The Real Reason We're Going

With Study Abroad programs there are the fun reasons everyone goes, and then there are the real reasons. The study part or study abroad. For my program the fun reason and the real reason are the same. I am so excited for the classes I am going to be taking. I'm taking landscape photography, and 19th century art history. The great thing about this trip is we will be doing exactly what I would be doing if I went on my own, but with the added expertise of Courtney and Travis.

Second Meeting

We are are 72 days out! I'm starting to get excited, but it still doesn't feel real. Today we had our second group meeting and went over all of of the money info (like believe it or not if you try to pay with a dollar bill in Paris it's not going to work. Sarcasm if you didn't guess), cell phone issues, reminding people that they need to have applied for their passport by now, and lots of info about packing and luggage. This is one of my favorite parts of a trip, the planning, research, and anticipation. I've spent the day doing research looking at different suggested packing lists, and making my list of things I'll need to buy before I go. Here is what's made the list so far.

• A plug adapter. Still debating if I'm going to get an international kit or buy the U.K. and the continental Europe ones separately. 
• A pair or rain boots aka wellies. I've got a pair, but they are pretty old and I want to replace them. I wanted to buy some while I'm over there, but I'm afraid of wearing shoes I haven't broken it. Nothing like blisters to put a damper on a trip. 
• Money Belt. Now this one is up in the air. The program directors suggested we get something to keep our cash/credit cards safe from pick pockets. I've researched and read review and I'm thinking that they are going to look ridiculous on me. I'm pretty petite, and I have a feeling that shoving a money belt full of cash, credit cards, and my passport under my shirt could make me look a few months pregnant. Looking for alternatives...
• A new ATM card. My current card only has ATM's in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. I'm going to need to find one that has locations in London, Bath, Paris, Brugge, and Belgium. I don't know if this counts as something I need to buy since it deals with money. 
• Pocket Dictionary or Phrase Book. 
• Maps of each city.

I'm sure by next week I'll have thought of a slew of other things that I'll need.