Savvy Traveler Badge

Introduction

Staying safe while abroad is the top priority!

Tasks

1. Watch teh Savvy Travel video.

2. Next, answer the following questions (300 words minimum):

• You are reminded to be proactive and vigilant abroad. What does this mean to you?
• Research the unspoken “rules” in your host country of how men/women are expected to behave.
• Regarding alcohol: Review the GLOBAL ALCOHOL document.
• What is the minimum drinking age in your host country?
• What is the drinking etiquette? (for example in Finland alcohol is so expensive that it is always expected that an invitation means BYOB!)
• What are the laws about drinking in public?
• What are the legal consequences of disobeying the law? 

Introduction

You might be worrying about some of the risks involved with going abroad. Keep in mind, the most common ones are very manageable and often preventable. 

Tasks

Brainstorm all of the health and safety fears you have from common cold to death (300 words minimum).

• Which ones are you most afraid of and why?
• Which ones do you think are most likely to happen (colds, fatigue, infection, travelers' diarrhea, alcohol/drugs, dating, gender issues, general safety, etc.?)
• What precautions can you take?
• What resources are available to you in your host country if something were to happen?
• What health risks are listed for your host country on the CDC webpage?

Introduction

Once you arrive at your destination, you will be interacting with people who view the world differently than you. If you are to function happily in a foreign culture, then you have to meet that culture on its own terms, because it is not going to meet you on yours. The key is to work with a culture - accept it for both its beauty and its flaws and find ways to make it work for you.

There are examples of “ugly travelers” whose arrogance, lack of cultural sensitivity and lack of respect for their hosts, makes them instantly recognizable in an unpleasant sort of way. Remember, you are a guest in the country, always representing Virginia Tech, so take this responsibility seriously. 

Diplomacy is key. Whatever the topic, do your best to discuss it intelligently without giving offense. 

Tasks

Create a behavior guide listing the following:

• Name 3 take-aways from the Center For Citizen Diplomacy
• List 10 behaviors worthy of a good citizen diplomat
• List 10 undesirable behaviors 

Introduction

You want to enjoy all your host country has to offer in ways of food, entertainment, and adventures, but this can really add up! Setting a budget can help manage your money. 

Tasks

Answer the following questions (300 words minimum):

• List estimated costs for the following in your host country: transportation, meals, communication, entertainment, souvenirs, books, personal expenses
• Demonstrate how you are saving money in an area
  
• What is the most challenging aspect about staying within your budget?
• What items do you find yourself going over-budget for?
• How are you reminding yourself to stay within your budget? 

Introduction

Your valuable insights (from the application process all the way to your study abroad experience) can help us improve things for the next generation of students going abroad.

Tasks

Complete the Returnee Survey and share your insights with us! 

Introduction

Now that you’re back you no doubt have a lot to digest as you reminisce about your experiences abroad. We want you to get creative with your memories.

Tasks

Tell us a story about an experience (400 words max.) or a video commentary (about 5 minutes) that incorporates the following:

• A experience regarding safe and sustainable travel, budgeting, or being a citizen diplomat
• An explanation how you overcame/were changed by that experience
• How you would advise future VT students traveling to your host country about what they should do, eat, see, bring, not bring, and any country specific tips you might have