Take Care of Yourself: Insurance for Students in Latin America
22 October, 2020The first thing that strikes about Latin America is certainly its vibrant culture. The dynamic landscape, diverse in each country sets a distinct backdrop, each glorious for its civilizations, traditions, and lifestyle.
It is the same that appeals to the students to choose Latin American Countries as their study abroad destinations. There are over 40 study abroad programs available in the Latin Americas, provided by many universities and nonprofit organizations like the CIEE. Whether students are planning to enjoy the art scene in Buenos Aires, or swim along the coral reefs on a Costa Rica coast, or indulge in the literature fantasies of Mexico., the opportunities are plenty.
What to Consider for Insurance
Like anywhere else, Latin American countries also have specific needs for why insurances are necessary, even for students. Though generally safe, students might encounter the following risks while traveling across different regions.
- Diseases and Infections – If traveling to tropical regions, there is a high risk of catching mosquito-borne diseases like Malaria, only to have a humid climate increasing the risk.
- High Altitude – Many beautiful sites of Latin American Countries are located in high altitude, making one prone to altitude sickness and everything that entails with that.
- Drugs, crime, and Theft – Although it might not happen where you live, even in countries like Columbia and Bolivia, given the history of the countries it is highly recommended to protect yourself against any such possibilities.
- Travel and Adventure – this is almost unavoidable for everyone who visits the Latin American countries, and hence for activities like paragliding and hiking, adventure travel insurance is always useful.
Student Insurance for Latin America
Though each country might have its own specific requirements for student insurance, it is wise to have an overall idea about what all could be included in travel insurance. Students should consider getting the following types of insurance, during their time abroad for their own safety and financial purposes.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is of utmost importance when it comes to protection, it covers the medical expenses that occur during the stay in the country. , in most cases, is necessary to submit along with the visa application. Whether required by law or not, as students move to a new country where all the living conditions could be different, it is always best to have this insurance.
Luggage and Flight Insurance
Worried that your money spent on trendy hardside luggage sets may be in vain? Get claims on lost or stolen luggage, delayed or cancelled flights and in few cases even displaced luggage with this cover.
Third Party Liability Insurance
A liability Insurance will protect one against any claims resulting in damage to people or the property. There might be many scams in Latin American countries, and this insurance will offer cover for legal claims, payouts, and even personal protection.
For Travelling
If you intend to travel to other countries than in your country of residence, it is necessary to ensure that the cover will extend to other countries too. The insurance plans would also vary from single trip, multi-entry and those for more extended stays. It is imperative that the insurance is tailored to your specific needs even if it costs additionally.
Always remember to ask the insurance agents, how to claim the cover and if there is any further need, once you are in the country to add any other specifics to the cover. As stunning and incredible as Latin America is, things might not always happen as predicted, while that is the thrill of traveling and studying abroad, an insurance often serves a cushion to lower the blow.
Follow Sounds and Colours: Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Mixcloud / Soundcloud / Bandcamp
Subscribe to the Sounds and Colours Newsletter for regular updates, news and competitions bringing the best of Latin American culture direct to your Inbox.