Mentor Advice
Question
Is it still possible to travel to other cities/locations and not go over my budget?
3 Replies from Mentors
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Rae RaeSenior Year StudentLoyola Marymount UniversityOf course! It is much easier and cheaper to travel in Europe especially, because everything is in close proximity. Check out websites like ryanair.com which specialize in cheap European (and a few other destinations) flights; you can go to some places for as little as $10. For other locations check out sites like priceline.com or ask locals in your area if they know of any travel deals. Beware though, usually with discount flights, the airports are not centrally located so you will have to take a bus or taxi just to get to the main city. Trains usually offer student discounts as well. I would also recommend staying in hostels or budget motels to save money, and to buy groceries instead of eating at restaurants for every single meal.
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IreneJunior Year Film Production MajorLoyola Marymount UniversityDefinitely! Traveling in other places is usually much easier than traveling in the US. In Europe for example, you can obtain a Eurail pass before you leave the US and this is a great deal if you have several countries in mind that you don’t want to miss. There also many other excellent ways to save that may seem simple, but a little goes a long way. Suggestions: pack your own lunch/snacks and eat breakfast/ dinner with your host family, that way when you travel you will have more money for other things. Make train/flight reservations early to get better deals. Staying in hostels is also a great way to save money and meet other travelers like you.
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Miloni GandhiAssociate Director, International Recruitment, Office of AdmissionsUniversity of Southern CaliforniaOf course. There are many ways to stay within your budget. Most of the time, many tourist attractions as well as hotels have low and high seasons. If you travel during the low season, rates are generally lower. Another advantage that students have now are online sales for airfare, or bidding on rooms on sights such as hotwire.com. Sites where you can name your price are generally cheaper. Once there, a great way to save money is to prepare your own meals. If you stay at a hostel or bed and breakfast, most will allow you kitchen privileges. Cooking your meals is also a great way to meet other travelers. Also, try to walk to as many places as you can to save money or public transportation where possible instead of taxis.