How to avoid bed bugs while traveling
October 20th, 2012 by ahoontrakulIf you are studying abroad, you will likely also do a lot of traveling to different cities and neighboring countries. With planning your excursions and studying for you classes, the last thing you may think about is keeping your bed free of bed bugs! However, with recent news about outbreaks of bed bugs, being prepared can help you avoid suffering from the torture of a bed bug infestation. Here are some things you can do to avoid bed bugs while traveling.
Before you leave home and decide where you will be staying, look for reviews about your hotel or hostel. You can look for reviews online by doing a search on Google or on travel websites such as Tripadvisor.com. If someone encounters bed bugs, they will most likely leave a comment online. Remember the bed bugs can infest a place by being carried in inadvertently not necessary because a place is dirty, so a five star hotel can guarantee a bed bug free place anymore than a hostel.
Once you have arrived, check your room for signs of infestation. Bed bugs are about 1-7 millimeters long, reddish brown, flattened oval shaped and wingless. When you are in the room, look around the bed area, check under the sheets, pillowcases bed frame and the headboard. Remember that they like to hide in any nooks and crannies located near their food source (you!).
Even if you search, it is impossible to be 100% sure that there are no bed bugs. To reduce your chance of picking up these little critters even further, avoid putting your suitcase on the bed, or on any carpeted floor in your room. Instead, put your suitcase on a luggage stand or in the bathroom where there are fewer places for the bugs to hide.
If you think there is an infestation, report it to the hotel staff and leave! Stay at another hotel if possible. If changing hotels is not an option, ask for another room as far away from the infested room as possible since the bugs can easily move between adjacent rooms.
If you think you encountered bed bugs during your trip, don’t bring the problem back with you! Make sure to put your belonging into plastic bags so that the bugs can’t spread to other places. Wash and dry all your cloths using the highest temperatures to kill any bugs and have all other non-washable items treated.
By taking these precautions to avoid bed bugs while traveling, you can help keep your dream trip from becoming a blood-sucking nightmare.
Bedbug picture from shutterstock.com
Insurance for Recent International Graduates
October 19th, 2012 by Bryanna Davis
International students in the United States know that finding a health insurance plan that will meet country requirements along with school requirements is not an easy task. It takes time and preparation to find a plan that will not only meet necessary coverage requirements but that fit into a student budget as well. When an international student graduates, something they will need to look into is if they are still eligible for their international student insurance plan. Insurance plans lay out eligibility details that individuals need to meet when buying that specific plan. As life situations change, so will the ability to meet the eligibility requirements of certain plans.
Those who are recent international student graduates and have an international student insurance plan will need to check if they are still eligible. Some plans make certain exceptions for those who have recently graduated, depending on their visa status or if they are in Optical Practical Training (OPT) status, other plans do not. Graduates on plans that require a full-time student status will need to begin the hunt for a new plan.
Individuals who are looking for insurance for recent international graduates have three popular plan options to choose from: the Student Secure plan, the Atlas Travel plan and the Global Medical plan. The plan that will be best suited for the individual will depend on their situation and how long they plan on staying inside the US. Here is a guide for those looking for insurance for recent international graduates:
Less than one year:
Recent graduates who plan on staying inside the US for 364 days or less are able to purchase the Atlas Travel plan. This plan will cover illnesses and injuries and offers graduates the flexibility to choose their coverage amount and deductible.
Less than four years:
The Student Secure plan is an option for insurance for recent international graduates who will be on OPT and still have a valid F-1 visa. Additionally, those who plan on continuing their education in graduate school at a college or university are usually eligible as well. This plan comes in three levels: Smart, Budget and Select and provides coverage for doctor’s visits, hospitalization, repatriation of remains, emergency medical evacuation and more.
Longer than four years:
International students and recent graduates looking for a plan that will last them throughout the years are able to apply for the Global Medical plan. This plan is medically underwritten and provides comprehensive coverage to those who need it.
Recent graduates who would like more information on these plans or assisting picking one out, please contact one of our licensed agents.
*Happy group of students in their graduation smile photo courtesy of shutterstock
Insurance for International Students from Mexico
October 12th, 2012 by Bryanna Davis
The United States and Mexico share a border that spans almost 2,000 miles. With this much land touching it can only be expected that students will want to explore their neighboring land. The number of Mexican international students studying in the United States increased by three percent last year in comparison to the previous year, according to the open doors report. The 2010/11 academic year brought in 13,713 students from Mexico, the majority of those being undergraduate students (59.5 percent).
International students from Mexico will need to meet the F-1 visa requirements. Those requirements include the following:
- Acceptance at a school
- Sufficient funds to pursue the desired course of study
- Preparation for the course of study
- Intent to leave the US after studies are complete
Federal requirements are not the only requirements that international students should be aware of. Colleges and universities also often have certain stipulations that international students must follow. For example, although individuals with an F-1 visa are not federally required to have health insurance, many schools do have an insurance requirement that international students will need to meet. The requirement of insurance for international students from Mexico will vary greatly depending on the institution. Some institutions have an insurance plan through the school that students must purchase; however, some schools allow their students to waive out of this plan as long as the alternate plan can meet certain coverage requirements laid out by the school. Other institutions simply leave students on their own to find an adequate student health insurance plan.
Individuals searching for insurance for international students from Mexico, whether to waive out of a school plan or to simply ensure they have the coverage they need while abroad, one popular plan option is the Student Secure plan. This plan gives eligible Mexican international students coverage inside the US and around the world.
The Student Secure plan allows international students to choose from three different levels: smart, budget and select. This lets students pick the level that has the coverage they need or are required to purchase.
If you would like more information on insurance for international students from Mexico please contact one of our licensed agents today.
*College student sitting on grass photo courtesy of Shutterstock
Studying Abroad with a Food Allergy
October 6th, 2012 by ahoontrakul
There are many benefits to studying abroad, but if you have a severe food allergy, the thought of traveling to another country with strange food customs might give you some pause about your safety. While you have legitimate concerns, it should not stop you from experiencing the world. With some preparations, many people are now traveling and studying abroad safely and comfortably, despite their food allergy.
If you are allergic to certain foods, preparation prior to your trip is key to having your experience goes as smoothly as possible. Here are some suggestions on what food allergy sufferers can do to prepare for their study abroad:
-
Research Food Custom
s. When you are in your planning stage, besides doing research on where to stay, what classes to take and where to travel during your breaks, be sure to also research the food customs of your destination. Many dishes may contain ingredients you might be allergic to but would not be able to tell just by looking; knowing the basics beforehand can save you from eating the wrong food unintentionally. - Bring Necessary Medications. Pack any medications that you may need. Over the counter medication, and most prescription medication, is easily packed. While you might be able to buy over the counter medications in your host country, the brand and the dosage may be different; and getting refills of your existing prescription can be quite difficult. For severe allergy, you should also talk to your doctor before leaving. (See our tips for Traveling with Medication)
- Buy Insurance. Be sure to buy adequate travel health insurance. Review the policy and make sure that the insurance policy will cover you in case you have a serious allergy attack and need to go to the hospital in addition to other sicknesses or injuries.
- Prepare Your Airline. When booking your flight, make sure you contact your airline and inform them about your allergy. With advance notice, most airlines are able to prepare special meals for people with dietary restrictions. You may want to pack some of your own food in a zip lock bag to snack on as well.
- Language Skills. Learn a few important phrases in your host country’s language so that you can tell others about your dietary need or prepare a phrase card that you can show others instead if you are not sure if you can remember how to say it or not have proper pronunciation.
- Communicate. Let important people know about your allergy in advance. For example, if you are staying with a host family, they might decide to cook a welcome dinner for you full of expensive seafood only to find out that you cannot eat any of it.
Finally, once you have arrived, the best way to know what you are eating is to make it yourself! If you are studying abroad and are lucky enough to have a kitchen, ask where to find the nearest grocery store. Not sure what things are? Ask your fellow shoppers! Walking around in the grocery store is a great way for you to meet the locals and gives you the chance to improve your language skills. Studying abroad with a food allergy doesn’t have to limit what you can do, but rather it can be a unique part of your international education.
Picture from ShutterStock.com
Insurance for Indian Students in Germany
October 5th, 2012 by Bryanna Davis
The number of Indian international students in Germany is on the rise. The 2010-11 academic year provided Germany with a total of 5,038 Indian students, whereas the 2011-12 school year brought in 5,998 Indian students according to the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). This means there was a 19 percent increase in the 2011-12 academic year.
If you will be an international student in Germany and are wondering what type of insurance for Indian students in Germany will be the most beneficial for you, there are two popular plan options: the Atlas Travel plan and the Europe Travel plan.
The Atlas Travel plan is a great option when looking at insurance for Indian students in Germany since it is such a flexible plan. The Atlas Travel plan allows individuals to choose their coverage amount and deductible, giving them control over the price. This plan provides comprehensive coverage including doctor visits, hospitalization, medications, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains and hazardous sports coverage.
Another option, the Europe Travel plan, is perfect for international students who will only need one year of coverage. Students who purchase this plan are able to have up to €6,250,000 in coverage and a €0 deductible. A few benefits included in this plan are hospitalization, doctor visits, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, trip interruption, terrorism, as well as security and political evacuation.
Both plans allow you to receive same day coverage and give you immediate access to your documents so you don’t have to worry about if you will receive your documents in time to show proof of coverage.
If you would like assistance comparing the available options regarding insurance for Indian students in Germany, contact one of our licensed agents today.
*Happy young woman holding a German flag photo courtesy of Shutterstock
Netherlands Health Insurance Requirement
September 28th, 2012 by Bryanna Davis
The Netherlands have started cracking down on international students who lack having adequate health insurance during their stay, and hundreds of international students have been already been fined.
International students in the Netherland who are not from the EU, the EEA or Switzerland who plan on working must have the Dutch public healthcare insurance. Students are able to contact their school for guidance on purchasing the public healthcare insurance. It is important to keep in mind that these plans will only cover medical expenses. This means that these international students will need to also purchase an emergency evacuation plan that provides coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains.
If international students in the Netherlands are not earning income or taking part in an internship, it is not necessary for them to take out the Dutch Public Health Insurance, however, the Netherlands health insurance requirement does still necessitate students to have coverage that will meet the Schengen Visa requirements. This means students need to find a plan that includes coverage of at least Euro 30,000, repatriation of remains and emergency medical evacuation.
If you will be an international student in the Netherlands in need of a private health insurance plan, one available option that will meet and exceed the Netherlands health insurance requirement is the Atlas Travel plan.
The Atlas Travel plan gives international students the coverage they need and the flexibility they want. This plan can be purchased for as little as five days of coverage, up to 364 days, and it is renewable for up to three years. Students are also able to customize their plan by choosing what amount of coverage and which deductible they would like included.
If you would more information on how to purchase the Atlas Travel plan to meet the Netherlands health insurance requirement, contact one of our licensed agents today.
*Traditional Dutch Windmill photo courtesy of Shutterstock
International Student Insurance for New Jersey Institute of Technology
September 22nd, 2012 by ahoontrakulNew Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is located in Newark, New Jersey. This university is a popular destination for many international students from all around the world. There are more than 9,000 enrolled students and over 15 percent are international students. Located right across the Hudson River from New York City, students here have access to one of the world’s most lively cities in a short 20 minute ride on public transportation. If you are an international student, the university requires that you have health insurance. Therefore, you will need to purchase international student insurance for New Jersey Institute of Technology.
NJIT offers its own health insurance plan that international students may purchase. However, the university also gives students the option to buy an alternative health insurance plan it they prefer. In addition to medical coverage, international students must also have repatriation and medical evacuation benefits.
Students who want to purchase alternate health insurance can purchase our Student Secure health insurance plan for international students. This plan is a less expensive option compared to the insurance plan offered by the school and will meet and exceed the requirements set by the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Benefits included in this plan are doctor visits, hospitalization, maternity, mental health, pre-existing conditions after only a twelve month waiting period, repatriation of remains as well as emergency medical evacuation.
Our Student Secure International Student Insurance for New Jersey Institute of Technology gives you the flexibility to either pay for the plan in full or pay monthly. Here is an example of the rate for an international student who is 19-24 years old with the Budget level:
Annual payment: $564.20
Monthly Payment: $52
Annual cost of the New Jersey Institute of Technology’s plan: $912
You can purchase your plan directly online and receive a confirmation that includes your ID card through email right after you complete the application process. This email will have all the information you need to complete your school’s online waiver form. Keep in mind that there is a deadline for waiving out of the school’s plan. Students enrolling in the fall semester must waive by September; students enrolling in the Spring/Summer semester must waive by February.
If you would like more information or have questions about international student insurance for New Jersey Institute of Technology, please contact us.
*Prices are based on information available on September 21, 2012
Photo from Shutterstock.com
Seventh Annual Travel Video Contest
September 21st, 2012 by Bryanna Davis
The seventh annual travel video contest has been launched! This means it is your chance to win $4,000 to put towards your travels. If you are a student who will be studying or travelling abroad you simply need to create a five minute video telling us why you want to study abroad. You’re already abroad? No problem, you are still able to enter and tell us about a trip you want to go on while on your journey.
The contest winner will be determined by our judges panel and announced by November 16 in time for International Education Week. The panel of four judges will consist of two past winners (Sandy Florez, 2009 winner and Matt Brattin, 2006 winner) and two international education experts (Jim Crawley and Joe Avison). The grand prize winner will receive $4,000 plus their own travel blog! There will also be great runner-up prizes to those who submitted a video that stood out among the crowd.
To get a sneak peek at what has grabbed the attention of our judges in previous years, check out the past contest winner videos. Although these videos will give good insight into what our panel is looking for, you will want to keep in mind that originality and creativity are key!
The deadline to submit your entry for the seventh annual travel video contest is October 31, meaning time is dwindling fast. To get started you will need to read the contest details and rules and regulations, grab your camera and let the creativity flow.
*Photo of an old movie projector photo courtesy of Shutterstock
Malaysia Student Visa Requirements
September 14th, 2012 by Bryanna Davis
Malaysia is currently ranked in 11th place when it comes to the number of inbound international students. The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) is expecting to reach 200,000 international students in Malaysia by 2020, bring in revenue approximating RM600 billion, according to the Malaysian Insider. However, this flood of international students will be required to adhere to a few new visa requirements. In an attempt to cut down on visa fraud, Malaysia has tightened their visa requirements and even created Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), an organization dedicated to overseeing the visa enrollment process.
Students hoping to study in Malaysia will now have to:
- Be accepted into a higher education institute,
- Be issued a valid student card,
- Take a Malay language course within their first year of study in Malaysia and,
- Purchase medical insurance.
With the exception of the language course, this check list must be completed before applying for a visa.
If you are an international student planning to study inside Malaysia, the sooner you can prepare for your visa, the better. This means ensuring your school of interest has received your acceptance application, preparing yourself to learn a second language and purchasing insurance that will meet the new Malaysia Student Visa Requirements.
For information on applying to a school in Malaysia, it is best to contact the school directly. Often, the school’s website will have information on how to apply and become accepted. There will also be a phone number where you can reach an advisor with any questions you have. You can also check out the very popular website, Study in Malaysia, as they have lots of information on their site too.
If you are on the hunt for Malaysia student insurance, one popular plan option for students trying to meet the Malaysia student visa requirements is the Atlas Travel plan. The Atlas Travel plan gives you the flexibility to choose your coverage amount and deductible, allowing you to have a plan that will meet your insurance requirements and your budget. If you would like to purchase the Atlas Travel plan to meet the new Malaysia student visa requirements, you can apply directly online or contact one of our insurance experts for more information.
New European Study Abroad Health Insurance plan
September 8th, 2012 by ahoontrakulIf you are going to study abroad in Europe, we have recently launched a new plan on our website for students needing a European Study Abroad Health Insurance plan. 
This plan is called the Europe Travel plan, this plan is great for those looking for coverage in Europe as it meets the requirements for the Schengen visa that many student needs for entering many countries in Europe. This plan gives you the option of choosing your policy coverage from 40,000 euros and 6,250,000 euros. What’s more, because this plan is already priced in euro so if you have a bank account in Europe, you will be charged in Euro and not have to worry about the exchange rate to your home currency when buying the plan. If you don’t have a bank account you can also pay by doing a bank transfer very simply and still be able to complete the application online.
Our new European study abroad health insurance plan features a standard $0 excess/deductible so you will receive 100% coverage right away if you were to get sick or injured while you are studying abroad and traveling in Europe.
This plan includes coverage for:
– Inpatients and Outpatients medical treatments
– Hospitalization
– Emergency Medical Evacuation
– Repatriation
– Prescribed Medication
– And more!
You may purchase this plan for your study abroad trip of any length up to 365 days and you will only have to pay for the number of days that you need the plan. You don’t need to be locked in for a month of coverage if you only need half a month.
If you have any questions about our European Study Abroad Health Insurance plan please feel free to contact our insurance agent who will be happy to help answer any questions you might have.
Europe Map picture from Shutterstock
