Learn about 5 unusual countries to exchange

When thinking of exchange programs, countries that officially speak English come to mind, and it is very common to hear about the United States, Canada, England and Australia as the most popular destinations for those who want to live abroad and learn, whether it is a new single language or even taking courses from Higher education course.

Due to the pandemic causing border closures or even the desire to innovate and discover new countries with student exchange opportunities, Eduardo Heidemann, Director of TravelMate, an exchange agency affiliated with Belta (Brazilian Association of Exchange Agencies) listed 5 different destinations to plan your next trip abroad.

“There are a number of amazing destinations outside North America and the UK, which can be both affordable and still provide unique opportunities for those who want to learn what it means to be an exchange student,” Heidemann commented.

The United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates, and more specifically the city of Dubai, is a luxury and much sought after destination for tourism, but it is not often considered for study and work.

Although synonymous with wealth and ostentation, the currency there (the dirham) has a practically stable value, costing around 1.39 Brazilian Real. In addition, the venue has accessible programs, and allows Brazilian exchange students to work in areas of public service while studying a new language (English or Arabic). Currently, the country’s borders are open to Brazilians.

South Korea

South Korea is a reference in technology and innovation, as well as being the place from which the idols of K-pop, a new music genre that has grown up there. For these reasons, the destination has been searched for a lot, and therefore it is constantly growing.

Seoul is a big, bustling city, which can attract travelers with nocturnal habits. But the country also attracts those who prefer nature, especially its coast and flowering fields.

Exchange students who want to go to Korea will develop their knowledge of the Korean language, the official language of the place. The most accepted currency is the South Korean won (1.00 BRL equals $219 in the Korean currency) and the time zone is 12 hours ahead of Brasilia time.

South Africa

South Africa can also be an option for those who want a cheap and interesting destination. Students often move there to study a new language.

The country is full of diversity, and this is already noticeable in the number of languages ​​spoken there, there are eleven languages, including English. In addition, due to the location and climate, lovers of nature and outdoor sports are the most fascinated by the place. Because of the savanna, many species of mammals are found in the territory, as well as hosting many endemic animals and plants.

The time zone of South Africa is five hours ahead of Brasilia time. The country’s official currency is the South African rand, which costs 0.37 Brazilian real and the place has three capitals (Cape Town, Bloemfontein and Pretoria) due to black apartheid.

Mexico

If your focus on learning Spanish is somewhere nearby, interesting, and accessible, choose Mexico. The country covers all profiles, from those interested in history to those who prefer nightlife, in bars and restaurants.

The rich Mexican lands are home to temples, pyramids, beaches and modern urban centers, so the exchange there is complete covering tourism and learning.

The Mexican peso costs 0.25 Brazilian real and the cost of living there is similar to what is spent in São Paulo. The exchanges are the most diverse, and they can be for business, studies or just tourism.

Scotland

Despite being part of the United Kingdom, Scotland is not very popular when it comes to studying or working abroad, but it is a good destination for those who enjoy romantic places and medieval and Celtic culture.

The country is famous for its whiskey, bagpipes, and kilt (the famous plaid men’s skirt) and is steeped in cultures and traditions. The most spoken language there is English, and the currency is the British pound, about 7.16 Brazilian Real. The cost of living is high, but well worth it for those who want to take a language course and delve into Scottish traditions and even hunt down the Loch Ness monster.