here and learn more about corporate housing and how it could take your next holiday trip to the next level.
Housesitting during the holidays means that you’ll be staying in someone else’s home while they’re away under the agreement that you’ll fulfill responsibilities in the home. Taking care of pets, or performing some simple maintenance duties around the home could get you access to vacation housing free. No matter which option you choose, booking early, doing research, and being creative could make your next holiday more enjoyable.
There’s nothing like a global pandemic and a prolonged period of lockdown to send those feelings of wanderlust into overdrive. As the days grow shorter and the weather hurtles towards the bottom of the thermostat, we know that home is the last place you want to be.
Whilst it may be difficult to imagine traveling right now – and hard to even remember how it felt to experience a new culture – you’ll be relieved to know that when the borders open back up, there will be plenty of opportunities for both experienced and beginner teachers to pack up their things and move abroad.
It’s often said that teaching English is your passport to seeing the world, and we’ve certainly found that to be the case. From Buenos Aires to Bangkok, there is hardly a major city in the world that doesn’t need English teachers for their schools.
Whether you want to live in the mountains, by the sea or in a megacity, becoming an English teacher opens doors to the cultures, lifestyles and places that other professions could only dream of. The beauty of teaching also means that you’ll get the opportunity to travel beyond your place of work.
Teachers are envied the world over for the amount of holiday time they get, which means you’ll get plenty of opportunities to take a cheap local or domestic flight and see more of the world whilst you’re earning. It’s the perfect job for ticking things off your travel bucket list and making your social media pages the envy of your friends.
It’s never been simpler to find a job working as a teacher abroad, and the current level of demand for practitioners has reached a record high. There are plenty of websites, agencies and message boards just a click away, each with plenty of vacancies waiting to be filled.
The qualifications and requirements for teachers vary from role to role and country to country. For example, the higher-paying roles in the likes of Dubai and Abu Dhabi can often require teachers to have a formally recognized teaching qualification such as a Bachelor of Education or a PGCE in order to obtain the relevant visa. However, not every country is strict when it comes to qualifications.
Countries such as Thailand and Vietnam are more relaxed. Armed with only a Bachelor’s degree in any subject, it’s possible to find a good job in Southeast Asia that pays well enough to enjoy a comfortable life. Whether you’d prefer a big city like Hanoi or a Thai island to call home, these dreams can become reality with just a few searches online.
When applying for a job, recruiters may ask for a CV, a copy of your passport and copies of your relevant qualifications along with your job application form. Should you reach the next stage of the application process, you will most likely be interviewed online on a video call. Whilst this may seem like a daunting process, it’s important to stay calm, be positive and be honest – letting your prospective employer see the real you is the key to securing the position.
Moving abroad is never easy and, for such a big decision, we do recommend that you find your job from a reputable source.
The good news is that teaching abroad is open to everyone. From native speakers to those who are fluent in English, there’s a chance you can find one regardless of where you’re from. If you’re qualified, you’re sure to be considered. Of course, some jobs may be more specific when it comes to age, nationality, and experience, which can be down to both visa requirements and the preferences of the employer. That said, finding roles for those with no teaching experience is also extremely common.
Adding engaging teaching methods such as interactive slide lessons, along with a vibrant personality, is an important factor when it comes to teaching abroad. Many jobs often require their teachers to be bubbly, smiling and active in lessons, who always have a game up their sleeves to keep their students entertained. In fact, for many jobs with younger students, you might find that employers rank personality above qualifications.
There may be other prohibitive factors for finding employment abroad, such as health conditions or criminal records. If either of these apply, we recommend contacting the embassy of the country you’re interested in working in to find out if it will affect your application.
If you have never taught abroad before, we recommend studying for a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. Not only will this provide you with practical skills and knowledge that will benefit you in your teaching career, but it is also bound to set you apart from job candidates who don’t have one.
Even for teachers who are already qualified, studying for an English teaching qualification can provide you with an understanding of the challenges that ESL students can pose and how to reach them in the most effective manner.
With jobs hiring year-round and schools already planning for the next academic year, there’s no better time to become qualified and work on finding your dream job. What are you waiting for?
