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Once you have settled down into your student life in the UK, you may think about travelling around. There are so many places to go to in Britain.
Scotland is definitely full of scenic spots worth at least a visit or two. England itself has lots of historical and pretty spots. And Wales, mind you, it might become another country in a few decades?time. So while you are here, why don't you look around as much as you possibly can? Where to go will really depend on your interests, the time and money you have to spare, and your own location.
It will be fun to go with a friend or two. Check with your local Chinese student association or student union, they may be arranging special tours to certain spots on very cheap rates. You could also contact the Chinese association in your tourist destination before you go. They may be able to help you with temporary staying-over in other students?homes. This is also a good way of meeting people and making friends all around Britain. Otherwise, staying in Bed & Breakfast will be a cheap and safe option.
While you may take time to travel around in Britain, most of you may also be thinking of travelling to Europe. It is possible to get a schengen visa, which allows you to visit all the member states of the European Union. The nearest alternative is to get a visa to Benelux, which includes Belgium, Holland and Luxembourg. Generally speaking, the French visa is the hardest to get.
There are many means of travelling to Europe. You can go there by train, coach, air and sea. If you are under 26, it is worth looking out for special deals for young people, e.g., on Inter-rail and coaches. This is when your National Student Union card suddenly becomes more valuable than any other ID you may have. Different countries appear to have different cultures and behavioural patterns, but deep down, it is the same with all races: the way you treat people reflects the way that they will treat you. Always be polite and show interest and respect for other people’s culture, and be restraint of yourself at all time.
If you want to go to the Eastern European countries, make sure that you know they are different from countries in Western Europe. There are places in Europe, which could be quite rough. Some big cities in Western Europe could also be chaotic. It really makes sense if you travel with friends and take particular care. The Scandinavian countries and Switzerland are generally peaceful but they are much more expensive than the rest.
Travelling requires a lot of energy and enthusiasm, so make sure that you have rested well and feel ready for the trip both mentally and physically. It is always good to check in the surgeries for any immunisations needed, though generally the European standards of health and safety is quite high. It is advisable to read all about the places you are visiting, so you know where to go and what to see and do. The cheapest way to travel is always to go where you have friends and contacts. If you haven’t got any, make sure you try the local Chinese student associations and they may be able to help. Again, it is time to meet people and make friends.
Money-wise, it is sometimes useful to bring with you US dollars rather than sterling. The board police in some countries may wish to see cash, as in Italy. I heard of this ten years ago, but they might have changed by now. It may be handy to take out a student Barclays Visa Card, which will give you convenient facilities and free insurance covers of many kinds. Generally, you should take with you a mixture of cash, traveller’s cheques and your credit/bank cards.
If you want to post your travelling stories and experiences, please do so on the message board Community page or email us, so we will upload them here. Happy travelling!? |
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