Study Abroad Programs Blog

Travel Tip: Traveling Safely in Mexico

AmeriSpan offers many locations at which you can safely study abroad in Mexico, but it's always good to review some basic safety tips, no matter where you are going!  One of our favorite sites, Smarter Traveler, has compiled a helpful list of tips for traveling in Mexico safely here:

Traveling Safely in Mexico

Become a Lead Salud Student!

By now you might be aware of some of the ways you can receive huge discounts on AmeriSpan programs: blogging, specials, leading a group, etc.  Now, members of Salud groups are eligible for major savings with our Lead Student discount!

Much like our College Study Abroad Affiliate Blogger arrangement, AmeriSpan will issue gigantic rebates to any Salud group participant willing to take on the responsibility of representing the group and corresponding with us through blogs and an evaluation.  Lead Students can receive up to $750 off their program costs plus $50 per group member!

Anyone who wishes to be a Lead Student must apply before or during program registration.

For details and a list of eligible locations, visit: Become a Lead Student

Travel Tip: Expedia Suppressing American Airlines Flights

We here at AmeriSpan try to forward travel news when we can, and thought this bit of information from Smart Traveler might be useful to those of you looking to save money on airfare!  It is always best to explore your options before purchasing your flight. Also, please remember that AmeriSpan always recommends you wait to receive your program confirmation before doing so!

 

Smart Traveler Article on American Airlines Flights and Expedia

Kanazawa Featured in New York Times

Recently, the New York Times published an article about Kanazawa, Japan, which is one of AmeriSpan's favorite locations to Study Abroad in Japan.  The article explores the sheer beauty and rich history of Kanazawa, and gives great insight into the city through a curious visitor's eyes. As the article reminds us, all Japanese know about the Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa's wonders.

NY Times article on Kanazawa

Kanazawa Japanese School

Top 15 Study Abroad Programs to Escape the Winter!

When most people think of planning a language immersion getaway, they probably think of summertime as the best time to go.  Such is not always the case, as many schools located in the Southern hemisphere are enjoying their winter during our summer and vice versa!  As a result, more and more students are becoming hip to the fact that they can reap the benefits of fun in the sun during a harsh North American winter!  See for yourself what your options are to take a break from the ice and snow - our list features links to videos, guest/staff blogs, and more!

 

Check out our recommendations here: AmeriSpan's Top 15 Study Abroad Programs to Escape the Winter!

Flight Delays in Europe

Due to inclement weather, some flights in and out of Europe have been experiencing delays.  AmeriSpan wants to remind its students to please monitor your flight status and refer to AmeriSpan's tips on minimizing any problems from flight complications.  Please note that our office will be closed the next two Fridays, December 24th and December 31st, so any flight changes made after Thursday need to be reported to your on-site contact.

Here is a recent report of the Western European flight conditions from BBC: www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-12038847 and here is a link to AmeriSpan's tips on minimizing flight complications: www.amerispan.net/2010/12/study-abroad-tips-flight-complications.html

 

Meet the School: Montevideo's Owner/Director

Meet Margo Kros, Owner and Director of AmeriSpan's partner school in Montevideo, Uruguay:

What is your background?
I’m from the Netherlands, 43 years old, married to a Uruguayan and we have two daughters. We moved to Uruguay 3 years ago.

Do you travel abroad often?
I used to, but not right now

Have you studied abroad?
After finishing my studies (administration) in Holland, I have done many courses in tourism in different countries. Working with languages and in tourism has always been interesting for me and I still enjoy it very much.

First Day of School in Heredia

By Jennie M., guest blogger studying Spanish in Heredia, Costa Rica

On my first Monday, I arrived early for my placement exam at school.  I was both excited and nervous.  As a result, I found myself nearly speechless during my initial placement interview.  After a few moments of hesitation, I found my voice.  I was placed in Intermedio Nivel 4 (intermediate level 4). 

 

 

Lauren S.' Farewell to Austria

By Lauren S., guest video blogger from AmeriSpan's Teen program in Vienna, Austria

For details about studying in Vienna, see Studying German in Austria

See all of Lauren's video blogs from Vienna

 

Sea Turtles and Spanish Practice

By Alisa W., guest blogger studying Spanish in Playa del Carmen, Mexico 

Today marks the end of my second week here in Playa.  These two weeks have gone by very fast, and I can't believe that I only have two weeks left.  Today, my friends and I took a colectivo (basically, a taxi van that takes 10 or 15 people to places in one general direction) for only 30 pesos/person (about $3 US dollars)  to Akumal. 

 

Study Abroad Tips: Flight Complications

Let's face it, sometimes flying can be a serious hassle - especially when in a new place or when time is of the essence.  Unexpected delays, security measures, cancellations, and any other annoyance you can think of can arise when trying to get from once place to another, even if you've done all you can to be organized and arrive early.  These issues are unavoidable most of the time. AmeriSpan recommends that you do the following to minimize problems if you encounter flight changes or delays: