We can all agree that studying abroad can be a great enjoyable experience, so you should make the most of it while you’re there. When planning to study abroad, there are a few risks you should be aware of in addition to having a great time.
This post will first give you some links and advice on how to learn more about the nation you plan to visit, after which we will give you some pointers and advice on how to be safe and some basic guidelines you should abide by.
Travel Warnings and Country Information
You should attempt to learn as much as you can about the most recent travel advisories that are in effect for particular nations before you depart. It is advised that you avoid visiting the nations on these lists. Additionally, you should be aware that the majority of insurance providers will void any coverage you have if you are hurt or injured while visiting one of the nations on these lists. The best place to learn about the most recent travel advisories is at:
It’s a good idea to learn as much as you can about the country you’re visiting, including customs, operating processes, and other things, in addition to general travel advisories. Visit the following websites for information unique to your country:
We also advise using websites like Google and Wikipedia, which can give you information on a given nation.
Safety Tips
This will stand you in good stead for when you are there since you would have a greater awareness of customs and traditions. Hopefully, before you left, you would have studied up and learned as much about your adoptive country as possible.
Additionally, you should be careful to adhere to a few, very basic guidelines to avoid creating problems for yourself:
Stay Alert and Trust your Instincts
It’s always a good idea to be on guard and mindful of your surroundings. If you’re at a crowded market or square, just be mindful of the people and activity around you. If anything makes you feel uneasy or uncertain, leave the area immediately. In the end, believe your gut; if anything makes you uncomfortable, leave and go somewhere else where you feel more at ease.
Keep Valuables Close to you
Do not flash your new phone or wallet with a lot of cash in it around, just like when you are at home. This will just make you more noticeable and a target for pickpockets.
Keep a Low Profile
Try to maintain as low a profile as you can while traveling because you are a foreigner in the country. However, this does not imply that you should remain underground; instead, strive to conceal the fact that you are a foreigner. For instance, try to speak more quietly in public places and dress a little more like the locals; this will aid in your integration and prevent unwanted attention from being drawn to you.
Learn Your Surroundings
Getting as much knowledge about your host town or city is just as vital as learning about the country you will be visiting. You can ask former students about this, but the study abroad office will probably have the most up-to-date information. Learn about things like the public transit system’s operation, places you should avoid, etc.
Drink Wisely
You will eventually want to interact with others, which frequently results in drinking. The golden rule of drinking is to do so moderately and with trustworthy people. It is advised to drink responsibly or to abstain from alcohol because it can make you more susceptible to theft and other problems.
Keep in Contact
One of the most crucial guidelines is to stay in touch with others and let them know where you are going. Having a cell phone today is quite inexpensive, making it simple for others to get in touch with you should the need arise. Additionally, if you live with someone else in an apartment, let them know if you’re going out and where so that someone will know where you went in the event of an emergency.
At the end of the day, you want your study abroad experience to be enjoyable and trouble-free, and for the most part, it will be. However, by being aware of the risks, you can stay safe and enjoy your time abroad!
