There is no better companion to take with you when you are traveling through Europe or the British Isles than a current edition of Let s Go or one of Rick Steve's Guides . Both are classic budget traveler s guides to food, lodgings and sites in the major cities of Europe. More detailed editions are available for specific countries. You are advised not to take too many electrical appliances with you when studying abroad. A CD player or laptop computer will eventually prove burdensome to transport and to keep safe.
Travelers checks are a much safer bet.
You can get travelers checks for free at AAA if you are a member. Students studying in Belgium may want to open up a bank account there before they arrive to avoid having to exchange money overseas. In order to ensure that you have adequate funds in the event of an emergency, it is a good idea to bring a credit card with cash advance possibilities with you overseas. If you already have a credit card, be sure to call before you leave in order to have them assign you a PIN number. The cheapest way to stay in touch with friends and loved ones back at home is to have them call you overseas.