Sunday, March 29, 2020
Tips For Preparing For Your Organic Chemistry Test
Tips For Preparing For Your Organic Chemistry TestIf you are ready to take an organic chemistry test, congratulations, you have made the right decision. But, before you even think about taking the exam, here are some tips that can help you in preparing for the exam.The first tip that will help you in preparation for your organic chemistry test is the study schedule. By studying thoroughly during the day and at night, you will be able to learn the most important concepts quickly. Try to study for as many topics as possible so that you can evaluate your knowledge. If you can learn several topics in less than two weeks, this is considered good preparation.Some other tips include; do not be overzealous and try to squeeze in some extra classes to increase your score. Before you know it, you will find yourself trying to cram in two or three more classes so that you can make up for lost time. This might be a little bit of a stretch, but it's something that you should know.One effective meth od to develop the proper knowledge is by taking an online tutorial. These tutorials will provide you with the knowledge on organic chemistry test preparation that you need. It is essential to make a habit of listening to tutorials that contain all the information that you need.In addition, you should schedule a review period after each week to evaluate your progress. If you do not have a timetable to follow, do not worry. You can easily find a review session that will fit your schedule.Another tip for preparation for your organic chemistry test is to create your own tests. All you need to do is just jot down ideas you have and build a questionnaire. By doing this, you will get a better grasp of what you need to study for the exam.Lastly, make sure that you get plenty of rest. If you have a bad night's sleep, you may feel groggy the next day, so make sure that you rest up before you go to bed. Then, you can have an easy time learning for the test.Those are just a few tips that can he lp you prepare for your organic chemistry test. There are more tips that you should check out before you take the exam.
Friday, March 6, 2020
How important are the Key Stage 2 SATs results
How important are the Key Stage 2 SATs results With the KS2 SATs results being released to schools later this week, we thought there was no better time to look at how important they are to your child's future. What do SATs assess? SATs assess how well students have understood what they've learnt in three subjects: mathematics, reading, and spelling, grammar and punctuation. It's only the second year of the new, harder SATs so 2017 results will only be comparable with last year. Not all schools offer SATs. Independent schools can choose whether to offer them, but they usually still do an equivalent at the end of primary/prep school to assess students ability. Do the results really matter? SATs are important to the future education of your child. Many secondary schools use the results to gauge student ability in order to organise them into sets for subjects and even to predict how they will perform right through to A levels. Poor results at SATs can lead to students being incorrectly streamed through school not allowing their true potential to shine through. One would hope that secondary schools are good at identifying children in the wrong sets, but unfortunately this isn't always the case, especially where there are big class sizes. The accuracy of the OLD SATs in predicting future student grades was disputed, however the new tests are designed to be far better at measuring performance. Consequently you and your child will have a clear picture of their strengths and areas of weakness that can be improved. If you feel your child could benefit from private tuition, do feel free to register HERE. The SATs results are also used to analyse how well a primary school is performing. Understandably teachers are under pressure to get their students working to the best of their ability. They might even be denied a pay rise if results are poor, although there are changes afoot to address this. Some would argue that SATs are more important to the school than the child and that there are less stressful ways to measure competence in the classroom than formal exams at this age. Help, my child's results aren't great! Firstly, reassure them that it's not the end of the world. They may be young, but will still have felt pressure to perform well and compare themselves to peers. In fact, some schools are boycotting SATs as they fear they are too stressful for pupils. There's always plenty of time to improve knowledge in weak subject areas, especially with the whole of the summer holiday ahead. As long as your child put in their best effort there's nothing more you could have asked for. At the end of the day, we put such importance on exam results, but they can only ever provide a snapshot of ability!
Salaries, bonuses and negotiations getting paid to teach overseas
Salaries, bonuses and negotiations getting paid to teach overseas Money might not be the main motivator that inspires people to teach abroad, but one thingâs for sure?â"if youâre setting off on the adventure of a lifetime youâll want to make sure youâve got enough yen, euros or dirhams in your pocket to enjoy it. But at the same time, youâve probably heard stories of some teachers saving up small fortunes overseas while others get around the globe on a shoe-string budget. So why do teach abroad salaries differ so much from job to job? How do you make sure you get a fair salary when youâre moving to teach in a new country? And how can you ask for a raise when you think you deserve it? Read on to find out... How much do teachers make abroad? There are literally as many answers to this question as there are countries in the world! At the top end of the scale, teaching abroad can pay a salary that allows you to live well and save money, and at the lower end, it can entail budgeting and working for multiple schools to make a full salary. It really depends on where you go to teach. As such, itâs important to consider your motivations before you choose where you go. Are you looking for a cultural experience, a chance to make money, or a mix of both? If having a high salary is a high priority for you, you can quickly narrow your search to destinations that fit the bill, such as the United Arab Emirates or Japan. But if youâre more concerned about living in a particular country or city overseas, youâll have to accept the norm for teaching salaries in that area. Having said that, itâs important to consider your potential salary in context. A seemingly low salary might actually stretch further than you think depending on living expenses in the city you are living in. How do I know if Iâll make enough money teaching abroad? Start researching online and ask schools youâre interviewing with what your living expenses will be in any places you expect to work in. (Sometimes during the hiring process, you're not sure which city you will be placed in until a job offer has been made). Compare your potential salary to the cost of living to really understand how your monthly payments will translate in real terms. Also, take into consideration whether the school provides housing, health insurance and airfare for their teachers. Next, youâll need to work out what âenough moneyâ means for you. Obviously, you will have to pay phone bills, buy groceries and have some money left over to do things you enjoy in your free time. But beyond that, think about the lifestyle you want to have overseas. What do you see yourself doing on the weekends? Will you take lots of trips to nearby cities while youâre living there? Will you need to fly home at any point? Basically, what are the non-negotiables that you want your salary to cover? And if your salary doesnât cover them will you have the time, permission from your main employer and visa rights to take on extra work elsewhere? How do I know if Iâm getting a fair salary? Once youâve worked out whether your salary will be workable in the country youâre going to, itâs time to take a closer look at your contract. Here are some things to look out for: Will you be paid purely for classroom teaching hours or does your salary also cover other tasks like lesson planning, report writing, admin and watching students at break times? Check with your school to get a full idea of what your weekly responsibilities will be. Can you stand by all the clauses in your contract? Sometimes final month salaries or bonuses are dependent on you completing a 12-month contract or hitting certain targets. If you want to supplement your income, take a look at whether your contract allows you to work for competitors or provide private or online tutoring. Take a look at the standard salary for teachers in the country youâre working in and what kind of benefits teachers are usually given. How does your contract compare to this? What can I expect to bepaid with my education and experience? This really depends on where you plan to teach. Some organizations have very clear pay scales (such as South Koreaâs EPIK program) and others may not. Itâs fair to say that most schools around the world will at least pay more for a teacher with qualifications such as a TEFL certificate. Teachers with a teaching license or bachelorâs degree in education also open themselves up to the possibility of teaching in international schools, where salaries are generally comparable with what you would be earning at home. Do you have a masterâs degree? That's even better! A good first step is to research what the average salary bracket is where youâre going and place yourself in that bracket based on your teaching background. Then bring up any experience and qualifications when youâre interviewing with individual schools and ask them what their pay scale is. I donât think Iâm being paid enough. How can I negotiate a raise? The big awkward question: how do you ask for more money? Should you even try? To put it simply, yes! Not being paid what youâre worth is demoralizing and infuriating, but negotiating a higher salary can be easier than jumping ship to an entirely new school. In fact, some would say itâs worth trying to negotiate your salary, even if you are happy with it because thereâs no harm in asking. How to ask Having said that, how you ask is crucial. Some cultures might consider it rude that youâd ask for more money before youâve signed a contract with them and proven what a great teacher you are in person. Others expect you to haggle a little over the details of your contract. Whatever your relationship with your school is, be polite, friendly and choose the appropriate moment to bring up the subject. And do a little research into how salary negotiations are typically approached in this particular country. During the hiring process If you are trying to negotiate a raise during the hiring process itâs best to wait until youâve been offered a job. Make sure you know the average salary for teachers in the area to give you an idea of how far to push your negotiations and donât shy away from talking up any experience, qualifications or other strong points you have. Another technique you could try during the hiring process is to seek out a few different job offers in the same country or city. Let your current employers know that youâre in demand from schools that pay higher wages and that could push them to pay you more. After youâve been hired If you are already working for a school and want to renegotiate your salary, make sure you have a strong performance record and can give clear examples of what makes you a valuable employee. Rather than putting too much pressure on yourself, be patient and think of the first negotiation as a way to open a conversation. If your first request for a raise is refused, ask what criteria would make them agree to a raise in the future. Then put a time frame in place so you can go back in 2 to 6 months, with all the criteria they ask for and make your request again. More than money Another thing you could consider is negotiating for something other than cold, hard cash. Your school might not be in a position to pay you more but maybe they could increase your benefits by offering extra holiday days, a nicer apartment or guaranteed placement in an area you want. Thinking beyond money could result in a win-win negotiation for you and your school. Work for great schools Finally, aim to work for schools who value quality. Seek out employers that are firmly invested in their schoolâs values and community, and theyâll be more likely to know that itâs worth investing in and hold onto great teachers.
Thursday, March 5, 2020
FluentU iPhone App is Already #67 Among Free Educational Apps on iTunes!
FluentU iPhone App is Already #67 Among Free Educational Apps on iTunes! The FluentU app is now available for download!1 day after launch, our first 44 reviews are in, and FluentU is already ranking #67 among free education apps in the US app store!What are users saying?I have waited for this app with baited breath and it has not disappointed! Unbelievable how easy and quick it is to look up and save new vocab.It ´s a wonderful and ingenious way to learn new vocabulary and grammar. You watch a real life video (standup comics, music videos, newscasts, educational programs, movie trailers, etc) with subtitles and then you are tested on the more difficult vocabulary and grammatical constructs. First you answer through multiple choice, then you must fill in the blanks and create the word yourself. It keeps track when you ´ve learned a word and when you have mastered it (remembered the word when you go back to the app at a later time.) You learn everything in context of communication so it ´s fun and effective. It ´s great for all levels. My niece is a beginne r to intermediate learner and loved it as well.Next best thing to a personal tutor in the target languageeven better than the websiteIll be looking into a premium account as materials for Japanese is scarce. Its a wasteland, people, Fluent u is the is the water well. Drink up (that sounds aggressive, sorry) :)Ive been counting down the days until the app release and Im not disappointed at all.So what are you waiting for?Go see what the fuss is all about!Check out the FluentU iPhone App on the iTunes App Store
Should You Choose a Free Download Full Version of an English Learning Software?
Should You Choose a Free Download Full Version of an English Learning Software?If you are trying to learn the English language on your own, a good place to start is with a free English learning software. There are several good options for you to choose from and you can be sure that you'll get a lot of value out of it. However, you'll have to pick between free and paid versions, so here are some important points that you should keep in mind when you decide to buy an English learning software.A free download of full version of the software will work well for you if you want to learn at your own pace. It's not the most convenient way to learn the language, but it's also much cheaper than paying for an expensive package. Of course, if you find the process of learning the language extremely easy, it's perfectly acceptable to purchase the software.If you think that you'll have problems with the use of the full version of the software, you'll have to consider buying the premium version. Thi s version contains the full software along with all of the audio, video, and interactive features that you need to make learning the language as effective as possible. It comes with an added layer of convenience that makes it much easier to learn English quickly. It also allows you to compare vocabulary, phrases, grammar, and other aspects of the language with real life examples.While some online audio courses are well thought out and entertaining, others may be a bit confusing. With the premium version, you can expect a solid set of tools and techniques to help you improve your English. You'll learn many different aspects of the language so that you'll be able to navigate better in English speaking countries.When you're deciding between the two options, keep in mind that you'll still have to make other plans for learning if you want to go beyond what the software can provide. But it's important to remember that you should not choose one option over the other. One solution may not b e as effective as the other.In the end, it really depends on you. If you find that the free download full version of the software is ideal for you, then you should definitely consider purchasing the premium version. But it's up to you which option you pick.One thing is for sure - when you are able to get more than just free download full version of the software, you'll benefit from using the premium version to learn the language. If you don't want to compromise quality and convenience for a price, there's nothing wrong with paying a little more.
Trimpe Chemistry Answers
Trimpe Chemistry AnswersBefore we begin reading the Trimpe 2020 Chemistry Answers, I want to quickly explain what a Trimpe is. A Trimpe is a small motor car in Australia. It is considered a 'mini-truck' because it only has room for four people inside, while the name Trimpe may not be as unique as you think.The Trimpe has a cabin similar to that of a bus. A big compartment beneath the driver's seat is where the driver can sit. A little box is for the storage of mail, snacks, and clothes.The Trimpe has a brake pedal. As it brakes, the engine revs higher. This is very useful for stopping the engine when taking corners. It also helps keep the engine cool, so that the engine stays clean, which is important for avoiding rust.The Trimpe is an attractive car. There are several models, but the Trimpe 2020 has the most styling. Some models have chrome wheels and chrome trim, and the trim can even be painted white, depending on the car manufacturer.In order to increase fuel efficiency, the Trim pe uses a gasoline engine with a gearbox. The gearbox allows the car to 'learn' how to make the most efficient use of fuel. Once the car learns the best method of how to make the most fuel efficient move, it will be able to do this all the time, and will increase fuel efficiency for the life of the car.When writing the Trimpe 2020 Chemistry Answers, I made the assumption that the car would need some sort of accelerator pedal. It does, but it is called a 'shifter'. The Shifter is used to apply power to the front wheels when driving uphill, for a steep hill, or when entering a curve.The Trimpe has two switches on the steering wheel. One will control the engine speed, while the other will control the transmission gearbox. When you turn off the engine, the indicator light will come on, which will tell you that you are getting ready to park.
Is Counting Calories Important
Is Counting Calories Important Should I Be Calorie Counting? ChaptersHow Many Calories Do I Need Each Day?Try A Calorie Tracker To Keep On Top Of Your IntakeWhat If You Need Some Extra Help Besides Calorie Counting?It can be so difficult to navigate the world of food today â" with so much convenience food readily available at the supermarket and an increasing number of us eating out or buying take away, it can be hard to know what exactly youâre putting into your body when you eat.When it comes to weight loss, one commonly debated topic is whether or not you actually need to control the number of calories you eat each day in order to lose weight. In fact, should you be watching the number of calories you eat every day, even if youâre not trying to shed a few pounds? This article outlines what calories are, and when calorie counting may be a good approach for you.If you need any further advice on what the best food intake is for you or would like suggestions on how to maintain your current body weight or get a good energy balance in your l ife, then you can also turn to a nutrition tutor at Superprof for some additional hints and tips.Take nutrition courses with the best tutors here.A healthy balanced diet is a great way to ensure you're getting the best nutrients if you're calorie counting. (Image Source: CC0 1.0, pasja1000, Pixabay)Gender;Your activity rate and metabolism; andWhether youâre looking to gain or lose weight.For instance, if youâre relatively inactive and spend most of your time behind a desk, with only an hour or so spare for exercise a week, your body wonât need as many calories compared to an individual who spends ten hours in the gym every week and works outside.As such, daily guidelines for calorie intake should be taken as a guideline only, although if youâre looking for more detailed calorie intake information specific to your circumstances, you can sometimes find personalised calorie estimates online, or if in any doubt you could also speak to your dietician about plans.Exercise and calo rie counting can be an effective strategy if you're looking to lose or maintain your weight. (Image Source: CC0 1.0, GDJ, Pixabay)Try A Calorie Tracker To Keep On Top Of Your IntakeOnce you know how many calories you should be eating on a daily basis to maintain your current weight, you could then use a calorie tracker to help you achieve any weight-loss goals you have or to try and stop you from going over your own daily recommended intake.When it comes to weight-loss, the key to success is fairly simple in theory â" you just need to ensure that you are consuming fewer calories than your body needs. When this happens, you should start to lose weight. Conversely, if you consume more calories than needed on a regular basis, then this excess will be stored as fat, causing you to gain weight.As a result, calorie trackers can be really helpful when youâre trying to lose weight, as they keep on top of what youâve eaten during the day and let you know when youâre close to, at, or o ver your limit. This means that you should be able to make informed food choices throughout the day.If youâd also prefer to digitise your weight-loss efforts, there are also a number of calorie tracker apps you can use to help you keep on top of your food consumption, and a quick google can let you know the most highly rated ones around, including My Fitness Pal. Alternatively, if you prefer to keep track of your calories yourself, you could also use tools such as the NHSâ online calorie checker.The important thing to bear in mind when it comes to calorie reduction is that you donât want to overdo it â" ideally reducing calories is a balancing act between giving your body enough nutrition and sustenance so you remain healthy, but also in a slightly reduced quantity so that you lose weight.Counting calories with a calculator can be a great way to achieve this balance, particularly if you're concerned with how many calories you consume at present.Itâs inadvisable to go for an y extreme dieting or excessive calorie-restrictive diets, as they may do more damage to your body in the long run, and the chances of you sticking to such a tough diet are lower compared to a more measured approach to weight loss.If youâre ever in doubt about how to safely lose weight, make sure you speak to your healthcare provider for their input.Find a nutritionist near me here.While the occasional sweet treat is ok, if you're looking to lose weight by calorie counting there are better food alternatives out there! (Image Source: CC0 1.0, haraldheuser, Pixabay)What If You Need Some Extra Help Besides Calorie Counting?Ultimately, calorie counting is just one part of a wider picture when it comes to our health.Although some diets make a lot out of the benefits of calorie counting, itâs also worth bearing in mind that there are other things you should be mindful of as well when it comes to maintaining or losing weight, such as:How much exercise youâre doing; andWhat youâre ea ting on a daily basis.Taking each in turn, the amount that you do, or donât exercise, can also have a huge impact on how much weight you lose, and can also positively impact your health more widely. Often, regular exercise combined with calorie counting can lead to successful, and prolonged, weight loss.The NHS recommends that on average, adults aged between 19 and 64 should look to be active daily, for example, 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week coupled with strength exercises at least twice a week. However, you may wish to do more than this if your aim is to lose weight.Before beginning any exercise program, it would be wise to speak to your healthcare professional to ensure that you are fit enough to exercise for the length and intensity that you would like to, particularly if youâre very overweight or have done very little exercise in the past, and are looking at burning a large number of calories as part of your exercise regime.When it comes to how much youâ re eating on a day to day basis, itâs also important to note that calorie counting does not take into account the kind of food that you eat.While you could, for example, eat three chocolate bars and a meal at McDonald's in a day to meet the requirements of your calorie tracker, youâd naturally be much better off staying away from unhealthy foods and meeting your calorie quota through fresh, nutritious meals that keep you fuller for longer.Having a balanced diet is key to any weight loss or weight maintenance regime. Keeping a food journal can be a great way to keep track of what you're eating on a daily basis, and you can try and spot patterns in the kind of foods that you eat, and which nutrients you may be missing out on.Learning how to read a food or nutrition label on packaging can also be a great step towards a healthy food regime and avoiding weight issues such as obesity, and can help ensure you make positive food choices that give you more energy, even if you are trying to cut calories.If youâre looking for a bit of meal inspiration and would like ideas for weekly meals that are not only good for you but can help you reach a specific calorie goal each day for weight loss purposes, then you might like to turn to a tutor of nutrition courses at Superprof.A Superprof tutor can work with you to understand your calorie requirements, and can also give you further information about the principles of good nutrition, essential cooking skills, as well as offering personalised meal plan ideas that will appeal to you. Such meals will likely include a balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and proteins such as lean meats to ensure you remain full and satisfied.A tutor can be a really great resource to have, whether you want to keep on top of tracking your calories, you're looking at losing fat, or want to get into a healthy body mass index. Even if you want tips on how to maintain or increase your level of physical activity, a Superprof nutrition tutor can be there to assist to ensure you have a good balance of diet and exercise in your life.Read about how to maintain a healthy pregnancy diet.
What is the Cost of Living in Berlin
What is the Cost of Living in Berlin The Average Costs of Traveling or Staying in the German Capital ChaptersWhat is the Best District to Stay in Berlin?Hotels in Berlin: Where to StayHostels in Berlin: For Budget TravelersOther Options for Staying in BerlinIn 2018, Germany welcomed 23 million international, over-night visitors, 16.3 million of which visited Berlin â" a 5% increase when compared to 2017.Whether youâre looking for a somewhere to stay on your next visit, for two bedroom apartment, want to live near a large community of expats, or are trying to understand what is typically included in the rent â" the housing options in Berlin can sometimes be overwhelming. This feeling can be intensified by the fact that costs will vary from district to district.From analysing the cost of living and the average amount you will have to pay for utilities, to what kind of local taxes you will have to pay for renting an apartment â" you will need to budget for your stay in Berlin.This guide will walk you through some basics on the standard of living, price index for groceries (the con sumer price index), and sales taxes involved in the costs of living in Berlin.One important aspect of a cost of living comparison is transportation costsThe historic centre of Berlin is, naturally, the most touristic district in the city. Here, you will be able to find the infamous Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate, the Unter Den Linen avenue (which some liken to Berlinâs Oxford Street), the medieval Nikolaiviertel quarter and the notorious Alexanderplatz.Mitte also houses something youâre less likely to find in other major cities: the Berlin Zoo. It is, in fact, one of the biggest in the world and itâs intelligence unit specializes in making animal research more approachable for children.Strong points:Central locationHigh concentration of museumsMore than just basic necessities: it has most of the unmissable sites in BerlinThe Tiergarten, a great park to relax inWeak pointsThe higher cost of living differences can be found in the differences in consumer prices (otherwise known as tourist prices)Kreuzberg: Little IstanbulAs some might be able to discern from the name, this quarter has been historically dominated by Turkish people. However, over the cityâs history, this area has opened its doors to many young Berliners.Today, it is defined by its alternative style, where you will be able to find street art right along side vendors for doner-kebab. This quarter also houses one of the most important museums in the city, the Jewish Museum.Strong pointsFestive atmosphereCentral locationLively cafes and terracesCan be cheaper than most central locationsWeak pointsThe vibe might err to heavily on the hipster side for some peopleFriedrichshain, The Party DistrictLocated in east Berlin, this district is where youâll find what many consider to be the most important piece of the Berlin Wall. Youâll also find the notorious East Side Gallery here.This quarter is known for being an alternative to other districts with a higher cost of living. The district boasts fa ir shopping prices as well as great deals if youâre looking for a party.Strong pointsFriedrichshain never sleeps! A very lively nightlifeWeak pointsNot close to many traditional tourist spotsNeukolln, a trendy neighbourhoodLocated south of Kreuzberg, Neukolln is the new chic quarter. Although it had garnered a bad reputation just a couple of years ago, Neukolln has been economically stimulated by those looking for a cheaper alternative to Kreuzberg.You will be able to find many restaurants and bars located as far as the eye can see, as well as a the beautiful Tempelhof park â" which used to be the site of an old airport.Find German classes London here.Strong points:A young and creative districtFar from the chaos of tourismWeak pointsNot that centralConstantly changingIf you're looking for some more advice about living or staying in Berlin, make sure to check out this guide.The average cost of many goods and services may be cheaper in BerlinHotels in Berlin: Where to StayWhether y ouâre looking to compare the cost of living, are curious to learn more about the hotels driving the Berlin housing index up, or simply want to know the average cost of staying in a hotel in Berlin â" here are the basics about hotels in Berlin.Hotels in MitteAs mentioned, Mitte is the central district, which means that these hotels are located in a quarter where the average rent is high.The Weinmeister Hotel Berlin-Mitte: for a modern and chic hotel, look no further than the Weinmeister. One night for two will cost about 113 euros.The Circus Hotel: located just between Mitte and the bohemian Prenzlauer Berg, this hotel offers a room for two starting at 120 euros.Arte Luise Kunsthotel: the name Arte should already give you an idea of the creative design of the hotel. Each room is individually decorated by artists. A great price for the quality, a room for two will cost you 70 euros a night.The Cosmo Hotel: a classic and elegant hotel, the Cosmo costs about 100 euros a night.Find a German language course anywhere in the UK.Hotels in FriedrichshainTo compare cost distributions of hotel rooms, look no further than the party district. Located in an area with a lower cost of living than Mitte, these hotel rooms â" while not below the national average price â" are closer to it. Here are some hotels in the quarter that never sleeps:Amodovar organic hotel: yes, youâve read correctly! This hotel is actually certified organic. The hotel is eco-friendly and includes a bistro with vegan dishes. The nightly price for this hotel is 100 euros.Hotel Plus Berlin Design: this adorable hotel comes with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and billiards table starting at 40 euros a night.Hotels in Kreuzberg NeukollnIf youâre looking to keep your food cost and monthly expenses down, this district can offer you everything from high-end to affordable hotels. Here are some locations to test out on your next visit to Berlin:The HuttenpalastEasy Lodges BerlinHostels in Berlin: For B udget TravelersWhether youâre doing a simple living comparison, are wondering what kind of cost of living adjustment youâll have to make to live comfortably on your budget, or simply want to avoid the high cost of living or visiting any city â" hostels are always a great choice.While the median home price in Berlin is still less than many major cities in the UK, living or visiting the city will probably lead to the lowest cost of living or holiday budget to those with a low holiday fund or living allowance.While avoiding the highest cost, lodging, you will also be able to meet other travellers â" a bonus especially to those travelling alone or who want to save their money to explore everything in Berlin.Hostels in MitteWhile many find hostels to be a living adjustment, staying in one near the centre will give you access to strategic metro areas while reducing the overall cost of living. Here are some of the best hostels in Mitte:Baxpax Downtown HostelWombatâs City HostelEast Seven HostelHostels in FriedrichshainCost of living adjustments can easily be accomplished by staying in the party district. Saving money will give you a holiday or living adjustment that results in more disposable cash to spend on transportation costs, food costs, and your overall trip or monthly cost. Here are some of the best hostels in the quarter:IndustriepalastDas DDR HostelLiving in Germany can have a very low living costOther Options for Staying in BerlinIf you have a greater travel fund or cost of living allowance, or simply cannot make any cost of living adjustments or are travelling in a large group â" finding lodging through Airbnb is also a great option. The average home price, that is for an entire apartment, will vary from season to season. If youâre looking for an average household or apartment for only two people, the average prices for the month of June, for example, will fluctuate at about 1,600 pounds.You should be able to get exact prices either through quic k, economic research on Airbnb or through a cost of living calculator.While Berlin is not one of the most expensive cities and the living cost and living expenses can sometimes be cheaper than many cities in the UK, one other option for travelling or living in Germany can be by having a flatmate.This can be done either through platforms such as Couchsurfing, where you can almost always stay with your host for free or by finding a roommate, flatmate or host family in the city.While some of these options might expect you to front some of the housing costs, either with a small semester contribution or by buying the occasional groceries, this should lover your average monthly or weekly trip or living expenses to around zero.
4 Fantastic Tips for Studying Abroad in Italy
4 Fantastic Tips for Studying Abroad in Italy Mac Are you planning on studying abroad in Italy in the near future? If so, youre destined to have a wonderful time! In this article, Italian teacher Liz T. gives you four very important tips for your educational stay in Italy Education in Italy If you have the chance to study abroad while youâre in high school or in college, you should definitely study in Italy! Studying abroad can be one of the most rewarding opportunities of your life; academically, culturally, and socially. Italy has so many wonderful cities that are friendly to international students, such as Florence, Bologna, and Sienna. Moreover, the education in Italy is top quality, with accredited schools such as the University of Florence and the University of Rome. Before you solidify your choice to study abroad in Italy, look over these tips to help you make the most of your experience studying abroad! 1. Learn the Language Before You Go Try and learn Italian as much as you can at home before you go. If you learn the pronunciation and the sound of the language, youll feel more comfortable as a foreigner. Itd be best to practice speaking, writing, reading, and hearing the language in all platforms. If you need to learn Italian fast, Id recommend consuming newspapers, television shows, movies, and radio broadcasts to get a feel for the language. Vocabulary Its also recommended to find some useful Italian phrases you can use for when you first arrive. Itll come in handy to express yourself in certain situations, such as when you visit banks, laundromats, restaurants, and grocery stores. One great way to practice this vocabulary is through flash cards! On the plane ride over to Italy you could make yourself some flashcards and test yourself. The vocab should consist of basic topics, such as numbers, months, food, colors, parts of the body, and so on. Flashcards are a proven memorization tactic for vocabulary, so make it a habit to practice them as much as possible. 2. Experience the Culture Although Im sure youll be studying very hard in your classes, donât forget to experience the arts and culture of the new Italian community youre living in! You should soak up everything you can; museums, restaurants, theaters anything and everything! Maybe youll discover some common Italian stereotypes that you only ever hear about in movies. Dont be afraid to challenge yourself and go out, meet new people, and see new places. If you stay in your dorm room the majority of your stay, youll miss the chances to hang out with people your own age. Italy has its fair share of night clubs and bars where young people gather at all hours of the day. It would also be a great idea for you to start conversations in Italian. As an incentive, you can offer to teach your Italian friend(s) your native language. There are a lot of organizations abroad, as well as meetup groups, that specialize in bringing young people together in exchange for learning their language and culture. Its easier to coordinate than you may think! Travel Around Italy is known for itâs food, art, and music youll want to get a taste of all three! In order to get a well-rounded experience, try to travel around Italy as much as possible. Traveling throughout Italy is very easy; the trains run very fast and are quite affordable, flights are pretty cheap, and renting a car is a fairly easy task. Depending where you are, there are many great cities in the North to visit, such as Turin, Milan, Trieste, Venezia to the South Rome, Napoli, Florence, and the islands of Sicily and Sardegna. Each region has its own specialties that youre going to want to experience! See Also: 6 Tips How to Make the Most Out of Your Semester Abroad 3. Adapting to the Culture Living abroad can bring you many challenges if youre not used to the language, culture, and customs of a new city. The customs that you practice in your homeland are not going to be the same as they are in Italy. Here are some examples of Italian customs: Were Closed Businesses, stores, and restaurants are generally open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and then closed until about 7 p.m. for Siesta time. That means restaurants do not usually serve dinner until 9 p.m. at night! I recommend planning your shopping in Italy around these Siesta closing times. Telling the Time 24 hours clocks are used in Italy, so 1 p.m. U.S. time would be 13:00, 2 p.m. would be 14:00, and midnight would be 24:00, and so on. Also, in lieu of the time difference, you should get your body used to being either six or nine hours ahead of your home country. For Here or To-Go In restaurants, you wont really see âTakeaway or To-Go orders. Even the chain coffee shops expect you to sit down and have coffee in the morning. Itâs very hard to find a âTo-Goâ cup on the run. Also, going out to eat can be a long process; to even get a menu, food, and the bill can take at least two hours, so make sure you plan for this! Seconds Please While food is much cheaper in Italy than in the States, know that portions may not be as big (they have several meals or courses a day, such as antipasti, insalta, primo corso, secondo corso). With that being said, the portions in Italy are generally bigger than the rest of the countries in Europe. My Brand Your favorite brands, like Kraft Macaroni and Cheese, Hersheyâs Chocolate, or Tylenol may not be available. Its definitely possible to find similar brands, but youll have to search for them in Italian. Plug It In The electric wall plugs are different in Italy. Shocking, isnt it? Youll need adapters to switch the voltage for all of your appliances, like your computer, hairdryer, alarm clock, and more. Adapters can be very expensive once youre abroad, so I recommend picking up a few in your homeland before you travel. 4. Stay Organized in Italy Make sure you have your finances and documents organized before you go to Italy. Moreover, plan to have your finances covered during each semester youre studying there. The most important things to get are: a current passport and a visa. Documentation Official processes for visas and documents can take anywhere from six to nine months, so itâs very important to start this process immediately. Youll need original copies, as well as signed documents of specific items. Make sure you fulfill all of the requirements before you begin travelling. Be warned that the police in Italy can stop you at anytime to look at your legal documents. You wouldnât want to arrive to your program late or be unable to complete it because you didnt have the proper legal documents sorted out. Finances Italy is currently using the euro, which is more expensive than the U.S. dollar. However, the exchange rates are changing everyday. You may be able to make or lose money depending on the rates. Check to see if your tuition payments are in dollars or euros and spend accordingly. You may need to convert currency before you start setting up logistics like your apartment, bills, medical needs, and anything of the utmost importance. Heres a huge recommendation in regard to your finances: keep your bank accounts from your home country and start a new bank account in Italy. This will allow you to have money in both currencies, as well as an Italian debit or credit card for emergencies. Communication Your current cellphone provider will most likely not work in Italy but if it does, youll probably be charged enormous fees. If you have an iPhone, you can try and get it unlocked so that you can use a different provider or an Italian simcard. If you want to tweak your iPhone for this reason, keep in mind that there are risks involved (damaging your software, losing information, losing warranty coverage, etc.). Another option for your phone is to suspend the service and only use it for wifi. Or if you dont even need wifi, you can keep your phone in airplane mode (which cuts it off from all wireless activities). Many chatting apps, such as Skype, Viber, or Whatsapp will allow you to text and call others for free or for low prices. If you decide to buy a new phone in Italy, you can get simcards from popular providers such as Orange, Vodaphone, and Movistar. Safe Travels! These are some tips I wish I would have known before studying abroad in Italy myself! I hope that youll take these tips into consideration while youre planning your semester studying abroad. If you would like to learn more about studying abroad, the education in Italy, or for private Italian language lessons, schedule a lesson with a teacher on TakeLessons today! Did you find these tips useful for studying abroad in Italy? If so, please leave a comment below! Post Author: Liz T. Liz T. teaches Italian, singing, acting, and music lessons in Brooklyn, NY, as well as online. She is a graduate of the Berklee College of Music with a B.M in Vocal performance and currently performs/teaches all styles of music including Musical Theater, Classical, Jazz, Rock, Pop, RB, and Country. Learn more about Liz here! Photo by FaceMEPLS Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher
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