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Old 01-24-2008, 09:18 AM   #1
csmithstudnt
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Default How far in advance?

This is probably a really dumb question.

I'm starting to get a bit worried about my semi-plans for travel. I'm planning on leaving the very beginning of May at the earliest for the UK to do a working holiday through BUNAC, but I haven't really started planning at all. I know I want to be in the UK for at least 3 months, and then do 2 or 3 weeks around Europe. I pretty much have nothing planned, other than a general idea of when I want to go and knowing that I have friends over there from camp last year. I already have a passport but that's it.

How far ahead do you usually start planning for a trip like this? Am I wrong to be nervous? I can't set anything in stone until the end of March (have to schedule an online class before I can go).
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Old 01-24-2008, 09:53 AM   #2
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First let me say there is nothing wrong with being nervous I personally get nervous before a big trip and think thats part of being a traveler.
Well if you can't set anything in stone until the end of March, my advice would be to spend February researching where you want to go and what you want to see. Then come March you can start making a rough schedule.
I think you've got enough time to prepare though.

Just to add for employment try agencies while in the UK.
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Old 01-24-2008, 09:54 AM   #3
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It's definitely alright to be nervous. I'm one who likes to plan far in advance, but thats because when I get obsessed with something, I usually can't stop.

The only thing you need to worry about is the job... You'll have plenty of time over there to make travel plans for 2/3 weeks around Europe. Basically as long as you have a job, or at least an interview or two, that helps. If you already have a job, accomodation is key as well. You can check various sites, such as gumtree.com (I think) and they will give you subletting information, along with I believe a roommate finder. I could be wrong though.

Otherwise, just make a list of where you want to go, and read up on those destinations. Find various surrounding areas that tourists would never think of, and check them out. One of the best feelings is knowing you're in a place with little tourist activity. It almost feels like you have discovered it.

I'm sure I'm missing something though, but these are just my opinions.
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Old 01-24-2008, 09:56 AM   #4
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And while in the UK, if you get weekends off, or even two or three days off in a row... Take day trips to other UK countries. I can't express enough love for Edinburgh. Not to mention the surrounding cities of London, such as Oxford and Stratford upon Avon. Liverpool is nice if you're a Beatles fan, although there is heaps more to do. Newcastle is probably my favorite city in England, because of Newcastle United.
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Old 01-24-2008, 11:45 AM   #5
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I agree with the others, once you have a job, there rest is a piece of cake. When you have time, only focus your efforts in finding a place to work. The travel plans can wait until you're in the UK, and you know how much money you can count on.
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Old 01-25-2008, 07:49 AM   #6
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Yeah, you got boatloads of time to figure all this stuff out, don't fret. And you're entire time in Europe doesn't have to be planned before you leave. 1) figure out job 2) figure out main residence and then worry about the rest as you go. You don't wanna commit to visiting Paris on your 3rd weekend there when maybe RyanAir is offering $1 flights to Prague or something.
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