Imagine combining the thrills of college life with an extra long vacay? Well, how about opting to hit the books (at least part of the time!) for a year at one of these top study abroad destinations? Live out all your college student dreams – in an entirely different country.
Berlin, Germany
Amazing party scene, cheap living costs, great beer and a vibrant art community has helped make this city a magnet for fun-loving students looking to broaden their minds.
Where to live? Secure some student digs in trendy Kreutzburg or Friedrichshain to stay in the thick of the action.
Tokyo, Japan
Live out your “Lost in Translation” fantasies in one of the coolest cities on the planet. When you’ve finally acclimated to this bustling metropolis, learn to blend in like a local by scoping out some of the city’s most stylish neighborhoods.
Where to hang out? Set your student budget aside and splurge in the fashionable Harajuku and Roppongi districts, or navigate the crowds at Akhibara “Electric Town” to find all the latest gadgets to show off to your friends back home.
Dublin, Ireland
If you can avoid spending your entire time in a Guinness haze, then you’ll actually find out that Dublin has plenty of other worthy attributes. As thometown of literary legends like James Joyce, Dublin can inspire any student with its fascinating past.
What to see? From classic castles to the city’s free museum and galleries, there’s always something to suit your mood in Dublin.
Sydney, Australia
Sun, sand and city life — what more could you really ask for? Sydney couldn’t be a better place for sun worshippers to spend their most studious years. And you won’t feel like a stranger for long – Australia’s largest city is a melting pot of culture and diversity.
What to do? Enjoy the beach life by signing up for surf school and learning to ride the waves like a pro down at Bondi Beach, or take a break from studying and venture farther out on a wild bush walk.
Rotterdam, Netherlands
The Netherlands’ second city is more than just a quick weekend getaway. Home of cool contemporary architecture, great nightlife and an array of interesting design boutiques, Rotterdam is a fast-paced cultural hub that will guarantee you’re never short of things to do, whatever the hour.
Where to party? Head to Café De Witte Aap for an evening drinking session or dance until your feet hurt at the huge warehouse club and events complex, Maassilo.
Featured image © pojoslaw/iStock/Thinkstock
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas.
