When many people plan to study, intern or volunteer abroad they also want to travel within their destination country or to other countries in the region.  Whether you are going on a weekend getaway during your placement or an extended trip before or after, you are probably trying to figure out how to make the most out of your limited funds. World Endeavors' staff members, experienced budget travelers themselves, have been in your shoes! Below are several suggestions of ways to stretch your budget and, in the end, be able to see more than you thought you ever could.

• Do as the locals do.  A good way to save money is by watching what the locals do in everyday situations.  Eat local food, take public transportation and talk to the locals, as they are the experts!
• Plan in advance when possible.  When taking short flights it can often save you money to plan in advance.  Look for a travel agency that does not charge for their services.  They know the ins and outs of the industry and can often times find cheaper flights than you would be able to on your own, especially if you are in a non English-speaking country.
• Research.  Travel forums can have great information provided by people with first hand experience.  You can find all types of stuff including transportation costs, cheap hostels, things to do etc.  Try to decide which information is most accurate and helpful to you, as it is often someone's personal opinion.
• Talk to other travelers.  Other backpackers who you come across on your travels can be a great source for valuable, up to date information on where to go, how to get there and what to do.  Since the world is continuously changing, they may know something that you may never have found online.  Maybe you'll even add another person to your travel group or, for solo travelers, find a buddy!

Remember: even small savings can add up, especially over the course of a long trip.   

Check out our funding and financial aid page for more info about how to fund an experience abroad!

And so the vicious cycle begins.  You must be hired to gain experience in the field, but how can you gain experience if no one will hire you?  The answer is one that is becoming more and more popular in the United States and abroad: interning. This is true not only for recent grads but also for people who have changed professions, been laid off, or taken a break from the workforce and decided to return.  An internship allows you to gain valuable experience in your field and acquire the necessary skills that will make you a desirable candidate in you future professional endeavors.

So, if so many people are turning to internships to spark their careers, what can you do to set yourself apart from them?  An international internship can give you the necessary edge that will elevate you one step above your peers.  In our increasingly interconnected world, employers look for job candidates who display interest and understanding of other countries, cultures, languages, and governments.  There is no better way to gain experience than to travel and work in another country. Not to mention, it's a blast!