About this Blog

Tips and advice about traveling written by Uni Students for Uni Students

Friday, 24 May 2013

5 Most Common Mistakes Student Travellers Make

5 Most Common Mistakes Student Travellers Make
 
1. Not reasearch properly! Students of all people should have the know-how with the wealth of resources at their fingertips. Before jet setting make sure you read up on blogs, articles and government advice. Having some general knowledge is better than none.
 
2. Packing wrongly! Youd be amazed at how many people arent aware of the right clothing, travel gear and supplies to take overseas. Research the weather, the terrain and possibly what activties you could be undertaking. Remember to take light weight material in order for easier travels, along with 'quick dry' clothing for those awkward laundery moments.
 
3. Getting lost! While getting lost may be a badge for some, cities around the world can be very dangerous. Invest in a map, feel free to ask informative questions to locals, and plan your day trips before setting off. Not only does this mean you stay out of trouble, but can enjoy your day without stress. 
 
4. Diseases/Vaccines! Whilst we all might have some fears of needles jabing into our arms, not only is a essential but a requirement to have immunization to enter some countries (e.g Yellow Fever injection in Tanzania). While they are costly, preparing medically before jetsetting is a must in all student travellers preparation. Hospitals and clinics around the world, especially third world countries cannot be dependable to the point of the Australian system. Prepare a basic medical kit to also carry in your day back, suited to your needs, (e.g. anti-climate sickness tablets to climb Mt Kilimanjaro).
 
5. Not reading the Uni Student's Guide to the Galaxy Blog! Not many informative sources, such as blogs or websites are directed to our student travellers. Spread the news, and follow this blog in order to round off your travelling expertise before leaving home. Spread this promo video on social media to support us and invite others to join our exploration of the galaxy!
 
 

Wednesday, 8 May 2013

Public Transport

Using Public Transport
 
When travelling as a uni student, the cost of transport can increase to the point of a money drain. In preventing and managing these costs, its important to take into account a nation's public transport system.
 
In handling the foreign systems some basic advice is useful;
- Be respectful of others whom the system is part of their way of life; in nations such as Italy, the city of Milan depends upon its public transport system as its lifeline. Each day, thousands of communters cram into tiny carriages, heading to work. Respect these people as their commute is part of their work and not pleasure
 
- Carry minimal luggage. When exploring, carry minimal luggage on public transport for security and respectful. Theft can occur often on crowded, busy transport, making you a target for unsavoury characters. Further, packed transport does not have room for you and your friends oversized backpacks. Leave luggage at your accomodation, and try to minimize your transport use when carrying it
 
- Be aware that the safety standards that you hold in your counrty may not be required overseas. Transport operators may not act as a policing force as they do in Australia, and can be manipulated by corruption. 
 
- Take your time. Instead of rushing onto the first bus or train that comes your way, take your time to sort out your destination, route and stops. Prior planning is esstential when navigating unfamiliar transport systems. In asking questions to locals, referring to maps, and being aware of ticks such as trains stopping at 10pm, the student traveller can stop themselves from being caught out.
 
-Ensure you know the translation. How many times have you been on CityRail only to hear an annoucement affect your travels? When overseas, ensure that you know the translation, or take effort to understand what is happening around you. Dont let fate control your future; be aware of yourself when travelling overseas. 
 

Traveling Blogs

Our favourite travel blogs!



Here is a list of travel blogs that we as travellers find helpful, funny, informative, and overall well-written. Reading a wide variety of travel blogs is extremely helpful, you can find a plethora of advice and different stories that will help you on your particular journey. Happy travels!


Balances thoughtful pieces, debates, and good information


Earl is the ultimate nomad, and his blog will surely inspire you


This flight attendant shares helpful info and good plane advice


Great for advice on traveling in Asia


Helpful tips for less traveled countries and areas

Happiness across the World

Happiness across the World


This is just an inspirational travel video; it has a lesson for us all. Happiness is found across the world, shared through the simplest means, Whenever you leave your home to experience someone else's, bring them a piece of that happiness. Share it across the world as Matt does. Youll soon find that happiness is found only with others. Dance and live life. Safe travels.


Monday, 6 May 2013

Amsterdam

A Travelers Guide to Amsterdam

While Amsterdam may be known for the famous red-light district and the laid-back drug laws, in reality there is so much more to Amsterdam. It is a city over-flowing with culture, history, and beauty.



1) Visit the Museums
The Netherlands is home to some of the best museums in Europe. This includes The Rijksmuseum, which is the largest museum in the Netherlands, and the Van Gogh Museum which houses about 200 painting and over 550 sketches by Van Gogh.

2) See the city by bike
Get around like a local for a day by travelling by bike. Almost all Dutch people own bicycles, and it the most common type of transportation. Bike rental shops are quite common around Amsterdam, and reasonably priced.

3) Visit the Anne Frank House
This house in the center of Amsterdam is where Anne Frank wrote her diary, and also hid during the Holocaust. The House has been turned in exhibition and you can walk through the empty rooms, see the diary, and it will truly leave you speechless. 

4) Take a boat ride on the Canals
This is a wonderful way to see the city, and especially to see the canals. 



Belgium Cities

The 5 Best Cities to visit in Belgium



1) Brussels
Brussels is the capital of Belgium, and also the capital of the European Union. It is a bustling city, known as being a center for politics, where people of all different cultures live and where English, Flemish, and French as well as other languages can all be heard being spoken. There is heaps to do in Brussels, including seeing the famous Manneken Pis, the Grand Place, the Atomium, and the abundance of museums, pubs, waffles shops, chocolate shops, and restaurants.   

2) Bruges  
Bruges is the capital of the Flemish region of Belgium, and perhaps the most beautiful city in the country. It is a canal-based city, and often referred to as "The Venice of the North". Take a boat ride down one of the canals in Bruge, visit one of the many festivals, or just spend some time strolling through the little side streets and alleys that are overflowing with shops and cafes.

3) Namur
Naumr is located in Southern Belgium, and it is between the Sambre and Meuse river, and also between three different regions. Naumr is known to have the most beautiful views in Belgium, including old parks where you can climb up stone steps and over look the rivers and the city. 

4) Antwerp
Antwerp is the largest city in Belgium, and it also has one of the largest seaports in Belgium. The city is known for it's old architecture and buildings, such as Antwerp City Hall, the Guildhouses, and the Cathedral of our Lady. There is also amazing local food in Antwerp, and it is known to have some of the best beer in the country, which is also made locally.
5) Mons
Mons is one of the most culturally rich cities in Belgium, boasting many different festivals throughout the year, including the famous DouDou festival. Mons has been selected to be the European capital of Culture in 2015. Many buildings from the Middle Ages still exist in Mons, making it an enchanting city.

Sunday, 5 May 2013

Online Safety Advice


Safe Travelling; Using Internet Advice and Guidance

When travelling as a student; the issue of safety and security is huge. Insurance is a separate issue; we will cover this in a later blog, however today we are going to focus on government advice and traveller advice websites.

The internet is a special place. With its potential to be located anywhere in the world (try the base camp of Mt Kilimanjaro); it allows you insight into others personal experiences and advice.

The internet therefore allows the student traveller to gain insight into their personal safety when travelling. Questions such as; safe areas, police and authority figures, recent local history, crime rates and local legislation should be answered before travelling.

Before travelling; the uni student should ready and research in the following websites for safe and secure travelling;
Smart Traveller; http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/ This Australian government initiative remains up to date and informative as can be. Its reliable nature maximises its safety warnings; with direct information on each nation travelled commonly by Australians. It has a direct ‘warning’ or label of security in the nation, with its warning needed to be heeded by travellers. It should be the first point of call when considering booking an overseas holiday.
 

Lonely Planet; http://www.lonelyplanet.com/ While not traditionally a safety based website; Lonely Planet remains as the top travel advice organization beyond that of governmental. With up to date records and information about nations, towns and even suburbs, lonely planet. Its health and safety advice in each nation quotes up to date figures and facts from the UN. Its foundation as one of the strongest user- informative organization means its an important stop for the student traveller.

 
 
  Trip Advisor; http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/ While focused on places to stay; Trip Advisor has the unique option of travellers personal reviews on individual hotels, cities and stays throughout the world. With personally written reviews, it allows the traveller unique insight into individuals experiences before them. A must read for awareness and safety in your choice of residences.

 



 

 

 

Friday, 3 May 2013

Choose Local

Choosing Local Food And Drinks

One of the best parts of travelling is trying all of the authentic food and drinks from the country that you are in. While it can be tempting to look for food that is similar to what you are used to eating, or to eat at fast food and chain restaurants that are familiar to you, ultimately it is much more rewarding to really indulge yourself into the culture that you are in and just eat locally. 




Local food and drinks are often much better priced then chain restaurants and westernised food. This is because they are made locally, and with ingredients that are native to the country, which lowers cost. Therefore, it is both better on your wallet, and adds to your travelling experience to eat and drink local.



 So how do you go about finding the best local food? First of all, ask for recommendations. Ask the staff at where you are staying, they are usually more then happy to recommend a few favorite local places, and circle them on a map for you. You can also ask other travellers who you meet where their favorite place to eat or have a drink was. 



By choosing local food and drinks, you are also helping to support the community and the city that you are staying in. Rather then giving your money to a chain-run place, you are giving back money to the locals and helping to keep local businesses and unique places alive. 

Youth Hostels

5 Helpful Tips about Staying in Hostels




-This website rates and describes hostels from every city and country all over the world. Simply enter where you are going, and you can search through all of the youth hostels near where you will be, and compare them and read feedback from other travellers about them.

2) Choose the Hostel Environment 
-Each hostel has a unique environment, ranging from quiet and quaint hostels to loud party hostels with bars and clubs inside. Think ahead before you choose your hostel about what type of trip you are on, how much sleep you want to get, and what type of environment you want in your hostel before you choose which one to stay in. 

3) Location
Location is imperative when it comes to youth hostels. A youth hostel may cost less, but if it is located very far outside of the city, then you may have to spend more money on transport getting into the city center. Having a hostel that is located in walking distance from the sites that you want to see can really improve your traveling experience. 

4) Cost
-Compare what you are getting for how much you are paying. Some hostels cost a bit more, but will include breakfast, linen, or free entertainment which make the higher cost worth it. Other hostels are very cheap, but still provide a comfortable nights sleep, and allow you to get your moneys worth that way. Before to check ahead of time what exactly you will be getting for your money, and decide how much you want to spend when comparing youth hostels.


5) Be Smart
-While most hostel stayer's are genuine and nice travellers, there are some bad hostels stayer's out there. That being said, be smart while staying at a youth hostels. Most hostels lockers for your use, either behind the check-in area or in your room, where you can lock up your most important valuables. If you are staying in a room with travellers you don't know, be sure to use these. Also, make sure to always lock up your room before you leave.  

Sunday, 28 April 2013

Tanzania


All you need to know about travelling in Africa

 

Cities; The following cities form as gateways into African culture and society. Also, they form as base camps for exploring Tanzania’s mountains, safari routes and volunteer work.

Arusha;
The gateway to exploring the Northern Safari circuits and also hiking Mt Kilimanjaro’s lesser known sister Mt Meru
Accommodation starts at $10 a night for basic level stay, with it increasing in further incriminates in value
The town has a western influence due to the nature of resort-style safari bases operating out of it; this means Western food and restaurants, along with supplies available to the student traveller
Night markets and tourist markets allow for authentic shopping
 
Moshi ;
The town at the foot of Mt Kilimanjaro, it forms as the base camp for hikers and tourists alike. This town therefore has a mish-mash of cultures and nations as it struggles to combine  a traditionalist African society with the modern influx of foreigners. 
  Due to the hikers; accommodation is cheap and plentiful; with good, clean resources in backpacker and hotel options. Further, safe baggage holding services operate for those with extra packed than their hiking material 
A large mosque is located close to the town centre; respect must be paid by travellers in the form of females wearing operate clothing, and men acting with respect to their traditions
 Due to the travellers; numerous ‘Western’ restaurants and cafes operate in Moshi; look forward to ‘safe’ milk, and good dial up internet connection
Moshi also allows a connection to volunteer work and organizations that allow the traveller to give back to beautiful country they are enjoying. Volunteer work can be for a day, a week or a couple months, depending on your commitment. The rewarding nature allows a remarkable insight into the worlds poorest, but happiest members.

Zanzibar;
The ‘Hawaii’ of Africa, this island located a 40 minute ferry ride from Dar is a stunning paradise of history and new age elegance in its splendour
A ferry ride from the capital, Zanzibar is reknown for its trading and sea port background; the ‘Stone Town’ a historic fort a relic of this
Zanzibar, operating in the Stone Town also holds a fantastic local market that allows the keen traveller to haggle its way into some loved possessions
Beautiful beaches are galore, with diving and snorkelling options open; be sure to trust legitimate, safe schemesThe glamorous resorts make way for a ‘Western influence’, so the homesick traveller can feel welcome not to experience a culture shock

Dar es Salam;
The overcrowded capital of Tanzania, these dirty small streets give way to the modern Africa life; its apartments representing the change from traditionalist living to the modernist approach. Be careful not to lose sight of the ‘true’ Africa that forms itself in the smiles and laughter of each citizen

Mountains;
1.     Mt Kilimanjaro
The famous ‘Mother’ mountain of Africa; the highest peak on the continent forms as a formidable, and inconquerable peak for many travellers. The right training, guides and technique will find of you top of the most beautiful height in awe at the world below

2.    Mt Meru
Mt Kilimanjaro’s sister mountain, the second highest peak at 4,668ft above sea level serves as a lesser and shorter hike to the heights of Kili. Also serving up a beautiful view above the mountains, Mt Meru remains the option for the time and training wise traveller

Game Parks & Safari;
The game parks and safari’s of Tanzania are considered the best in the world. Famous names; the Serenegti, the Ngorgoro Crator and the Lake Manyara lushlands allow the keen traveller an extraordinary insight into the worlds untouched origins. Beauty is unparalleled, where the avid photographer can collect stunning encapsulations. A highlight for many is the Great Migration of the African animals through the game parks.

Tours and stays can be organized through numerous reputable firms. The traveller can choose to embark with a comfortable Western firm, or remain honest to the true African nature of the local tours.



International Australian travel advice from Smart Traveller (a government website); http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/Tanzania

Excersice a high degree of caution, especially in Zanzibar due to the crime rates
Pay close attention to your security
Avoid all protests and demonstrations
Ferries are known to be overloaded or unseaworthy
The Australian Consulate is located in the capital, Dar ees Salam; there is also one located in Kenya
A Yellow Fever Certificate that is valid 

 

Estonia

Why Tallinn is a must-see




I highly recommend Tallinn, Estonia as a travelling destination. While it isn't very well known, or a popular country to visit, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed my time in Tallinn and I would highly recommend that others visit the city. It is best to visit during the winter, for it is a very beautiful time of year in Tallinn, especially with the snow on top of the castles and rooftops in town.

The whole city has a medieval feel to it, and it is just enchanting. The downtown area is made up of cobblestone streets, snow covered roofs, castles, bars with delicious and cheap local food and drinks, weekend markets, and every local and traveller alike walking around everywhere on foot. I never saw a car in the downtown area the whole time I was there. 

Everything is very cheap, affordable, and well priced in Tallinn. The food, accommodation, and entertainment are all a great price for student travellers. My top recommendation is just to set off into the city without any set plans. The city centre is small, and you will easily be able to wander around on foot all day. There are heaps of amazing museums, churches, and restaurants that you will discover just from wandering around. 

Some specific recommendations include visiting: the cannon tower Kiek-in-de-Kok, the town hall square Raekoja plats, The Beer House, and the Oleviste Church. I also recommend asking the locals about any weekend markets that may be happening. 


Saturday, 27 April 2013

Fiji

The Yasawa Islands

If you are planning a trip out to Fiji, I highly recommend visiting the Yasawa Islands. This volcanic group of islands is made up of 6 main islands, and a number of smaller ones. These islands are located in the Western Division of Fiji.

To get to the Yasawa Islands, you will first need to fly into the mainland, Nadi. From there, you can take a boat from the marina in Nadi out to the islands. Until 1987, it was illegal for tourists to visit these islands. This makes it an ideal destination to visit today, for the islands are not too crowded with tourists and are much less of a visited destination then other spots in Fiji. 

I highly recommend booking through the company Awesome Adventures Fiji. They work with the resorts on each island and coordinate boating from the mainland out to the different islands. You can also read about each different resort on their website, and book your trip through them. http://www.awesomefiji.com/

It is ideal to stay out on the Yasawa Islands from 1 week- 3 weeks. I recommend booking stays at about 3 different resorts so that you can experience different parts of the islands. My top 2 recommendations are the Blue Lagoon Resorts, Manta Ray, and Octopus Resort. 

It is ideal to pack lightly, perhaps only bringing a backpack and small duffel bag, as you will be moving around a fair bit and hopping on and off the boat during your stay. 

Be sure to try everything- snorkel, kayak, visit the local villages, hike, try kava and make friends with the local Fijian workers at the resorts who are most friendly. 




China

5 Must-See Spots in Beijing



1) The Great Wall
The Great Wall is as enormous and majestic in real life as it seems in the photos. Climbing the wall, and looking out from it is truly a once in a lifetime experience. I recommend visiting it on a day when it isn't as hot, and not going during the middle of the day for that is when it is the most busy. It is also best to visit a section of the wall that is further outside of the city, for it will be less crowded and less touristy. 

2) The Olympic Sites
Seeing the Olympic sites is one of the best parts of visiting Beijing. For a small fee you can go for a swim in the water cube, which I highly recommend. The Bird's Nest and The Green are also worth a visit.



3) 798 Art Space
This art community is located in the Chaoyang District, and it is the best place in Beijing to visit for those you love art, appreciate art, want to see the Chinese art scene, or just want to find a cool souvenir to take home. It is mostly located in a old military factory complex. 

4) The Silk Market
This enormous market is the best place in Beijing to do shopping at. Even if you don't want to buy anything, it is still an amazing place to visit, just for the sheer size and uniqueness of it. There are over 1,500 stalls and you can buy just about anything. Remember that you need to haggle at this market place, never take the   

5) The Summer Palace
This Palace is the largest royal garden in China, and used to be a summer retreat for emperors. This imperial garden in the best spot in Beijing to relax, walk around, and enjoy some peace and quiet with beautiful natural views. 

Wednesday, 17 April 2013

Festivals in Belgium

Why Belgium Festivals are a Must



An easy way to tell if someone is from Belgium is if you say the word ‘Doudou’ to them and they respond with enthusiasm.
So what is the Doudou? Well, it is an 8 day festival that takes place in Mons, Belgium annually. I was lucky enough to attend it in 2010 when I was living in Mons. The Doudou dates way back to the Middle Ages, when in 1349 Mons was hit by the plague, and locals decided to organize a procession with a shrine. After this procession, the plague disappeared and therefore ever since a procession has taken place on the same day in Mons. In addition to the procession, there is also yearly fixtures such as the reenactment of the fight between Saint George and a Dragon, and military bands from all over the world playing, and filling the streets with music, Belgium fries, and Belgium beer.
The Belgium people that I knew had been telling me about the Doudou and explaining it to me ever since I had arrived in Belgium. A host mother of a friend explained to me that she thinks the Doudou is a spiritual awakening, and that I would find myself and become reborn during the Doudou. She was a bit of a DouDou fanatic, with Doudou decorations all over her house. Some of my Belgium classmates told me that I was be drinking for an entire week straight at the Doudou.
So how did I find the Doudou? Well it was certainly one of my best weeks in Belgium. I loved how alive the town became, and how involved everyone that I knew was in the Doudou. I would best describe it as organized chaos. People were coming from all over the country, and from out of country, everyday for this festival. The streets downtown turned into pedestrian only zones, and were absolutely packed every day from morning until night. Everywhere I went, I bumped into people whom I already knew and also met new people. I saw concerts, watched the procession, stared in wonder during the reenactment of Saint George vs. the Dragon, bought little dragon souvenirs, went out on the McDonalds balcony with the employees there to watch the performances one night, and watched Dad’s dance on tables during the night time.
So, did I find myself? Was I reborn? I’m not sure…but either way I did make some good, hilarious memories.
I highly recommend visiting the Doudou if you have the chance, or any other of the amazing festivals in Belgium.
More information about festivals in Belgium:  http://www.visitbelgium.com/?page=festivals

Sunday, 7 April 2013

Cambodia

Cambodia, Siem Reap, and the magic of Angkor Wat







I highly recommend Cambodia as a country that Uni students should travel to. It is affordable, interesting, and full of history. I had the chance to travel to Siem Reap in 2012, and visit Angkor Wat. It is one of the most amazing sites I have ever seen- and I think it is a must see.

So first of all- where is Siem Reap? Siem Reap is in northwestern Cambodia, and it is the capital city of Siem Reap Province.

Second of all- what is Angkor Wat? It is the largest Hindu temple complex and religious monument in the world. It extends over 400 square kilometres and consists of temples, structures, and communications routes. 

I think it is best to travel to Siem Reap with a group of 4 or less. This way, your group will always be able to fit in a tuk tuk, and there is a greater chance that your group will be able to all walk around Angkor Wat at the same pace. You do not need more then a week to visit Siem Reap.

I recommend staying at the youth hostel Siem Reap Rooms. It is reasonable priced, has a good location, and the cleanliness is great. While it isn't as much of a party hostel, this is ideal for your trip to Siem Reap because you might be waking up early one day for the sunrise tour of Angkor Wat and you will want a full nights sleep! Also, with a great location near to the city's night life, you don't need to do more then walk out the door to begin a night of partying and meeting other travelers.

It is best to do a tour our Siem Reap by tuk tuk. You can book this tour at Siem Reap Rooms, or whichever hostel or hotel you stay at, and they will arrange for a local tuk tuk driver to drive you to Angkor Wat, drive your group around the temples, and then drive you back to your hostel or hotel.

I recommend doing a sunrise tour of Angkor Wat. Your tuk tuk driver will take you out to Siem Reap just before sunrise, and then you will be able to see the sunrise over the temples, and see the reflection in the moat around the main temple. Similarly, you can also do a sunset tour. You can spend at least three full days exploring Angkor Wat, and you still won't be able to see it all! That being said, I recommend spending between 2-3 days exploring Angkor Wat.

As far as food goes, try to eat at restaurants that serve traditional Cambodia food, rather then western food. The food will be much better priced, tastier, and more authentic. I ate two meals at western restaurants, a Mexican restaurant, and an Irish pub- but the food was very overpriced at both places, and I preferred the food at the Cambodian restaurants that I went to.

Some helpful links for your trip:


This video by National Geographic is short and informative. I recommend watching it to gain some more insight about the background of Angkor Wat!
http://video.nationalgeographic.com.au/video/specials/ancient-mysteries/angkor-wat-temples/

The UNESCO provides some good background on Angkor Wat as well:

http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/668

Siem Reap Rooms:

http://www.siemreaprooms.com/


Thursday, 4 April 2013

Storyboard

Hello fellow travelers! Check out our first post, which outlines what our blog will be showing in the next coming posts. Happy travels =)