Vacationing in Europe is convenient and affordable for international students studying in the UK if they plan ahead. What you should know is this:
1. Visa Conditions
Students in the UK or the EU: Short visits (up to 90 days in the Schengen Zone) do not require a visa.
Students from abroad studying in the UK: A Schengen visa (around €80/£70) can be required, depending on your country of origin. Obtaining a visa for any EU or Schengen nation from the UK is rather simple.
2. Low-Cost Travel Choices
Flights: When purchasing tickets in advance, low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air, and FlyBe offer tickets starting at £20-£50.
Trains: Early reservations for the Eurostar to Paris or Brussels start at £39.
Buses: Tickets for FlixBus and Megabus range from £10 to £30, although the journey hours are longer.
3. Reasonably priced lodging
Hostels cost between £10 and £30 per night (see Booking.com or Hostelworld).
Airbnb and low-cost hotels usually charge between £20 and £50 a night.
Couchsurfers: People who are receptive to cultural interactions can stay for free with locals.
4. Discounts for Students
Eurail and Interrail passes are discounted train tickets for students travelling throughout Europe.
ISIC Card: Save money on dining, transit, and attractions.
City Passes: Numerous cities provide affordable passes that allow for unrestricted sightseeing and transportation.
5. Inexpensive Vacation Spots
Portugal, Greece, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Hungary are the most economical.
France, Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands are more expensive.
Saving Money Advice
- Make early reservations for flights with Google Flights or Skyscanner.
- Steer clear of taxis and choose public transit instead.
- Choose street food or neighbourhood bakeries over dining establishments.
- To split lodging expenses, travel in groups.
