And so it begins...

And so I depart. It's currently Saturday 11th September - 22:28 (GMT)
At 04:30 Monday 13th September, I will awake and I will leave my house for the very last time for the next 10 months.

My train leaves Gloucester train station at 05:19, where I must travel to London (Only changing once). At Paddington station. I will then have to get the tube and will arrive at Kings Cross at 07:46.

At 08:27 I will board the Eurostar train, and I will OFFICIALLY begin my travels.

It's only just sinking in how real this is becoming. Today I have said my goodbyes to family and friends and all I can say now is; I have never felt like this before in my entire life. As well as bricking it at the thought of being alone, I feel an overwhelming sense of excitement as this is going to be a year of my life I will never forget.

So followers, friends or anyone who's stumbled upon this, at 15:17 on Monday the 13th September, I will have arrived in Strasbourg; Tired, nervous and carrying my life in a suitcase.

And so will begin the most incredible 10 months of my life.
Read more...

Tips on what to pack when studying abroad

Another post for all you travellers out there with some information on key items to take when travelling. This is going to be primarily based on first hand experience (even 5 days at Reading Festival was a huge lesson on the DO's and DONT's for what to pack!)

So I hope you guys find this useful, and even if you don't, it'll be a good reminder to myself for when I leave in the next fortnight!

Right let's crack on, and remember this is personal opinion! So if you disagree or feel I've missed something, let me know!

Documentation:

Passport and a several photocopies of said passport

Several passport sized photos (These can come in really handy)

Proof of insurance

Acceptance letter or proof of study from university (whether it's the abroad university or your home university)

Cards and licenses:

Debit card

Driving or provisional license

TRAVELEX CARD (This is so important and I'll provide a post about it soon)

Clothing:

Now, this is far more easier for boys than girls!

One pair of COMFORTABLE shoes. I can't stress this enough. Unfortunately shoes take up a lot of space in the bag so it's likely you're only going to have room for just the one pair. You're going to be doing A LOT of walking whilst abroad and I strongly recommend you choose comfortability over style. Although you don't want to look like a tramp for your travels, you're going to be on your feet the majority of the time, and being comfortable is always a bonus over fashion.

For clothing, make sure you research the weather for where you're staying. I.E Don't pack tight tee shirts if it's going to be 30 degrees Celsius! Only take the essentials. I suggest you chose darker clothes as dirt and marks don't show up as well compared to white or lighter clothing. Although you don't want to look scruffy for a year, don't take any clothing that you don't mind loosing or getting damaged.

Toiletries:

Again, this is a much easier decision for guys. I would only recommend taking a toothbrush here. Although foreign  stores may not sell your favourite brands, they will still stock types of deodorants and toothpaste etc, so I recommend buying most toiletries whilst out there.

Girls, the same is probably true for your make up. Remembering, your spending your time travelling and chances are, you're not going to look your greatest. That said, most stores will sell make up, but you may have to fork out a bit more cash if you're looking for your high market brands.

Misc:

A small torch

Plug converters

Small notepad and pen

Money Clips

Maps

Extra SD cards for your camera!

A large ruck sack (This saves taking your suitcase everywhere, allowing you to carry your essentials whilst leaving  clothes etc wherever you're staying)

Read more...