Be prepared!

There are lots of things to organize before hopping on a plane to Thailand. Here is my personal checklist:

- health insurance: If you are studying abroad you will most likely not be covered by your normal health insurance. Actually it's not very difficult to find a health insurance for your semester abroad and many insurance companies have special offers for students. Comparing prices can save you lots of money... in Germany prices between 30-35 Euros/month are average. A cheap one for Germans is DKV (if your are under 24 and female it's less than 22 Euros!). Make sure the insurance covers all the expenses in case you have to be flown back to your country due to an emergency (this can become really expensive if you aren't insured!).

- learning agreements: In case you want to transfer credits you've earned in Phuket to your home institution you should seek all the necessary information BEFORE leaving for Thailand. Some universities will not transfer the credits unless you have made learning agreements before your departure.

- vaccinations: Check with your doctor if you have all the necessary vaccinations for a stay in Thailand.

- passport: Make sure that your passport is still valid.

- credit cards: Compare different banks and get a credit card with low transaction fees. For Germany a comdirekt visa card is a great way to save money because they will not charge you any fees for withdrawing money at any ATM worldwide.

- financial support: I will give this topic an extra post... check the scholarship section :)