Inspiration, tips & advice for student travelers

Things to Do on New Zealand’s North Island

Hi, my name is Clara. I am a 22 year old student at Western Washington University and last month I had the opportunity to travel to the other side of the world and explore New Zealand’s North Island after winning the StudentUniverse New Zealand trip contest (which included two roundtrip flights to New Zealand on Air New Zealand AND two spots on the New Zealand – North Island Encompassed tour). Mid September, my sister Emma and I left Seattle, Washington, bound for New Zealand’s Auckland city. Throughout the two weeks of our travels, we found the best things to do in New Zealand. (more…)

By Clara Brand, ago
Sydney-bites-downunder

Sydney Bites Down Under (and I don’t mean the shark type!)

While Sydney crawls its way up the ‘most expensive places to live’ list, it’s easy to forget the possibility of a Uni lifestyle, because lo and behold, student-friendly pockets exist and eating on a budget is on the cards! Hard to deny her natural beauty, Sydney’s food scene has taken advantage of the endless coastline, harbour inlets and the modest bustle of the CBD. With industrial foundations spread throughout, it’s no doubt fertile ground for gentrification- and when old meets new here Down Under- something tasty happens. From the Northern Beaches, to New-York-style drinking holes, and up the coastline to the infamous Bondi Beach, Sydney is tempting you with tastes one meal at a time. (more…)

By Sophia Athas, ago

How to See Oxford, England for Less Than £100

Whether you fantasize about Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia and sharing a pint at The Eagle and the Child, romanticize the idea of studying in the hallowed halls of one of the world’s oldest and most revered universities, or are lured by punting and picnics along the River Cherwell, a trip to England is rarely complete without visiting the Dreaming Spires of Oxford—trust me, I remember the excitement of my first visit! (more…)

By Kirsten Richardson, ago

How to Deal with Culture Shock while Abroad

Whether it’s for a semester abroad, or a short-term vacation, when you step foot in a new country or city for the first time, there is always a deep feeling of unfamiliarity. This is known as “culture shock” and is experienced by anyone who is suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture or way of life. In the blink of an eye, you are thrown into a new environment where life is lived and viewed a bit differently, which can leave you with so many mixed emotions. These emotions are completely normal and I can tell you how to deal with culture shock while you’re abroad. (more…)

By Miranda Lopez, ago