5 Safety Tips When Traveling Alone
February 21st, 2014 by Ross Mason
Solo Backpacking Around the World
Some of us may love the idea, others loathe it – but whichever side of the fence you are on, there can be some fantastic benefits to be traveling alone. You get to be selfish for once, and do exactly what you want to do without thinking about anyone else. You can also meet some great people, whom you may have never had the chance to meet before.
The list goes on for all the benefits and enjoyment you can get from traveling abroad “on your tod”. But there are also some very important safety aspects that you should take into consideration when traveling alone – and our top 5 safety tips when traveling alone will set you off in the right direction:
1. Stay Connected/ Update People
The number one tip that any solo traveler should follow is to make sure they update friends and family on their whereabouts. With social media these days, checking in regularly on Facebook or platforms like Foursquare will just indicate to your loved ones of where you are and what you are doing. It is even a good idea to email or Skype them once in a while to let them know what your plans are – that way they have an idea of what you are planning to do. If you want to really embrace technology, iPhones have an application called “Find My Friends” which uses the GPS device in your phone to pinpoint your location. You can set this up with your family so that they are the only ones who will see your location, and it will automatically share your location as you move around. If you are traveling alone, it could be a lifesaver in case something does happen.
2. Do Your Research
No matter where you are going in the world, you should always make sure you do your research in advance to find out all you can about a place. Lonely planet guide books are an excellent option, but you can also get most things now online for free through sites like TripAdvisor or simply using the power of Google. You can find out what places to head to, what places you should avoid and any other things you should know before you arrive. This will help you be more prepared and arrive with some knowledge of your surroundings and what you want to do.
3. Plan Your Accommodation in Advance
While it can be fun to sometimes just move from place to place as you feel like it, when you are traveling alone this can lead to problems if you end up in a location that is not the most ideal. By planning in advance, you can do all your research about a location and what area/type of accommodation you will want to stay in. Nothing is worse than arriving somewhere and having to just take the nearest place as you have no idea what else is available – this could get you in trouble.
4. Avoid Heavy Drinking
OK, this could kill your fun a little – but you should avoid very heavy drinking or even mixing of drinks. Getting drunk, or even light-headed in a foreign country can be disorienting enough, but it also makes you very easy prey to be attacked. If possible also try to stick to wine and beer if you are going to drink, as often mixer drinks can have very different alcohol quantities in many developing countries, whereas most beer and wine is the same as back home.
5. Keep Important Documents in a Safe Place
When you are traveling alone, you cannot rely on anyone else to do things for you. So always make sure you keep all your important documents safe and with you at all times. The most important documents are your ID (typically this will be your passport), a credit card to get money if you need to urgently, health insurance ID card and important contact numbers. We also highly recommend that before you travel you make copies of all these documents and add them to a service like Dropbox. They will be available to you anywhere in the world if you need a copy by logging into the website so it can be a great backup!
By keeping your wits about you, traveling alone can be an excellent experience but you just need to be prepared and take some extra precautions that you might not have to if you would be traveling in a group. If you have any other tips, please add them in the comments!
The Best Healthy Snacks When Traveling
February 17th, 2014 by Bryanna Davis
Traveling can expose you to new cultures and ways of life around the world, but it can also expose you to bad eating habits. While traveling, students are often on a budget and schedule- this means that grabbing something quick is a common way of life. This habit is fine, as long as what you are grabbing provides you with the nutrients you need. Here are a few of the best healthy snacks when traveling that you are also very portable when on the go.
- Apples- Staying hydrated while traveling is important, and sometimes hard to do if you’re on your feet all day for days at a time. Apples help keep you hydrated and are a great source of fiber.
- Beef Jerky- Packed full of protein and low in fat this is a great snack if you have a long day of walking or hiking ahead of you.
- Peanut Butter- Also packed full of protein, but vegetarian friendly. Peanut butter can be used for sandwiches, with your fruit or eaten alone. Peanut butter is not only one of the best healthy snacks when traveling, it has multiple uses.
- Trail Mix- Find a trail mix that includes nuts like almonds, cashews or peanuts and this snack is another great source of protein. A mix that includes dehydrated fruit will also give you necessary vitamins while traveling.
- Bananas- If you’re traveling to a country that doesn’t have tap water you can drink, a banana is a great travel snack option. Thanks to the potassium in bananas ache muscles will be kept to a minimum if frequently chosen as your snack.
- Raisins- They are not only portable but full of antioxidants and the mineral boron, which helps promote bone health.
- Oranges- Like bananas, the peel eliminates the need to rinse this fruit. If you’re limited on space then an orange is a great option that won’t mush under pressure in your bag. Oranges are a good source of Vitamin C- the vitamin that can keep you from catching a virus. Since traveling presents a combination of lack of sleep and exposure to multiple germs it’s especially important to get as much as vitamin C as possible.
Choosing the best healthy snacks when traveling is essential to good health, but so is exercise. You can also find more on how to stay fit and healthy while abroad here.
Cooking Tips when Traveling or Studying Abroad
February 14th, 2014 by Jennifer Frankel
One of the best parts about going abroad is the food culture! Of all the five senses you have, your sense of taste will certainly be sparked by interest and curiosity. The food you eat overseas will be a memory whose cravings live on even after you return to your home country!
Whether it’s kimchi in South Korea, curry in India, chili in Mexico, or gelato in Italy, food sampling is the best part of traveling. If you plan on traveling or studying abroad for an extended period of time, you will eventually find yourself trying to create some of these traditional dishes in your own kitchen. It’s not easy, and will doubtless taste authentic the first time you give it a try, but that’s all part of the fun!
Check out these 5 cooking tips when traveling or studying abroad:
1. Explore the grocery store.
If you haven’t traveled before – or even if you have – one of the best places to go to learn more about the country you are living in is to go to the grocery store, local market or supermarket. Here you will see foods that you’ve never eaten before, some of which you’ll be itching to try – while others may not be on the top of your food eating list. It’s important to see what’s local, what’s available, and what other people are buying.
2. No matter where you go, look high, look low.
When shopping at a grocery store or supermarket, the most expensive brands are typically found in the center of the shelves where products get more visibility. If you are looking for the best prices, be sure to look up and look down as you might find the same product for a much better price.
3. Make a friend.
Some of the spices, herbs, meats, and vegetables may be completely new to you. Making friends in your host country that know how to cook will certainly give you insight into preparation and authentic local cooking – plus, it’s a great bonding opportunity. As you meet people, invite them over to make dinner together. It’s a great way to learn more about the culture and to have an activity to do with just about anyone!
4. Be adventurous.
You’ve taken the bold step of studying or traveling abroad, so continue the streak with trying new things. As the saying goes, you don’t know until you try it. Our rule of thumb is to always try new foods twice. Whether it’s insects on your plate or something equally unusual, be daring and give it a try. Who knows, it may turn out to be your favorite food. When in Rome….
5. Buy a new food, look up a recipe, and create!
Going food shopping in another country can be intimidating, so that doesn’t mean you need to overwhelm yourself with a kitchen that looks like it belongs to someone else. Buy one new ingredient each time you go shopping and look up recipes. Before you know it, you’ll be piecing together new recipes and you’ll become an expert in local dining.
>> Want to learn more on staying healthy? Check out the top 5 ways to stay fit and healthy abroad.
Health Insurance to Study Abroad in Spain
February 10th, 2014 by Victoria Troupe
Studying abroad can be the most exciting, fulfilling time of your life. However, a lot of planning and foresight is required to prepare yourself for your adventure. Many students forget an important aspect of traveling abroad – health insurance! Many study visas in different countries require you to be covered, and Spain is no exception.
If you’re planning to study abroad in Spain, don’t forget to apply for health insurance before your visa interview, so that you can show proof that you will be covered during your trip. Spanish visa requirements differ depending on where you are coming from – an EU country or a non-EU country.
EU Citizens – If you are a citizen of the European Union, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland where you are covered under your home country’s social security system, you can get proof of health insurance coverage by requesting a European Health Insurance Card from your public health authorities. Be sure to request your card before leaving your home country, as you may need to show it when arriving in Spain.
Non-EU Citizens – If you are from the US or any other country outside the of the European Union, you are required to purchase individual health insurance with a maximum coverage amount of at least €30,000 or $50,000. The Atlas Travel plan and Europe Travel plan are good, affordable options that are easy to purchase online. After you purchase, you receive an email immediately with all of your documents to show proof of coverage to obtain your Spanish visa.
For more information, be sure to check out our resource section about studying abroad and finding international insurance in Spain.
Cheap Ways to Keep Fit in 2014
February 7th, 2014 by Ross Mason
Yoga to keep fit in 2014
If you are looking for ways to keep your New Year Resolution, or just looking for new ways to keep fit then our list of cheap ways to keep fit in 2014 should be right up your alley. We all know that gym memberships and other fitness tools can add up in cost, but there are some excellent ways to stay fit on the cheap – and it will not need to break the bank!
Walking
Sometimes people do not realize that a brisk walk each day can have some incredible health benefits, and in some cases walking is just as good as running in terms of fitness and exercise. If you can walk to classes or work, instead of taking public transport or your car, you will notice very quickly the benefits to your health.
Use Stairs
If you live in an apartment building, this is a great little change that can reap huge benefits for you (especially if you live in a tall building). Taking the stairs everyday, instead of an elevator is a great way to burn off some calories, but also condition your body. You could even find that taking the stairs is quicker for you, and could save you some time – so give it a go and you will be surprised at how much it can actually help you!
Cleaning
We all hate cleaning and tidying our room or apartment, but it has to be done at some point. So why not make it fun and enjoyable – put on some music and get the cleaning done while dancing. As long as your roommate is not around, enjoy it and do something a little different and the calories you will burn up will be surprising!
Local Parks/Clubs
You will often find that in your local park there will be teams that practice, in the USA there are soccer leagues, softball leagues and all kinds of sports. Check out the notice board at your local field and you should find information on these clubs and sports. They often cost very little, are a great way to meet new people and stay fit!
Hopefully these simple ideas will help you stay fit in 2014, and feel free to post any comments with other ideas and suggestions for cheap ways to keep fit in 2014.
February 2014 Travel Warnings
February 4th, 2014 by Ross Mason
February 2014 Travel Warnings
The February 2014 travel warnings are a listing of any warnings that have been posted by the US Department of State in the month of January, warning travelers who plan to visit those countries.
Countries listed through the month of January 2014 include:
Lebanon – January 31st 2014
The Department of State urges travelers to avoid all travel to Lebanon because of current safety and security concerns. The potential for death or injury in Lebanon exists in particular due to the increasing frequency of terrorist bombing attacks throughout the country. Many of the attacks have targeted specific individuals or venues, but in all cases have resulted in death and harm to passersby in the vicinity.
Yemen – January 29th 2014
The U.S. Department of State warns of the high security threat level in Yemen due to terrorist activities and civil unrest. Terrorist organizations, including Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), continue to be active throughout Yemen. The U.S. government remains highly concerned about possible attacks on U.S. citizens (whether visiting or residing in Yemen), and U.S. facilities, businesses, and perceived U.S. and Western interests.
Philippines – January 10th 2014
The Department of State warns of the risks of travel to the Philippines, in particular to the Sulu Archipelago and the island of Mindanao where travelers should defer non-essential travel to the Sulu Archipelago, due to the high threat of kidnapping of international travelers and violence linked to insurgency and terrorism there.
Mexico – January 9th 2014
The U.S. Department of State warns about the risk of traveling in Mexico due to threats to safety and security posed by Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) in the country. U.S. citizens have been the target of violent crimes, such as kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery by TCOs in various Mexican states. This Travel Warning replaces the Travel Warning for Mexico, issued July 12, 2013.
Nigeria – January 8th 2014
The Department of State warns of the risks of travel to Nigeria and recommends that U.S. citizens avoid all travel to Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states because of the May 14, 2013 state of emergency proclamation for those three states by the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The declaration of a state of emergency gives the government sweeping powers to search and arrest without warrants.
Republic of South Sudan – January 3rd, 2014
Due to the ongoing political and social unrest in the Republic of South Sudan, the Department of State has further suspended their Embassy services there until further notice. They therefore recommend that all travel to the Republic of South Sudan be avoided.
While traveling, please keep these travel warnings in mind and remember to exercise extra care if you are visiting these countries, and check with your travel insurance provider to make sure you still have coverage in place – sometimes some benefits can be excluded for countries under a travel warning. Travelers are also advised to enroll through the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay up to date on travel security information.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses – What Are They?
January 31st, 2014 by Victoria Troupe
Having medical insurance in the US is crucial to protect you from high expenses associated with healthcare in the US. Insurance pays a portion of your medical expenses for you. Contrary to popular belief, having medical insurance in the US does not mean that you won’t have to pay anything towards your medical expenses. The expenses that you will be expected to pay are called “out-of-pocket expenses.” Every medical insurance plan is different, but generally, you can use the following equation to figure out what you will be paying out of pocket.
Premium + Deductible + Co-insurance + Copayments = Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Each part of this equation is explained in full detail in our Insurance Explained article Understanding Out of Pocket Expenses, but here is a brief definition of each:
Premium – Your premium is the cost of buying your insurance policy.
Deductible – Your deductible is the amount that you are required to pay towards your medical expenses before the insurance company begins to pay towards your medical expenses.
Co-insurance – A co-insurance agreement stipulates the percentage of eligible medical expenses that the insurance company will pay versus the percentage that you will be required to pay.
Copayments – Your copay is an amount of money that you must pay to the doctor each time you seek medical treatment.
Luckily, most policies also include an out-of-pocket maximum limit. Once you’ve paid up to the out-of-pocket maximum limit, the insurance company begins paying 100% of your eligible medical expenses for the remainder of the year. This can protect you in case of a prolonged hospitalization or illness.
All of these things are important to know and understand when shopping for a good international student health insurance. Our Student Secure plans have been designed to offer a low premium, low deductibles, co-insurance 100% paid by the insurance (Select level, in-network), and no copays! Get a free quote and more information here.
Why are Provider Networks Important?
January 24th, 2014 by Bryanna Davis
A subtle cough has been creeping in and although you haven’t been to the gym in a few days you feel very achy. It’s happened! You have gotten sick which means it’s time to go to the doctor. Luckily, you purchased international student health insurance at the beginning of the year, so now you only need to figure out what doctor to choose.
If you’ve heard that you should choose a doctor that’s an “in-network provider” then you’ve heard right, it’s always best to visit an in in-network provider when possible. Why are provider networks important? Here are just a few reasons:
It Saves You Money
When you visit an out of network provider you will typically pay more, or have to pay for your entire bill altogether, depending on your plan. Visiting an in-network provider can help you save money. For example, on the Student Secure plan if you visit an in-network provider you will only have to pay a $25 deductible, and not even worry about paying toward a co-insurance. However, if you choose not to visit an in-network provider you will have a $50 deductible then pay 20% of your remaining bill up to $5,000. Although it still cuts down your medical bill significantly, you’re paying more than necessary out of pocket.
In the Student Secure plan example, visiting an in-network provider would save you up to: $1,025!
Another way that you save money by visiting an in-network provider is that each of the in-network providers have agreed upon a set rate with your insurer. This helps keep the cost of your plan down and control your bills from going over the limit that your insurance plan allows for that certain benefit. More money saved!
They Will Bill the Insurance Company Directly
Medical bills are not cheap. Many international students don’t have enough in their bank account to cover what doctors or hospitals charge. Providers that are in-network have agreed to bill the insurance company directly. This means that you won’t have to pay the entire bill then wait for your refund.
If you’re still asking why are provider networks important, here is the quick answer: they will save you money and help ensure you don’t have to pay your entire medical fee bill of pocket then wait for a refund. You can also find more information on insurance provider networks here.
Health Insurance for International Students in Portugal
January 20th, 2014 by Jennifer Frankel
Studying in Portugal as an international student is a great find. With affordable tuition, a genuine European experience, and a chance to practice your Portuguese – you can’t go wrong! The health care in Portugal is also one of the finest in the world. Consider this. The Portuguese health care system was ranked #12 in the world by the World Health Organization (2000). That being said, Portugal was also ranked #27 as having the most expensive health care system in the world.
So you may be asking yourself, how do I deal with these costs? As an international student it’s important that you get health insurance for Portugal before you depart your home country. Why?
International Student Visa Requires Proof of Insurance
According to the Portuguese Embassy, individuals who need a student visa will be required to show proof of medical insurance valid for Portugal. This will be required as part of your overall application submitted to the nearest Consulate. Since the process can take between 2-4 weeks, it’s important to purchase beforehand and make sure that you have coverage for the entire period you’ll be studying (if you’ll be studying in Portugal beyond a year, you can typically purchase one year of coverage and renew it for the next year).
Be sure to ask your insurance company for a visa letter that you can present detailing:
- Complete name as it appears on your passport
- Date of birth
- Passport number
- Area of coverage
How Your Student Health Insurance Will Work In Portugal
It’s important to know about your health insurance and how it’ll work once you are there. Do you need to pay first and be reimbursed? Are you restricted to the providers you can go to? What if you travel to another country while you are in Portugal, will you be covered? Do you need to call in advance or are you automatically covered? These are all important questions to ask your insurance plan to be sure that you get the coverage you need.
Health Insurance for International Students in Portugal
If you are looking for a health insurance for Portugal, consider the Europe Travel Insurance which has been designed for students like you! Not only can you choose your currency – pounds, euros, or dollars – you will get comprehensive coverage for doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription medications, medical evacuation and repatriation. You can also choose your deductible/excess from as low as 0 (and you’ll have no excess if you have the EHIC card) and your coverage starting at €40,000. You will also get a letter that you can present for your Consulate plus you’ll have 24 hour travel assistance which includes language interpretation.
Want to learn more about Portugal international student insurance? Check out our Portugal section here or you can apply for the Europe Travel Insurance plan.
Don’t Get Caught Without Insurance
January 17th, 2014 by Ross Mason
No-one likes a surprise, and if you are fit and healthy – contemplating what will happen if you get sick or injured is probably furthest from your mind. That is why student health insurance is more important than ever as getting caught without coverage could put you in serious financial trouble.
This is clearly demonstrated in our overview video of the US healthcare system. Some procedures can cost upwards of $150,000 which you will be expected to pay if you do not have insurance!
The good news is that student health insurance is not expensive as you may think, and only starts at just $29/month and includes:
- Easy monthly payment options
- Up to $300,000 in coverage
- $25 deductible at the student health center
- Maternity and mental health benefits
- Quick waiver processing
Don’t get caught without insurance, and speak to one of our friendly insurance agents who will be happy to help you and guide you in the right direction. We are available during normal business hours so call, email, live chat, tweet or facebook us for service!
