Staying healthy during an immersion programme

Welcome back, Readers!

As we are amid a global health crisis, we wanted to dedicate this entry to those who are already on an immersion programme or who are contemplating to participate in one. The truth is, whether at home or abroad, we are all susceptible of getting sick or to experience some sort of discomfort. 

So that you can also be prepared for whatever the event, here are some immersion programme health tips!

1. Get Travel and Medical insurance

We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to take out travel/medical insurance. For persons applying for visas or tourist cards to visit some countries, travel insurance is already a requirement mainly because as a visitor, you are not entitled to social security benefits and health costs could be exorbitant for foreigners. Travel+Medical insurance could help to offset costs in the event of accident, hospitalization and even repatriation. For Travel Insurance for our immersion programmes in France, Languesol International may assist in acquiring a plan thanks to a partnership agreement. Feel free to speak to us about your plans! 

2. Memorize the emergency numbers 

For our immersion programmes, there is usually a local 24hr emergency number available to programme participants. In addition, if staying at a host family, that provides extra security as your host family may be able to intervene in the event of an emergency. Nevertheless, we highly recommend that you memorize the list of emergency numbers that will be provided to you. It would be helpful to be aware of the fastest route to the nearest clinic or hospital, just in case. If you'll be staying at a hotel, you can call front the desk and you will be assisted. Be sure that your medical insurance covers potential ambulance trips as those can be quite costly.

3. Stock up on multi-vitamins and meds

In addition to knowing how to get to the nearest clinic or hospital, it wouldn't be a bad idea to pinpoint the nearest pharmacy. Even though the chances are slim of there being an emergency, there might come a time when there's a nagging headache or when there's a flare up of pre-existing health issues. It would be great to bring a good amount of the medication you'll know you need, especially since you'll be familiar with the brand, which might not be available in the country where you'll be doing your language immersion. It's also always helpful to keep up with your vitamin intake, wherever the source.

4. Dress well for the weather

Admit, it, it would suck to get a cold during a trip that you've spent months planning for. A lot of the times people catch a cold is because they're not well dressed for the weather. For us in the tropics, we have a totally different idea of what cold temperatures are than someone who is European and who is used to having all the seasons. So pack according the weather patterns and each morning, before heading out, check the weather forecast! 

5. Maintain good hygiene pratices

Of course, this goes without saying that good hygiene practices should keep you away from the doctor's office. It will also help if you avoid shaking hands or kissing persons who are not well and when you are not well.

6. Have a healthy routine

We also recommend that people try to stay in shape as much as possible! Some of our immersion programmes include hikes and guided tours. However most, if not all, cities have parks where you can go jogging or bicycles that you can take for a spin. It would also help if you stay hydrated and get very good rest during your immersion programme, so that you can have a fulfilling experience.

There so many other ways that one can try to stay healthy during an immersion programme. If you'd like to add a few, don't hesitate to comment on this post. 

If you're interested in participating in an immersion programme offered by Languesol International,  book a free online language travel consultation session, we'll be happy to discuss your plans.

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