Southern & Eastern Europe Package C | GOVT & HEIU Travel Resources

VACCINATIONS There are no required vaccinations for Southern and Eastern Europe, but some vaccines and/or medication is recommended. We recommend using resources such as the Center for Disease Control as you consult with your home doctor or other trusted medical sources, in order to make the best possible decision regarding your health.

If you reside in the Central Virginia Region, below are local medical offices that you may consider consulting. Keep in mind some vaccinations require a minimum amount of time to take effect before entering a destination. Communicate when and where you will be traveling.

Lynchburg Health Department: Phone: 434‐947‐6785 Address: 307 Alleghany Ave.

Liberty University Health Center: Phone: 434‐338-7774 Address: Located in Green Hall

Rustburg Family Pharmacy: Phone: 434‐332‐1730 Map: http://goo.gl/maps/1BC1M Address: 925 Village Hwy Suite B. Box 1005 Rustburg, VA 24588

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL INSURANCE International travel insurance is included within your trip costs, covering you from Monday, May 17, 2021 through Saturday, June 5, 2021. The policy is comprehensive in nature and is used throughout the University for All International Travel. If you would like coverage for additional aspects of travel beyond what is highlighted in the policy, please feel free to purchase separate third party insurance as a supplement to what is already provided.

CURRENCY & CREDIT CARDS The currency for each country is as follows: , , Greece: Euro : Croatian Kuna Hungary: Hungarian Forint : Southern & Eastern Europe Package C | GOVT & HEIU Travel Resources

Some vendors may be willing to accept US dollars, but you will likely receive a poor exchange rate in that process. It is advised that you contact your bank before departure in order to avoid your debit/credit cards being blocked while overseas. While many shops and restaurants will accept credit cards, merchants at small shops and markets may only accept cash. ATMs are available in most major cities, which will allow for you to withdraw needed currency. This is an easy (and often more economical) way to withdraw local currency for use. VAT

The Value Added-Tax for each country is as follows: Croatia: 25% Slovenia: 22% Hungary: 27% Austria 20%. Bulgaria: 20% Greece: 24% Value Added-Tax is placed on most goods and services in country.

CELL PHONE USAGE Most cell phone carriers have additional international packages that you can add on at a monthly or daily rate. Depending on the carrier, this can cost anywhere from $10-$40 a day and will provide limited text messages, data usage, and calling minutes.

MEALS

Bulgarian reflects the common Mediterranean and Balkan cuisine found in South Eastern Europe, as well as some Middle Eastern dishes. A favorable climate allows for a diverse spread of , fruits, and herbs, resulting in many different traditions. and are especially popular.

Greek cuisine has a rich history and has incorporated different surrounding over the centuries. Primarily Mediterranean, uses a variety of common ingredients– vegetables, , meats, fish, and olive oil– to produce spectacular that is enjoyed by Southern & Eastern Europe Package C | GOVT & HEIU Travel Resources people around the world. Common dishes include – a layered casserole, as well as traditional – a sweet, flaky .

Croatian cuisine has a variety of traditions that vary from area to area. Mainland cuisine is similar to that of Turkey and Hungary, and coastal regions reflect . Popular dishes include pastas, soups and , seafood, and meat-based dishes.

Similar to , is also influenced by particular location and regions. Soups and stews are very common, along with meat-based dishes, desserts, and pastries.

Hungarian food is similar to that of Czech, Polish, and Slovak cuisines. Dairy, cheese, and meats like chicken, , and are regularly implemented in many common dishes. is a staple in the Hungarian diet, along with pastries and other baked goods.

Austrian cuisine is heavily influenced by the surrounding countries of . Viennese culture and cuisine have greatly contributed to the hallmarks of cuisine overall different regions have their own dishes and tastes. Food and are of great importance in Austrian culture and are often a leisurely experience.

Breakfast (included) – will be served buffet style at your hotel.

Lunch and Dinner – Bring $10-$20 for each or dinner that is not covered/included on the itinerary.

We will try our best to provide a variety of food options for meals but cannot accommodate every dietary preference. It is highly encouraged to bring your own snacks if you believe you will get hungry during the day or if you may not eat some of the food provided.

INTERNET ACCESS Your hotels and some restaurants will have WiFi access. Please keep in mind that unless you have purchased an international data plan for your phone, access to email, texting, and other Internet-based applications will be subject to WiFi availability. Southern & Eastern Europe Package C | GOVT & HEIU Travel Resources

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES - Lonely Planet – A helpful guide to understanding culture, travel tips, and additional insights.

- Currency Converter – Plan how much money you need to bring in Israeli Shekels.

- Passport Application – Don’t have a passport yet? Follow the U.S. Department of State’s instructions for applying for a passport.