A Blog about Education Abroad

Tag: France

  • Renier at the Strasbourg Summer School

    Renier at the Strasbourg Summer School

    Pre-departure:

    As with any overseas trip I would advise that you attempt to sort out the logistics and admin as soon as possible. First, you need to book your flights – Paris and Frankfurt will likely be the cheapest options. Also consider staying on a bit longer if finances and time permit it. I stayed an extra few days after the summer school in Paris which ended up being a very good decision.
    Thereafter you can make your visa appointment. I used a company called Capago, whom I highly recommend. I would advise booking train/bus tickets from and to the airport for your arrival and departure dates in advance, but not your weekend trips just yet as you might make friends who want to go as a group somewhere while in Strasbourg.

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  • Siphosihle Mzongwana at the AC21 World Student Forum

    Siphosihle Mzongwana at the AC21 World Student Forum

    PRE- DEPARTURE:

    My preparations were quite overwhelming at some point because it was my first time to travel abroad. Because of this I decided to book my flight through a travel agent so that I avoid unnecessary stress. I didn’t want to make any mistake or encounter a system error online that will cost me dearly. The travel agent booked for me my return ticket and also got me travel insurance. The most overwhelming one was the visa application process. I had to make sure that I get the relevant documentation for the visa. I had to get the acceptance letter from AC21, letter of proof of accommodation in France, return flight ticket, travel insurance, letter from the university validating that I am a registered student and I will resume my academic program after the Student World Forum, two passport size photos and a fee of R1200.

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  • Claire at the AC21 Student World Forum

    Claire at the AC21 Student World Forum

    RITUALISTIC PLANNING BEFORE I LEFT:

    After getting over the excitement and shock at being selected for such an incredible opportunity, I started planning. Before the travel bursary was discussed I started looking at flight prices and times. I used Travelstart to book my flights- that website really is the best way to find the cheapest flight. I was lucky to be able to extend my stay for three nights in Basel, where I had a friend. I bought train tickets online and they delivered it to my house- all very easy- google Eurorail South Africa and it is simple from there! I did not have to get a VISA because I am a British citizen, so that was another benefit for me . I suggest learning a few words of the country you visit, just to communicate in the shops. I had to resort to sign language very often.

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