In my job I’m frequently asked if I could study abroad again, where would I go. Of course, I would never give up my experience in Italy; as an Italian major, it was really the only place for me to go. However, if I could go some place completely different, these would be my top 5:
1. Bangalore, India with USAC
India is definitely on my short list these days. In addition to it being the most affordable tuition price I know of ($3,780 a semester!!), USAC’s program at Christ University in Bangalore has really interesting courses like Bollywood Dance, Women’s Issues in Indian Society, and Buddhism and Hinduism in Contemporary Society.
2. Lima, Peru with ISA
With its lively Latin culture and affordable living, Lima is one of my favorite study abroad spots. ISA’s program at University of San Ignacio de Loyala has a huge variety of classes in English (since my Spanish is pathetic) and offers home-stay options and a variety of excursions, including one to Machu Picchu.
3. Amman, Jordan with SIT
As seen through my book and movie choices, I really like the Middle East. The SIT program in Jordan focuses on modernization and social change in the region and includes a short and long-term home-stay experience. While a little pricey, the program requires a great deal of independent research – a huge plus for anyone interested in graduate school.
4. Cuenca, Ecuador with CEDEI
One of my student workers went on this program and LOVED it. Up in the mountains of Ecuador, this city has far less American students than Quito and allows for real immersion. For $12,900 students get their home-stay with meals, tuition, and excursions to Peru and the Galapagos. The program also works on the American calendar which can be nice.
5. St. Petersburg, Russia with AIFS
After reading Soulshine Traveler, Russia has been looking better and better. Another one of my student workers did the AIFS program in St. Petersburg last fall and she continues to sing their praises. In addition to intensive Russian, the program offers great courses like Contemporary Russian Literature and Russian History: from Kiev Russia to the Revolution. Another nice thing about AIFS is that it is all-inclusive and for $11,995 students get tuition, housing, meals, local transportation, and excursions to London, Finland, Estonia, and Moscow.
Global From Home 
I want to go to all of those locations–but perhaps I should dream less about other places and instead concentrate on my trip to Turkey. 😛 However, Russia is definitely on my bucket list and I’m trying to research how much it would be to go from Turkey to Russia or the Ukraine.
I would say Turkey is a pretty great place to start! I can’t wait to see what you think once you’re there.
When I applied to study abroad the first time, I wanted to do a program in Jerusalem. But, I fell in love with Rome when I visited last December, so when I applied this past year I applied for the program there (Jerusalem was my second choice). In terms of your list, I’d love to study in Jordan, Peru, or Ecuador… so many good choices!