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Much of traveling involves learning as you go, but it never hurts to have some helpful tips from some well-seasoned professionals. We’ve put together a few guides that offer advice on almost everything as well as sources for world news to help you stay abreast of international news.

• : An Insider’s Guide to Travel: News, Tips, Information & Inspiration.
• : On-line travel guides for student and budget travelers.
• : On-line travel guides for student and budget travelers.
• : On-line travel guides for student and budget travelers.
• : An on-line guide to budget traveling in Europe. Provides information on packing, choosing a good pack or suitcase, where to stay, keeping in touch, and guidebook reviews.
• : Search for newspaper links from around the globe and catch up on the current news in your destination before you go.
• : Multiple links, foreign newspapers, and alternative travel writing including travel blogs.
• : Essential programs, articles, and resources for people of all ages who wish to study abroad or pursue education travel.
• Find links to newspapers, TV, and radio stations worldwide with the International News Index: .

No matter what type of experience you choose, you’ll need to take care of official matters like securing a passport (if you don’t have one already) and ensuring your medical information is up to date. These resources will help you prepare for your trip and avoid any surprises.

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  A government site that provides information about important documents, embassies, emergency guidelines, travel insurance, and other great tips.
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  A notification template that individuals can download to discreetly provide information about their medical condition or disability to Transport Security Officers at airports.
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  Steps on how to apply for the ISIC card for use during international travel.
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  Overseas Vote brings you the online tools that will make your overseas voting experience easy and fast. Register to vote, look up election official contacts, check filing deadlines, and access help desk services.
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  The FVAP assists citizens living overseas to vote in U.S. elections.

Whether you’re traveling within your host country or to a completely new destination, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead. Before making travel reservations, always check your options and know your priorities. We’ve found some helpful resources that provide information on different types of accommodations as well as air, rail, and road travel.

• : A list of airlines banned within the EU.
• : Information about Eurail, Britrail, and various country rail passes.
• : Find out a specific country’s laws on speed limits, seat belts, and other specific transportation rules.
• : A single stop for European Rail Travel.
• : Resource for train travel throughout the UK, Ireland, and Europe.
• offers a great Q&A section with tips on finding the cheapest flights through online search engines.
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  An on-line guide to using youth hostels. Provides a general overview of what youth hostels are and a searchable database of youth hostels around the world. Also has links to on-line travel stores for rail passes, backpacks, and guidebooks.
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  Another guide to hostels, with pictures and user reviews of each location. Provides direct contact information, as well as booking services through their website.
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  International hostelling organization membership information.
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  Information on student airfares, rail passes, hostels, trips, travel guides, and more.
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  Information on affordable airfare, travel guides, and more.

One of the main reasons many students choose to travel abroad is to become fluent in another language. This can open worlds of opportunity, but it also requires effort. Living with a host family is one of the best ways to learn a new language, but if that isn’t an option, a variety of resources can help you become a fluent speaker. Here are some sources we recommend.

• (courtesy of U. of Denver)

From time to time, everyone experiences a little “culture shock” when visiting somewhere new. This is normal, but other things that you consider normal might not be appropriate in your new home. Before leaving, make sure you research the customs and expectations of each country you’ll be visiting to ensure you’re a gracious visitor.

• Peter Greenberg.com .
• : Country specific videos developed by NYU that will help you understand a country’s history and culture.
• : An online cultural training resource for study abroad developed by the University of the Pacific.
• : Information by country about geography, economy, history, culture, and customs.
• : Detailed information and statistics about every country in the world.
• Ediplomat: .
• Conde Nast Traveler: .

Although it may tempting to throw caution to the wind when spending, it’s easy to lose track of conversion rates when country hopping. To avoid making a call home when your allowance runs out, plan out your initial budget and be sure to revisit it once you’ve settled into a routine. We’ve gathered some additional resources that will help you plan your spending to make the most of your time.

• Peter Greenberg.com:
• Money Matters: (courtesy of USAC)
• : Current exchange rates for U.S. dollars into 164 currencies.
• : Search for any VISA ATM in the world

It’s easier than ever to travel without drastically increasing your footprint and for many students, living a sustainable lifestyle is very important no matter where they travel. To meet the needs of a more aware traveler, we’ve compiled several sources to help you keep your green lifestyle even when abroad.

• : Steps You Can Take to Stay Green While Traveling (courtesy of Indiana University)
• : United States Travel Care Code: A set of simple suggestions to minimize the impact of travel on the environment and communities.