Travel Resources
There are literally thousands of books and websites that provide information on international travel. We have collected links to resources around the Internet and suggested printed materials you might utilize in your preparations for studying abroad.
- U.S. Government Sites
- Comprehensive Pre-Departure Information
- Voting Overseas
- Global News
- Travel Guides
- Time & Money
- Telecommunications - Keeping in Touch
- Accommodation
- Air Travel
- Trains
- Student Discounts
- Useful Articles
U.S. Government Sites
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Travel, Transportation and Recreation
Comprehensive Pre-Departure Information
Students can refer to specific questions answered by study abroad alumni and complete online courses to help prepare for their time abroad.
Voting Overseas
Federal Voting Assistance Program
Global News
Travel Guides
Books
Culture Shock! Book Series (search online bookseller’s websites)
Online Resources
The New York Times Travel Section
Time & Money
Currency Converters:
ATM Locators (check with individual banks concerning fees):
Telecommunications - Keeping in Touch
Check with mobile phone carriers to determine international calling and data charges
Internet based communication (Voice over IP)
Phone Cards
Accommodation
Youth Hostels
Hospitality Exchange Networks
Air Travel
Transportation Security Administration
Flights (check prices directly with air carrier first to compare quotes with travel agencies and ticket sites)
STA Travel also offers a special Financial Aid Ticketing Program for SDSU students who normally receive Financial Aid. You can lock in your ticket price as early as you need with a non-refundable deposit of $300. Then at any point up until 7 days prior to departure you pay the remaining balance. Contact STA for details 619-342-0344 or stop by the office on College Avenue between Starbucks and Pita Pit.
Trains
Student Discounts
International Student Identity Card (ISIC)
The ISIC card is the only internationally-recognized student ID which can be used to take advantage of discount offers on travel, accommodation, shopping, and museums. The ISIC can be purchased locally at STA Travel, but search the website first to determine if it will be useful in the places you plan to visit.
The benefits vary widely from country to country. Some students report that they received numerous discounts on museums, tickets, etc., while others report that the discounts were negligible. Europe seems to offer more discounts than other parts of the world.
Useful Articles
Rick Steves’ “Europe on a Student’s Budget”
Newsweek: “How to Be Invisible”
