As a study abroad student in Paris, you have countless sights to see within the city itself, but Paris also offers easy access to a variety of remarkable destinations just a short train ride away. From stunning palaces to charming towns, there’s so much more of France to experience. Here are four unforgettable places we recommend for a day or weekend getaway while studying abroad in Paris.

Student’s photo who attended SAI’s study abroad program at The American University of Paris. For the full program review click here.

• Versailles

Travel Time: 30 minutes by train (RER C)

Just a half-hour from Paris, Versailles is home to the iconic Palace of Versailles, one of the most visited landmarks in France. The palace’s grandeur is evident from the moment you step inside, with its gilded halls, opulent furnishings, and the famed Hall of Mirrors, where historical treaties were signed. Marvel at the ornate ceilings and the apartments of the kings and queens, including Marie Antoinette’s private chambers.

Image by sumulee from Pixabay

The gardens are equally impressive and cover over 800 hectares. You can spend hours strolling through these perfectly manicured grounds, dotted with sculptures, fountains, and hidden groves. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal for a unique view of the gardens. Before you leave, explore the Trianon Palaces and the Queen’s Hamlet, where Marie Antoinette created a rustic retreat.

Insider Tip: Try to visit on a weekday or early morning to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the serene beauty of the gardens.

• Giverny

Travel Time: 45 minutes by train from Paris Saint-Lazare, then a short bus ride

For art lovers, a visit to Giverny is like stepping into an Impressionist painting. This small village is where Claude Monet, the father of Impressionism, lived and painted some of his most famous works. Begin with Monet’s house and garden, where you can see his studio, decorated in vibrant colors and filled with Japanese prints that inspired him. Outside, the gardens are meticulously maintained, and you’ll immediately recognize the iconic water lilies and Japanese bridge from his masterpieces.

Image by Nadrog from Pixabay

After touring Monet’s home, take some time to explore the charming town of Giverny. The Musée des Impressionnismes is also nearby, where you can see rotating exhibits on Impressionism and its influence on art worldwide.

Insider Tip: Giverny is best visited in the spring and early summer when the flowers are in full bloom. Arrive early to capture the gardens in the soft morning light before they get too busy.

•  Reims

Travel Time: 45 minutes by high-speed train from Paris Gare de l’Est

The historic city of Reims in the Champagne region is a fantastic day trip for those interested in French history, Gothic architecture, and, of course, champagne. Start your day with a visit to the Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned for centuries. The cathedral’s Gothic architecture is awe-inspiring, with intricate sculptures and stained-glass windows that tell the stories of France’s past.

Image by dozemode from Pixabay

Reims is also the heart of the champagne-making region. Many of the major champagne houses offer tours and tastings, allowing you to learn about the history and process behind this famous sparkling wine. Consider visiting Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, or Pommery for a tour of their underground cellars and a tasting. Each house has its own unique history and character, making the experience educational and enjoyable.

Insider Tip: Book your champagne house tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

• Strasbourg

Travel Time: 2 hours by high-speed train from Paris Gare de l’Est

A journey to Strasbourg brings you to the beautiful region of Alsace, where French and German cultures blend seamlessly. Strasbourg’s medieval architecture, canals, and half-timbered houses make it feel like something out of a fairytale. Start your visit in the La Petite France district, a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets and charming cafes overlooking the river.

Photo from a study abroad student’s review. For the full review click here.

Be sure to visit the Strasbourg Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture known for its distinctive pink sandstone and the astronomical clock inside. Climb the cathedral’s tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. While you’re there, explore the nearby Place Kléber, the main square, filled with shops and local eateries where you can sample traditional Alsatian dishes like tarte flambée.

If you visit Strasbourg in December, the city’s Christmas markets are among the oldest and most famous in Europe. You’ll find handcrafted gifts, delicious treats, and an enchanting holiday atmosphere that truly brings the season to life.

Insider Tip: For a scenic experience, take a boat tour along the canals to see Strasbourg from the water.

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These destinations offer a wonderful blend of art, history, and culture that enrich the study abroad experience in Paris. Each city provides unique insights into French heritage and offers plenty of memorable moments, making them ideal for any student’s travel list. Enjoy your adventures!

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Embarking on a journey to explore Native Alaskan culture offers a deep dive into the traditions and history of a diverse group of Indigenous peoples who have called the region home for thousands of years. You can enrich your travels by immersing yourself in the rich narratives and cultural expressions found throughout Alaska. Whether you’re enthralled by ancient stories or eager to experience the vibrant traditional dances, each encounter promises to deepen your appreciation for these timeless cultures.

Visiting key historic sites allows you to connect with the past and present of Alaska’s Native traditions. The Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage is a must-see stop, providing interactive exhibits and authentic demonstrations. From traditional housing displays to engaging events, you’ll find a comprehensive introduction to the 11 major Native cultures of Alaska.

Combining cultural exploration with breathtaking sights can be achieved by cruising Alaska’s coast, where you witness stunning glaciers and abundant wildlife while sailing through this unique landscape. This adventure not only highlights the natural beauty of Alaska but also intertwines with the cultural tapestry that defines this incredible region. Take the opportunity to truly appreciate the intricate blend of tradition and nature that characterizes Alaska.

Cultural Traditions and Practices

The rich traditions of Native Alaskan cultures encompass a wide range of practices and beliefs. These include their subsistence lifestyle, unique artistic expressions, and structured social systems. Spiritual beliefs and ceremonial rituals play a significant role in everyday life.

Subsistence Lifestyle

In Native Alaskan cultures, the subsistence lifestyle forms the cornerstone of daily living. This way of life involves fishing, hunting, and gathering, which are not merely survival techniques but also cultural practices passed down through generations. Depending on the season, communities rely on fishing for salmon and hunting for caribou and seals. Gathering berries and other plant-based resources also complements dietary needs.

Through these activities, you can see the deep connection with nature and respect for the land. Resource management is integral, often governed by traditional knowledge to ensure sustainability. Passing down skills like boatmaking and tool crafting preserves both livelihood and cultural identity.

Artistic Expressions

Art is a vital component of Native Alaskan culture, serving as both a communication tool and a method of preserving history and traditions. You can encounter intricate carvings on ivory and wood, depicting stories and legends from generations past. Basket weaving and textile art often incorporate natural dyes and traditional patterns, showcasing both utility and beauty.

Masks used in storytelling and ceremonial dances express complex spiritual themes. These artistic practices not only reflect individual cultures, such as the Yup’ik or Tlingit, but also the collective identity of Native Alaskans. Engaging with these artistic expressions offers a window into the diverse cultural richness of the region.

Social Structures and Kinship

Complex social structures define Native Alaskan communities. Kinship systems often determine social interactions and community responsibilities. Families are linked by clan affiliations, which dictate social conduct and marriage rules. Leadership roles usually arise from experience and wisdom, with elders holding significant positions of authority and respect.

Decision-making often emphasizes consensus, reflecting a cooperative community spirit. Understanding these social structures provides insight into how these communities maintain cohesion and resilience. The importance of kinship ties is evident in various ceremonies and gatherings, reinforcing communal bonds.

Spiritual Beliefs and Rituals

Native Alaskan spiritual beliefs are deeply intertwined with the natural world. Land and resources are viewed as gifts from ancestral spirits, requiring respect and gratitude. Rituals and ceremonies, such as the potlatch, serve as communal events to honor spirits and celebrate significant life events.

Many communities practice shamanism, where shamans act as intermediaries with the spiritual world, guiding and healing the people. The use of symbols and dances in spiritual practices highlights a connection between the physical and spiritual realms. These beliefs and rituals nurture a profound sense of identity and continuity within Native Alaskan societies, providing meaning and guidance across generations.

Historic Sites and Museums

Exploring Native Alaskan culture involves visits to archaeological sites, cultural centers, and national historical parks, each offering unique insights into indigenous traditions. Preservation efforts also play a key role in maintaining these sites for future generations.

Archaeological Sites

Alaska is dotted with archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into its ancient past. These sites are invaluable for understanding the early lifestyles and migrations of Native Alaskans. Aniakchak National Monument and Cape Krusenstern are notable examples, providing evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years.

At these sites, you can find artifacts such as stone tools and pottery shards that reveal daily life patterns. Guided tours often provide context, helping you appreciate the significance of these remnants. Careful excavation and preservation ensure these sites remain accessible and informative for future visits.

Cultural Centers

Cultural centers are pivotal in preserving and teaching Native Alaskan traditions. The Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage is a must-visit. It showcases the heritage of all 11 major Alaska Native cultures through interactive exhibits, films, and traditional housing sites.

In these centers, you can engage with hands-on demonstrations such as dance performances and craft-making. This interactive learning helps deepen your appreciation of the richness and diversity of Native cultures. Many centers also offer workshops that allow you to participate in indigenous arts, enhancing your cultural experience.

National Historical Parks

Alaska’s national historical parks preserve significant cultural and historical landmarks. The Sitka National Historical Park is renowned for its Tlingit and Russian history. Here, you’ll encounter totem poles and trails that tell the story of the early 19th-century battles between Russian settlers and indigenous populations.

Additionally, Glacier Bay National Park offers opportunities to learn about the Huna Tlingit culture at the Xunaa Shuká Hít. These parks serve not only as educational grounds but also as places for reflection on the deep history and resilience of Alaska’s indigenous peoples.

Round River’s Conservation study abroad program in Alaska.

Preservation Efforts

Preservation efforts are crucial in ensuring that historic sites remain intact and accessible. Various state and federal programs focus on maintaining these cultural landmarks. Collaborations with Native tribes are essential, as they ensure that preservation respects traditional knowledge and customs.

Efforts include maintaining trails, restoring artifacts, and hosting events that raise public awareness. Through these efforts, you can witness how native communities and authorities work together to keep their cultural heritage alive. Volunteering opportunities also exist if you wish to contribute directly to these preservation initiatives.

If you’re a student and you love to travel and meet other cultures, studying abroad is the perfect option for you! Have you already considered that? If not, here are some facts that maybe are going to change your mind.

You can spend some very significant time learning, developing skills, and meeting different people and cultures. You can also choose a country that you’re most interested in seeing, and if you love writing and you’re thinking about writing a novel, well, you can’t get better inspiration than a fresh experience with all sorts of diversities. 

To get all of that, all you need to do is choose a study program and pack your bags, and the whole different world is waiting for you.

Do you want to develop your storytelling? Do you want to get inspired and boost your creativity while learning? If the answer to these questions is “Yes,” then this guide is just for you.

Get Inspired With the Impact of Culture

Learning about cultural differences is (usually) a really rich experience, not just for self-development, but also for character development in novels. You can use a lot of details that you see and make your story unique with them. 

For example, you meet a Turkish friend in your school, and you ask him what they usually call their girlfriends or loved ones in the Turkish language. Also, you can ask him a lot about his religion and culture. You can create a lot from it. With all that information, you make a story around female character who meets a Turkish guy and falls in love with him. 

She finds it so sweet that he calls her “Aşkım” (eng. My love), their love is beautiful and different from everything she has experienced before. When their relationship starts to become more serious, she finds out that his family is very religious and she is discovering very big cultural differences that Islam brings, etc.

The point is that every experience can make a significant impact on your storytelling and you should get the most out of it.

Experience unparalleled cultural immersion with Arcos Learning Abroad at the University of Belgrano in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Fresh Perspective

Everything depends on perspective, which also applies to writing. You can find out so much about familiar themes from new angles, which will offer you a fresh perspective that can mean a lot to you in storytelling.

Studying abroad can definitely expand your views on many subjects, and that is something you can hardly gain if you stay at home or take a short trip to another country.

Every change is hard in the beginning, but don’t get scared because you can benefit a lot from studying abroad.

Personal Growth is Crucial for Creative Writing

Every good writer has emotional depth and a developed imagination that is intertwined with creativity. That isn’t just a question of personal characteristics or talent; it has a lot more to do with the experience.

During your study abroad, you will probably face some challenges that will contribute to your personal growth. Building resilience, developing independence, overcoming fear of loneliness, and missing family are all big factors in self-growth.

If you were wondering whether you should write a novel or not, studying abroad might just be your source of motivation for that endeavor. Plus, you’ll also be working on your self-development.

5 Key Elements Every Good Novel Must Have

If you’re struggling with what are the main points your story must have to be a good novel, here are 5 key elements that will help you in your writing for sure.

1. (Compelling) Characters

Your characters must be developed in a way that makes it easy for the reader to connect with them. They need to have some emotions, motivation, desires, and growth throughout the story.

2. (Engaging) Plot

You have to nurture the structure carefully; the balance between the conflict, tension, and resolution is perhaps the hardest part of working on a plot. The plot had better hold the reader’s interest for the entire duration of the story.

3. (Powerful) Setting

The setting needs to be convincing, realistic, and colourful. It should not be separate from the narration but should add to the story.

4. (Unique) Narrative Voice

Don’t try to sound like an author whose style you love. There is no authenticity in that. You must find your own unique voice and make a narrative that will give your novel personality.

5. (Significant) Theme

A meaningful theme is that which touches the heart of the readers, and that’s something you should consider when deciding the direction of your narrative. It should possess a certain profundity to add an interesting, controversial or very relatable element to one’s work.

Unforgettable study abroad experience with CYA (College Year in Athens) Study Abroad – Read the full student’s review.

Conclusion

In case you’re an aspiring author who wants to gain a global perspective and is looking for a source of motivation for writing a book, going overseas to study will definitely suit you the most.

Meet new people, get to know their ways and faiths, travel around various nations and observe how the citizens of those nations live and reason, and adapt all this to create the most captivating tale.

Studying music abroad even just for a semester or summer session can be a great opportunity to hone your musical skills. You can also get exposed to different cultures that can contribute to your overall growth and gain connections as well. However, if you’re a musician and want to bring your string instrument with you abroad, that’s where the dilemma comes in. Fortunately, renting is a practical way to go if you’re studying internationally.

Abroadia’s Austin Community College Percussion Program in Cuba! Click here for more info!

Local Music Instructors Abroad

One of the reliable resources to consult are local music instructors in your host country. You can ask them for places where you can rent high-quality instruments. They may recommend local rental shops or particular services that cater to international students like you.

Aside from helping you direct to a local rental service, local music instructors abroad can also guide you through the country’s cultural nuances. For instance, they have a particular preferred brand, style, or string types that you’ll encounter there.

Local Music Shops in Your Host Country

The good thing about countries accepting international students is that they are well-versed in working with foreign students, especially those regions with music education programs. With this in mind, you can ensure that they have shops with rental packages designed specifically for students of short-term stay. Likewise, always consider in-person consultation for finding an instrument so you can feel comfortable on your chosen instrument.

When you rent instruments from local shops, you can even negotiate rental terms depending on your situation. For instance, you can borrow instruments for a semester only or a whole summer program. This often comes with discounts that are a total deal.

Online Rental Services for String Instruments

Online string instrument rentals become very accessible due to the fact that rental companies make it even more accessible for musicians to borrow instruments. In other countries, there are online services that offer international delivery even across borders. This 

Many websites provide detailed descriptions of their rental offerings, including pricing, maintenance policies, and the type of instruments available. You can then compare prices and policies that will suit your preferences and needs. Doing this research in advance will help you find the best deal, ensuring that you get a high-quality instrument at a reasonable price. 

Student Music Communities and Forums

One thing you should know is that there are music communities and forums for international students like you. These communities can provide insights into local rental options, pricing, and the quality of available instruments. You can connect to them and learn some practical tips.

Conclusion

If you plan to become an international student, I can assure you that string instrument rentals is an accessible and easy way to continue your musical experience abroad. Be it asking a music teacher, a local shop, or visiting online communities, you can surely find recommendations that will suit your needs. Don’t be afraid to consider rental options and enjoy its affordability and hassle-free path for musicians like you.

Taiwan is becoming a prime destination for students interested in learning Mandarin during a study abroad experience. Offering an immersive environment, rich culture, and world-renowned language programs, Taiwan presents the perfect setting for mastering Mandarin in a short-term, semester-long program.

Student’s review photo that attended ACTR’s : Taiwan Intensive Summer Language Program (TISLP)

Why Taiwan is Ideal for Learning Mandarin

Studying Mandarin in Taiwan provides several unique advantages. Here’s why many students choose Taiwan for their language studies:

1. Traditional Chinese: In Taiwan, students learn traditional Chinese characters, offering a deeper connection to the language’s cultural roots compared to regions that use simplified Chinese.
2. Immersive Learning Environment: From engaging with locals in markets to navigating the public transit system, students are fully immersed in a Mandarin-speaking environment. Daily practice outside the classroom accelerates language acquisition.
3. Cultural Enrichment: Beyond language, students experience Taiwan’s rich traditions, festivals, and cuisine, providing a holistic cultural immersion that enhances the language learning process.

Mandarin Language Programs in Taiwan

Many top universities and Mandarin language centers in Taiwan offer short-term, semester-long Mandarin programs designed for international students. These programs provide structured language learning combined with real-world practice and cultural exposure. Here’s what to expect:

1. Comprehensive Language Training

Most Mandarin programs in Taiwan focus on all aspects of the language: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Classes are taught by experienced instructors and are designed to help students quickly build proficiency in practical, everyday Mandarin.

2. Flexible Program Options

Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your existing Mandarin skills, Taiwan’s Mandarin language centers offer flexible options that cater to different skill levels. From intensive daily courses to more relaxed schedules, students can choose the program that best fits their needs.

3. Example: Mandarin Training Center (MTC NTNU)

One of the most respected language programs in Taiwan is the Mandarin Training Center (MTC) at National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU). Known for its immersive teaching methods and cultural classes, the Taiwan National Normal University Mandarin Training Center attracts thousands of international students each year. Their semester-long programs are perfect for students who want to improve their Mandarin in a structured yet dynamic environment.

Living and Learning in Taiwan

While studying abroad in Taiwan, students are based in vibrant cities like Taipei. Known for its blend of modernity and tradition, Taipei is the ideal place for students to immerse themselves in both the language and the culture. From bustling night markets to serene temples, there is always something to explore in the city while practicing Mandarin with friendly locals.

Taiwan’s public transportation system, safety, and cost of living make it a convenient and affordable destination for international students. Whether taking a weekend trip to visit Taiwan’s scenic mountains or enjoying local street food, students are constantly surrounded by opportunities to practice and improve their Mandarin.

Preparing for Your Study Abroad Experience

Before embarking on your Mandarin learning journey in Taiwan, here are some key points to consider:

• Visa and Application Process: Taiwan requires international students to obtain a student visa. Make sure to research the application process and apply early to avoid delays.
• Accommodation: Many language programs offer assistance with housing, whether through university dorms or nearby apartments. It’s important to arrange your accommodation before arriving.
• Health and Safety: Taiwan is known for its excellent healthcare and safety standards. As an international student, you will have access to Taiwan’s healthcare system, ensuring you are well-supported during your stay.

Why Study Mandarin in Taiwan?

Choosing Taiwan as your destination for learning Mandarin offers a unique blend of high-quality language programs and immersive cultural experiences. With its focus on traditional Chinese, supportive learning environment, and vibrant culture, Taiwan is the perfect place for students to develop their Mandarin skills while enjoying the adventure of studying abroad.

For more details about studying abroad in Taiwan, including program reviews and tips on planning your trip, visit our Taiwan study abroad page.

The holiday season is the perfect time to show your loved ones how much you appreciate their passions and interests. For travel enthusiasts, nothing beats a gift that fuels their wanderlust and creates lasting memories. Experience Christmas gifts are the ideal choice, offering unique adventures and unforgettable moments. Whether they’re avid explorers or occasional travelers, these top 10 experience-based Christmas gifts will delight any globe-trotter on your list.

Students enjoying a London fun tour while attending University of Westminster’s study abroad program.

1. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Imagine soaring above breathtaking landscapes, witnessing sunrises or sunsets from a serene vantage point. A hot air balloon ride is a magical experience that offers tranquility and stunning views. Whether it’s over vineyards, mountains, or coastal regions, this gift provides a unique perspective of the world that your travel-loving friend will cherish forever.

Why It’s a Great Gift:

• Unique Perspective: Offers stunning aerial views that are impossible to capture from the ground.
• Romantic and Memorable: Perfect for creating unforgettable memories, whether alone or with a partner.
• Safe and Guided: Experienced pilots ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

2. Cooking Classes in a Foreign Country

For those who love to travel and cook, combining these passions can be incredibly rewarding. Enroll them in a cooking class in a destination they’ve always wanted to visit. From Italian pasta-making in Tuscany to sushi crafting in Tokyo, this experience allows them to immerse themselves in local culture through its cuisine.

Why It’s a Great Gift:

• Cultural Immersion: Provides deep insights into the local traditions and culinary practices.
• Skill Development: Enhances their cooking skills with authentic techniques.
• Social Experience: Opportunities to meet fellow travelers and locals.

3. Travel Photography Workshop

Capture the beauty of their journeys with a travel photography workshop. These workshops are designed to improve their photography skills while exploring new destinations. Guided by professional photographers, they’ll learn techniques to take stunning photos, making their travel memories even more vivid.

Why It’s a Great Gift:

• Skill Enhancement: Helps improve their photography skills with expert guidance.
• Creative Outlet: Encourages creativity and artistic expression.
• Beautiful Memories: Results in high-quality photos that document their travels.

4. Adventure Tours

For the thrill-seeker, adventure tours offer adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining, white-water rafting, or mountain trekking. These guided tours are tailored to various skill levels, ensuring a safe and exhilarating experience that aligns with their adventurous spirit.

Why It’s a Great Gift:

• Exciting Experiences: Provides thrilling activities that break the routine.
• Physical Challenge: Encourages physical activity and personal growth.
• Team Building: Great for traveling with friends or family, fostering teamwork and bonding.

5. Language Learning Courses Abroad

Learning a new language can enhance any travel experience. Gift them a language course in a country they plan to visit, allowing them to communicate more effectively and connect deeply with locals. This immersive learning experience can make their future travels more enriching and enjoyable.

Why It’s a Great Gift:

• Cultural Connection: Facilitates better interactions with locals.
• Practical Skills: Useful for both travel and personal development.
• Immersive Learning: Provides a hands-on approach to language acquisition.

6. Luxury Hotel Stay or Resort Getaway

Sometimes, the best gift is the gift of relaxation. A stay at a luxury hotel or resort offers a break from the hustle and bustle of travel. Whether it’s a beachfront villa, a mountain lodge, or a city penthouse, this gift provides comfort and indulgence that every traveler deserves.

Why It’s a Great Gift:

• Ultimate Relaxation: Offers a chance to unwind and rejuvenate.
• High-Quality Amenities: Access to top-notch facilities and services.
• Memorable Experience: Creates lasting memories in a beautiful setting.

7. Travel Subscription Boxes

Subscription boxes tailored for travelers can provide ongoing excitement. These boxes often include travel-themed items like maps, gadgets, snacks, and souvenirs from around the world. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, delivering a taste of global adventures right to their doorstep.

Why It’s a Great Gift:

• Continuous Surprise: Monthly deliveries keep the excitement alive.
• Variety of Items: Offers a diverse range of travel-related products.
• Affordable: Great for those who love surprises without a hefty price tag.

8. Guided City Tours

Even seasoned travelers can appreciate a guided tour that reveals hidden gems and local secrets. Whether it’s a walking tour of historic sites, a food tour of the best local eateries, or a themed tour like street art or haunted places, guided city tours enrich their travel experience with insider knowledge.

Why It’s a Great Gift:

• Local Insights: Provides expert knowledge about the destination.
• Convenience: Hassle-free way to explore new areas.
• Enhanced Experience: Deepens their understanding and appreciation of the locale.

9. National Park Annual Pass

For those who love nature and outdoor adventures, an annual pass to national parks is an excellent gift. It grants access to some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes, encouraging frequent trips and exploration of different parks throughout the year.

Why It’s a Great Gift:

• Unlimited Access: Visit multiple parks without worrying about individual fees.
• Encourages Exploration: Inspires regular outdoor adventures.
• Supports Conservation: Contributes to the maintenance and preservation of national parks.

10. Personalized Travel Itinerary Planning Service

Planning a trip can be time-consuming and stressful. A personalized travel itinerary planning service takes the guesswork out of travel, creating a customized plan that suits their preferences and interests. From accommodations and activities to dining and transportation, this service ensures a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

Why It’s a Great Gift:

• Time-Saving: Handles all the planning details for a stress-free trip.
• Tailored to Preferences: Customized to their unique travel style and interests.
• Expert Recommendations: Leverages local expertise for the best experiences.

Honorable Mentions

While the top 10 experience-based Christmas gifts cover a wide range of interests and preferences, here are a few additional ideas that might also resonate with travel enthusiasts:

• Eco-Tourism Experiences: Sustainable travel options that support environmental conservation.
• Cultural Immersion Programs: Opportunities to live with local families and experience daily life.
• Wellness Retreats: Focused on relaxation, yoga, and mental well-being in exotic locations.

Choosing the Perfect Experience Christmas Gift

When selecting an experience Christmas gift for a travel enthusiast, consider their travel style, interests, and the type of adventures they enjoy. Personalization is key—choosing something that aligns with their passions will make the gift even more special. Additionally, ensure that the experience is feasible in terms of timing and location, and always check for any necessary bookings or reservations in advance.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas, go beyond the traditional gifts and surprise your travel-loving friends and family with an experience that will inspire and excite them. From soaring in a hot air balloon to exploring local cuisines in a foreign land, these experience Christmas gifts offer more than just a present—they provide moments of joy, discovery, and connection. Choose one of these top 10 experience-based gifts and make this holiday season truly unforgettable for the travel enthusiast in your life.

Teacher engaging young students in an English lesson. (Photo credits).

Teaching kids English as a foreign language (TEFL) is so satisfying, but we can promise you: it’ll be demanding. You’re teaching foreign kids with no concept of the language everything there is to know about the language. And when you really think about that, it’s a lot. Well, you’re the TEFL, you’ll know.

So, in case you haven’t guessed it, it’s not easy. 

Read on for 3 tips that’ll make teaching English as a foreign language to kids easier.

Make It Fun

It should be a given. Make. It. Fun.

Kids won’t absorb any information if you don’t make it fun. Even from a young age, the way kids learn is because they’re having fun. Whether listening to you talk to them in a silly voice as a baby or if they’re watching an animated TV show, they’re learning because they’re having fun. And there’s no excuse. There are so many interactive games to learn English online.

Children can definitely stay focused and enjoy activities like games, songs, and arts and crafts. You could use flashcards to introduce vocabulary and make it even more fun by incorporating a game of Simon Says. Or, sing jingles in English they can associate with words – like colors, animals, etc.

Don’t Go Too Difficult and Use Repetition

There’s no point in going too difficult. Kids are never going to learn English as a foreign language if it’s tricky – it has to be the most simple version of it. Don’t go in there guns blazing trying to teach 5-year-olds English grammar. Instead, focus on basic vocabulary and phrases. 

Children have just begun the process of vocabulary building, so giving them straightforward and clear directions and speeches is essential. You can generally tell how tricky it is to make lessons based on how old they are and how much English they know already. Most foreign schools begin teaching kids English from an early age.

Repetition is yet another critical strategy. Studies have found you must repeat something between five and seven times before the information is absorbed. And don’t just repeat words, make it exciting and fun. If you’re teaching them the word apple, for example, tell a story, play an animation, sing a song, etc – repeat it in multiple ways.

Include Cultural Content and Narratives

Cultural content and narratives are essential. Placing kids in real-life situations related to the language makes it so easy to learn. The word of the story is nothing. It lasts for seconds. What children want is a tale that you construct within the frames of an English story, a fantastic story, or even a cartoon.

Integrating components from English-speaking cultures into the lessons can also enable the children to relate to the language more. For example, tell them about holidays like Easter and Halloween, traditions, or food.

It is one thing to know English, and it is another thing to teach English as a second language, especially to kids. It’s slightly easier because kids have minds like sponges, but the lessons still must be interactive and fun. 

This article will be of interest to mariners and naval officers with a higher education in maritime studies, no less than 3 years of experience at sea, who have decided to transition from sea-going work to a land-based job. Many mariners have worked in international waters, encountering various cultures, ports, and regulations, and may not want to start over in a completely new field. For those who wish to remain engaged in the global maritime industry, leveraging their skills and expertise, the role of a Designated Person Ashore (DPA) presents an exciting career opportunity.

Semester at Sea Study Abroad: Make the World Your Campus

Global Career Transition: Steps to Become a Designated Person Ashore

As previously mentioned, to become a Designated Person Ashore, you need a bachelor’s degree in maritime studies (whether as a navigator or engineer) and at least three years of experience working on a vessel. This role allows you to stay connected to the global shipping industry, maintaining relationships across different regions of the world, but from a land-based office.

The necessary steps include:

1. Education: A bachelor’s degree in maritime studies, which often involves international coursework, such as understanding the regulations and standards in major ports around the world.
2. Work Experience on a Vessel: This international experience—working with diverse crews, navigating complex shipping routes, and complying with a variety of international laws—prepares you for the role of a DPA. Many DPAs work for companies that operate globally, giving you a chance to continue interacting with international shipping companies.
3. Certification: Completion of the Designated Person Ashore Course. Courses like the one offered are designed to cover key areas like ISM codes, audits, and safety management systems, which are crucial to ensuring compliance with international maritime laws and standards.

Key Responsibilities of a DPA in a Global Shipping Industry

A Designated Person Ashore bridges the gap between shipowners and vessel crews, often in a global context. As a DPA, you’ll be responsible for ensuring compliance with international laws, such as ISM and IMO standards, across different countries and shipping routes. You may also be conducting audits and inspections of ships registered under different flags, coordinating safety protocols that meet not only company requirements but also global maritime laws.

Advantages of Working as a DPA in the International Sector

One of the most appealing aspects of a DPA position is that you get to work with shipping companies that operate on a global scale. Whether stationed in a major port city or working remotely, your role will still connect you with vessels around the world. Here are some key benefits:

• Work-life balance: Transitioning from a sea-going role allows you to stay closer to home while maintaining a career in the international shipping industry.
• Career advancement opportunities: Close collaboration with shipowners and exposure to international operations opens up pathways for further career growth, including positions in global management or consulting.
• Competitive Salary: Depending on the size and scope of the shipping company (whether domestic or international), salaries range significantly, from $34,000 to $345,000 in the USA, with an average of around $74,000—reflecting the value of expertise in global maritime operations (Comparably).

Cerca Abroad: Greece – Marine Conservation Internships in Greece

Conclusion: Leverage Your International Maritime Experience Ashore

If you’re looking to use your international maritime experience in a land-based career, the Designated Person Ashore role is an excellent opportunity. It allows you to continue engaging with the global shipping industry while building stability in your life. After completing the online DPA certification, you’ll have the knowledge and skills needed to take on this vital role, contributing to safe and efficient international shipping operations. Whether or not this is the right path for you will depend on how much you wish to remain involved in the global maritime industry.