Planning an international trip
This year the excitement of planning an international trip of a lifetime also comes with the reality of a weak dollar. While you may think that your pockets aren’t deep enough for traveling overseas this summer, STA Travel has expert tips to make a summer getaway affordable.
Here are STA Travel’s tips for planning a great summer getaway on a manageable budget.
– Pre-Book Everything — There isn’t much you can’t purchase prior to departure including tours and activities, accommodations, international cell phones, and travel insurance (and the list goes on and on). You can literally save hundreds of dollars by paying for these items here in the U.S. rather than battling the exchange rate while away. This also helps to lock in your budget before you leave and cuts down on unexpected expenses along the way. To really lock down your travel budget, book a package tour that includes lodging, transportation and in some cases food for an inclusive adventure. For example, embark on a 14-day European tour that includes accommodations, activities and entertainment as well as most meals for $1,694.
– Exchange Your Currency at Home, Not at the Airport ATM or Abroad — Along with pre-booking your travel must-haves, you can also purchase your foreign currency online at http://www.statravel.com before you go. STA Travel allows you to buy from a selection of 100 foreign currencies and have them conveniently delivered right to your door. Even better, if you return with left over funds, you can exchange them back at the fixed rate of your original purchase. Much better than walking around with 40 Euros for the next 3 months!
– Consider Alternate Entry Points Into Europe — While London, Paris and Rome may be convenient, some alternate entry points can save you hundreds of dollars and offer much better availability. Brussels, Munich, Manchester and Zurich are all wonderful alternatives. From these locations, you can catch the rail and see the European countryside through the comforts of the train. The rail can also save on your accommodations. If you plan your arrival at nighttime and jump on the train, you can catch some z’s on the ride and save yourself a hotel stay.
– Anyone for Asia? — Alternative entry points are always a good idea but what about some alternate summer destinations to help you cut considerable costs? Thailand, Uruguay, Panama and Costa Rica are locations where the dollar is considerably strong and offers everything a student traveler is looking for including food, music, culture and lifestyle. While the cost of the air ticket won’t differ greatly from Europe, the on-ground expenses for these destinations are still a bargain!
– Save While You’re Away — Take advantage of even more international discounts with your International Student Identity Card (ISIC). You’ll save hundreds for only $22.
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