Safety

The locations we visit are safe, however, you should always be street smart.

When out in public, at cafes, markets, anywhere people can overhear your conversation – remember you want to be aware of how loudly you are speaking and how much information you are giving out, for instance, specifics about where you are residing. We do not allow anyone not involved in our programs entry into the residence.

Our staff will always be available to guide and direct you, but if you happen to need directions be mindful of who you ask for help.  The best thing is to talk to someone working in a store, restaurant, tourism office, or police officer. 

If you choose to take a taxi always take a vehicle that is clearly identified as a taxicab.

Money

You do not need a lot of money while on our programs, unless you plan on shopping, so only carry small amounts in small denominations when heading out.

The safest thing to use is a money belt hidden under your clothing. If you are  carrying a purse, ensure it is always closed and held where you can see it.

The remainder of your funds should be left at your residence locked in your suitcase or in a safe. 

If you are using a credit card – make sure you have the number to call if it is lost or stolen, and keep a copy back at your residence. Report lost or stolen items immediately to the police and to our staff so that they can assist you.

Try and withdraw money from ATMs only during daylight hours and preferably only inside banks or areas near your residence.

Budgeting

Your breakfasts and dinners are covered for you, and in some locations so are your lunches.

In locations where you need to buys lunches or snacks, check out grocery stores where you can buy breads, cheeses, fruits etc and store in your fridges. Or try some of the little cafes and shops where you can try unique foods and get to know the food culture of the location you are visiting.

Remember when heading out with your friends during your free time to shows, museums, galleries, or taking public transportation, let them know you are a student – you can often get student discounts that will save you some money too.

Your Group Leader will give you some tips on where to get some tasty foods and  great things at reasonable prices, that way you can have some extra money for shopping if you wish to do so!

Important Documents

Your passport is something you should try and not lose as it can be time consuming and expensive to replace a passport abroad. Students often forget them in the pouch pockets on planes, at customs counters, or in bathrooms. Try to put your passport in the same location in your bag so you can always find it instead of putting it down on a counter. If you realize you have lost your passport, let our staff know and they will assist you in getting a new one.

On arrival at each destination our staff will collect passports and put them in a safe place for you. But always remember to take a copy before departure, and leave that copy at home and bring an extra copy with you for reference should you lose your passport.

Insurance (never travel without it)

If you are not obtaining the insurance through our programs, please ensure our office has your insurance information and bring a copy of the info with you. Our staff will always assist you should you need to go to a doctor's office or if an emergency arises and having your insurance information handy will make things a lot easier.

Packing (not what to take . . . but what to leave at home)

Pack Light!  Leave room in your luggage for the things you may want to buy and bring home – souvenirs etc. – or pack an extra backpack or duffle bag for your return.

Remember – a couple weeks worth of clothing is usually enough, and you can always wash your clothes while away – other wise you may have to pay extra charges for over weight luggage on flights.  Pack all valuables (things that you couldn’t live without) in your carry on bag. Staff will let you know about any restrictions regarding what you can and cannot pack in your bags at our general meeting.

Luggage (we all have baggage . . .)

Never leave your luggage unattended especially at airports. Security will apprehend any luggage lying around and you may not get it back!

Photography

You will be swimming and snorkelling on many of our programs so you may wish to bring a waterproof/underwater camera. There are disposable cameras you can purchase which are very inexpensive and you can take some great pictures of your underwater adventures!

Respect the locals (and everyone else for that matter!)

Many of the countries you will be visiting follow diverse customs and we ask that you respect the traditions and the people of the countries you are visiting. These programs will give you the chance to explore many different cultures in local settings and we know it will be an enriching experience for you. Having said that, you will be travelling with many other students and staff who also deserve the same respect.

Canadian Embassies & Consulates Abroad

Electricity & Outlets

If you are bringing anything that has to be plugged in, you will need adapters and converters for most countries. The info below will show you what plug adapters you must bring along on your trip.