Before I Go: Custom Moncton Mugs for Paris!

Salut mes amis,

Since I am leaving for St. Louis tomorrow for New Year's Eve, and then to leave for Paris, I decided to finish up a project that I have been working on for a long time: custom sharpie mugs for my friend Paris!

The story goes that we spent last summer in Moncton doing the explore program together and, over just a few weeks of "Franglish", we developed many inside jokes. When she decided to move into her first apartment, I decided to immortalize some of our favorites on funny yet functional coffee mugs to give her as a gift; then life happened. So, now, several months later, I have finally gotten them finished and baked! Take a look:

I think they turned out just lovely. Also, I find that these inexpensive custom sharpie mugs would make great gifts for homestay parents, friends, family, or anyone, really! If you have the time, give them a try using this mini-tutorial:

SUPPLIES:

• Inexpensive (thinly glazed plain mugs, tea cups, plates, etc.
• Black Sharpies
• Cotton balls and swabs
• Rubbing alcohol
• Acetone
• Baking sheet

DIRECTIONS:

1. Wash the dishes of choice with regular dish soap; dry with a towel
2. Using a cotton ball, along with plain rubbing alcohol, wipe them down again to insure they are free of pen-repelling finger prints or oils; let dry
3. Using a regular or paint sharpie marker, draw on the design of your choosing. I found it helpful to use paper stencils and/or tracing directly onto the dish. 
4. Re-trace your design with a second layer of marker; let dry. To erase mistakes, use a cotton swab dipped in acetone or rubbing alcohol; make sure to let dry before reapplying the sharpie.
5. Place finished cups on a baking sheet and place in a COLD oven. Turn to 425ºF and bake 30 minutes.
6. Turn off oven and allow cups to come to room temperature before removing them.
7. Enjoy your custom creations!

TIP:

• Wash only by hand with a soft cloth; avoid scrubbing the drawn designs

Let me know in the comments what you think, and whether or not you plan to try this quick and simply DIY!

Until next time,

1 Week To Go + Train Update

Salut à tous,

As you all are aware, I love me a good discount; thanks to a fellow CEA Aix student who tipped me off to a coupon code, I scored my Paris-Aix TGV tickets for 35% off! 

Now I'll be able to take the train from Paris directly to Aix-en-Provence without hassling with a connection or shuttle. 

Also, I completed my entire booking on the French website without needing to switch to English mode! It's reassuring, with only a week until go time, that I can at least somewhat function in French on a casual level.

Anyways, happy holidays everyone!

One Suitcase V.2: Aix-en-Provence Capsule Wardrobe

Bonjour mes amis,

Though I posted this wardrobe inspiration post a few weeks ago, I am finally finished putting together my actual capsule for Aix! 

Not surprisingly, I was able to make a comprehensive and very flexible collection with less items than I packed for Canada. My secret is the army of small-folding hosiery and scarves I will be using to add variety to my outfits. So far, everything is looking like it'll fit in one bag even with my bulky homestay gifts! Here's the breakdown of what I'm taking:

1. UnderArmour Packable Waterproof Coat
2. Black Blazer
3. Camel Cardigan
4. Red Cable Knit Cardigan
5. Black Cardigan
6. Cropped Angora Cream Heart Cardigan
7. Red Cable Knit Sweater
8. Black 3/4 Sleeve Striped Sweater
9. Cream 3/4 Sleeve Striped Sweater
10. Cream Tie-Neck Bow Sweater
11. Black Cable Knit Sweater
12. Slouchy Striped Sweater
13. Sleeveless Black Collared Crepe Shirt
14. White and Black Striped Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
15. Sleeveless Cream Collared Crepe Shirt
16. Red T-Shirt
17. Long-Sleeved Creme Silk Button-up
18. Snow Leopard-Print Sleeveless Collared Blouse
19. Black T-Shirt
20. Black 3/4 Sleeve Ballet Shirt
21. Black Tank Top
22. White Tank Top
23. Black Boatneck T-Shirt Dress
24. Black Collared Dress
25. Creme Lace Midi Dress
26. Black Skinny Pants
27. Skinny Denim Jeans
28. High-Waisted Black Lace Skirt
29. High-Waisted Black Micro-Pleat Skirt
30. High-Waisted Red Pleated Skirt

A. Grey Thirty-One Cindy Tote
B. Small Brown Over-The-Shoulder Bag
C. Polka Dot Silk Scarf
D. Red Pashmina
E. Black Pashmina
F. Black Silk Necktie
G. Gunmetal Grey Pashmina
H. Emerald Green Pashmina
I. Black High Leather Boots
J. Short Black Moto Boots
K. Classic Black Converse
L. French Soles Black Mini-Wedges
M. Anne Klein Cap Toe Wedges
N. Red Suede Flats
O. Red Skinny Belt
P. Black Skinny Belt
Q. Wide Black Waist Belt
R. Assorted Tights/Stockings

Let me know in the comments what you think, and tell me your favorite packing tips.

Ta ta for now!

Flight Update + End of Semester Thoughts

Salut à tous,

I am finally done with finals and graduate school interviews, and my winter break has begun! Unbelievably, my undergraduate studies at WIU are all over - wow! I can't believe how far I've come. 

Not to be cliché, but it seems like just yesterday that I arrived at Western as an undeclared major with no real sense as to what I wanted to do with my life. Now, I'm on my way to France, and hopefully to grad school thereafter, all thanks to my WIU education and the dedicated faculty who have supported me along the way; I really can't thank them enough.

To top it all off, I finally purchased my plane ticket to Paris using the $1000 StudentUniverse travel voucher that was provided to me by CEA as an early application incentive.

My out of pocket cost was $196.24 - how's that for a deal!? 

From Paris, I will take the train to Marseille where I will be picked up by CEA staff and taken to my homestay location in Aix. Yay! Expect a more detailed post on my homestay information to come...

For the next 18 days, I just want to relax and plan for a stress-free trip; maybe I'll sleep in some, too. But don't worry, I'll keep you in the loop!

Thanks for reading,

-Jess

Capsule Wardrobe Inspiration: Aix en Provence

Bonjour mes amis,

As you may remember from my trip to Canada, I am a HUGE proponent for packing as light as possible. Last time, I put together this light and summery capsule wardrobe. Even then, I didn't use everything I packed, and ended up giving a couple things away.

For my semester in France, the weather will be much cooler. Plus, I'll be there for 5 months as opposed to 6 weeks. Still, now that I know that less is in fact more, I feel like a capsule wardrobe will suit my needs perfectly. 

This time around, I'm going girly, yet functional: mostly, because I'll need to layer everything through January. As for a palette/theme, I'm focusing on stripes -- a French staple -- and match-tastic red, black and white.

What are your wardrobe staples?

Real Advice for Study Abroad Part 8: How To Stretch Your In-Country Budget Further

I have found that living in, and properly experiencing, a new area while studying abroad is somewhat of a balancing act; with so much to see and do, and only so much cash to go around.

However, during my stay in New Brunswick, even after loosing my debit card, I was able to stretch my money to its limits and make the most out of my time abroad on a budget. I am confident that the tips below will help you do the same. Enjoy!

1. Prepare a Budget: First things first, do some research on your area of study to evaluate the approximate cost of living. One of my favorite sites is Numbeo.com. Also refer to the StudyAbroad101 reviews for your specific program to investigate how much past students spent over the course of their stay. They sit down with your financial information and really map out what you have to spend, and what on. Spending categories may include food and beverage, transportation, leisure/entertainment, travel, souvenirs/gifts, etc. Also set aside some money for emergencies just in case. Now you should have a good basis on which to map your weekly spending allowance for the duration of your program.

2. Walk Whenever Possible: I know this one seems obvious but, really, skip the busses and cabs while traveling and let your feet take you where you need to go within reason; fares add up fast! Walking will keep you active while allowing you to explore your host city in an intimate manner. For example, during Explore 2013, we used to walk all the way to the neighboring city of Dieppe just for fun, or to run errands. The 4-mile journey was perfectly doable and helped us figure out Moncton's downtown layout. However, for safety's sake, don't forget to go with a buddy or small group if you choose to hoof it!

When walking just isn't feasible, splitting a cab with friends can keep the fare low. Just don't forget to ask the cabby to explain the fees and fare before getting in.

3. Shop Discount Stores: Dollar discount stores, bulk food stores, and thrift shops are the budget traveler's best friends. Lucky for me, I spent Canada Day in Canada, so my local Dollarama was packed with maple leaf-clad memorabilia. However, most discount retailers should carry post cards, key chains and other souvenir-type items year round to bring home as inexpensive gifts; and trust me, no one will mind (or likely notice) that you shopped smart for their presents. These places are also great for picking up things like silverware, dish soap, laundry supplies, school supplies and anything else you may need on your trip.

PRO TIP: With a little forethought,  you can also make your own tea and coffee from bulk-bought supplies just as you would at home as long as you have a microwave in-country. I figure I saved myself $20 a week making homemade chai lattés and instant coffee for less than $1 a piece compared to $3+ café drinks while in Moncton.

4. Don't Be a Water Snob: As long as the water in your area is safe to drink (ask an authority figure such as university staff, don't just assume) drinking from the tap can save you a small fortune, especially if you usually buy bottled water from vending machines. Even refilling each bottle one time can help you stretch your food and beverage budget - not to mention help preserve your local environment.

5. Dine Smart: Though buying groceries will most likely be the very cheapest way to eat while abroad, I know that engaging in gastrotourism is one of the most important ways to experience a new culture. Ask your program staff, other locals, and online review sites where the best local places are to eat on the cheap. They will steer you away from touristy restaurants and towards the hotspots that serve the best regional cuisine on a budget. Plus they can tell you where the best dive bars are!

Once you've found great restaurants, stretch your budget further by sticking to the following advice:

• Drink water instead of expensive soda. It's calorie free and cost free! 
• Be aware of "specials." Oftentimes the dish-of-the-day will actually cost more than normal fare, so ask to see a menu before making a decision.
• Share with friends and split the bill. You will be able to try a greater variety of local fare for less coin - it's a win-win!
• Keep gratuity in mind and make sure to save some cash for tips. Don't forget to check what the customary practices are in your area beforehand to save yourself any embarrassment.
• Take your meal "to go" and have a picnic with friends. This will allow you to save on gratuity, and allow everyone to bring from multiple restaurants, or from home, without feeling left out.

Hopefully these tips will help you live larger on less while abroad. Don't forget to post your favorite money saving tips in the comments below.

Thanks for reading! 

Real Advice for Study Abroad Part 7: How to Get The Most Out of Flying on a Budget

It is a common complaint among students that getting to and from your destination by air is the most expensive and aggravating part of studying abroad after paying tuition.

However, traveling from point A to point B doesn't have to be all bad. Below are 5 way to maximize your air travel experience while adhering to even the most modest budget. Enjoy!

1. Be Flexible: When shopping for airfare, make sure to use the 'flexible dates' option to ensure you are scoring the very best deal. Sometimes, as is the case for my tickets to France, moving the departure dates around by just a day or two can save you several hundred dollars. From what I have seen, the beginning of the week is the cheapest, while weekend fares carry the heftiest fees. Also, shop around using several sites, look at fares for several airlines, AND check Retailmenot.com for coupon codes before settling for what appears at first glance to be an awesome deal.

2. Pack Light: Limiting yourself to just carry-on luggage is a choice riddled with benefits such as: 

• No outrageous checked luggage or overweight bag fees
• No carousel wait times
• Quick and efficient mobile check-in options 
• The flexibility of being able to catch an earlier or later flight
• The choice to fly with a discount airline like Ryanair
• and the near certainty that your bags will not be lost or damaged in transit no matter how many connection you have. 

Pairing down to the basics  and traveling with one suitcase and a backpack will make you feel much more in control of your trip, and give you a comfy place to rest your head or feet during a long layover.

3. Score a Free Stopover: Got an extra day to kill due to your super smart shopping skills? Why not use it to explore another city by turning a layover into a stopover? For example, for my trip from Chicago to Fredericton, New Brunswick I was able to finagle a 12 hour layover  in Montreal, Quebec in place of the standard 2 hour layover completely free of charge by speaking directly with an Air Canada travel agent and asking to take a later flight out of Montreal. This simple call allowed us to stash our luggage and explore the city of Montreal during their Provincial Holiday with no extra fuss. Just be aware of commuting times to and from the airport and leave ample time for customs and airport security if you choose to go this route.

4. Get a Free Upgrade: Signing up for Frequent Flyer Miles or Airline Rewards programs can put you in the pool for a free upgrade to executive class if there are seats open on your departure date. Airlines do this in order to clear out coach seats that can then be filled with standby customers who payed a reduced fare. If you aren't chosen for an upgrade, volunteer to be seated near an emergency exit to score some extra legroom.

5. Bring Everything You Need: Last but not least, keep in mind that airlines often offer in-flight food, bedding, beverages, you name it - for a fee. Forgo the plague blankets and $4 waters by bringing your own in-flight comfort package. Make sure to include:

• An EMPTY water bottle: As full bottles are not allowed through security and duty-free waters are $9, bring your own from home. Upon being seated, ask a flight attendant to please fill it up for you.
• A blanket or pashmina: We all know flights are frigid, so bring your own germ-free shawl. Pair it with some warm socks and you are on your way to slumberland.
• Earplugs or headphones and an eye mask or sunglasses: If you are me, the baby behind you will have an ear ache and the guy next to you will insist on leaving his reading light on, so come prepared with whatever you need to sleep through your flight in comfort.
• Munchies: Granola bars, snack mixes and other dry, room temperature foods are good to snack on in flight. Avoid Cheetos, juicy foods, and nuts to avoid a hand-washing trip to the restroom or the chance of inducing an allergic reaction of anyone around you. Gum is another must-have to keep your ears clear.
• Magazines or reading material: Bringing your own books can save yourself some frustration if you are unable to sleep. Plus, lending them to anyone around you and/or leaving them in the seat-back pocket for the next flyer may qualify as your good deed for the day.
• Lip balm and hand cream: In-flight air is very drying, so don't forget the moisturizer! Mentholatum is a good all-in-one choice for dry lips, under the nose, and chapped hands.
• A pen: From customs forms to crossword puzzles, a pen is a smart choice to keep with you while travelling or, really, any time.

I hope you found these tips and tricks helpful! Tell me your favorite travel hacks below in the comments.

France Update

Hello everyone,

I am so excited to tell you that I will be leaving for France in just 50 days! I can't even believe how fast time has flown by since I left Canada this past August - already 99 days ago.

Though I have been planning extensively, I still have a lot to do before I can pack my bags.

First, I need to finish my WIU online study abroad forms and attend the mandatory pre-departure meeting. More pressingly, though, I still have to apply for my French Visa now that I have gotten my CEA Packet in the mail. Unfortunately, I have to visit the French Consulate in Chicago for an in-person meeting first, and that takes time, of which I have a short supply.

My semester, though only 29 days from being finished, still consists of 2 full-length novels, 5 papers, a presentation, 2 précis, and 2 final exams. Plus scholarship essays and my still unfinished grad school application, which has been festering on the back burner for the last few months.

Also, I need to design my capsule wardrobe to avoid overpacking, as I did for my trip to Canada. I just feel like I'm running out of time... Still worst of all, I have had no time for naps. How will I even go on?!

Fortunately, I have an amazing goal to work towards so I will continue to go go go until I can meet up with my new classmates in Paris before our program starts. I just cannot even wait, and will keep you updated on what is happening until then!

For a more in-depth look at what goes into the pre-departure hustle, check out my Real Advice for Study Abroad column on just that, here.

Thanks for reading! 

One Step Closer...

Hi friends,

Today is a good day. I (well, Matt, actually) sent off my Campus France documents to D.C.! 

As soon as the OK comes back, I can begin work on my Visa documents. I can't believe France is a mere 2.5 months away. Where did the time go?

Anyways,

Thanks for reading! 

Ready for Take Off

Hi everyone!

My "personal item" carry on is finally stuffed packed for Canada.

Let's take a look inside...

There's my tech stuff:

Laptop, phone, camera, chargers, extra batteries, SD card reader, thumbdrive

My girly stuff:

Dry/solid toiletries, liquids, make up case, hair accessories, allergy pills, mini emergency kit

School stuff:

Notebook, writing utensils, conjugation book

Personal stuff: 

Day planner, shoulder bag, passport and itinerary holder, sunnies, wallet

Miscellaneous stuff:

Mini umbrella, magazines, granola bars, reusable water bottle

And an extra bag for the trip back:

Easy Breezy Tote

My Osprey FlapJill Pack fits it all. I LOVE IT!

I am so ready to go!

See ya!

Textbooks on the Cheap

Bonjour mes amis,

For Canada, I needed a French/English dictionary and a verb conjugation book for class. Instead of trying to find them at a big-name bookstore, or when I arrived on location, I did the budget-friendly thing and ordered them online.

Here is my tried and true method for getting the biggest bang for your buck buying textbooks. Enjoy!

1. Check your course descriptions and note the ISBNs of books that are required, and those that are "recommended", aka not worth buying. OR if the terms given are general such as " bring a French/English dictionary and a verb tense book",  look online to see what texts others found useful and what professionals stand behind. I chose Bescherelle's La Conjugaison Pour Tous and Larousse's Concise French/English Dictionary based on information found at my favorite French site, French.about.com.

2. Email each professor and ask them which texts are really essential to buy. Often times, profs don't even use the books listed for some godforsaken reason... Also let them know you're on a limited budget, and ask if there are books you can borrow from the department, or if they will be putting copies on reserve at the library.

3. Do a web search for free PDF or Google Books versions of your textbooks. P.S. Don't do anything illegal...

4. If you absolutely must buy your books, click over to Cheapest Text Books to find the least expensive places to buy (or rent) your books. I prefer to buy. Keep a lookout for sites that have combined shipping discounts , as these can save you even more if you buy from the same place.

5. Go to Retail Me Not and find coupons to apply to these online stores to make sure you're getting the best deals.

6. When your books arrive, treat them like they're borrowed. This way, you can sell them on Amazon at the end of the semester to get a partial return back on your investment!

PLEASE NOTE: I was not compensated by any of these companies. These are the actual methods I use to get the cheapest books, and sell them for the biggest return.

Have you ever gotten a great deal on books? What's your secret? Tell me in the comments.

Bonne chance!

One Suitcase: Fitting It All In

Bonjour mes amis,

If you are wondering how I managed to cram 35 pieces of clothes and accessories, 5 pairs of shoes, plus undershirts, undereverythingelses, PJ's and an unreasonable amount of other stuff into one carry on-sized bag, here's how you can do the same:

1. Set aside your travel outfit and a spare set of clothes (at least underwear) just in case you get stranded, or don't feel like getting into your suitcase once it's packed. I chose my bulkiest things: Jeans, Converse sneakers, a blazer, and my raincoat, along with a simple tank top.

2. Roll everything else as tight as you can. Some things though, like denim, don't like to be rolled. Set these aside.

3. (Not pictured) Lay the unrollable pieces flat in the bottom of your suitcase, or in my case, in an Ebag set into the suitcase. Try to make an even layer if possible.

4. Start adding in your rolls, keeping them in an even layer tight against one another.

 5. Keep layering. Make sure to keep the items clear of the zipper.

6. Shove socks into the crevices and use anything you have left to fill gaps and low spots. I used bikinis and scarves.

7. Zip up all of your clothes and be amazed that everything fits in a single half of your luggage!

8. Layer flat packing things, such as lingerie and laundry bags, over your clothes and secure them down with the clip divider.

9. On the other side, use every nook and cranny you can to tetris in your accessories. In my suitcase I fit 4 pairs of shoes, a full sized beach towel, 3 belts, a big French/English dictionary, a drawstring backpack, and a cube shoved full of underthings and bikini tops. 

10. AND a Cindy Tote! Ratchet everything down with the straps and pray your bag closes.

11. OF COURSE IT DOES! And you had doubts...

There you have it folks! Pat yourself on the back for saving yourself $25 in checked bag fees and a long wait at the luggage carousel!

À bientôt!

Canada Capsule Wardrobe Part 2: Outfits!

Bonjour tout le monde,

Below are my 43 days worth of outfits, plus 6 weekend outfits and 7 days of swim/beachwear, all created from my one suitcase Canada capsule wardrobe. No two are the same!

Outfits 1-14

Outfits 15-28

Outfits 29-42

Outfit 43,  6 'Going Out' Outfits & 7 Beach Outfits

Even though I don't need a different outfit everyday, variety and choices are really important to me. Plus, being as I usually pack much much too heavy, like an entire carry on suitcase for a weekend trip, I really feel accomplished fitting 56 winning combinations into such a small bag. 

What are your tips on packing light? Tell me in the comments!

Thanks for reading!

One Suitcase: Canada Capsule Wardrobe

Bonjour mes amis,

As I have told you in the last couple posts, I've been planning my Canada packing list for several weeks now.

To make choosing outfits for myself while abroad (and packing a single carry on bag) easier, I've put together a succinct yet well-rounded capsule wardrobe that can take me from class, to the beach, to volunteering, to a night out with ease.

Most importantly, each piece folds small and can match with multiple other items for maximum efficiency. Here's what I'm taking:

1. white eyelet sundress
2. pink shirt dress w/ collar
3. black shirt dress w/ collar
4. bicycle print sun dress
5. black and white striped tank dress
6. sheer pleated black high-waist skirt
7. lightweight cargo capris
8. khaki shorts
9. dark cuffed denim shorts
10. black bodycon mini skirt
11. long high-waist blue and white geometric print skirt
12. skinny dark wash jeans (double as capris)
13. black 3/4 sleeve waisted blazer
14. black 3/4 sleeve 2-button cardi
15. navy blue long sleeve cardi
16. camel long sleeve cardi
17. bicycle sprint racerback tank top
18. smooth black tank top
19. white animal print collared top
20. smooth white tank top
21. red t-shirt
22. smooth oatmeal tank top
A. stars and stripes bikini

B. pink bikini top

C. aqua fringe bikini top

D. black heart bandeau and hot short bikini 

E. black and white polka dot tankini top

F. pink and white chevron scarf 
G.navy blue sailboat infinity scarf 
H. blue and orange flower square silk scarf
I. sheer black ascot

J. blue and white indigo dyed silk scarf
K. red, blue and white fish rectangle scarf
L. black and white polka dot skinny scarf

M. grey bicycle print pashmina

N. grey Cindy Tote shoulder bag

O. ivory cap toe flats

P. black Converse

Q. neutral flat sandals

R. black braided sandals

S. tan oxfords

T. brown skinny belt

U. yellow skinny belt

V. small tan crossbody bag

W. black wide waist belt

X. camel classic trench coat

Y. leopard print stockings

Z. black polka dot carry on suitcase and Easy Breezy Tote shoulder bag

Adding color and variety with scarves allowed me to stick with a neutral-based color palette to maximize mix-and-matchability and keep shoe choices to a (kind of) minimum. ;) I can make over 50 different outfits, and everything fits in one rollie bag!

I hope this inspires you to limit your luggage next time you fly! Stay tuned to see some outfit possibilites next time.

À bientôt!

My Packing List: Part 2

Hey again,

As promised, here's my madness method of packing toiletries for a trip. Keep in mind, choosing toiletries is completely personal, and this is simply my way of picking what to bring. If you're sane, you'll use a bit more scrutiny than I do...

Here we go!

First, I go through my daily routine and note what essential products come into play at each step:

• Wake up/shower time: toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, loofah, pumice stone, bath gloves, razor & blades, towel, face washcloth, face wash, toner, acne treatment, spot treatment, Q-tips, cotton balls, deodorant, brush/comb.

• Make up time: face lotion w/ SPF, BB cream, concealer, eye shadow, eye liner, mascara, blush

• Hair time: hair brush/comb, leave in conditioner, hair gel, hair spray, dry shampoo, mini flat iron, headbands, mini hair ties, bobby pins

• Bed time: lotion, baby wipes (for makeup)

Next, I think about the things I use less often, but still need on occasion, such as medicine. 

• Other/misc./meds: tweezers, perfume, sunscreen, nail file, nail clippers, nail polish, polish remover, hand sanitizer, pain pills, allergy pills, band-aids (for blisters), lint roller, dryer sheets, 

After this, I toss out anything that can be easily picked up at my destination, or is too bulky to take such as sunscreen. Then I go through and rebottle anything above 3.4 oz., which is the size limit for carry on liquids, gels and aerosols. This time, I reused hotel shampoo and conditioner bottles, and tiny hand sanitizer bottles to pack some of my own products.

Once I've made sure all of the lids are tightly screwed on (and taped if they're loose), the liquids go straight into a clear divider in my makeup case (1 quart, as per TSA regs.).

Whatever doesn't fit gets abandoned in order of how easily it can be reacquired at point B, and the solid stuff goes into another section of my toiletry kit to save precious space!

Bam. So so simple.

Next time I'll show you my capsule wardrobe for the trip.

Au revoir!

My Packing List: My Method Part 1

Hello all!

Today I'm going to ramble about how I personally create a trip-specific packing list for clothes, shoes and accessories. This is the method that works for me, not universally, so try to be open-minded and enjoy!

First, I consider the length of the trip and THE SIZE LIMITS OF MY BAGGAGE. This gives me a guideline as to how many pieces of clothing to bring. In this particular case, I'll be away for 43 days, but I still need to be able to fit everything into one carry on bag.

Second, I look up the weather for my destination. During my stay in Moncton, the weather could be anywhere from low 60s to mid 80s, with the occasional rain shower. This let me know to bring a variety of clothes to fit different weather and temperature scenarios such as a rain coat, tank tops, and items that can be (un)layered such as cardigans and scarves.

Third, I list out all of the things I will be doing while I'm away from home.

• Going to class
• Walking and exploring
• Volunteering
• Going to the pool and beach
• Going out at night
• Attending a welcome dinner and completion ceremony

This helps me decide what situation-specific stuff needs to make it onto my final list, such as comfy shoes, sandals a bathing suit (or 4), and a mix of casual and dressy pieces such as a blazer and versatile dresses.

Fourth, I evaluate all of the clothes I already have AHEAD OF TIME, try everything on, and set aside what I think will work for the trip (including PJs, undershirts, and undergarments) onto one side of my closet. I then narrow the core pieces down to a neutral color palette. For Canada, I chose black, white, blue and tan. Bolder colors can be added later with statement pieces and accessories.

The 'Canada half' of my closet

Over the course of a few weeks, I move things back and fourth from that side of the closet based on several factors:

• Comfort: Do I feel confident while wearing it? Does it fit comfortably?
• Flexibility: Does it fit my color palette? Does it match with several other items including common pairs of shoes? Can it be layered?
• Packability: Does it roll or fold small? Is it wrinkle resistant? Does it require no special care?
• Personality: Does it reflect who I am as a person? Does it give off the kind of impression I would like to emit?

In this stage, I pre-pack at least one to insure everything will fit in my luggage.

Fifth, with the above rules in mind, I make a list of the other essential items and accessories I need to supplement what I already have to complete my trip-worthy wardrobe. Then, I shop! Still, I try to work around my neutral  base colors, adding pops of color in the form of light scarves.

Finally, I try everything on and create outfits! The less flexible items can be eliminated in this step, leaving only the most mixable pieces. Then, I take pictures of everything so I can remember what to put together when I'm away (and of course share with you all!).

There you have it! Stick around for more on my packing methods.

Until then, tell me how you choose what clothes to take when you travel in the comments below.

See ya!

Calendar Update

Bonjour tout le monde,

I've added a few dates to the calendar tab.

To have a look, click below.



À bientôt!

Real Advice for Study Abroad Part 5: Pre-Departure Reminders

I wrote this fifth RAFSA post for NSCS's TalkNerdy2Me. It was originally published here on May 29, 2012.

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Photo Credit: http://international.appstate.edu/
With finals FINALLY over with and school wrapped up for summer, it’s easy to get distracted from the mundane tasks that are still between you and your study abroad trip. Here are 10 important things you can do to stay on track.

1. Talk to your academic advisor to ensure you will be getting credit for the classes you will be taking. If they don’t, be sure to find out how this can effect your graduation date and what you can do to get caught up (i.e. taking an online summer class to catch up).

2. Visit the financial aid office and fill out any paperwork necessary to have your funds applied to your program cost. Also, like I’ve said before, mark down the dates for when your aid money should hit your account so you aren’t taken off guard, or left penniless somewhere.

3. Make your travel arrangements once you know exactly when you are supposed to arrive at your host institution or home study. You will save money and peace of mind buying any tickets you need before you’re on the ground, even shuttle busses or train tickets. Ask your program provider if they offer airport pick up, too, to save you some hassle.

4. Get your original documents in order and make 2 sets of copies. Keep one set at home with your family, bring one along and keep a digital copy on your computer just in case. Also, my list may be incomplete, so be sure to double check with your home and host institutions.

• Passport (and copies of the picture/signature pages)
• Student visa

• Acceptance letters from host university AND program provider
• Medical/Immunization records
• Prescription list (including glasses/contacts)
• Proof of insurance (often times your school and/or program will require additional insurance, as well)
• Copies of program payment receipts
• Financial aid information
• Course selection forms
• Official transcripts
• Travel itinerary/reservations
• Credit cards (and copies of the front and back in case they need replacing)
• List of phone numbers and addresses of your financial aid advisor, study abroad/academic advisors, residence director, program provider, airlines, consulates/embassies, friends/family members, etc. (for post cards, souvenirs and emergencies)

5. See your doctor if you haven’t already had a study abroad physical as required by most universities and program providers. Discuss the legality of your prescription medications abroad, and get a supply long enough to last your trip. Don’t forget to ask if you need additional immunizations or preventative treatments (for malaria, etc.) before you travel.

6. Notify your bank that you will be spending time overseas. This will keep them from freezing your account due to suspected fraud when they see international transactions. Discuss the costs of exchange and any other fees associated with using your account abroad, as these fees can really stack up. To be on the safe side, pull out $100 or so in local currency, too, to hold you over until you can access an ATM machine.

7. Make a master calendar! I know, I’m obsessed, but, really, it is a great tool. Mark all of your travel dates and itineraries including flight/ticket numbers and estimated time of arrival. Also note orientation and placements test times, class times and travel plans. Keeping it online and updating it often can help keep your friends and parents in the know, as well.

8. Get your bearings early. Get a guidebook or do online research about your area of study, and their customs. Print a map, or download one to your phone, iPad or laptop and note the location of your classroom buildings, school offices, the local police department and hospital, the American embassy/consulate, public transportation, shopping etc.

9. Study up and take the time to freshen up your language skills by going over old assignments, listening to local music, watching foreign films sans subtitles and doing language activities online. Make a list of important phrases that you may need if you will be traveling through other countries, as well, such as on a layover, or on a weekend. If you are still not confident, invest in a translation app that doesn’t require Internet access, or get a handheld translator to bring along.

10. Relax! You are almost ready to embark on the trip of a lifetime! Though the process has been long and hard, the payoff will be well worth it. Give yourself a pat on the back and for making a meaningful investment in your future.

If you have any questions, or want to shout out where you’re studying abroad, leave a comment below.

Thanks again for reading, and good luck!

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