Student Travel Planning Guide by Premier Travel Media

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contents FIRST DECISIONS

Vol. 2, No. 1 2011 EDITION

Make It the Trip of a Lifetime

First Decisions: Why, Where and When

Trip-Planning Timeline

10 Working With Tour Providers 12

SPECIAL SECTION Student Groups Love Branson, MO

17 Choosing a Tour Hotel

18 Food and Fun 20 Student Discipline on Tour 22 Choosing Chaperones

STUDENT DISCIPLINE

24 Why Students Need Group Travel Insurance

26 Post-Tour Activities 28 State-by-State Directory Resources 34 National Directory Resources TOUR PROVIDERS

G. Widman for Historic Philadelphia, Inc.

20 ON THE COVER: the whole world is a classroom. (photo courtesy of 2010 © evangelos thomaidis. image from Bigstockphoto.com) Article images courtesy of © 2010 JupiterimAges Corporation studenttraveldirectory.com

Student Travel Planning Guide

Randy Mink

Make it the Trip of a Lifetime Vol. 2, No. 1, 2011 Edition

hink back to that first trip that you took with classmates. Remember the thrill of traveling to fun places without your parents tagging along? It was probably a monumental event in your young life. Whether the destination is London, New York City or Washington, D.C., a school trip provides students their first true taste of independence—a chance to be away from family in a carefree setting. What an adventure!

stop resource for developing that perfect trip. Written by educators for educators, our annual print directory mixes how-to advice with listings of destinations, attractions and hotels interested in hosting student groups. Built upon our expertise with print and online directories, this planning tool will help guide your decisions throughout the year. We have two products that complement the Student Travel Planning Guide.

Let the Student Travel Planning Guide and our online resources help with the homework for your next educational tour The eye-opener for you might have been a high school band trip to Disney World or a choral group outing in Branson, Mo. For me, it was a summer German language program in Austria—an experience that stays with me decades later. As a group leader and tour manager, I’ve had the privilege of seeing the world through the eyes of young people. One year I even led a group of teens on an African safari that included a climb up Mount Kilimanjaro. Having worked in offices of student travel companies, I know that these adventures do not just happen. They take a lot of planning. For one educational tour company, I spent my days putting together minute-by-minute itineraries, arranging hotel pizza deliveries and ordering box lunches for groups with airport layovers. The second annual Student Travel Planning Guide is designed to be a one4

Student Travel Planning Guide

StudentTravelDirectory.com contains the most comprehensive directory resource for the student travel market today. With listings and links to thousands of student/ youth-friendly destinations and businesses, it’s designed to be the premier research tool for the market. Additionally, InSite on Student Travel is a monthly e-magazine that takes its cue from our company’s popular InSite on Leisure Group Travel e-magazine, with regular doses of ideas, inspiration, best practices and destination reports. We hope this Planning Guide, combined with our online resources, will help you plan a trip to remember. Happy traveling,

Randy Mink Managing Editor

Editorial Office

621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 info@ptmgroups.com

Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com

Managing Editor – Randy Mink randy@ptmgroups.com

Contributing Writers Mike Streich Tara Entwistle-Clark John Martinen

Director, Design & Production – Robert Wyszkowski rob@ptmgroups.com

Advertising Sales Office Phone: 630.794.0696 advertising@ptmgroups.com www.ptmgroups.com

The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no responsibility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos or manuscripts. Student Travel Planning Guide (ISSN 2154-4905) is published annually by Premier Tourism Marketing, Inc., 621 Plainfield Rd., Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL 60527. Postage paid at Willowbrook, IL and Lebanon Junction, KY. The magazine is distributed free to youth group travel organizers and travel suppliers catering to the market. Single copies for all others is $9.95.

Send Address Change to: Premier Tourism Marketing, Inc. P.O. Box 609, Palos Heights, IL 60463

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First Decisions: Why, Where and When

or a teacher, it can be challenging to make the decision to travel with students. There are so many concerns, and there are horror stories out there circulating on the web. However, the experience of student travel can be a rewarding one, for both students and adults alike. Although it is fun and relaxing to travel with friends and family, traveling with students allows adults to see the world differently. Perhaps you have already visited a locale, but when you see it through the eyes of a student who has not, you begin to appreciate the world even more. You see things you likely missed in your own travels. What is even more exciting is when you see things that you teach about in your curriculum or talk about with your club, and the students on tour make those connections without prompting. There are no teachable moments that beat those experiences!

The question you must ask yourself first is what do you want students to take from this trip? From there, you can begin to choose destinations that will fit that objective, and then you can narrow down those choices to fit within your budget and timeline. Of course, simply stating that you want to travel is not the same as knowing how to go about doing it. For starters, where would you go? Why? Although there will be more even more decisions along the way, they are secondary to choosing to travel and knowing why you are. If you are in student travel for the wrong reasons (i.e. a free trip or to get out of the classroom), the experience will not be what it should for anyone involved. The reality is that you will have a better time on your own if you do not want to take students, so do not plan a trip if you are not doing it for the kids! At this point, let us assume that you definitely want to travel and that you are sure it is for the students, not for you. Where should you go? How can you relate it to your class or 6

Student Travel Planning Guide

club? There is a variety of options, but a lot will be determined by your area of study. History teachers can travel to Europe, to locations like Normandy, France, or Berlin. They can also stay in the United States and visit Boston or areas in California that were part of the Gold Rush. English teachers have a vast array of destinations at their disposal, from England and Ireland to the Northeast and even Faulknerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mississippi. Science teachers can travel to study geology in Utah and Nevada or astronomy at one of the NASA space centers. Finally, coaches can travel to Cooperstown, N.Y. for the Baseball Hall of Fame, or drama club directors can take kids to Hollywood or New York City. studenttraveldirectory.com

If the goal is not educational but team building, there are even more destinations appropriate to student travel. What would beat a team building trip to Walt Disney World? Teams and clubs will find that Disney even plans special events for performers and teams, which increase the value of the experience. How about a visit to New York City for sightseeing and a show? There are even more rugged options, like whitewater rafting in several areas on the East Coast or a visit to the Grand Canyon. The question you must ask yourself first is what do you want students to take from this trip? From there, you can begin to choose destinations that will fit that objective, and then you can narrow down those choices to fit within your budget and timeline. As for when to travel, the best time obviously will be during vacations, so that students do not miss too much time out of school. There are four standard vacation periods, not including holiday weekends. A trip of three days will obviously be much easier to plan than a week-long trip, simply for the fact that there is a greater range of date availability. December: You will have far more trouble recruiting because parents and students would rather be home for the holidays. February: Some schools have a winter break in February, but the danger of traveling at this time is weather. Depending on your city of departure or your destination, you could be facing major weather delays. Do not forget, as well, that it is possible you may have a layover in a city that will be affected by these delays. Sure, if you are flying direct from Los Angeles to Hawaii, chances are you will have little concern about weather. If, however, you are flying to a place like Boston or Chicago, it is advisable to consider weather as a major factor in your trip planning. April/May: This (and late March, depending on when Easter falls) is

studenttraveldirectory.com

the most popular vacation time. The weather is more likely to cooperate, and school is almost out! Summer: Summer offers you the most flexibility. You will need to consider, however, how many students want to be involved in a school-related trip during summer. Many students have summer jobs or have plans to travel with family. You are likely to lose a few travelers, but depending on how open your invite is, you may be able to pick up alumni who are now in college to join you on the trip.

Student Travel Planning Guide

Trip - Planning Timeline

nce a teacher, club leader or band director makes the decision to travel, suddenly he or she is caught up in a whirlwind of activity. Deadlines are fast approaching, and there are a million questions to field from students and parents. Knowing what to tackle first, what decisions to put off and what support to ask for will be helpful in making the process as smooth as possible. Up to one year before departure: Your main choices at this point will be where to travel, when to travel and with whom to book travel (if you are using an agency/tour operator). However, you cannot make too many decisions about details because airlines will not likely have a lot of information yet, and restaurants have been known to disappear. One major task you can focus on is recruiting students for your trip. Working out payments over a year is far better, so it is not a bad idea to plan this far in advance. Be forewarned, though, that once the decision is made, the trip is booked and students are registered, you will see a lot of down time. To keep student interest up, have regular trip meetings, perhaps with food from the destination. 3-11 months before departure: Airfare and/or motorcoach arrangements, as well as hotel accommodations and meal reservations, will need to be made. If you are leaving the country, you will need to start focusing on getting passports and visas. You also want to check in with the kids, as their lives may change. For example, a student had signed up for a trip who then had to move across the country. With time, the teacher was able to determine if she preferred to fly from her new home or depart with the group. Three months before departure: The students will need to finish paying you or the travel agency/tour operator. If you

Deadlines are fast approaching, and there are a million questions to field from students and parents. Knowing what to tackle first, what decisions to put off and what support to ask for will be helpful in making the process as smooth as possible.

Student Travel Planning Guide

need airport transfers, you will need to get those details worked out. At this point, you also need to check that students have passports and other documentation, and that their names are spelled correctly. It would be terrible to arrive at the airport only to find that they forgot to update a passport or that the ticket was made out to the wrong person. Finally, you may need to have students choose roommates for hotels. One month before departure: It is question time! Do you have emergency contact info for each traveler? Have you had a meeting to confirm trip details and gather any last info you need? Is everyone paid in full? Do students have the items they need, such as luggage, cell phones (with international SIM cards if you are leaving the country), chargers and adapters for electronics? Do students have spending money in the proper currency? Do any students have special dietary restrictions? Do you have medical and allergy information? Do parents have your emergency contact information? If you can answer all the questions thrown at you, you are in the home stretch! studenttraveldirectory.com

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Working With Tour Providers T

he most important aspect of working effectively with tour providers is regular communication, either by telephone or through e-mail. Most student tour providers offer excellent websites that allow participants to enroll and make payments online, answer basic questions, provide helpful downloads such as city guides, and detail every aspect of the itinerary.

✓

Specific Requests

After contracting with a tour provider, teacher group leaders should let the provider know their most important considerations regarding the tour. Examples include: • Specific flight patterns (longer or shorter layovers, etc.) • Location of hotels (within the cities or outside of urban areas) • Meal upgrades (may increase the per-person price of the tour) • Participants with “stay-behind” requests • Participants traveling from gateways other than the group

✓

Paperwork and Student/Parent Information

It is important to keep up-to-date with all paperwork requested by the tour provider by the given deadlines. These include: • Any liability contracts or agreements to act as a group leader • Gathering of student information such as passport data • Creation of an emergency calling tree • Reminding participants and guardian of payment schedules • Providing information on trip insurances • Enrolling participants on optional tour excursions • Matching passport names with names on the trip roster This final point is highly critical. The tour provider issues flight tickets in the name of the participant as enrolled. There can be no difference between the name on the provider’s roster and the name in the passport. Correcting this in the days before departure can cost hundreds of dollars.

✓

• Call the provider upon returning and summarize • •

the experience Detail what was really effective Detail anything that was disappointing

Working with tour providers regularly, with bi-weekly communication, will enable the teacher group leader to diffuse potential problems, clarify questions and ensure a successful experience for all participants.

Feedback

Group leaders will not be able to contact tour provider consultants while on tour unless there is a case of an on-tour emergency. Thus, feedback is very important: • Complete all feedback, evaluation forms thoroughly • Make comments when necessary 10

Student Travel Planning Guide

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s t u d e n t G R o u p s l ov e B R a n s o n , M i s s o u R i ffering more than 100 live shows, Branson is the entertainment capital of Mid-America and a favorite of young travelers from around the country. Student performance groups—bands, choirs, dance troupes—find Branson especially engaging. They revel in the chance to strut their stuff on the stages of stateof-the-art theaters that showcase Branson’s biggest and brightest stars. Branson, the fastest-growing student performance destination in America, provides groups with plenty of diversions away from the theaters. It abounds with theme parks, go-kart tracks, arcades and other amusements. Ozarks history and the area’s natural beauty also captivate student groups. Famous for hospitality, Branson takes pride in its family-friendly ambience and safe environment. Centrally located in the heart of America, this small vacation town in Southern Missouri is the perfect place for a student trip!

Music directors from around the country are always on the lookout for the ultimate student-performance travel destinations for their choir, orchestra and instrumental groups. They need to look no farther than Branson, Missouri to strike the perfect chord. Branson is a bursting hub of live entertainment nestled in the premier lakeresort region of the Missouri Ozarks and offers up an exceptionally well-rounded ensemble of performance, educational and recreational travel experiences for musical youth. No need for music directors to spend hours browsing the web or do a lot of time-consuming site inspections to familiarize themselves with Branson. Directors interested in the venue can simply request an application now to participate in Branson’s yearly Music 12

Student Travel Planning Guide

Student Performance Group in Branson

Branson Hosts 4tH annual Music Director FaM By Gail Reynolds Director FAM Tour – a complimentary annual event hosted by the Branson/Lakes Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Sporting a 3-day packed itinerary (with ongoing visits to shows, dining spots, attractions and lodging plus personal intros to the business community) the FAM tour provides music directors, along with one selected travel companion of their choice, a steady on-site, upclose-and-personal stream of what Branson has to offer in the way of a superior student performance destination. “It was a great time,” says Steven Tyndall, music director at Rising Starr Middle School in Peach Tree City, Georgia – one of the 23 music directors from around the U.S. who were guests at the 4th Annual Branson Music Directors FAM tour, July 6-9, 2010. ADVERTORIAL

Tyndall, who says that he is sold on Branson as a result of this year’s FAM tour and plans to lock in a student-performance trip there for his musical troupe in the school year 2011-2012, credits FAM tour producer Lenni Neimeyer for the rewarding and successful experience. “I was impressed with the way Lenni put it all together in one package. Every step of the way, we were able to meet people and learn about all the opportunities for our kids that Branson has to offer,”Tyndall says. Neimeyer, Director of Leisure Group Sales for the Branson/Lakes Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, says, “I love to promote Branson because it is truly an amazing destination. And I enjoy the rewarding challenge of developing a FAM tour that meets the studenttraveldirectory.com

S t u d e n t G r o u p S L ov e B r a n S o n , M i S S o u r i specific interest of my attendees. But it’s always so easy because Branson has something to offer people of all, any and every age group.” While Neimeyer admits she is delighted with the positive results of the Branson Music Director FAM tour concept she developed over four years ago, she shies away from taking overall credit for the event’s over-the-top success record. In fact, Neimeyer—a Certified Travel Industry Specialist (CTIS) and soon to be designated a Certified Student Travel Professional (CSTP)—hands over the major recognition to the Branson business community for the financial support and full involvement which makes the yearly expense-

sales representatives sharing information on youth-oriented lodging, theaters, attractions, dining and more. “I had a fantastic time,” says Audrey Murphy, director of the Middle School band in Milton, Georgia and participant in July’s FAM event, who is targeting spring 2012 for her group’s performance visit to Branson. “We didn’t just go to shows, but also the

pects and opportunities their students would enjoy beforehand –without having to be chaperone to them.” Secondly, Troen pointed out, Branson FAM tour guests were presented information relating to how the benefits of utilizing an organized, reputable student-tour liaison outweighed the option of directors trying to create their own trip. “For a small city, Branson has more student-performance opportunities than most big cities,” Troen says. “There are so many musicians within so many theaters. Music students not only get to perform, they get to see other musicians perform.” Neimeyer (who has scheduled the 2011 and 2012 Music Direc-

free trip possible for music directors plus one traveling companion. This year’s itinerary included a nonstop tour of many student-friendly sights and sounds of Branson. Plus, the final morning of the FAM, all attendees were treated to a presentation by a special guest speaker, Kirk Troen, president of the Student Youth Travel Association, and a Speed-Dating Marketplace business session during which music directors were seated for over two hours while having a slate every 4 minutes of one-on-one meetings with various Branson business leaders and group

parks and amusements, attractions and dining places. I think my kids will enjoy Branson and my chaperones will enjoy it, not just because of the student performance opportunities that Branson offers, but because there are so many educational opportunities from the Titanic museum to the music clinics offered to our students by the professional entertainers there.” “This tour was very good for music directors in two regards,” guest speaker Troen reflects. “Number one, the directors got to experience Branson in a way that allowed them to see all of the as-

tor Branson FAM tours and is already looking forward to those upcoming events) sums up her enthusiasm: “I love to introduce people to our destination and my favorite thing is to see that light come on, during their visit, when they realize all that Branson has to offer. It’s magical.”

studenttraveldirectory.com

ADVERTORIAL

For more information contact: Lenni Neimeyer, CTIS Director of Leisure Group Sales Branson/Lakes Area Convention & Visitors Bureau LNeimeyer@BransonCVB.com ExploreBranson.com 800-214-3661 Student Travel Planning Guide

BRANSON

M i s s ou r i

The Liv Live e Music Sho Show w Ca Capital pital of Amer America! ica!

3 pristine lakes

BRAN AIRP SON ORT

50 theatres

is O Every pen! Airfa day Low re Av ailab le!

19,000+ guest rooms

240+ restaurants Shake, Rattle & Roll

100+ live shows

200 holes of golf Silver Dollar City

Award-winning theme parks

300+ retail shops 220,000 sq. ft. convention center Come see for y ourself w hy Attention, tention,, Music Directors: Dir yourself why your next student perfor mance destination! Branson should be your performance

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The Branson Landing

the fastest-gro fastest-growing wing student performance perfor mance destination in America! America! Someone S omeone yyou ou lov lovee is alw always ayys playing in B Branson! ranson!

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Butterfly Palace

Explor Exploring ing the Histor History y of the Area The rich rich histor y of the Ozar usiThe history Ozarks ks and Br Branson anson is re reflected efflected l in the di diversity versity of its b businesses, attr attractions, actions, museums, historical historical landmar landmarks, ks, cr craftsmanship, aftsmanship, g geology, eolog gy, land land-scapes, wildlif wildlife e and military military contributions. contributions. All ser serve ve to mo move ve students be beyond yond the ffour our w walls alls of the classr classroom, oom, e expanding xpanding their educational horizons. horizons.

Exceeding Y Your our Expectations Br Branson anson is ffamous amous ffor or its time-honor time-honored ed Ozar Ozarks ks hospitality and saf safe e en environment. vironment. It’ss a place where It’ where ag age e is honor honored, ed, y youth outh is cele celebrated, brated, and ser service vice to God and countr y is rrevered. evered. Centr ica, w e ar e less than a country Centrally ally located in the hear heartt of Amer America, we are want da day's y's dr drive ive fr from om one-thir one-third d of the nation's population. F For or those gr groups oups wh who ho wa want to ffly ly to Br Branson, anson, the Br Branson anson Air Airport port is open and located just 10 miles south of downtown do wntown - Ev Everyday veryday lo low w ffares arres ha have ve come to Br Branson! anson!

Acrobats of China

Branson/Lakes Area B ranson/Lakes A rea Convention Visitors Bureau Convention & V isitors B ureau P.O. P .O. B Box ox 1 1897 897 • B Branson, ranson, M MO O6 65615 5615 • 8 800-214-3661 00-214-3661 4 417-334-4084 17-334-4084 • Fax Fax 4 417-348-0649 17-348-0649 • w www.explorebranson.com ww..explorebranson.com Contact: Contact: Lenni Lenni Neimeyer, Neimeyer, CTIS, CTIS, Director Director of of Leisure Leisure Group Group Sales Sales Email: Email: LNeimeyer@BransonCVB.com LNeimeyer@BransonCVB.com

Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede

The T he Official W Website ebsite of Br Branson, anson, Missour Missourii

Branson attractions appeal Besides music shows, Branson brims with fun things for student groups to see and do. Here is just a sampling of some favorite Branson attractions: Branson’s iMaX entertainMent coMpleX There’s no better way for student groups to learn about Ozarks heritage than to witness it on the giant movie screen at Branson’s IMAX Entertainment Complex. The immersive, visually stunning film Ozarks Legacy & Legend tells the story of the intriguing mountain culture, presenting dramatic aerial views of the area as it follows the McFarlain family from 1824 to the 1950s.

Ozarks history comes alive on the Branson IMAX screen.

“Of the 150 IMAX theaters around the world, this is the only one in the world where you can see this movie,” said Jon Rasmussen, group sales manager of Branson’s IMAX complex, which produced the 48-minute film. Students gain insight into the Civil War, vigilantism during the Baldknobber era and Prohibition. For a combo rate, student groups can catch the movie and dine at McFarlains Family Restaurant, with its Ozarks-inspired atmosphere and home cooking. The decor includes props from the movie. And a novelty are the five “rising tables” that slowly, imperceptibly rise 16

Student Travel Planning Guide

ADVERTORIAL

students

during the meal—until they get to chin level.The IMAX Food Court is another option. Branson’s IMAX Entertainment Complex also includes Elite III Cinema, three state-of-the-art theaters showing current Hollywood movies; Little Opry Theatre, which has a rotating schedule of live musical shows; and an enclosed shopping mall. During the holidays, student groups can perform in the mall. Contact: Jon Rasmussen, 800-4194832, ext. 122, jonr@bransonimax.com; bransonimax.com. silver dollar city Celebrating its 50th year, Silver Dollar City keeps students engaged with rides, music and comedy shows, and demonstrations of Ozarks crafts. There also are tours of Marvel Cave, around which the theme park was built. The newest ride is Tom & Huck’s RiverBlast, a water battle raft ride themed around the mischief-making of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. Armed with water soakers, riders spray each other, douse spectators and hit other targets along the river channel. Other water rides are American Plunge and Lost River of the Ozarks. Popular rollercoasters include WildFire, PowderKeg and Thunderation. Educational programs at Silver Dollar City range from cave ecology and local history to the physics of rollercoasters and making of lye soap. Lesson plans and curriculum guides are available for school groups. Student performance groups can entertain guests at open-air venues including opening ceremonies at the Gazebo Stage. More opportunities are available at the company’s White Water water park and Branson Belle Steamboat at White River Landing. Contact: Cindy Thomas, group sales manager, 417-338-3913, cthomas@silverdollarcity.com; silverdollarcity.com. studenttraveldirectory.com

Choosing a Tour Hotel T

he quality of hotels varies considerably. Tour providers will use hundreds of different properties, obtaining the best possible price in line with the overall cost of the student tour. Students are lodged three or four to a room; adults are placed two to a room. Each room has a private bath and shower. Most hotels used on student tours will be two- or three-star properties, although it is not uncommon to be lodged in a four-star hotel. Group leaders with specific requests should make those known to tour providers months before departure. Questions regarding hotels should include: • If the hotel is in the city, is the neighborhood safe • If not in the city, how far from the central city is the hotel • If rural, is the hotel on the city transportation grid • Has this particular hotel been used by the tour provider before • If breakfast is included, is it continental style, buffet, or a full, hot breakfast • Is there Internet access • Does the hotel have indoor corridors • Does the hotel maintain independent security • Are the rooms furnished with mini-bars

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Common Hotel Problems

• Students congregating in the hotel halls and disturbing • • • • • •

other guests Slamming of room doors Excessive noise from student rooms after curfew Students missing breakfast and wanting to eat on the coach Taking food from the breakfast room to use for lunch Leaving rooms in disarray and failing to dispose of garbage properly Access to adult channels (should be turned off )

Teachers can get a good overview of assigned hotels by looking over the hotel webpage and reading reviews of the hotel by other patrons. It is also helpful to ask the tour provider to provide the names of other group leaders who stayed in that particular hotel.

Mini-Bars and Alcohol Access

Groups with alcohol policies must advise the tour providers and on-site tour directors to avoid student use of mini-bars. Even if no alcoholic beverages are in these refrigerators, the prices on everything from sparkling water to soft drinks are highly inflated. Some mini-bars can be locked by hotel staff. Those that cannot be locked must be manually divested of alcohol. This may entail an additional room charge.

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Checking In

• Prepare rooming lists ahead of arrival • Give each student a hotel business card in the event • • • • •

they get lost while in the city Look over the neighborhood before allowing students to leave the hotel during free time Let students know where breakfast will be served The on-site tour director will post the daily itinerary in the hotel lobby; students should know where this is Hold a brief meeting that reemphasizes hotel behavior Advise against using in-room telephone service

studenttraveldirectory.com

Student Travel Planning Guide

Food and Fun T ✓

here are two on-tour essentials that you’ll naturally want to work out in advance: what to eat and what to do for fun. Mealtime Options

Many tour companies plan meals for students, either by including a scheduled meal at an assigned location or giving students meal vouchers to be used within a certain area. However, not all tours include food, and even those that do may not cover all meals. When planning for food choices, step one is to compile a list of food allergies and dietary restrictions for students. Planning a meal at a steakhouse with a group that includes eight vegetarians may not be a great move unless you can confirm in advance that there will be a hearty meatless option as well. After you are sure you have the students’ needs in mind, the plan is to find restaurants that can accommodate a large group. Some cities are full of small cafes, but when you are traveling with over 50 people, those cute cafes lose a lot of their charm. No one wants to be forced to eat in shifts! In addition, consider the layout of the restaurants. Sure, they can fit your whole group, but are you spread out all over the restaurant? That can be a challenge because one waiter may move much slower than another, and suddenly half your group is ready to leave while the other half is just finishing their salads!

They may want to go back to the hotel to sleep and hang out after dinner, but when they are 30, they will not remember that nap or that conversation they had.

Also keep in mind the ambience. Fifty teens in one area are going to be loud. Is the restaurant a good choice for a loud group? Will you have to shush them constantly after getting angry stares from other patrons? Are there private rooms that can accommodate your group? Another key decision to keep in mind is whether or not there are local delicacies at your destination. It is hard to visit 18

Student Travel Planning Guide

Maine without having lobster (or, at the very least, seafood). You cannot visit Britain without trying fish and chips. Each location has its prime foods, and it only makes sense that students would immerse themselves fully in the culture. One caveat is that some destinations, especially in other countries, will include alcohol in their local delicacies. If you are bringing students to France or Germany, you must decide early on what your policy is on drinking. You do not want to get there only to be surprised that kids will do everything they can to get hold of beer or wine. Be clear with students from the outset what your policy is and what the penalties are for breaking it. The best way is to put it in writing and require that students sign it, along with their parents. Even if you are allowing them to drink, get it in writing and make sure it is clear how much you are planning to tolerate!

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Entertainment

As with food, each area has certain forms of entertainment that are more popular than others. For starters, look at what your trip includes. If a Broadway show is incorporated into the price, it makes no sense to spend money and free time seeing another (unless that is the main focus of your trip). When there is free time, students are going to have diverse studenttraveldirectory.com

interests. If you have multiple chaperones, you may want to give students a choice of itineraries for each evening, where they can pick one of two or three choices for their entertainment. Maybe one group will attend a sporting event, another will visit a museum and a third will go shopping. Sporting events are fun, but it makes sense to bring students to one that will be applicable to the trip. If you are a football coach, you may want to take kids to a football game. However, if you are a teacher, you may want to consider taking students to see a sport not popular in the area where you come from. For the theater, New York, Chicago and London are great destinations for plays and musicals. Ballet is really popular in some areas. Shopping will be a draw in certain locations. Plan time for students to shop, especially in stores they do not see at home. Although it may not be your preference to spend time on Rodeo Drive while students buy trinkets, understand that the thrill of saying you shopped in Beverly Hills can be a highlight of the tour for some. Finally, sightseeing and museum visits are definitely encouraged and expected on an educational trip. Visiting Washington, D.C., almost assumes you will see at least one of the Smithsonian museums, Arlington National Cemetery and the monuments along the Mall. Without the Coliseum and Vatican, a trip to Rome will be lacking. Know the highlights of your destination and make sure students see them. Some cities have great walking tours. Boston has wonderful Duck Tours, San Francisco is a great destination for trolley tours and Edinburgh offers fantastic ghost tours. Keep in mind that students will get tired, and you do not studenttraveldirectory.com

want to push them too hard, but do not let temporary exhaustion limit their experiences. They are young, and they may not appreciate nor understand what they are doing at the time, but they will in the long run. Remember, standing in front of the Eiffel Tower is fun, but going to the top is a life-changing moment. They paid to go to Paris. They may want to go back to the hotel to sleep and hang out after dinner, but when they are 30, they will not remember that nap or that conversation they had. If you push them to stay out and do all they can, they will remember their Eiffel Tower visit for years to come.

Student Travel Planning Guide

n tour discipline begins with the first trip meeting. Students must be given all of the disciplinary-related expectations before they enroll on the trip. Extra care should be taken in considering interested students who have a clear history of disciplinary problems. Some teacher group leaders interview prospective tour participants in a meeting with their parents in order to detail expectations. General tour expectations should include: • Following all group leader, tour director and chaperone instructions • Being on time for every event • Abiding by set nightly curfews • Never leaving the group without obtaining permission • Maintaining rules set by hotels and coach providers • Agreeing to follow any alcohol and drug policies established for touring students • Treating all persons on the tour with respect, especially in situations with consolidated groups • If the trip is school-sponsored, following all published behavior expectations

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∏

Student Discipline on Tour

For students who do not follow rules, consequences might include: • Cleaning the interior of the coach at the end of a travel day • Being confined to the hotel between dinner and curfew • Loss of free time privileges • Spending any free time in the company of a chaperone • Helping to load baggage onto the coach

For more serious infractions, parents can be called or emailed to elicit their support in talking to the student. You should never ban a student from an excursion on the tour itinerary or any optional activities that have been paid for. This can result in unnecessary liabilities with parents.

Most Common Disciplinary Violations

• Going off alone during free time • Leaving the hotel after curfew or bed checks • Disrupting others on the coach with loud talking • Arriving late at established meeting spots • Drinking alcoholic beverages if an alcohol policy forbids this • Visiting out-of-bounds places such as “red light” districts Much can be said about adolescent alcohol policies and it is frequently a subject of discussion at conferences of teacher group leaders. Regardless of what the policy might be, group leaders and chaperones need to be aware that alcohol is readily available in bars and hotels. Most European countries adhere to a drinking age of 18, but this varies by country. In Greece, for example, the drinking age is 16.

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Enforcing Discipline on Tour

Sending a student home for a disciplinary infraction is usually frowned upon by tour providers anxious to avoid legal difficulties with parents and guardians. This threat should never be used unless it can be enforced. Such last resort actions must be pre-arranged with parents and guardians and put into writing. 20

Student Travel Planning Guide

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☛

Choosing Chaperones R

egardless of group size, obtaining an appropriate number of chaperones will ensure a successful tour experience. Most student tour providers offer “free spots” that are based on the number of paying participants. This ratio is usually 1-6 but can vary depending on the tour provider. This makes chaperoning a student tour attractive. Chaperones should realize, however, that this is not a free vacation.

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Recruiting Chaperones

All chaperones should have some experience with students either as teachers, school administrators or some other educational, professional venue. Initial recruiting should include the following: • Experience in working with adolescents • Willingness to help plan and facilitate • Ability to attend all pre-tour meetings • Assist with documentation such as obtaining passports and visas • Prepared to spend money on items not covered in the free spot such as lunches or beverages • Ability to chaperone small groups of students on flights if the departure and/or return flights are split Following all tour guidelines in respect to student • expectations such as an alcohol policy

✓

• Accompanying a student home if severe illness or disciplinary problems warrant such last resort actions • Making sure all students wake up at the proper time and are prepared for the day’s activities • Monitoring students during “free time” • Willingness to accompany students on free day excursions • Taking over the group if the lead teacher or group leader cannot complete the tour

Skilled chaperones help make a student tour successful. They ensure the reputation of the group while assisting the group leader in daily operations. Chaperone compensation is the free trip, which they can thoroughly enjoy within the parameters of their responsibilities.

Avoiding Certain Groups as Chaperones

• Family members of the teacher group-leader • Unqualified parents of student participants • Spouses of qualified chaperones • Older students who may be school alumni

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On Tour Responsibilities

Any adults involved in leading or chaperoning a student tour must be prepared to be on call at any hour. If there are a number of chaperones, it is helpful to divide responsibilities and give each chaperone at least one night off during the tour. On tour chaperone responsibilities will include: • Responsibility for small student groups throughout the tour • Assisting with student discipline • Helping to facilitate curfews and room-checks at night • Staying behind if a student is too ill to participate in the activities on any particular day

Student Travel Planning Guide

studenttraveldirectory.com

STAR FOR A DAY This uniquely Nashville experience starts with a tour and group recording session on music row at Historic RCA Studio B, where Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and others recorded over 1,000 hit songs. Then, to complete the experience, it’s off to tour the largest popular music museum in the world,

SING

the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum

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800-852-6437 CountryMusicHallofFame.org

Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum is operated by the Country Music Foundation, Inc., a section 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization chartered by the state of Tennessee in 1964.

tudents and their parents often believe that youth means there won’t be problems that require insurance. Even if there is a problem, the student traveler will probably be covered by the insurance of a family member. This thought process generally, but not always, relates to medical problems – and many people think medical problems occur only as one ages, not with young adults. Listed below are a few examples of claims paid during the past two years to students who were lucky enough to have purchased travel insurance: • Tonsillitis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5,300 • Grandfather passed away. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $11,600 • Broken left hand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6,100

✈

Why Your Student Travelers Need Group Travel Insurance

An example of this type of trip interruption is the $11,600 payment (see chart) where the grandfather passed away and the student had to immediately return home. In addition, there are two invaluable insurance benefits your student travelers need: financial insolvency protection and the ability to cancel for any reason. These benefits should be purchased through you, not tour providers. Why? Tour operators and cruise lines can’t insure against their own financial demise – so you won’t get protection against the travel provider’s insolvency if you purchase travel insurance directly from them. When travelers “cancel for any reason,” travel provider plans generally issue a voucher good for future travel only with them – not cash. Your students usually want cash, not a voucher.

• Mental health (hospitalized). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6,800 • Mononucleosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $8,200 • Severe separation anxiety (hospitalized) . . . . $5,900 • Dislocated knee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7,300 • Fall - minor brain injury, severe mouth trauma . . $5,500

Protect your student traveler’s investment by offering student group travel insurance.

Organizers of student travel can provide examples where students experienced a problem, but had not purchased travel insurance. Those students often thought they were covered under the insurance plan of a family member. Only after realizing the need for insurance did the student and his family find there was no coverage because the student was not living at home, was traveling out of the geographic range covered by the family insurance plan or for another reason spelled out in the family policy. It is most important that the student or the student’s family not assume there is medical coverage for the traveling student.

✓

Trip Cancellation Benefit

Even if there is medical insurance coverage, there are other problems that result in financial cost to the student traveler and his family. After the trip has been paid in full, the student may have to cancel for a reason that is covered by the travel insurance trip cancellation benefit. Without travel insurance, the student could lose part or all of the amount paid for the trip. If the student has started the trip and then must cancel, he/she loses whatever has been invested in the balance of the trip and must pay to return home – generally a lot of money because the travel arrangements are made at the last minute. 24

Student Travel Planning Guide

studenttraveldirectory.com

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When developing student and youth tours, there is a lot to think about, but it all comes down to the reason for travel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; education thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fun! And few places capture the imagination quite like Louisiana. Experience the history hands-on, through interactive demonstrations and tours which engage and excite students. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all here, just minutes from New Orleans, awaiting your discovery.

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Bring your classroom to life with student tours around Arkansas. The Natural State offers many exciting and unique subjects to educate and entertain â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from a submarine that fought in World War II to Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first presidential library of the 21st century and many more fascinating museums. Find out more by visiting our website or calling the toll-free number for itinerary ideas.

S C A N WI T H MO BI LE Q R R EA D ER F O R MO R E I NF O.

Post - Tour Activities M

aintaining momentum is only one aspect of post-tour activities. All post-tour events and activities help to spark interest in future trips, encourage returning participants and interest future participants who may have never traveled before. Activities can include:

• School or church bulletin boards featuring trip pictures • Participant testimonials in the school newspaper • Hosting a school-wide assembly focused on the tour • Devoting yearbook space to both the prior tour and the • • • •

newly proposed tour Creating a T-shirt participants can wear that lists their names and the tour destinations Creating an online web page of tour pictures and participant comments, linked to the school website Summarizing the tour superlatives in PTA and other parent-oriented school literature and correspondence Hosting a tour party where all participants bring food related to the cultures visited and their pictures for sharing

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Long-Term Activities

Trip group leaders and moderators may wish to establish a school travel club that is led by students who have been on past tours. Club activities can include: • Watching video of the prior trip (assuming a participant taped the tour activities) • Watching brief travel DVDs and videos relevant to future trip destinations • Celebrating holidays that tie to foreign cultures (example: Christmas in Germany or Scandinavia; a Dickens Christmas) • Inviting foreign exchange students to share their experiences • Displaying picture collages and tour information at school club fair events or PTA gatherings • Submitting students’ personal tour accounts and experiences to local newspapers or other media • Engaging in fundraising activities to raise money for future trips

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Seasonal Trip Meetings

Teacher group leaders can keep the trip momentum going by scheduling seasonal trip meetings. These meetings bridge past tours while instilling interest in future tours. Parents and 26

Student Travel Planning Guide

students should be invited. Parents of former student tour participants are the best available reference for those with questions about tour operations. Activities at trip meetings can include: • Sharing portfolios created from recent trip experiences • Discussing what new destinations potential participants might be interested in • Making available all trip essentials such as spending money, insurances and trip expectations If the same tour provider is used, it is also helpful to schedule such meetings to coincide with visits by regional representatives of the provider.

Bridging the prior tour with future trips is essential because participants need time to pay for the trip. Thus, immediate post-tour activities play a crucial role while ongoing activities, like a school travel club, will build on that momentum.

studenttraveldirectory.com

ALABAMA ATTRACTION

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Bellingrath Gardens and Home 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd. Theodore, AL 36582 800-247-8420 bellingrath@bellingrath.org www.bellingrath.org Nestled beside the Fowl River, this 65-acre estate garden blooms in color every day of the year. Open daily 8 AM to 5 PM.

Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism Little Rock, AR 800-872-1259 grouptravel@arkansas.com www.arkansasgrouptravel.com To learn more about the exciting and unique activities and attractions a student tour around Arkansas includes, visit our website or call the toll-free number.

DMO

Fort Smith CVB Fort Smith, AR 800-637-1477 tourism@fortsmith.org • www.fortsmith.org Experience America’s historic frontier! Tour Miss Laura’s Visitor Center & Judge Isaac Parker’s Courtroom, ride the train into the beautiful Ozark Mountains, the electric streetcar through downtown, or a 1935 ferris wheel in our retro Park at West End. FORT SMITH…..future home of the U. S. Marshals Museum!

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Huntsville/Madison County CVB Huntsville, AL 800-772-2348 pam@huntsville.org www.huntsville.org We are a comprehensive, full-service convention & visitors bureau. We offer site inspections, FAM tours, customized itineraries, contact information and marketing materials. We offer a unique greeting upon arrival...Space Napping.

ALASKA

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D I R E C T O R Y

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S T A T E

ARKANSAS

Sitka Convention and Visitor Bureau Sitka, AK 800-557-4852 scvb@sitka.org www.sitka.org Sitka Alaska—More than you imagine, closer than you think! Explore this remote island to discover an array of activities, attractions, history, festivals and more!

ARIZONA ATTRACTION ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Arizona Renaissance Festival 12601 E. U.S. Hwy. 60 Apache Junction, AZ 85218 800-773-0715 sanja@royalfaires.com www.renfestinfo.com The Arizona Renaissance Festival is a medieval amusement park, a 12-stage theater, a 30-acre circus, an arts and crafts fair, a jousting tournament and a feast -- all rolled into one non-stop, day-long, group friendly adventure! DMO ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Mesa Arizona CVB Mesa, AZ 800-283-6372 donna@visitmesa.com www.visitmesa.com Outdoor activities and attractions, museums, arts and culture, entertainment and groupfriendly accommodations. Travel planning service, itinerary assistance, online brochure files and FAM trip assistance.

Student Travel Planning Guide

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway One Tram Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-325-1449 groupsales@pstramway.com www.pstramway.com World's largest rotating tramcars take visitors up 8,516 feet. At the top enjoy spectacular views, dining, museum, gift shop, hiking and more. Group tram ride, tram ride and lunch or dinner packages available. DMO ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau Sacramento, CA 800-292-2334 lbokan@cityofsacramento.org www.discovergold.org/students Come to Sacramento for a little “Gold-Ology”! That’s the study of finding student-friendly treasure in California’s capital city. Educational experiences, performance venues and unmatched services. Santa Clara Santa Clara, CA 408-380-1235 david.andre@santaclara.org www.santaclara.org Santa Clara is Northern California's premier student group tour location. It's easy to see why students love visiting the Santa Clara area. With an exciting theme park, technological wonders, and a year-round beautiful climate, stay, play & learn!

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Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center 110 Pequot Trail Mashantucket, CT 06338 860-396-6839 kdavis@mptn-nsn.gov www.pequotmuseum.org

The award-winning Pequot Museum brings to life the Native American and natural history of New England through interactive exhibits. Unique gift shop, outstanding restaurant & group rates.

FLORIDA ATTRACTION ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Flamingo Gardens 3750 S. Flamingo Rd. Davie, FL 33330 954-473-2955 X 115 wrayhq@aol.com www.flamingogardens.org Tour this 60-acre, not-for-profit botanical garden & wildlife sanctuary. Visit our Everglades wildlife sanctuary, historic Wray Home Museum & ride our narrated tram tour. Gift & garden shops, Tropical Marketplace. Group rates available. DMO ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Florida's Gulf Islands P.O. Box 1000 Bradenton, FL 34206 941-729-9177 info@floridasgulfislands.com www.flagulfislands.com Eco Nature Tours, Student Youth Tours, Historical Tours, Heritage Tours, Cultural Arts Tours. The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau can customize an itinerary for your groups’ likes.

GEORGIA Georgia Department of Economic Development Atlanta, GA 404-962-4080 kbaasen@georgia.org www.exploregeorgia.org Georgia’s wide diversity of group destinations, from the mountains to the coast, from its southern rivers to its historic heartland to metro Atlanta, guarantees every visitor an unforgettable experience.

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Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. Chicago, IL 60611 800-595-7437 groupsales@mpea.com www.navypier.com Go a little overboard at Navy Pier, the Midwest's top visited attraction! Experience 50 acres of rides and attractions, including a 15-story Ferris wheel, IMAX theater, restaurants, shops, sightseeing and dining cruises, free entertainment and more! DMO ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Chicago Southland CVB Lansing, IL 888-895-8233 tours@visitchicagosouthland.com www.tourchicagosouthland.com Experience true Midwestern hospitality on your next motorcoach tour. The Chicago Southland features Chicago’s 62 south/southwest suburbs, only minutes from downtown Chicago. studenttraveldirectory.com

McHenry County Illinois Convention & Visitors Bureau McHenry, IL 888-363-6177 sales@mchenrycountycvb.com www.visitmchenrycounty.com Located in the northwest region of Chicagoland, McHenry County is an exciting, diverse and beautiful region. Follow the county roads through McHenry County.

S T A T E

D I R E C T O R Y

L I S T I N G

St. Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau St. Charles, IL 800-777-4373 jenny@visitstcharles.com www.visitstcharles.com The Civil War at 150 Years: A Cultural Arts Retrospective. Join us for four years of concerts, exhibits, re-enactments and other activities related to this anniversary!

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New Orleans Plantation Country LaPlace, LA 985-359-2783 kimmie@neworleansplantationcountry.com www.neworleansplantationcountry.com In New Orleans Plantation Country, your group can embark on a swamp tour, enjoy Louisiana cuisine, and visit history at one of eight majestic plantations. Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau Shreveport, LA 318-222-9391 ehoward@sbctb.org www.shreveport-bossier.org Shreveport-Bossier: Louisiana’s Other Side is

where Cajun meets cowboy. Come experience hot gaming action, riverfront entertainment, shopping, year-round festivals, events, plus much more. 888-45-VISIT.

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National Aquarium 501 E. Pratt St., Pier 3 Baltimore, MD 21202 410-576-3833 cbradley@aqua.org • www.aqua.org Visit the National Aquarium in Baltimore and take an unforgettable journey into the mysteries of water and the beauty of the natural world, featuring 16,000 aquatic inhabitants and daily dolphin shows. Immerse yourself into our new 4-D experience!

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Drury Lane Theatre 100 Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 630-570-7272 group1drurylane@msn.com www.drurylaneoakbrook.com Offers a warm, inviting environment for an entertaining visit, presenting Broadway-quality musicals and comedies that are suitable for groups, social outings and benefit events.

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Fair Oaks Farms I-65 exit 220, State Rd. 14 Fair Oaks, IN 47943 877-536-1194 ext. 321 tours@fofarms.com www.fofarms.com Just 75 minutes from downtown Chicago, Fair Oaks Farms is a world apart, and the Dairy Adventure is a unique, real world group tour event, a high-impact shared experience not to be missed, producing memories not to be forgotten.

Come face-to-rostrum with Beau.

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Southshore CVA Hammond, IN 800-255-5253 heather@southshorecva.com www.alllake.org Just minutes from downtown Chicago! Live entertainment, candy factory, dairy farm tour and more.

IOWA DMO ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Waterloo Convention & Visitors Bureau Waterloo, IA 800-728-8431 lonnie@travelwaterloo.com www.travelwaterloo.com Hands-on Science Center at the Imaginarium; Phelps Youth Pavilion with 40 interactive exhibits / workshops; Iowa’s largest outdoor Lost Island Water Park; Hartman Reserve Nature Center. studenttraveldirectory.com

DISCOVER DOLPHINS. For group reservations, call 410-576-3833. Also, ask about reservations for our Washington, DC venue. Introduce your group to America’s Aquatic TreasuresTM, just steps from the National Mall.

STATE DIRECTORY LISTING

MARYLAND

continued

US Naval Academy-Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center 52 King George St. Annapolis, MD 21402 410-293-8687 jopp@usna.edu www.navyonline.com Undergraduate college of the U.S. Navy. We welcome tour groups for historical, educational & military reunion tours, tour & tea program available. Free film, exhibits and official Naval Academy gift shop. DMO ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Ocean City Dept. of Tourism/CVB Ocean City, MD 800-626-2326 ndobrowolski@ococean.com www.ococean.com Ocean City, Maryland's award-winning beach resort, boasts a family-friendly reputation. With 10 miles of clean beach and an exciting 3-mile Boardwalk, our environmental and heritage learning opportunities are all wrapped in fun! THEATER ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Toby’s Dinner Theatre in Baltimore & Columbia P.O. Box 1003 Columbia, MD 21044 410-730-8311 colgs@tobysdinnertheatre.com www.tobysdinnertheatre.com

Student Travel Planning Guide

We feature 8 Broadway-style shows a week with a 7 main entree buffet, salad bar, dessert and a make-your-own ice cream sundae bar.

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Berkshire Historical Society at Herman Melville's Arrowhead 780 Holmes Rd. Pittsfield, MA 01201 413-442-1793 ext. 10 director@berkshirehistory www.mobydick.com Bring your next group to historic Arrowhead, home of Herman Melville when he wrote his masterpiece "Moby Dick." The farmhouse, built in 1783, features period furnishings, inspiring views, nature trail, gift shop and informative guided tours. Peabody Essex Museum East India Square Salem, MA 01970 866-745-1876 jennifer_close@pem.org www.pem.org Showcasing an unrivaled spectrum of New England decorative art, architecture and maritime art, plus outstanding Asian, Asian Export, Native American, Oceanic and Photography collections.

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Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival 358 George Carter Rd. Becket, MA 01223 413-243-9919 info@jacobspillow.org www.jacobspillow.org International Dance Festival, National Historic Landmark, and beloved cultural destination, Jacob’s Pillow offers groups 300+ free and ticketed performances, talks, exhibits, and tours. Group discounts and dining available.

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Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History 315 E. Warren Ave. Detroit, MI 48201 313-494-5808 tours@chwmuseum.org www.charleshwrightmuseum.org The museum provides learning opportunities, exhibitions, programs and events based on collections and research that explore diverse history and culture of African Americans. Tulip Time Festival 238 S. River Ave. Holland, MI 49423 800-822-2770 tulip@tuliptime.com www.tuliptime.com Host to one of the best small town festivals in

studenttraveldirectory.com

MINNESOTA ATTRACTION â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013;

Mall of America 60 E. Broadway Bloomington, MN 55415-5550 800-879-3555 mphilipp@mallofamerica.com www.mallofamerica.com The nation's largest retail and entertainment complex under one roof offers the ultimate shopping experience. Boasting more than 520 stores and 50 restaurants, the world's largest indoor amusement park and a world-class aquarium.

MISSISSIPPI

Holly Springs Tourism and Recreation Bureau Holly Springs, MS 888-687-4765 info@visithollysprings.com www.visithollysprings.com A true antebellum encyclopedia nestled less than an hour driving distance from Memphis, Tupelo and Tunica. Daily home tours, museums and nature activities for all ages!

MISSOURI DMO â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013;

Branson/Lakes Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Branson, MO 800-214-3661 lneimeyer@bransoncvb.com explorebranson.com Branson offers youth groups 2 theme parks, 3 pristine lakes, 12 museums, 52 theaters, 100 + live shows, 207 lodging properties, 268 restaurants, 329 retail shops and more.

DMO

THEATER

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Corinth Area CVB Corinth, MS 800-748-9048 tourism@corinth.net www.corinth.net Corinth, Mississippi...With a spirit of fire and strength of steel, Corinth is most recognized for its significance during the Civil War, but history is only half our story. Great attractions, unique shopping, quaint restaurants abound. Let us show you the rest!

Branson's IMAX Entertainment Complex 3562 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway Branson, MO 65616 417-335-3533 Ext. 117 jonr@bransonimax.com www.bransonimax.com BIG Screens! BIG Shopping! BIG Food! BIG Live Shows! We offer full-service meals, boxed lunch and pizza parties from the IMAX Food Court, live shows inside the Little Opry Theatre and Giant-Screen IMAX Adventures.

MONTANA ATTRACTION â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013;

Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center 201 S. Canyon, P.O. Box 996 West Yellowstone, MT 59758 800-257-2570 info@grizzlydiscoveryctr.com www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org See LIVE bears & wolves! Enjoy: Keeper Kid's, a Karelian Bear Dog, Bird-of-Prey, Wolf Enrichment, Safety in Bear Country, Ranger Talks, a WorldClass Exhibit & presentations. 1 block from Yellowstone Park. Open 365 days (GWDC bears DO NOT hibernate).

NEW JERSEY ATTRACTION â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013;

Adventure Aquarium 1 Riverside Dr. Camden, NJ 08103 856-365-3300 alovell@adventureaquarium.com www.adventureaquarium.com The Adventure Aquarium experiences includes 7 hands-on TOUCH opportunities including sharks, jellies and more and NOW, touch and feed the graceful residents of the all new Stingray Beach Club!

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nycballet.com Group Sales 212-870-4071 groupsales@nycballet.com David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center SĂŠbastien Marcovici

Photo by Henry Leutwyler ÂŠ 2010

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Call today for group discounts, priority seating, behind-the-scenes programs, meet-the-artist and much more! studenttraveldirectory.com

Student Travel Planning Guide

STATE DIRECTORY LISTING

the country with main events like 3 exciting parades, Dutch dancing, big name entertainment, outdoor concerts, music and variety shows, Dutch market, trolley tours, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events, fireworks and more.

NEW JERSEY

continued

Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center 1501 Glasstown Rd. Millville, NJ 08332 800-998-4552 jpeterson@wheatonarts.org www.wheatonarts.org Home of the Museum of American Glass, hot glass, ceramic, flameworking and woodworking studios (artist demonstrations), Down Jersey Folklife Center and museum stores. Picnic area and train ride. Full-service restaurant and hotel adjacent to property.

NEW MEXICO DMO

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D I R E C T O R Y

L I S T I N G

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Rio Rancho CVB Rio Rancho, NM 888-746-7262 tours@rioranchonm.org www.rioranchonm.org Rio Rancho's high-desert beauty offers a unique cultural tapestry, scenic sights and affordable accommodations centrally located between Albuquerque and Santa Fe.

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Harbor Experience Companies 89 South St. New York, NY 10038 212-742-1969 ext. 217 mbuckley@harborexperience.com www.harborexperience.com Unique, FUN outings at Water Taxi Beaches with awesome views and GREAT food. Charter a New York Water Taxi double-decker catamaran for a Statue of Liberty cruise or Circle Line Downtown’s Zephyr sailing yacht, or a thrill ride on the Shark! Madame Tussauds 234 W. 42nd St. New York, NY 10036 888-923-0334 Llisel.vidals@madametussaudsny.com www.nycwax.com Go on tour with Miley Cyrus, play ball with Derek Jeter and David Wright. Mix and mingle with A-list celebrities in our Opening Night Party. Visit themed environments filled with an exceptional showcase of incredibly life-like wax figures. National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum 25 Main St. Cooperstown, NY 13326 888-425-5633 ext. 4 jdolhun@baseballhalloffame.org www.baseballhall.org Visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, where we continue to preserve baseball's rich history, honor the game's greatest players and their achievements and connect generations of fans every day. Top of the Rock 30 Rockefeller Plaza Entrance on 50th St. between 5th and 6th. New York, NY 10111 877-692-7625 info@topoftherock.com www.topoftherocknyc.com 32

Student Travel Planning Guide

Top of the Rock Observation Deck offers majestic, 360-degree views from our magnificent open-air terraces. Breathtaking in any language! Open 365 days a year from 8:00 a.m. until midnight. THEATER ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Billy Elliot the Musical Imperial Theater 249 W. 45th St. New York, NY 10036 212-239-6262 www.billyelliotgroups.com BILLY ELLIOT is the spectacular show with the heart, humor and passion to be named Broadway’s 2009 Tony ®-winning Best Musical and TIME Magazine’s “Best Musical of the Decade!” Set during the historic 1980s miners’ strike in Great Britain, the story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising talent that inspires his family and his whole community, and changes his life forever. Featuring music by Elton John, BILLY ELLIOT is the joyous celebration of a boy who learns to embrace his individuality and make his own dreams come true. Broadway.com/Groups Theatre Direct 729 Seventh Ave., 6th Floor New York City, NY 10019 800-334-8457 cprince@broadway.com www.broadway.com/groups Broadway.com/Groups offers unmatched customer service, terrific rates for all New York theaters, customizable student workshops for all ages, and much more Jazz at Lincoln Center Broadway at 60th St. New York City, NY 10023 212-258-9875 groupsales@jalc.org www.jalc.org/groups Jazz at Lincoln Center is a world-renowned cultural institution dedicated to inspiring and growing audiences for jazz. Under the leadership of Wynton Marsalis, JALC produces concerts, recordings, radio programs, children's music classes, and more. New York City Ballet David H. Koch Theater 20 Lincoln Center New York City, NY 10023 212-870-4071 groupsales@nycballet.com www.nycballet.com Customized Group Adventures Programs: Meet with dancers, musicians or costume director about the performance and their professions, and classes for ballet students with a company dancer. Groups discounts for repertory performances; Sept-Oct; Jan-Feb; May-Jun. New York Philharmonic Avery Fisher Hall 10 Lincoln Center Plz. New York, NY 10023-6970 212-875-5672 hiltona@nyphil.org www.nyphil.org Create a memorable event. Bring your group to the world-renowned New York Philharmonic. We offer substantial group discounts and provide personal service designed to meet your needs.

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Rowan County CVB Salisbury, NC 800-332-2343 meacham@visitasalisburync.com www.visitsalisburync.com Authentic North Carolina! Discover the South's largest transportation museum, old-fashioned Main Street shopping, beautiful historic districts, antique and art galleries, self-guided tours and more!

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Holmes County Chamber of Commerce Millersburg, OH 330-674-3975 shasta@holmescountychamber.com www.holmescountychamber.com Explore the unique culture of the Amish with a vacation in central Ohio, home of the world’s largest Amish community. Enjoy beautiful scenery, visit an Amish farm, savor homemade foods and listen for the clip-clop of a buggy.

PENNSYLVANIA DMO ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Pocono Mountains Convention & Visitors Bureau Stroudsburg, PA 800-722-9199 tourismsales@poconos.org www.800poconos.com/tour/ With year-round scenic beauty, charming towns, resorts, entertainment, shopping and fabulous outdoor recreation, the Pocono Mountains region is an ideal motorcoach destination.

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Newport, Rhode Island CVB Newport, RI 401-845-9132 twalsh@gonewport.com www.gonewport.com Newport is the perfect destination for your next group trip. We offer miles of scenic coastline, tours of opulent mansions, rich Colonial history, interesting museums, a number of walking tours, harbor tours, unique shops, galleries and so much more!

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Hilton Head Island-Bluffton COC & VCB Hilton Head Island, SC 800-523-3373 ext.361 jreed@hiltonheadisland.org www.hiltonheadisland.org Hilton Head Island was recently named one of the top ten family beaches in the country. As an intimate getaway for two or an idyllic backdrop for a family reunion, the Island extends a variety of outdoor and indoor recreational activities. studenttraveldirectory.com

Myrtle Beach Area CVB Myrtle Beach, SC 800-488-8998 faulkk@mbchamber.org www.myrtlebeachgroups.com Plan your next group trip to Myrtle Beach & The Grand Strand. Exciting attractions, theater and great hotel values. Request your free guide to the Myrtle Beach area and start planning your next group getaway - to Myrtle Beach!

SOUTH DAKOTA DMO

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D I R E C T O R Y

L I S T I N G

Black Hills Badlands & Lakes Association Rapid City, SD 605-355-3600 noreen@blackhillsbadlands.com www.blackhillsbadlands.travel Six National Park areas including Mt. Rushmore National Memorial, over 130 attractions, 101 miles of National Scenic Byways, plus Old West landmarks like Deadwood and Wounded Knee.

VERMONT

VIRGINIA

DMO

Vermont Tourism Network Burlington, VT 802-863-1122 vtourism@together.net www.vermonttourismnetwork.travel Visit us to find descriptions of lodging properties, virtually all of Vermont's popular attractions, activities in the great outdoors, cultural heritage events and opportunities, farm tours, entertainment, festivals, events, shopping and restaurants.

Fredericksburg Regional Tourism Partnership Fredericksburg, VA 540-372-1216 lhill@fredericksburgva.gov www.visitfred.com Walk in the footsteps of presidents while discovering George Washingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hometown and generals in the Civil War battlefields. Leeches and lancets await you at the apothecary shop. VisitNorfolk Norfolk, VA â&#x20AC;˘ 800-368-3097 mhopper@norfolkcvb.com www.visitnorfolktoday.com Norfolk, VA is the ideal destination for actionpacked and affordable, educational tours. An abundance of outdoor activities, historical and cultural attractions offers exciting choices for new learning.

TENNESSEE ATTRACTION â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013;

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum 222 Fifth Ave. South Nashville, TN 37203 800-852-6437 info@countrymusichalloffame.com www.countrymusichalloffame.com Call 1-800-852-6437 for information on our unique group packages that keep groups coming back again and again. DMO â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013;

Gatlinburg Department of Tourism & Convention Center Gatlinburg, TN 800-343-1475 davidp@ci.gatlinburg.tn.us www.gatlinburg-tn.com Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a four-season destination! With the unique setting as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the diversity of shopping, dining and entertainment options - Gatlinburg has something for everyone! Pigeon Forge Dept. of Tourism Pigeon Forge, TN 800-285-7557 jmcnealy@mypigeonforge.com www.pigeonforgetours.com Pigeon Forge is home to dozens of attractions and three distinct â&#x20AC;&#x153;playgroundsâ&#x20AC;?...Great Smoky Mountains National Park; Dollywood theme park; and WonderWorks, an amusement park for the mind.

/UR GROUP SALES TEAM can help plan your next 3MITHSONIAN ADVENTURE s $ISCOUNTS ON )-!8ÂŽ AND %INSTEIN 0LANETARIUM TICKETS s $INING PACKAGES AT SEVERAL 3MITHSONIAN RESTAURANTS s %DUCATOR 'UIDES AND 3/,S AVAILABLE FOR MOST FILMS s #OME EARLY AND AVOID THE CROWDS WITH OUR SPECIAL )-!8ÂŽ ON $EMAND SCREENINGS

TEXAS DMO â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013; â&#x2013;

Frisco CVB Frisco, TX 877-463-7472 marla@visitfrisco.com www.visitfrisco.com Frisco, Texas, just 20 minutes north of Dallas, is one of the fastest growing cities in America and is Texas' Rising Star for sports, shopping, art, and affordable fine accommodations. studenttraveldirectory.com

Call 866 868-7774 (866 Tours SI) or visit www.si.edu/group_tours &AX s %MAIL GROUPSALES SI EDU %XCLUSIVELY FOR GROUPS OF OR MORE

on Demand!

9OU PICK THE FILM FOR THESE SPECIAL MORNING SCREENINGS

VIRGINIA

L I S T I N G

Richmond Metropolitan CVB Richmond, VA 800-370-9004 jlawson@richmondva.org www.visitrichmondva.com/students From Patrick Henry’s call for liberty and the Civil War’s emancipation of slavery, the Historic Richmond Region’s story unfolds unforgettable history for 400+ years. Virginia Beach CVB 2101 Parks Ave., Suite 500 Virginia Beach, VA 23451 800-700-7702 knorman@vbgov.com www.vbfun.com Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay, our little corner of the world specializes in spirit-lifting. Like exploring miles of beach and boardwalk, nature and adventure. The joy of shopping or reveling at an outdoor crab feast.

WASHINGTON DMO ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

City of Lynnwood, Washington Lynnwood, WA 425-670-5040 tourism@ci.lynnwood.wa.us www.lynnwoodtourism.com 15 miles north of Seattle, visit Alderwood, a destination retail center, historic Heritage Park, 100+ diverse restaurants. Hotels 40% below downtown. Discover all Lynnwood has to offer!

ATTRACTION

NATIONAL DIRECTORY LISTING

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Madame Tussauds 1025 F St. NW at 10th St. Washington, DC 20460 888-923-0334 groupsales@madametussaudsdc.com www.madame-tussauds.com New figures will be unveiled throughout the year and put on display at Madame Tussauds D.C. until all 44 U.S. presidents are ready to be installed in the new gallery this fall.

DINING

THEATRE

Buffets, Inc 800-753-8207 julie.diamond@buffetsinc.com www.buffet.com Get your group the best value in dining and the best variety at Old Country Buffet, Ryan's Grill Buffet and Bakery, HomeTown Buffet, Fire Mountain Grill and Country Buffet. With more than 500 locations nationwide, we're always on your way.

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Smithsonian Theaters National Air and Space Museum Sixth St. and Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20560 National Museum of Natural History 10th St. and Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560 National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center 14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway Chantilly, VA 20151 866-868-7774 groupsales@si.edu www.si.edu/group_tours Discounts available for groups of ten or on IMAX films and Planetarium shows, the live Butterfly Pavilion and simulators. Dining packages available for groups of 20 or more. Ford’s Theatre Society 511 10th St. NW Washington, DC 20004-1402 800-899-2367 groupsales@fords.org www.fords.org The site of the April 1865 assassination of Abraham Lincoln, Ford's Theatre is a working theatre, historical monument and world-class museum. The theatre produces plays reflective of American life and is also open for daytime visits.

WEST VIRGINIA DMO

S T A T E

D I R E C T O R Y

WASHINGTON D.C

continued

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Convention & Visitors Bureau of Marion County White Hall, WV 800-834-7365 cvb@marioncvb.com www.marioncvb.com Your students will love our mystery dinner theaters, country music shows, heritage attractions, fairs and festivals. Explore historic sites, indulge in unique shopping and dining, ride the rail trail or simply take in the beautiful countryside.

WISCONSIN DMO

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Buca di Beppo 866-941-2822 www.bucadibeppo.com At Buca di Beppo, groups of all sizes and ages step into Little Italy and enjoy a variety of group menus to satisfy everyone’s palate and budget. For group rates or to book your reservation, call our National Sales Team.

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Music Festivals To You funmeevents@aol.com www.musicfestivalstoyou.com We offer a wide range of festivals for all ages and types of performing groups. Whether it's one-day festivals at a theme park, cruise performance in the Caribbean, or a competitive festival in a world-class city. Peak Performance Tours 800-220-0165 info@peakperformancetours.com www.peakperformancetours.com Peak Performance Tours plans customized student tours, including: music tours, dance/cheer trips, class trips, and senior class trips. Our student tours blend fun, education and ease all within your budget. Student Discoveries Powered by Globus 888-258-0012 studentdiscoveries@globusfamily.com www.globusfamily.com For more than 80 years the Globus Family of Brands has been telling the stories behind the world’s most extraordinary destinations. And now through Student Discoveries, we bring this experience to life for student groups. Travel Adventures 800-828-8220 tours@traveladventures.com www.traveladventures.com Working with educators to create “A Bigger World for Every Student” Our staff has the experience to help you provide your students with the immeasurable benefits of educational travel.

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La Crosse Area CVB La Crosse, WI 800-658-9424 bates@explorelacrosse.com www.explorelacrosse.com La Crosse is a dynamic destination, born of a rich river history. Pristine natural beauty, unique attractions, affordable lodging is what you will find in La Crosse. Free tour planning, step-on guides, escort notes and personalized pre-tour FAMs. 34

Student Travel Planning Guide

U.S. Tours 888-393-8687 bob@ustours.biz www.ustours.biz U.S. Tours sells “Travel that’s Fun.” We produce custom tours of America. Eco-tourism, Historical Tours, or Music & Theater themes; we build trips that keep your kids engaged and safe.

studenttraveldirectory.com

Over 500 Locations Service, Value, Variety Free meals for your driver and group leader • Ample free motor coach parking • All-inclusive nationwide pricing • Food that’s ready for a quick, hassle-free stop • A wide variety of foods to accommodate specific diet choices Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner

Reservations made easy. Visit www.buffet.com/leisuregroup email: groupsales@buffetsinc.com or call 866-840-6654

Chicago’s top visited year-round attraction featuring 50 acres of rides, special events, attractions, restaurants, shops, sightseeing and dining cruises. Don’t miss our 15-story Ferris Wheel, the IMAX® Theatre, Chicago Children’s Museum, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows, free entertainment and so much more. School and community performance groups and marching bands are invited to participate as part of Navy Pier’s year-round, free public programming. Visit the entertainment page of navypier.com for more information.