Studying Abroad as a Vegetarian
April 21st, 2012 by ahoontrakulStudying abroad is a great experience, but for many vegetarians traveling overseas it can be challenging especially if you don’t speak the language. While some foods may not appear to be made with meat, it can be difficult to tell whether your food was cooked with animal products such as a meat-based broth.
If you are a vegetarian, preparation before your trip is crucial to a successful trip. 
The first step is to research your destination country and learn about their food preparation customs. For example, if you are traveling to India you may soon find out that there is a wide variety of vegetarian options since it has the largest population of vegetarians in the world. Check out other countries that are vegetarian friendly. On the other hand, traveling to a country like Argentina is one of the world’s top meat consuming countries. If you’ll be in a similar situation, be prepared to explain to the restaurant staff your dietary restrictions.
Before boarding your flight, make sure you’ve inform the airline of your dietary restrictions as well. Most airlines have special vegetarian and vegan food options as long as you order this in advance of your flight.
Now that the easy part is over, you’ve landed in your destination and don’t know the language. This is where early preparation comes in handy! You should prepare a few essential phases to describe your dietary needs as sometimes the word “vegetarian” doesn’t translate especially if vegetarianism is a small minority. You may also find that having a good dictionary or phase book can also be helpful.
Some people may think that studying abroad as a vegetarian means that eating at a restaurant will be difficult. To make life easier, there are websites like HappyCow.net which lists vegetarian-friendly restaurants around the world along with customer reviews.
And, of course, the best way to be sure you know what you are eating is to make it yourself! If you are studying abroad and have access to a kitchen, it’s time to brush up on your cooking skills. Not sure what a certain food is called? Ask your fellow shoppers – walking around a grocery store is a great way to meet locals and improve your language skills! Studying abroad as a vegetarian doesn’t have to limit your experience, but rather it can be an extension of your international education.
Cinco de Mayo Travel Medical Insurance
April 20th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisCinco de Mayo is right around the corner. Students who will be traveling to Mexico this year for the festivities on May 5 will want to be aware of what they can look forward to during their trip and ensure that they have sufficient Cinco de Mayo travel medical insurance.
Each year on the fifth of May the state of Puebla and Mexico City provide some of the largest festivities in Mexico in honor of Mexico’s win in the Battle of Puebla against the French. Many people confuse Cinco de Mayo with being the Mexican Independence Day, although it is not, those traveling to Mexico over Cinco de Mayo will still have access to rich Mexican culture as it runs ramped during this celebration.
Military parades and mock re-enactments of the Battle of Puebla are both highlights of this commemoration as those performing have usually logged multiple hours practicing for these events. There is also a plethora of dancing to mariachi bands and traditional Mexican dishes to be discovered. With food abound, the Cinco de Mayo celebration gives foodies something to look forward to. Mole sauce, chiles rellenos, tostados, and tacos are just a few of the goodies to be expected.
If you are taking a short trip to Puebla, Mexico City or any other location in Mexico to join in on the Cinco de Mayo excitement make sure your current health insurance includes Cinco de Mayo Travel Medical Insurance. If your plan does not provide you with the international health coverage you will need while joining in on the fiesta, you will want to purchase Cinco de Mayo travel medical insurance before your journey. You can purchase this coverage for as little as 5 days and have access to your documents right away. Contact one of our agents if you would like more information on purchasing a plan.
Sun Protection
April 13th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisBecoming an international student can require a lot of personal adjustment. Depending on the new culture chosen to study in, the adjustments can be great, between new food, dress and everyday mannerism, adjusting to a new country can be difficult for an international student.
One adjustment that important to consider and accommodate to when moving to a new location is the weather. International students will most likely have different weather patterns around them than what was prevalent in their home country, especially if they are moving halfway around the world. Knowing what type of weather to expect in a new location is important to be able to prepare for whatever Mother Nature brings along.
Tornados, hurricanes, floods and earthquakes can all be disastrous and are important to know how to handle. But another natural hazard that is often overlooked is the sun. Individuals who are not familiar with harsh sunlight, yet move to a location where rays are intense will need to know how to protect themselves from irreversible damage that is caused by the sun. Those who are in the sun during midday can get sunburn within minutes, especially those who with fair skin. Here are a few tips for sun protection:
- Wear sunscreen and apply it often. This tip is a common one when it comes to sun protection because it is effective. This will not only help prevent individuals getting a sunburn, but also against premature aging that is caused by UV-A rays.
- UV rays are the strongest from 10am-4pm. Try to limit the time spent in the sun during these hours. If outside activities are required during these times, seek out shady areas when possible.
- Wear clothes that work to your advantage. Find loose-fitting clothes made of light colors and cloth. This will let air in while keeping the sun out. Also, skin is not the only thing that should be protected from the sun. Keep your eyes healthy with sunglasses that provide UV-A and UV-B protection.
Although sun protection might sound minor, overexposure to the sun can produce negative effects such as burns and blister that require hospital visits. International students from regions where the sun is less intense and are traveling to areas with harsh rays should be able to enjoy their fun in the sun. By adopting healthy sun habits, the worst can be avoided.
Immunizations For Studying In The USA
April 7th, 2012 by ahoontrakulWhat Are Immunizations And Why Are They Important?
Immunizations (also known as vaccines) can be administered orally or by injection and are designed to stimulate your immune system to recognize a specific disease before you contract it. This will help protect your body from disease and will also help ensure you can’t then pass diseases to others.
It’s important that you are as healthy as possible while studying in the United States as an international student, and this is why most schools require their students are vaccinated before registering for classes.
What Immunizations Does My School Require?
Immunization requirements will vary from school to school, so it’s important to ask your school which vaccines you’re required to have. Sometimes schools will have two lists of vaccinations – some that you are required to have and some that they simply suggest.
The Cigna Global plan covers the HPV vaccine and other vaccines commonly administered to 17-year-olds or younger.
The Most Commonly Required Vaccinations Are:
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (TDAP)
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Hepatitis B
- Polio
Some Schools Also May Require These Vaccinations:
- Meningococcal B (meningitis)
- HPV
- Annual Flu Shot
- TB Test (tuberculosis)
When Should I Get Vaccinated?
While it is possible for students to get their vaccines in the USA after arrival, it is often more cost-effective and less of a hassle to receive your vaccines beforehand. If at all possible, try to get all of your vaccinations taken care of in your home country.
Typical Costs of Immunizations
| Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) | $80 |
| Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (TDAP) | $95 |
| Varicella (Chickenpox) | $166 |
| Hepatitis B | $104 |
| Polio (IPV) | $115 |
| Meningococcal B (meningitis) | $205 |
| HPV | $250 |
| Flu Shot | $80 |
Are you curious about the US healthcare system and what else you should be taking care of before traveling to the US? Check out this helpful video.
Does my Insurance Cover Immunizations?
If your health insurance plan is offered by your school or compliant with the Affordable Care Act, odds are that immunizations (at least some of them) are covered by your insurance. If your school doesn’t offer a health insurance plan and you have to purchase your own individual plan, odds are that immunizations won’t be covered.
Look at our School Requirements page and find a plan that is accepted by your school
If you aren’t sure what your plan does or doesn’t cover, phone the number on your insurance ID card for help.
Do you need a health insurance plan that can cover vaccinations? Our Student Secure Elite plan is a great option!
Benefit Period
April 6th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisFinding international student health insurance can be a daunting task for many students. Between meeting school requirements and understanding all of the terms, things can get confusing. One term that often raises questions is the benefit period.
Many students assume that the benefit period refers to the entire effective period of a plan. In actuality, the benefit period can be thought of as extra time provided at the termination of the plan for a specific condition that was diagnosed or treated while the plan was still in effect. Each plan will vary with the specific terms and length of time attached to this benefit.
For example, the Student Secure plan has a benefit period of 60 days. If a covered individual is hospitalized as an inpatient for an eligible expense on their termination date, that condition would be covered for the next 60 days.
The benefit period for the Atlas Travel plan is slightly different in that an eligible condition that was diagnosed or treated while the plan was in effect, will be covered for 180 days under the benefit period after the plan is no longer in effect. The 180 days begins the first day of diagnosis or treatment for that eligible condition.
Depending on the type of plan you purchase, this benefit could vary greatly from the examples provided above. It is important to research the benefits of your prospective plan before you commit to your purchase.
Despite the difference in the benefit period between the Atlas Travel plan and the Student Secure plan, both of them work well for individuals looking for international student health insurance.
If you would like more information on the Student Secure plan or Atlas Travel plan feel free to contact one of our licensed agents today. They can assist you with any questions you might have, including those regarding the benefit period.
April 2012 Travel Warning Updates
April 1st, 2012 by Jennifer FrankelApril showers bring May flowers – so the saying goes. If you are looking to escape the showers, and travel overseas – especially as many students are currently on Spring Break – it is important to do your research on your destination. Make sure that you have reviewed the April 2012 Travel Warning Updates that have been released by the US Department of State. As an update from the March 2012 Travel Warning Update, we are happy to say that there hasn’t been too many updates in the last month:
– Travel Warning for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza – The US State Department updated the June 22, 2011 warning this past month warning travelers of security concerns throughout the region. This warning advises travelers to avoid the Gaza Strip and to remain vigilant in the West Bank and Jerusalem.
– Travel Warning for Mali – Mali’s travel warning was updated on March 26th due to the continuation of political instability in the country. Current risks facing travelers include “attacks and kidnappings in the North of the country.”
– Travel Warning for Yemen – The Yemen travel warning was replaced on March 27th warning travelers of “terrorist activities and civil unrest.” The warning states that all travel to the country should be delayed and that all travelers currently in Yemen to depart immediately. Much of the security concerns are associated with the ongoing demonstrations and active terrorist organizations.
– Travel Warning for Chad – The travel warning for Chad was recently updated on March 29th warning citizens to avoid all travel to eastern Chad and the border regions. While the security risks have improved since 2010, the current risks of violent crimes including carjacking and kidnapping continue to make the region unstable for travelers.
For more information on April 2012 Travel Warning Update, contact or check out the US Department of State website.
Student Health Insurance for the University of Florida
March 30th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisAre you an international student at the University of Florida that would like to have an extra $120 in your pocket? This amount might not sound like a lot, but with the rise in gas prices, spring break bills to pay off and a new semester right around the corner, $120 could boost many students’ bank accounts.
Having this extra money is possible, simply by exploring your international student health insurance options for the University of Florida. The University of Florida offers its international students an insurance plan that students can either accept, or they can waive out of after purchasing comparable coverage that will meet the school’s insurance requirements. However, having health insurance in the US is not just about meeting a school’s requirement. Because of high health care costs in the US it is important to have health insurance that will meet your needs. Since not all coverage is created equal, knowing what you are paying for by researching what your prospective plan includes and excludes can save a lot of headaches later on.
After comparing the coverage of plans to find student health insurance for the University of Florida, you will also want to compare costs. The University of Florida’s annual student insurance plan through the school costs $1,311 for an international student aged 24 or younger.
The Student Secure 6 month pre-ex plan meets and exceeds the University of Florida’s insurance verification waiver form and costs $1,188 annually for international students younger than 25.
University of Florida Insurance Plan: $1,311 per year
Student Secure Insurance Plan: $1,188 per year
Your savings: $123 per year!
For more information on Student Health Insurance for the University of Florida you can contact one of our licensed agents today. After your plan is purchased we can approve your University of Florida verification form.
*The University of Florida’s insurance cost is based on the available 2011/2012 information.
Short Term Study Abroad Insurance
March 24th, 2012 by ahoontrakulStudy abroad programs come in many different shapes and sizes. In today’s world of international education, you no longer have to study abroad for a semester or a year, many organizations now offer programs that last as little as a week. In many cases, your domestic health insurance policy may not provide coverage outside the US or may only offer limited coverage while you are abroad. Make sure to check with your insurance company as you may need to purchase a short term study abroad insurance if you are not already covered.
It doesn’t matter if you are going abroad for a year, a month or even 5 days. Anything can happen even on a short trip, it only takes a few seconds for an accident to happen or one bad meal to have food poisoning. Having a short term study abroad insurance can ensure that you receive the treatment and care that you need. Some schools may offer insurance to their students however these plans are often more expensive. Additionally, some school plans may require you to purchase a minimum of one month while alternative plans let you purchase just the days that you need even if you’ll be abroad for a few days.
Our short term study abroad insurance plan allows you to buy coverage for a trip as short as 5 days. The plan will provide you with comprehensive coverage including doctor visits, hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation, lost luggage, etc. $50,000 for a 7 day study abroad program can cost less than $8 total! Even if you choose $1 million worth of coverage, it would not cost more than $15 for 7 days.
If you have any questions about short term study abroad insurance, contact one of our licensed insurance agents. You may also want to read our advice on purchasing your Study Abroad Cancellation Policy.
* Quotes are based on 18-29 years old traveling outside of the US in April 2012.
Indian student health insurance in the US
March 23rd, 2012 by Bryanna DavisEven with a 1 percent decrease in 2010/2011, India still provides the second largest population of international students in the US according to the Open Doors report.
Indian students studying in the US with an F1 visa will need to ensure they meet any international student health insurance requirements that their school has in place. Often, the minimum requirements include repatriation of remains and emergency medical evacuation. Most schools have a much more comprehensive list of requirements that exceed just these two requirements and it must be met by those with an F1 visa to be enrolled.
Individuals from India with a J1 visa will need to meet the requirements of the Department of State. These requirements include the following:
- Medical Benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness
- Repatriation of Remains in the amount of $7,500
- Expenses associated with the medical evacuation of the exchange visitor to his or her home country in the amount of $10,000
- A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness
- A policy underwritten by an insurance carrier with:
1. an AM Best rating of “A-” or above
2. an Insurance Solvency International, Ltd (ISI) rating of “A-I” or above
3. a Standard and Poor’s Claims Paying Ability rating of “A-” or above
4. or a Weiss Research, Inc. rating of “B+” or above
Since the United States has a private healthcare system, Indian student health insurance in the US can be purchased through a private insurance company.
If you are looking for Indian student health insurance in the US that meets the J1 requirements, you might be eligible for the J1 student and scholar visa insurance.
If you are trying to meet your school’s insurance requirements you can contact one of our agents to find out if we have a plan that fits your needs.
Spring Break Insurance
March 16th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisSome of the top spring break destinations this year are Cancun and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, Negril in Jamaica and Nassau in the Bahamas. Are you a student going on spring break to another country soon? Even those planning to go on a last minute trip still have time to purchase their spring break insurance! The Atlas Travel series can be purchased online and you can receive your ID cards within minutes after your purchase.
Whether you are going on an educational trip to compliment your studies, a community service trip to give back to others or a tropical getaway to relax and enjoy the sun, the Atlas Travel series will provide you with the spring break insurance coverage you need. A few benefits included in this plan are doctor visits, hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, lost luggage and repatriation of remains.
Do you plan do get in all of the jet skiing, parachuting and spelunking possible while on break? If your trip will involve extreme sports you can include coverage that will protect you while participating in those activities as well.
This plan can be purchased for as little as five days up to twelve months and it won’t break your student budget. Those who are twenty-one years old and in need of coverage for one week outside of the US can purchase this plan for less than $9. Approximately 60 percent of spring breakers are injured while on their trip. Don’t spend your break worrying if you will be included in that 60 percent. For more details or to purchase this spring break insurance you can contact one of our licensed agents.
Before leaving on your journey make sure you also check out the latest travel warnings to ensure you will come back safe and on time to study for finals!
