Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU)

The shekel (the Israeli "dollar") was only 1/5 of the value of the dollar while I was there; however, travel is cheaper in general because mass transportation is so popular and if you stay in hostels when traveling, you'll save a ton! Since I was only staying for one academic year, I didn't want the problems of installing a phone, so I got a cell phone. The cost to call home was, thus, more expensive, then from a landline.

At home, I already have my own kitchen and house supplies so wouldn't otherwise buy them twice. Also, I have my own vehicle instead of taking trains and busses. Most importantly, at home I work almost 50 hours a week so don't have much time for a social life, Israel, however was a different story!!

I have all the necessities for a home, kitchen, appropriate clothing, etc. at my permanent home. So purchasing these items again did cost more than had I already had them. Also, I work almost 50 hours a week at home, so my social life is nill; but in Israel I had the time to go out and have fun.

I wanted to spend my money on traveling because I was in a foreign country. Also, I spent a lot of money on my cell phone talking to my family at home.

Simply because there were so so many things to do, and we had to take advantage of all those opportunities before going back home. Obviously, long distance calls cost money.

Food and cost of living is much cheaper! Travel is also much cheaper, but I just did it more often. Phone was more because I called the states a lot and in America I only call w/in the country.