Take a little trip with a big backpack
Traveling through Europe
Alexis Abb
Issue date: 4/5/06 Section: Travel
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At the age of 18-years-old, Jessica White had finished her associate's degree at Tompkins-Cortland Community College. Two years ahead in her college career, Jessica decided to take some time off from school to experience a new adventure in life. Instead of just working to save money (already having two jobs since she was 15), she decided to travel. "I didn't know how much everything would cost and I didn't know exactly where I was going," says Jessica. "But I knew I wanted to backpack around Europe!"
How to get started
The first step is deciding where you want to travel and what you want to see. Browse your local library or more conveniently, spend a few hours looking through travel websites. Not everyone has the time or money to travel abroad or stay in Europe for 2 months, but think of it this way; it's a life-time investment. There are many options to choose from as well as ways to save money, especially for the "starving college student."
Great travel information
Some recommended websites include: www.travelzoo.com, www.travelocity.com, and
www.studentuniverse.com. These sites offer many discounts for flights, hotels, and vacation packages.
If you have a hard time planning all the details of a trip consider visiting a travel agent namely one of Liberty Travel in the Crossgates Mall.
"We can help you build a trip anywhere in the world, from the flight to the hotels, said Brian Dorman, travel consultant at Liberty Travel in Crossgates. Although they will help you find great discounts on your trip, this still may be too expensive for the average college student. Don't worry this is not your only option!
Another alternative approach
Contiki is a traveler assistance program for those 18-35 years old. They have a variety of trips to choose from and information on staying in hostels. Contiki has three options for booking: contacting a local travel agent, visiting their website at www.contiki.com, or using their toll free number (1-800-CONTIKI).
Watch that exchange rate
Whenever you travel to another country, there's always a different currency and exchange rate changes. Skip the hassle of changing your money and opt for travelers checks (these are accepted almost everywhere). In case of an emergency, it is also a good idea to sign up for a credit card.
Next, is the question of transportation? Which way is the most efficient? The easiest and most used transportation is the train because it connects many cities throughout Europe. Visit www.europass.com to select the right rail package for your trip.
What to Bring:
Hiking backpack (these can be found at your local sports store)
Passport
Limited Clothing (pack light clothes that can be washed easily)
Limited toiletries (soap, tooth brush, tooth paste)
Camera
Remember, the more you want to bring means the more you have to carry and you may want to leave room in your bag for souvenirs.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that this trip is not impossible if you plan it right. So instead of staying home this summer, look into travelling abroad. It is a great experience to have in your life!
How to get started
The first step is deciding where you want to travel and what you want to see. Browse your local library or more conveniently, spend a few hours looking through travel websites. Not everyone has the time or money to travel abroad or stay in Europe for 2 months, but think of it this way; it's a life-time investment. There are many options to choose from as well as ways to save money, especially for the "starving college student."
Great travel information
Some recommended websites include: www.travelzoo.com, www.travelocity.com, and
www.studentuniverse.com. These sites offer many discounts for flights, hotels, and vacation packages.
If you have a hard time planning all the details of a trip consider visiting a travel agent namely one of Liberty Travel in the Crossgates Mall.
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Another alternative approach
Contiki is a traveler assistance program for those 18-35 years old. They have a variety of trips to choose from and information on staying in hostels. Contiki has three options for booking: contacting a local travel agent, visiting their website at www.contiki.com, or using their toll free number (1-800-CONTIKI).
Watch that exchange rate
Whenever you travel to another country, there's always a different currency and exchange rate changes. Skip the hassle of changing your money and opt for travelers checks (these are accepted almost everywhere). In case of an emergency, it is also a good idea to sign up for a credit card.
Next, is the question of transportation? Which way is the most efficient? The easiest and most used transportation is the train because it connects many cities throughout Europe. Visit www.europass.com to select the right rail package for your trip.
What to Bring:
Hiking backpack (these can be found at your local sports store)
Passport
Limited Clothing (pack light clothes that can be washed easily)
Limited toiletries (soap, tooth brush, tooth paste)
Camera
Remember, the more you want to bring means the more you have to carry and you may want to leave room in your bag for souvenirs.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that this trip is not impossible if you plan it right. So instead of staying home this summer, look into travelling abroad. It is a great experience to have in your life!