Our Mission Rustic Pathways empowers students through innovative and responsible travel experiences to positively impact lives and communities around the world.
What’s Inside Rustic Pathways Group Travel Experience
4
How it Works
5
Where We Operate
6
The Rustic Pathways Global Team
8
Student Impact at Rustic Pathways
10
Global Community Impact at Rustic Pathways
12
Health and Safety
14
Language Programs
16
Critical Issues Programs
16
Base House Programs
17
New Programs
17
2019–2020 Select Programs
20
Program Index
122
Other Ways to Get Involved with Rustic Pathways
123
Important Information
123
We’re educators too. Instead of spending time in schools, we partner with educators like you to help make the world your classroom. Because every school and class is different, we customize our programs specifically for you and your students to align travel with your educational goals. We also know that you're building this trip outside of your day-to-day responsibilities because you value immersive educational experiences outside of the classroom and understand the impact they have on students. Our team members partner with schools to create experiences that align with your goals. They will guide you through the process of traveling with your students from start to finish. We'll handle the prep and details so you can focus on your students. We love working with educators who know what they want, and we'll partner with you to marry those needs with our resources and global team.
What Sets Rustic Apart Learn more about Rustic Pathways Group Travel on pages 8 to 16. •
Rustic’s diverse team of global staff members live in more than 25 countries and work to guarantee a transformative and safe experience for you and your students.
•
Our fully-customizable programs are designed with the right mix of service, adventure, and education to foster student growth in learning outcomes associated with future success.
•
We’ve developed long-term partnerships with communities around the world and collaborated to identify sustainable projects that have a significant and lasting impact.
Your Program Identify the right type of program for your students. Service and adventure are the foundation of all Rustic Pathways programs, but your options aren’t limited to just those types of programs or a combination of the two. Find specialized program types on pages 16 and 17 and customizable examples of those programs in this catalog for each country where Rustic operates. In addition to the featured program types on the following pages, Rustic also offers customizable experiences that focus on photography, public health, and the environment as well as programs for sports teams. You can find examples in this catalog or online at groups.rusticpathways.com. Call 800.321.4353 (United States) +1 440.975.9691 (international) or email groups@rusticpathways.com for more information.
Program Types
Language Immersion Programs
Combine meaningful classroom time with cultural immersion for the ultimate foreign language instruction. Add an element of service to create additional conversational opportunities.
page 16
Critical Issues Programs
Intentionally-designed programs that allow students to explore some of the most significant challenges facing our world like climate change, gender inequality, religious persecution, and poverty.
page 16
Base House Programs
Depending on the country, these programs are ideal for large groups or younger students and provide the comforts of home during an immersive cultural experience.
page 17
New Programs
Each year, we evaluate our programming and create new and innovative programs that leverage our Student Impact Evaluation findings to improve the student experience.
page 17
4 groups@rusticpathways.com
How it Works Our programs are designed to align with: •
The mission and values of your school
•
Your vision and purpose for traveling with students
•
Your school's curriculum, including International Baccalaureate Middle Years and Diploma programs incorporating meaningful and impactful CAS experiences
•
Coursework or a specific content area, including Advanced Placement or Honors programs
•
Your school's service-learning goals or external programs like Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Program
Design the Perfect Travel Program for Your Students Think of your Rustic Pathways Program Coordinator (PC) as a travel concierge who will help you identify the right type of program, connect you with our Country Teams to customize the experience for your students, and provide the pre-trip support you'll need to promote, recruit, and enroll students in your program. Your PC will be with you every step of the way.
Step 1: Partner with your Rustic Program Coordinator • • • •
Connect to discuss program options and customization. Receive custom program proposals within a few days. Work with your PC to adjust the itinerary to meet your needs. Get classroom activities and other lessons to help prepare students for their program.
Step 2: Recruit students to join your program (but we'll do most of the work!) • • •
Receive a custom program webpage, posters, flyers, email templates, and other materials to distribute to students and their families. Encourage students and their parents to attend an information night in your school community, hosted by Rustic—we’ll provide recruitment resources. Get full support from our administrative team for student enrollment, flight booking, and payment assistance.
Step 3: Travel on the adventure of a lifetime • • •
Arrive in country, meet your Program Leaders, immerse in local culture, participate in meaningful service, make new friends, and create lasting memories. Process experiences during and after your trip through guided discussions and reflection activities facilitated by trained Program Leaders. Apply those lessons to the classroom with educational resources to support student projects and classroom activities.
When you return, get involved with the Rustic Pathways Foundation (more information on page 13) to continue supporting the communities where your class traveled. And start planning your next program! groups.rusticpathways.com 5
The Balkans United States Morocco Cuba Dominican Republic Costa Rica
Peru
Where We Operate
Australia
China
Dominican Republic
Operating Since: 1983
Operating Since: 2007
Operating Since: 2012
The Balkans
Costa Rica
Fiji
Operating Since: 2017
Operating Since: 2003
Operating Since: 1993
Cambodia
Cuba
India
Operating Since: 1999
Operating Since: 2016
Operating Since: 2005
Mongolia
China
India
Vietnam Laos Cambodia
Nepal
Fiji
Tanzania Myanmar Thailand Australia
New Zealand
Laos
Myanmar
Peru
United States
Operating Since: 2008
Operating Since: 2002
Operating Since: 2008
Operating Since: 2006
Mongolia
Nepal
Tanzania
Vietnam
Operating Since: 2009
Operating Since: 2017
Operating Since: 2006
Operating Since: 2005
Morocco
New Zealand
Thailand
Operating Since: 2012
Operating Since: 1993
Operating Since: 1999
The Rustic Pathways Global Team Our exceptional staff members are the backbone of our organization. Their incredibly diverse backgrounds provide us with a profound understanding of the destinations we visit and offer our students one-of-a-kind experiences. The faces you see in this catalog (and many others!) ensure that you and your students have fun, empowering, and safe experiences with us.
International Staff
Exceptional Program Leaders
Rustic Pathways spans the globe! Most of our staff members are based outside the United States. While the cultural traditions of our staff vary from country to country, the shared values that define Rustic Pathways and make them exceptional extend across all borders. We build leadership teams that pair international teams with local staff, resulting in diverse teams that blend an understanding of your students and their needs with deep local knowledge.
Our Program Leaders have backgrounds in teaching, experiential education, service learning, wilderness training, international development, and other outdoor and educational fields. Each year, we hold in-country training sessions for both new and returning staff to ensure we maintain our standards in safety, student learning, community service, and the overall Rustic Pathways student experience. Program Leaders are incredible role models for students and, most importantly, they are all dedicated to creating the best possible programs for you and your students.
8 groups@rusticpathways.com
The Rustic Pathways Team by the Numbers more than
staff members from more than
countries across the globe speaking more than
different languages
Country Leadership Chaima Ait El Mekki
Kate Lubina
Raised in Marrakech, Chaima has been with Rustic since 2012, our first summer in Morocco. Fluent in Arabic, French, English, and Spanish, she is an invaluable resource. With a degree in actuarial finance, she uses her knowledge of business, languages, and culture to manage stellar programs. Chaima is a strong believer in cross-cultural discussions to better understand one another.
Kate graduated from the University of Southern California with a B.S. in biological sciences and an M.S. in global medicine. She gained a passion for community health and Latin American culture while spending a semester in Nicaragua. Since 2014, Kate has brought this background to our programs where she works to create quality service projects with our partner communities.
Harry Alvarez
Natalya Morgan
Born in New York and raised in the Dominican Republic, Harry graduated from SUNY New Paltz with degrees in psychology and Spanish, and completed pre-med coursework at Columbia University. Harry opened our programs in the Dominican Republic in 2012 and our Cuba programs in 2015. He enjoys cooking and hosting friends at his home in New Orleans.
After graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in wildlife ecology, Natalya’s love of travel and community service led her to Rustic Pathways in 2014. After leading programs for two years in Southeast Asia and India, Natalya transitioned to our team in Tanzania. In 2019, she became our Tanzania Country Director overseeing operations and the local team.
Amanda Cortes
Kelly Moynihan
Raised in South Carolina, Amanda credits working in Switzerland and Colombia to kindling her love for travel, education, and cultural exchange. After graduating from Boston College, she led international groups on camping-based adventure tours across the lower 48 states, Canada and Alaska, returning indoors to train leaders and manage operations with Rustic in 2015.
More than a decade of Program Leader experience, fluency in Spanish, and commitment to community service make Kelly a natural fit to direct our Peru operations. Previously, Kelly worked in Costa Rica with indigenous communities and turtle conservation efforts. Originally from New Jersey, Kelly earned a degree in journalism from American University in Washington, D.C.
Sudarshan Singh Deora
Sam Murray
A native of Rajasthan, India, Sudarshan joined Rustic in 2007 as a Program Leader. Sudarshan, who has degrees in history and tourism management, is a constant source of energy and excitement for Rustic Pathways students in India and Nepal. He’s a fan of Indian folk music and a star cricket player. If you’re lucky, he may teach you how to swing for sixes!
Sam joined Rustic Pathways in 2008 after working in outdoor education for 10 years. He serves as director for both inbound and outbound operations in Australia. With education degrees from La Trobe and Monash universities, Sam’s passion for travel and love of the outdoors inspires him to provide life-shaping programs for students.
Bryan Haggerty
Ricardo Romero
Bryan studied philosophy at Saint Michael’s College before moving to Southeast Asia, where he has worked for more than a decade. He taught at Chiang Mai University for several years while also advocating for local ethnic minority groups. He speaks fluent Thai and has managed our Thailand operations since 2008. Bryan splits his time between Vermont and Chiang Mai.
Ricardo joined Rustic Pathways in 2005 after working in Costa Rica’s rafting industry for a decade. Ricardo has worn many hats on our team, from community service coordinator to sales representative and just about everything in between. He is an avid outdoorsman and holds a degree in business from the University of Costa Rica.
Kegan Kennedy
Alexis Simchak
Keegan has been teaching, studying, and researching in Thailand for more than decade. From northern California, he completed his master’s thesis on the effects of forest fires on floral and fungal communities. Keegan is fluent in both written and spoken Thai and Lao, and brings his deep knowledge of Southeast Asia’s history and culture our Thailand operations.
Alexis has extensive experience in Southeast Asia where she has worked since 2012 leading programs and managing operations. Discovering her passion for travel and service learning at a young age, Lexi loves exploring new places and uncovering the hidden gems. She is a proud alumna of Penn State and brings her dedication to cultural exchange to our programs in Cambodia.
Zack Kraushar
Evan Wells
Zack graduated with a degree in sociology from Pomona College with focus in research on genocide studies. Before he joined Rustic in 2015 to lead programs in Cambodia, Zack worked as a high school English teacher in Japan and a historical tour guide in his hometown of New York City. In 2018, Zack became the director of our operations in the Balkans.
Born in New Zealand and living between Australia and Fiji, Evan joined Rustic Pathways in 1993. With a degree in business and a commitment to Fijian communities, Evan proudly manages our South Pacific operations. Outside our Eco-Lodge Base, he enjoys time with his wife Lisa and their young boys, Henry and Sam, and races in long-distance running events.
Morocco Country Director
Cuba and Dominican Republic Country Director
China and Mongolia Country Director
India and Nepal Country Director
Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar Country Director
Laos and Myanmar Senior Country Manager
Balkans Country Director
United States Country Director
Tanzania Country Director
Peru Country Director
Australia Country Director
Costa Rica Country Director
Cambodia and Vietnam Country Director
Fiji and New Zealand Country Director
groups.rusticpathways.com/our-team 9
Student Impact at Rustic Pathways Rustic Pathways programs are intentionally designed to encourage students to think critically and challenge them to grow personally. Our experienced Program Leaders work to facilitate meaningful discussion and reflection, and help students learn how to amplify the positive impact travel can have on themselves and others.
Student Learning Outcomes Focusing on these learning outcomes allows us to create programs that enable students to achieve personal growth and make a positive contribution to our world. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Openness to New Ideas and Experiences Sense of Wonderment A Belief that all People are Connected by a Shared Humanity A Desire to Positively Impact the Lives of Others Empathy
6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Self-Awareness Humility Grit Independence Intercultural Competence
Measuring Student Impact and Making Data-Driven Decisions Our student impact evaluation allows us to make data-driven decisions to improve our program design and execution to best deliver a meaningful and lasting learning experience. Data helps us decide which programs to create, refine existing programs, and better train Program Leaders to achieve maximum impact on students. Each year, we seek to improve our results in one to three target learning outcomes through purposeful adjustments to our programming.
Program Inputs
Program Leader Training
Travel Experience
Student Learning Experience
Student Impact Cycle
Program Design
Intentional Debrief & Reflection Student Impact Survey Analysis of Trends
Student Impact Evaluation
10 groups@rusticpathways.com
The Results of our 2018 Student Impact Evaluation We evaluated how often students felt they embraced behaviors associated with our Student Learning Outcomes on a scale from one to six. Intercultural Competence
+.2404
Self-Awareness
+.3535
Connected by a Shared Humanity
+.2807
Openness to New Ideas and Experiences
+.2831
Independence
+.17
Desire to Positively Impact
+.3679
Empathy
+.1757
Sense of Wonderment
+.2885
Grit
+.0013
Humility
+.0974 4
4.75
5
6
* Based on 1259 pre-travel responses and 456 post-travel responses from high school students who traveled with Rustic Pathways during the summer.
The Future of Our Student Impact Evaluation To measure student impact, we survey students, parents, and Program Leaders to determine the impact of their Rustic programs on individual growth in the above Student Learning Outcomes. Quantitative data tells us what and how much students learn, while qualitative data illustrates how and why students learn. We survey students before and after they travel on their programs (and again three to six months after return) to capture quantitative data on both attitudes and self-reported probable actions to greater understand not only what students think they value, but also how their values may be demonstrated. Our qualitative methods help us better understand how students show growth in some learning outcomes and why that occurs. We capture feedback from students about their improvement in these learning outcomes, ask parents open-ended survey questions to assess their perceptions, and gather input from Program Leaders. groups.rusticpathways.com/student-impact 11
Global Community Impact at Rustic Pathways There are three ways that we work to achieve our vision of creating a world where travel is a model of sustainable development that has a positive impact in the places where we operate programs: responsible travel, community service, and the Rustic Pathways Foundation.
Responsible Travel We are committed to decreasing our environmental footprint, stimulating local economies, supporting community initiatives, and teaching our students responsible travel practices. We travel to locations where tourists rarely go, buy goods from locally-owned businesses, and respect local cultures and customs. Our programs provide direct support for education, infrastructure development, conservation, and other community projects.
Community Service We believe through responsible travel and well-designed service initiatives, our students can gain an understanding of pressing social and environmental challenges at a global level and help combat these challenges at a local level by: 1.
Identifying and designing long-term projects with local partners
2. Providing students opportunities to engage in meaningful service
The Future of our Service Projects In 2019, we’ll be working to align our existing community service projects with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These 17 goals
3.
Working together to achieve community and student goals
4.
Monitoring and evaluating the process and impact of ongoing initiatives
groundwork for addressing those by
5.
Ensuring projects are sustainable and have a lasting impact
2030. They include making sure all
Our community projects focus on the following types of service initiatives:
Community Health and Social Services: Health underpins all aspects of daily life. Good health is critical to people’s ability to take care of themselves and contribute to the well-being of their family and community. Rustic Pathways health projects currently focus on two areas: Health Education and Nutrition. Economic Development: Developing economic opportunities is essential to enable people to pull themselves out of poverty and meet basic needs. Rustic Pathways economic development projects currently focus on one area: Income Generation. Education: Safe and engaging learning environments, along with access to education, are essential for student learning. Rustic Pathways education projects currently focus on two areas: School Facilities and Youth Empowerment.
Environment and Animal Welfare: The environment plays an important role in the livelihoods of many communities and must be sustainably managed for current and future generations. Rustic Pathways environmental service projects currently focus on two areas: Wildlife Conservation and Animal Welfare, and Environmental Conservation and Restoration.
Infrastructure: Basic infrastructure is essential to healthy, productive and sustainable communities. Rustic Pathways infrastructure projects currently focus on four areas: Water and Sanitation, Energy, Community Facilities, and Housing.
12 groups@rusticpathways.com
address global challenges and lay the
people have access to clean water, healthcare, and a quality education. Rustic’s existing service projects already contribute to these goals, but we want to take that a step further. It’s important that our impact aligns directly with specific indicators and outcomes for each goal identified by the United Nations. Visit groups.rusticpathways.com and follow us on social media for more info later this year.
The Rustic Pathways Foundation The Rustic Pathways Foundation is a key piece of how we support the communities where we travel. The Foundation is a non-profit organization that was initially started because students returned from programs inspired and wanted to stay involved with the communities they visited with Rustic. Through the Foundation, the Rustic Pathways community raised more than $500,000 in 2018.
Bribri Aqueduct | Yorkin, Costa Rica
Regional Fundraising Campaigns
Global General Project Fund
Supporting high-priority needs around the world
Australia Wildlife Fund
Rescuing and rehabilitating animals
Cambodia Education Fund
Making education a reality for young Cambodian students
Costa Rica Development Fund
Supporting essential human needs within rural communities
Dominican Republic Housing Fund
Providing safe and dignified housing for families
spans borders.
Fiji Education Fund
Bringing education closer to home for young Fijian students
“We are happy for Rustic,” said project foreman Olman Torres
Laos Education Fund
Providing students with safe living conditions
Peru Amazon Conservation Fund
Protecting and conserving the rainforest
Peru (Sacred Valley) Education Fund
Empowering young girls through secondary education
Tanzania Education Fund
Assisting with school construction projects in rural villages
Thailand Education Fund
Supporting Thai students to further their education
U.S. (Baltimore) Refugee Fund
Helping young refugees get a fresh start in their new home
U.S. (New Orleans) Housing Fund
Bringing families home after natural disasters
The Rustic Pathways Foundation completed work in June 2018 on a 20,000-liter water storage tank and three-mile aqueduct to deliver clean, reliable drinking water to the more than 200-person community of Yorkin, Costa Rica. Yorkin is a Bribri community, one of eight remaining indigenous peoples in Costa Rica. From its inception four years ago, the $30,000 in fundraising, local labor, and ultimately, the successful completion of the tank and aqueduct, was the result of a community of people that
about his community’s partnership with the Foundation. “We would not have been able to complete this project without them.”
groups.rusticpathways.com/community-impact 13
Health and Safety Ensuring the safety of students as they travel with Rustic Pathways is one of the most important things we do. For 36 years, we’ve refined our safety and security protocols to become a leader among providers of student travel programs.
Preparing for Your Trip 1.
Complete Rustic’s Medical and Emergency form, which includes relevant medical histories, medications, food allergies, and dietary restrictions
We take students to remote destinations, expose them to unfamiliar surroundings, and encourage personal growth through exploration. When conducted responsibly, these experiences transform students in ways that are impossible to replicate inside the classroom, and for this reason, the health and safety measures we take are a fundamental part of our travel programs.
and our Participant Screening Team relays that information to Country Teams. 2.
Ask your Program Coordinator any additional questions about your upcoming trip. They can
Rustic Pathways Health and Safety Measures
also provide pre-trip support
Food and Water Rustic chefs and cooks prepare meals and can make necessary adjustments for specific dietary needs and allergies at our base houses. Some meals will take place at trusted local restaurants. All water is bottled or purified.
before you leave, including
Accommodation and Transportation All participants stay at Rustic-owned base houses or carefully vetted hotels, guesthouses, camps, or with trusted homestay families. In-country vehicle transportation is provided by Rustic drivers or local vendors. Rustic performs annual safety checks on all company-owned vehicles and vendor transportation companies.
of, and packing tips.
Vendors and Partners Rustic reviews all external service providers, including transportation, accommodation, and activity vendors, annually. Vendor business infrastructure, hiring and training processes, and emergency management systems are assessed to make sure they are reputable and safe.
recommendations for obtaining vaccinations and visas, any cultural sensitivities to be aware
3.
Attend an orientation meeting either in person or online to ask any last-minute questions about your trip.
During Your Trip 1.
Chaperones will receive instructions for meeting with Program Leaders when landing in-country, and to ensure a smooth customs process.
2.
Meet your expert Program Leaders, who will be with you around the clock to deliver your program experience, answer any questions, or provide any medical assistance. Our student to Program Leader ratio never exceeds seven to one.
3.
Students and their parents have 24-7-365 emergency support and access to services from International SOS, the leading provider of international medical, security, and travel assistance.
14 groups@rusticpathways.com
Health and Safety FAQs Q: Who leads Rustic Programs? A: Many Program Leaders have backgrounds in teaching, experiential education, or international development. All full-time leaders are Wilderness First Responders and seasonal staff are First Aid and CPR certified. All Program Leaders also receive up to 80 hours of additional training in country before each summer travel season begins Q: How does Rustic monitor international safety and security? A: Global security is monitored through government agencies in the United States, UK, and Australia, and the Overseas Security and Advisory Council. Health monitoring is conducted through the WHO and CDC. Q: Does Rustic have a medical and evacuation provider? A: Rustic also monitors safety and security with the help of International SOS, a leader in international medical, security, and travel services. All Rustic travelers also have access to International SOS services.
Meet our Health and Safety Team Rustic’s Health and Safety Team has more than 100 years of combined industry experience. Their focus is safeguarding you and your students, and ensuring our programs are carefully designed and delivered responsibly.
Q: Does Rustic sell travel insurance? A: All participants of Rustic Pathways programs are strongly encouraged to buy their own comprehensive medical insurance coverage. Rustic has partners for United States-based and international schools. Visit groups.rusticpathways.com/safety for more info. Q: How does Rustic respond to emergencies? A: Country Operations and the Safety Director create risk management plans. They include critical incident protocols and natural disaster plans. However, most incidents Rustic responds to involve minor illnesses common during international travel. Program Leaders manage these situations with the support of Country Operations teams. If an incident is more serious, Country Operations works with Rustic’s Crisis Response Team to coordinate the appropriate action, which could include engaging International SOS.
Dave Dennis
Safety and Risk Management Director With a master’s degree in risk management and more than 20 years of experience, Dave is the perfect fit to lead Rustic’s Health and Safety Team. Before joining Rustic in 2014, Dave owned a consulting firm that implemented risk management and emergency response programs for global tour operators. He now works with our teams to ensure quality and consistency in all Rustic programs. Dave lives in Colorado with his wife and children.
Dr. Will Smith
Peter Brown
Dr. Will Smith is a recognized leader in wilderness medicine who joined Rustic Pathways in 2015. He practices emergency medicine in Jackson, Wyoming, is clinical faculty for the University of Washington School of Medicine, and the Medical Director for the National Park Service. Locally, he is Co-Medical Director for Grand Teton National Park, Teton County Search & Rescue, Bridger Teton National Forest, and Jackson Hole Fire / EMS.
Pete is a RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional, Wilderness First Responder and has an OSHA certification. Pete graduated from St John’s University in Minnesota where he developed his love of travel while studying abroad in New Zealand and Australia. That set off a twodecade career in the adult and student travel industries. Pete and his wife continue to travel around the world and currently live in New York with their two daughters.
Ann Dunphy
Dr. David Baker
Ann has worked in emergency medicine for 35 years and has been an EMT and Wilderness First Responder instructor for decades. She has a bachelor’s degree in education and certifications in specialized emergency medicine. When not screening students before travel, Ann teaches for Wilderness Medical Associates and picks up ambulance shifts to keep her skills sharp. Based in northern Wisconsin, Ann selflessly dedicates herself to helping others.
David Baker, a psychological consultant in Winter Park, Florida, joined Rustic Pathways in 2013. Dr. Baker has taught psychology and theology at Rollins College, the University of Central Florida, and the Seattle School for Theology and Psychology. He currently teaches at the Tampa Bay Institute for Psychoanalytic Studies. Dr. Baker holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in theology.
Medical Director
Medical Screening Manager
Global Risk and Safety Manager
Mental Health Director
groups.rusticpathways.com/safety 15
Language Immersion Programs Rustic Pathways offers customizable language immersion programs in Spanish, French, Arabic and Mandarin. Adjust trip length, swap activities, and choose learning objectives based on your needs. Groups can stay at hotels, with homestay families, or at Rustic Pathways service bases. Collaborate with our talented international staff and language instructors who will challenge your students in the classroom while helping them immerse in local culture to test their new skills. Language
Location
Description
Mandarin
China
Students will complete four hours of language classes each morning and spend afternoons exploring and practicing Mandarin through cultural engagement activities on the streets of Shanghai.
Spanish
Costa Rica, Cuba, Help your students hone their Spanish during daily Dominican Republic, lessons and interactions with locals during this or Peru culturally-immersive adventure in one of four Latin American countries.
Arabic
Morocco
Morocco is the ideal setting for Arabic study, with a rich, colorful, and fascinating history that also includes several other cultural influences.
French
Morocco
Experience bustling cities, the great Moroccan outdoors, and rural life in the Atlas Mountains on this French language and cultural immersion program.
English
Australia
Students will hone their English skills during daily lessons and interactions with locals on this Aussie adventure.
Page page 36
page 46
online only
page 78
online only
Look for the icon throughout the catalog to review examples of our language immersion programs.
Critical Issues Programs Today’s world faces exceedingly difficult and complex challenges. Our global struggles cross borders, languages, and cultures, and the path forward isn’t always clear. We believe the best place to start is in building an understanding of these issues as they are experienced in daily life. Our Critical Issues programs involve deep cultural-immersion experiences that bring together a group of like-minded peers, spark dialogue, and encourage participants to take action. Humanity needs committed leaders ready to take on the world’s most daunting issues. Are your students ready? The Balkans: Culture, Conflict, and Service Cambodia: From the Ground Up Cuba: Innovation in Action Dominican Republic: Life in the Bateyes Dominican Republic: Public Health in the Caribbean Fiji: Marine and Environmental Field Studies Morocco: Peace, Wonder, and Understanding Islam Myanmar: Dreams of a Nation Myanmar: Documenting Democracy Peru: Andes Women's Education Initiative
page 28 page 30 page 50 page 54 page 68 page 62 page 82 online only page 86 online only
Look for the icon throughout the catalog to review examples of our Critical Issues programs or visit groups.rusticpathways.com/critical-issues. 16 groups@rusticpathways.com
Rustic Pathways Service Bases With Rustic Pathways Group Travel, you don't need to choose between meaningful service and a comfortable living environment. Our purposefully-built service bases in Australia, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Fiji, Dominican Republic, Laos, Thailand, and the United States provide accommodation with familiar living standards and amenities, private rooms for teachers, and easy access to service projects with our longtime community partners. Our bases facilitate local immersion while ensuring our students can rest comfortably, play happily, serve wholeheartedly, and learn from their experiences. To compare our service bases, visit groups.rusticpathways.com/base-houses. Look for the
icon throughout the catalog to review examples of our base house programs.
New Programs Each year, our Program Operations Team evaluates Rustic’s Group Travel offerings to determine whether we’re providing the most impactful experiences for students. We want our program mix to reflect the most cutting-edge and up-to-date itineraries based on what’s happening in the world. We use your feedback, current education research, and our Student Impact data to inform our program creation. New Programs for 2019–2020 Australia: Urban Life: Melbourne Australia: West Coast Wanderer The Balkans: Culture, Conflict, and Service Cambodia: Siem Reap Fun and Adventure Cambodia: Village Service and Cultural Immersion China: Beijing Sights China: Mangroves and Tulous Environmental Conservation China: Shaxi and Beijing Fiji: Fiji Surf Fiji: South Pacific Discovery and Adventure Fiji: South Pacific Sports Tour Fiji: Women's Community Development Fiji: Yoga, Sun, and Service India: Children of India India: Himalayan Photo Expedition India: Indian House Boat Service Adventure India: Indian Wildlife Conservation India: Meenakshi to Munnar: South India Service India: Namaste India India: North India Advanced Photo Workshop
online only online only page 28 online only page 34 online only page 40 online only online only online only online only online only online only online only online only online only page 66 online only online only online only
India: North Indian Culture Experience vonline only India: Service in the Clouds page 68 Laos: Laos Adventure and Culinary Experience online only Laos: Northern Laos Mountain Service and Trekking page 70 Laos: Rock Climbing in Laos online only Mongolia: Service and Skiing on the Steppe page 74 Myanmar: Magic of Myanmar online only New Zealand: Maori Cultural Experience online only New Zealand: Trek New Zealand online only Tanzania: Usambara Trekking and Mountain Culture online only Thailand: Agriculture and Social Enterprise online only Thailand: Hmong Culture, Elephants, and Chiang Mai online only Thailand: Marine Conservation and Forest Restoration online only Thailand: Science and Sustainability: Northern Thai Reforestation online only United States: Aloha Service page 110 United States: Civil Rights in the American South online only United States: Design Thinking: Silicon Valley page 112 United States: Digging Deeper: Southwest Archaeology online only Vietnam: Environmental Conservation and Adventure online only
Look for the icon throughout the catalog to review examples of our new programs or visit groups.rusticpathways.com/new-programs. groups.rusticpathways.com 17
18 groups@rusticpathways.com
2019–2020 Select Programs
groups.rusticpathways.com 19
AUSTRALIA
Golden Sands and Helping Hands Live at our Glass House Mountains base and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Australia. Learn about Australia’s ancient Aboriginal culture and encounter exotic wildlife while exploring the countryside and coastlines. Participate in service projects related to environmental conservation or help cook meals for local charities. Stay at a farm and learn to surf at the Sunshine Coast’s golden beaches. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,895 USD plus airfare
5to 14 days
Up to 25 students
10 to 20 service hours
20 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary
Glass House Mountains Service Base
Day 1: Welcome to Australia! Arrive into Brisbane Airport (BNE) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to our Glass House Mountains Base and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture.
Sunshine Coast, Australia
Day 2: The Steve Irwin Australia Zoo and Wildlife Hospital See many of Australia’s native animals firsthand. Feed kangaroos, watch the famous croc show, discover wombats, and pet the koalas. Visit the Wildlife Warriors Animal Hospital—the most advanced wildlife hospital in Australia. Learn about the animals that are unique to this part of the world and be inspired about conservation through exciting education. In the evening, enjoy the base house’s beautiful views and peaceful sounds as you get some rest for the evening. Day 3: Hands-On Service & Cultural Workshop Spend the day working with one or more of our amazing community partners to support an ongoing project, which might include helping out in a school, contributing to an environmental project, coaching athletes with disabilities, assisting with wildlife conservation, or providing food relief for local community members. In the afternoon, visit an indigenous family and learn about ancient and modern Aboriginal culture, including demonstrations on boomerang throwing, fire making and didgeridoos.
Nestled amongst eucalyptus trees and rainforest on a 50-acre property, the secluded Glass House Mountains Base offers spacious communal living space, dormitory-style bedrooms with bunk beds, modern bathrooms, and electricity. During downtime from service, hike neighboring nature trails, tell stories around a campfire, play a game of soccer on the lawn, or enjoy a game of ping pong indoors. Capacity: 25 students Beds: Bunk beds Showers: Hot Toilets: Standard western Air Conditioning: Yes
Day 4: Eumundi Market and Noosa Beaches Head to the famous Eumundi Market, one of Australia's largest outdoor markets and a vibrant center for shoppers on the hunt for unique Aussie souvenirs. Grab your beach towel and bathing suit and travel to Noosa, one of Australia’s most famous stretches of sand to spend the day relaxing and enjoying the beautiful natural resources of Australia’s Sunshine Coast. In the afternoon, head to the Farm Camp that will be your base for the next few days. Day 5: Life On The Farm Wake up on the farm to kangaroos grazing in the paddock and kookaburras sitting in the gum trees. Enjoy activities such as working with horses and helping a farmer with her daily chores. Spend the afternoon trying your hand at cracking stockwhips, throwing boomerangs and perfecting your campfire cooking. In the evening, join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you'll begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far. Day 6: Surf and Service Learn to surf and develop ocean safety skills during a morning at the beach with a certified instructor. Help the local community with one of our long-term partners—either in social services or education-based projects, depending on the need and the season. After a big day, join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 7: Bright Lights of Brisbane Explore the city of Brisbane and take a bike tour along the river. Pick up some souvenirs along the promenade, then dine in the city to celebrate your final night in Australia. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Catch you Later, Australia! Say goodbye to new friends and prepare for your journey home. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure. groups.rusticpathways.com 21
AUSTRALIA
Island Survival Hop on a cargo barge that will take you to Rustic Island, a remote forested island in the Great Barrier Reef where you'll test your skills and learn important survival techniques. Build your own shelter, procure your own food, and learn how to spearfish. Learn how to find and collect clean water and get wilderness first aid tips from a remote survival expert. This program also takes advantage of being in a lush national park where the group will monitor species and collect data for scientific use. This program is for groups that are ready for an adventure and the bonding experience of a lifetime. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $5,455 USD plus airfare
8Âto 12 days
Up to 25 students
15 to 20 service hours
22 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Australia! Arrive into Brisbane Airport (BNE) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Jump on a smaller plane to Gladstone (GLT) and head to the hotel to settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the program. Day 2: Final Preparations and Island Bound! Spend the morning preparing for your time on the island. Your instructors will teach you essential skills and you’ll go through some physical and psychological profiling, then divide you into four teams for your time on the island. At lunchtime we’ll begin loading the barge and head out to sea in the early afternoon. Travel by cargo barge for six hours to Rustic Island—a deserted island 45 miles off the coast in the Outer Great Barrier Reef. As the mainland disappears beyond the horizon with the sunset, a sense of isolation will set in and the excitement will build. When the barge arrives after dark, we’ll unload our gear onto the beach, set up a basic camp for tonight, and get some sleep while we await for daylight. Days 3 – 8: Survival Skills, First Aid, and Marine Biology Wake to see the daylight reveal the island’s a coral cay fringed by coral reef and turquoise lagoons. The pure white sands of the island encircle vegetated forest whose only inhabitants are thousands of birds that roost in the trees. The island is an important habitat for birds and seasonally nesting turtles, and the tropical waters are abundant with marine life. Start your day with an orientation to the island and go through some important ground rules. The island is a national park so we’ll try to minimize our impact while living there. Students will be divided into small teams that will establish their own base camp separate from the central camp. Students will be given food rations for their stay on the island. Compete in teams over the next six days during a series of survival challenges that are carefully designed and overseen by a trained survival specialist. You’ll be required to create a shelter, cook your own food, snorkel and spearfish, fish with hand lines, and collect and distill water. Trade and barter supplies and food with other teams. When not competing, you’ll also learn wilderness first aid skills. Contribute to ongoing marine monitoring projects by collecting data on marine life for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. Collect and remove rubbish from the beaches and lagoons to help preserve this ecologically important environment. Day 9: Goodbye, Island! Conclude your island adventure and board the barge for the trip back to the shores of mainland Australia. Spend the evening at a comfortable hotel with hot showers and real beds to rest and recuperate. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 10: Goodbye, Australia! Take an early flight from Gladstone back to Brisbane. Say goodbye to new friends and begin the journey home. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbye to Australia and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Urban Life: Melbourne for an immersive experience for English language learners in one of the world's most famous cities. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 23
AUSTRALIA
You, a 'Roo, and Australia Zoo Volunteer at Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo for a unique opportunity with this world-class organization. Get up close and personal with wombats, wallabies, echidnas, and kangaroos. Explore Noosa National Park, which features spectacular coastal scenery and provides an important refuge for native wildlife, including the koala, glossy black cockatoo, and ground parrot. Shop Eumundi Market, hang out in Brisbane, and catch some beach time at one of Australia’s most famous surf beaches. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,165 USD plus airfare
7 to 10 days
Up to 20 students
15 to 35 service hours
24 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Australia! Arrive into Brisbane Airport (BNE) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to our Glass House Mountains Base and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. After getting settled, we’ll make our way to the zoo for an introduction session to prepare you for the next few days when you’re officially part of the team! Your group will enjoy a half-day guided tour of Australia Zoo and learn about tiger conservation at the afternoon tiger show. Days 2 – 4: Shadow a Zookeeper Split into groups to complete tasks for keepers of different departments, giving you handson involvement with enrichment activities for the animals. You may be involved in maintenance, cleaning enclosures, or preparing food for the animals—all the tasks which help the zoo to run smoothly. Enjoy your lunch each day while watching the famous croc show at the Crocoseum. Attend educational presentations on a range of key environmental, ecological, and husbandry topics, such as groundbreaking crocodile research and others related to animal behavior and training. Engage with a member from the local Gubbi Gubbi Aboriginal people in the afternoons to hear the stories of the area’s earliest communities. At sunset, hike the mountain for its beautiful views or explore the local waterfalls before heading back to the base for the evenings. Join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you'll begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far. Extend your trip by spending two days volunteering at a grassroots wildlife rehabilitation center. Day 5: Eumundi Market and Noosa Explore the famous Eumundi Market, one of Australia’s biggest outdoor markets, full of unique Aussie handcrafts. After visiting the market, grab your beach towel and bathing suit and head to one of Australia’s most famous stretches of sand, Noosa Heads. Spend the afternoon at the beach, exploring the golden sands and soaking in the laid-back Australian beach lifestyle. Noosa National Park features spectacular coastal scenery and provides an important refuge for native wildlife, including the koala, glossy black cockatoo, and ground parrot. Day 6: Brisbane City Day Wave goodbye to the Glasshouse Mountains as we make our way back to Brisbane to take in the sights and sounds of the beautiful capital of Queensland. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a bike tour along the river through the botanic gardens and around the city center to experience the sights of this bustling city. Catch the ferry on the river, stroll along the esplanade, then head across to the Museum and Art Gallery to learn about historic and modern Australian culture. Pick up any last-minute souvenirs, tim tams, or gifts to bring home. Enjoy a final dinner by the river, overlooking this iconic city. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 7: Goodbye, Australia! After a morning in Brisbane, your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
The transformation of our students and the great stories they tell are evidence of the success of each trip. As we have developed our program with Rustic Pathways, support from our parents has grown as they have realized the ongoing benefits of the adventurous journey that their children take. This is our fifth year with Rustic Pathways. Throughout this time the care of, and commitment to, our students have been exceptional. " Cameron Hall | Director of Teaching and Learning I-Shou International School Kaohsiung, Taiwan
groups.rusticpathways.com 25
THE BALKANS
Cultural Crossroads Explore the rich history of the Balkans region across small towns and big cities. Engage with the history and modern complexities of this crossroads of cultures. Perched on important land and sea routes, the Balkans has been a desired strategic location for all major powers through European history. Visit national parks, medieval towns, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Encounter local traditions and sample cuisine from the Dalmatian Coast to the Bosnian Mountains. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,235 USD plus airfare
7 to 10 days
Up to 35 students
0 to 12 service hours
26 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Croatia! Arrive into Zagreb International Airport (ZAG) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel, settle in, and join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Walk the bustling streets of Zagreb and enjoy the view from the old city on the hilltop. Dine with the group to get your first taste of the region’s delicious cuisine. Day 2: Plitvice Lakes and Zadar Start your day early with a drive to see the emerald water of Plitvice Lakes National Park. After a traditional lunch to warm up, continue to Zadar, a beautiful ancient Roman city set along the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Sample food of the Dalmatian coast and enjoy an evening stroll through a historic Roman forum dating to the first century. Day 3: Cruise the Croatian Coast Take a walking tour of Zadar, a city that dates back 3,000 years. Enjoy the crisp salty air and admire the sound of the Sea Organ, music created by the movement of the Adriatic. After lunch, stop for a short visit to Sibenik on the drive to Split. Walk the streets of this small sleepy town, and see where the famous HBO series “Game of Thrones” was filmed. Finish the day as you watch the sunset over the Adriatic on the drive into the breathtaking port city of Split. Day 4: Explore Split Learn about Split’s history through the ages and see the influences of the Romans, Venetians, Austrians, and communists that once ruled this small coastal town. Wander its historic markets where people buy fresh seafood and dine on handmade pasta and risottos. Hike to the top of the Marjan Hill for a panoramic view of the city and harbor. Join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you'll begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far. Day 5: Day Trip to Dubrovnik Complete your tour of the Adriatic Coast as you head to the ancient city and the former republic of Dubrovnik, a stunningly-intact walled city. The UNESCO World Heritage site is most famous for appearing as Kings Landing in “Game of Thrones.” Tour its century-old streets of what was once the world’s most powerful maritime trading empires. Take a short drive across the border to Mostar for your first taste and sights of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Day 6: Cultural Workshops in Mostar Get to know Mostar and visit sites that bear witness to the turbulent cultural history of the Balkans. Mostar is a beautiful city with bridges and valleys, and it’s hard to imagine the recent wars until you hear about them from community members. Learn about traditional life, participate in a coffee workshop, and hear our local staff share their personal histories and visions for the future. Day 7: Explore Sarajevo Drive to Sarajevo, the capital and business hub of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Take a walking tour of one of the most culturally-diverse towns in the world, where East meets West and the major religions of the world are represented just blocks apart. Take a cable car to the top of Trebevic mountain to get panoramic views of the city. Visit the bazaars of Bascarsija to sample dishes influenced by the Ottoman Empire and shop for souvenirs in its cobblestone alleys. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Dovidenja and Zbogom, Balkans! Enjoy a relaxed morning in Sarajevo and leave for your flight back home. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Combining regional locations and activities from both Balkans programs to customize the trip that works best for your students and meets their learning goals. Learn more by visiting groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 27
THE BALKANS
Culture, Conflict, and Service Dive deep into the complex history of the Balkans region. Most recently, civil war in the region left the scars that can be still be felt. Meet local people, learn about their personal experiences, and hear their visions for the future. Contribute to meaningful community service in areas still recovering from years of war and conflict. Encounter local traditions and sample cuisine from the Dalmatian Coast to the Bosnian Mountains. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,305 USD plus airfare
7 to 10 days
Up to 35 students
0 to 24 service hours
28 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to the Balkans! Arrive into Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight, and join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Visit the bazaars of Bascarsija to sample dishes influenced by the Ottoman Empire and shop for souvenirs in its cobblestone alleys. Day 2: Explore Sarajevo Explore Sarajevo, the capital and business hub of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Spend the day learning about the siege of Sarajevo during the recent conflict in the 1990s and see the tunnel dug during the war to serve as its only lifeline. Take a walking tour of one of the most culturally-diverse towns in the world, where East meets West and the major religions of the world are represented just blocks apart. In the afternoon, take a short drive to the town of Mostar, which will be your base for the next few days. Day 3: Cultural Workshops in Mostar Get to know Mostar and visit sites that bear witness to the turbulent cultural history of the Balkans. Mostar is a beautiful city with bridges and valleys, and it’s hard to imagine the recent wars until you hear about them from community members. Learn about traditional life, participate in a coffee workshop, and hear our local staff share their personal histories and visions for the future. Day 4: Dervish House and Valley Views In the morning, explore the beautiful surrounding countryside of Herzegovina and visit a traditional Dervish house, the home of Islamic mystics, where a mountain spring empties into the Buna River. Visit the medieval town of Pocitelj and climb to the top of the fort that long ago protected the entrance to the valley below. Take in the spectacular views over Mostar and the Neretva Valley. Spend the afternoon soaking in the sun and taking a dip into the refreshing lakes below Kravice Waterfall. Days 5 – 6: Support the Local Community around Mostar Even though the last war officially ended more than 20 years ago, much of Bosnia and Herzegovina remains deeply divided along ethnic and religious lines. Many local students even attend segregated schools based on their background. After learning about the local culture and history, work alongside local students and get your hands dirty on community service projects. Partner with a grassroots NGO supporting local schools as you help build infrastructure and promote peace in the region. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 7: Travel to Split Take a morning drive across the border to the beautiful port city of Split along Croatia’s Adriatic Coast. Learn about Split’s history and see the influences of the Romans, Venetians, Austrians, and communists that once ruled this small coastal town. Wander its historic markets where people buy fresh seafood and produce to create handmade pasta and risottos. Hike to the top of the Marjan Hill for a panoramic view of the city and harbor. Sample the food of the Dalmatian coast and enjoy an evening visit to Diocletian's Palace. This structure, built as a retirement home for a Roman emperor, is now enmeshed with the cobblestone streets of Split’s old city. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Dovidenja and Zbogom, Balkans! Enjoy a relaxing morning in Split and leave for your flight back home. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure. groups.rusticpathways.com 29
CAMBODIA
From the Ground Up Critical Issues: International and grassroots development
Learn about Cambodia’s recent history through hands-on experiences. Understand current issues in the country by visiting local nonprofits and international development organizations in Phnom Penh. Complete meaningful community service projects with your group giving you the chance to learn about education “from the ground up” and see how schools, families, and communities educate their young people. End your trip with a visit to Angkor Wat and explore the markets of Siem Reap. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,135 USD plus airfare
6to 14 days
Up to 45 students
12 to 30 service hours
30 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Cambodia! Arrive into Phnom Penh Airport (PNH) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Have a Khmer dinner and head back to the hotel for a good night’s sleep. Day 2: Learn about Cambodia’s History Arun-suer-sdey! Begin with visits to cultural and historical locations in Phnom Penh. Head to Tuol Sleng, former school that was used as a prison and has since been converted into a museum to educate visitors about the country’s genocide. Visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and walk through the quiet and peaceful fields that played host to mass killings and burials. Days 3 – 4: NGO Visits in Phnom Penh Meet with various international NGOs working in Cambodia. Attend talks from organization directors and tour their sites as you learn about these organizations working in a variety of fields. Engage in discussions to learn more about their inner workings. What organizations you’ll meet with depends on the time of year you visit. While specific organizations may be unavailable, we can guarantee that your group will meet with three organizations doing great work in Cambodia. Days 5 – 8: Service in Kampong Cham Travel to Kampong Cham to the community where you'll be living and working over the next few days. Meet with local stakeholders to hear about the priority projects identified within the community. Learn about what your group will be contributing to and about past projects that were completed. After your orientation, get acquainted with the this peaceful community by taking time to explore. Service days will consist of morning and afternoon sessions with a break for lunch mid-day. Day 9: Night Markets in Siem Reap Say goodbye to Kampong Cham and head to Siem Reap where you’ll explore the famous night markets for local souvenirs. Have dinner in the city and enjoy the different pace of life here in a busier part of Cambodia. See the Cambodian circus for an inspiring show of acrobatics performed by students from Phare Ponleu Selpak, an organization that supports disadvantaged youth through arts education. Day 10: Ancient Cambodia and Angkor Wat Wake early for a morning exploring Angkor Wat and the ancient Khmer Empire. See the intricate carvings of Angkor's historical battle scenes, climb to the top of the highest tower to see the temples from a new perspective. Then travel to Bayon to see the huge, carved faces in rock, and make your way to the shady temple of Ta Prohm, where massive trees have given this ruin a fairytale-like feel. After a day of ancient adventures, enjoy a final Khmer dinner and spend time browsing the night markets. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 11: Lee hi, Cambodia! After some final group photos with Team Cambodia, your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
groups.rusticpathways.com 31
CAMBODIA
Snapshots of Southeast Asia Photograph bustling Phnom Penh, capture Angkor Wat, then fly to Vietnam to explore Hanoi. Travel with a professional photographer on your team to help coach your photography skills with assignments and critiques throughout your program. See small villages and ancient ruins, as well as modern cities and solemn spaces of reflection. This program allows for a variety of spaces to learn skills and engage with local communities to help build your portfolio or just play around with technique in this world of colors and nature. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Sample itinerary starts at $2,595 USD plus airfare
8Âto 10 days
Up to 15 students
32 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Phnom Penh Arrive into Phnom Penh Airport (PNH) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Have a Khmer dinner and head back to the hotel for a good night’s sleep. Day 2: Intro to Cambodia’s History Arun-suer-sdey! Begin with visits to cultural and historical locations in Phnom Penh. Head to Tuol Sleng, a former school that was used as a prison and has since been converted into a museum to educate visitors about the country’s genocide, and visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Tour the Royal Palace where the King currently resides and visit Olympic Stadium, where Cambodians gather before and after work to exercise and meet up with friends. Days 3 – 4: Battambang’s Famous Clay Pots Pass through rural Cambodia on your way to Battambang and then settle into this less touristy city for the next two nights. You'll have the chance to capture great images in this charming city and its beautiful countryside. Every night, hone your techniques with group critiques and discussions after that day’s challenging photo assignments. Day 5: Night Markets in Siem Reap Drive to Siem Reap where you’ll explore the famous night markets for local souvenirs. Have dinner in the city and enjoy the different pace of life here in a busier part of Cambodia. See the Cambodian circus for an inspiring show of acrobatics performed by students from Phare Ponleu Selpak, an organization that supports disadvantaged youth through arts education. Day 6: Ancient Cambodia and Angkor Wat Wake early for a morning exploring Angkor Wat and the ancient Khmer Empire. See the intricate carvings of Angkor's historical battle scenes, climb to the top of the highest tower to see the temples from a new perspective. Then travel to Bayon to see the huge, carved faces in rock, and make your way to the shady temple of Ta Prohm where massive trees have given this ruin a fairytale-like feel. After a day of ancient adventures, enjoy a final Khmer dinner and spend time browsing the night markets. Days 7 – 9: Journey to Vietnam Hop on a short flight and spend the next three days in the vibrant city of Hanoi. Visit old colonial streets lined with various shops selling everything from Buddhas to bamboo. Walk around the charming Hoan Kiem Lake where the locals go to relax and drink the very strong Vietnamese “weasel” coffee. Visit Confucius’ Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum where the old leader of the communist party still lays in state. Explore the halls and rooms and learn about the history of the Vietnam War while touring the Hanoi Hilton—the Vietnamese POW prison that held Americans during the Vietnam War, including Sen. John McCain. Enjoy the rambling streets, busy markets, and old world charm of this bustling city. Take time in the evenings for final photo critiques and discussion about preparing your journey’s portfolio. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 10: Lee hi, Cambodia! Chào, Vietnam! After some final group photos with our team, your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Floating Village Service for an entirely unique volunteer experience in a community on the waters of Tonle Sap Lake. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 33
CAMBODIA
Village Service and Cultural Immersion Homestays and village service give students the chance to experience Khmer culture and daily life firsthand in this weeklong program in Cambodia. Contribute to ongoing infrastructure projects, share cultural exchanges with local students, and connect with local NGOs working on solving issues of access to resources and education. End your program exploring Siem Reap and beautiful Angkor Wat, and learn about the culture of this beautiful, ancient part of Southeast Asia. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,695 USD plus airfare
7 to 10 days
Up to 15 students
12 to 24 service hours
34 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Cambodia! Arrive into Phnom Penh Airport (PNH) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight, and join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Have a Khmer dinner and head back to the hotel for a good night’s sleep. Day 2: Learn about Cambodia’s History Arun-suer-sdey! Begin with visits to cultural and historical locations in Phnom Penh. Head to Tuol Sleng, former school that was used as a prison and has since been converted into a museum to educate visitors about the country’s genocide. Visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and walk through the quiet and peaceful fields that played host to mass killings and burials. Day 3: Kampong Cham Village Immersion Head to Kampong Cham where you’ll start your service projects with a stop along the way for fried tarantulas, a famous local snack. Head to the service site in the afternoon and learn about your project for the next few days. Rustic Pathways has a longtime partnership with this community and have been working together since 2011. After your orientation, explore and get acquainted with the this peaceful community. Days 4 – 6: Education and Infrastructure Service Start each day with a quick breakfast before continuing service. Break for lunch each day for a meal with your host family in the community and about an hour to relax before heading back to the service site. Engage each evening in a variety of team-building activities—games and friendly competition, group debriefs, and purposeful time spent deepening friendships with your classmates. Day 7: Siem Reap and City Life Say goodbye to Kampong Cham and head to Siem Reap where you’ll explore the famous night markets for local souvenirs. Have dinner in the city and enjoy the different pace of life here in a busier part of Cambodia. See the Cambodian circus for an inspiring show of acrobatics performed by students from Phare Ponleu Selpak, an organization that supports disadvantaged youth through arts education. Day 8: Ancient Cambodia and Angkor Wat Wake early for a morning exploring Angkor Wat and the ancient Khmer Empire. See the intricate carvings of Angkor's historical battle scenes, climb to the top of the highest tower to see the temples from a new perspective. Then travel to Bayon to see the huge, carved faces in rock, and make your way to the shady temple of Ta Prohm, where massive trees have given this ruin a fairytale-like feel. After a day of ancient adventures, enjoy a final Khmer dinner and spend time browsing the night markets. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 9: Lee hi, Cambodia! After some final group photos with Team Cambodia, your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Kellett School in Hong Kong has been working with Rustic Pathways for five years now, and have developed a sustainable program which pushes and challenges our students, whilst opening their eyes to the wider world. Rustic Pathways really understood our whole school approach and needs when taking whole year groups on a program, and adapted their programs to meet our needs. We now take all students on a journey throughout Asia with Rustic during their first three years at Kellett, with a focus on learning service and cultural awareness— topped up by a debrief with a Positive Education focus, where the team drill down into our students use of character strengths in an environment outside of their comfort zone." Matthew Seddon | Deputy Head of Senior School (House and Pastoral) Kellett School Hong Kong, Hong Kong
groups.rusticpathways.com 35
CHINA
Chinese Language Immersion Designed for all levels of Mandarin speakers, this program allows students to practice their reading, writing, and communication skills while immersed in Chinese culture. Live and study at Tianjin University. Complete language classes each morning, then spend your afternoons exploring and practicing Chinese through cultural engagement activities on the streets of Tianjin and Beijing. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Language Instruction
Sample itinerary starts at $2,045 USD plus airfare
8 to 10 days
Up to 20 students
16 to 24 instruction hours
36 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to China! Arrive into Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight, and join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Tianjin University Take the train to Tianjin and spend your morning touring the Tianjin University campus before jumping into your first language class. Days 3 – 5: Class Days Start each morning with approximately four hours of class time learning more about Mandarin language and culture. Spend your afternoons participating in cultural activities and practicing your spoken language through calligraphy classes, Tai Chi, and bargaining in the local market. Eat dinner at local restaurants, using these meals as an opportunity to learn about Chinese cuisine and practice your language skills in the community. Day 6: Temple of Heaven and The Forbidden City Take the train to the Forbidden City and explore the Temple of Heaven where, historically, the emperor would hold ceremonies to pray for good weather and abundant harvests. Today, the area around the Temple of Heaven is now used as a park where people play mahjong, sing operas, and square dance. After lunch, take the metro to Tiananmen Square, the biggest square in China. Walk from the top of Tiananmen Square to the entrance of the Forbidden City, which was home to the royal families of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. After walking through the City, climb up Jingshan Park to overlook the beautiful view of the Forbidden City before heading back down for dinner in another funky neighborhood. Day 7: The Great Wall of China After a quick breakfast, it’s time for one of the trip’s highlights: a visit to the Great Wall of China. Nothing can truly prepare you for an in-person look and this often photographed site and monument to human achievement. Depending on your flight, we can go to one of two sections of the Great Wall—Gubeikou or Mutianyu. If you have a late departure, you could stay at a guesthouse close to the more remote section of Gubeikou Great Wall. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Zài jiàn, China! After breakfast it’s time to pack and get ready for the journey onward. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Wang Hong Yen China Program Leader Wang Hong Yen, known as Karen, has led programs in China for Rustic Pathways since 2013. Karen hails from the Hubei Province and will tell anyone that she’s a country girl. She’s since made her home in Beijing with her husband and beautiful daughter, Selina. Karen loves leading Rustic programs for the opportunity to introduce her culture to students from around the world.
groups.rusticpathways.com 37
CHINA
Giant Panda Conservation Project Spend time with adorable giant pandas in this incredible experience that’s perfect for animal lovers and / or students with an interest in animal conservation. Get hands-on experience working with this endangered species. Help staff at the CPC Wolong Nature Center in Sichuan. Monitor the pandas’ diet, clean and maintain their living spaces, and contribute to ongoing research. This program is doing real conservation work with pandas in a world-class conservation center. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,145 USD plus airfare
7 to 12 days
Up to 20 students
6 to 24 service hours
38 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to China! Arrive into Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the panda conservation center and settle in, relaxing after your long flight, and join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Days 2 – 5: Panda Conservation Partner with specific pandas and researchers for the duration of your service. Divide your time between working with the pandas, assisting researches, and discussing topics related to conservation with your group. Care for your panda’s living area and plan and prepare food while learning about their habitat and threats to their environment. Help your researcher perform behavioral observations and other tasks related to their work. Explore the city, tour the local temple, and visit surrounding towns after service. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work. Day 6: Explore Chengdu Return to Chengdu for a bit of sightseeing. Stroll through the People’s Park where you can join traditional and modern group dancing. No visit to Sichuan would be complete without a trip to the opera! It’s part acrobatic show, part comic relief with modern and traditional dance performances and Chinese music all blended together in a wonderful artistic performance. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 7: Zài jiàn, China! After breakfast it’s time to pack and get ready for the journey onward. Your Program Leaders will take you to Lijiang Sanyi Airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure. groups.rusticpathways.com 39
CHINA
Mangroves and Tulous Environmental Conservation Boasting one of the world’s most ancient continuous cultures, you’re stepping into a country whose fierce regard of heritage is rivaled only by its vision for a sustainable future. Stepping off the plane you’ll notice the Fujian province has a warm, almost tropical, environment. This part of the world is culturally and environmentally unique, and you'll have the opportunity to get to know the Hakka minority group that lives here, including their village of circular living structures called tulous. The village has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,585 USD plus airfare
8to 10 days
Up to 15 students
0 to 15 service hours
40 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to China! Arrive into Xiamen Airport (JDZ) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight, and join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Nanjing Tulou Village Wake for a sunrise drive to the famous Nanjing Tulou Village. Tulous are ancient circular structures of the Hakka minority group. The village has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. The most famous of these tulous are a group of five called Tianluokeng. Check in to Wenchanglou, the largest tulou of the group, for the evening. After touring the village, step into the shoes of the Hakka culture through environmentally-sustainable acts of fruit or tea leaf picking, vegetable cultivation, or winemaking. Having finished a day in the fields, your Hakka immersion will be complete with a barbeque back at Wenchanglou before heading off to bed. Day 3: Yuchanglou and Xiamen City Now that you’ve been introduced to Hakka culture and living in a tulou, head to Yuchanglou to stay in the biggest tulou in the world. A true marvel of architecture, Yuchanglou is more than 700 years old and has an incredible 270 rooms for the five families who live there. Then it’s a quick ride over to the water town of Taxia for lunch before departing for Xiamen. Spend the late afternoon walking the streets of Xiamen where you’ll explore local cuisine, live music, and a culture that's vastly different than that of its Hakka neighbors. Meet for the sunset at Baicheng Beach and have dinner with before concluding the day back in Xiamen. Days 4 – 6: Service Days Our NGO partner in Xiamen is the China Mangrove Conservation Network (CMCN), which is one of the most well-established and respected environmental organizations in China. Accompany professional CMCN educators on a trip to Zhangjiang River Nature Preserve. Aside from mangroves, this preserve is known for its spectacular bird watching and environmentally conscious practices. Travel by boat to see the fragile flora and fauna in this one-of-a-kind environment and learn just how vital these trees are for China and its people. Spend two days planting mangroves in this conservation area. Contribute on the third day to other projects such as planting saplings, eliminating invasive species, cleaning up trash, or testing soil and water quality. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 7: Zài jiàn, China! After breakfast it’s time to pack and get ready for the journey onward. Your Program Leaders will take you to the Xiamen International Airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Kevin Wang China Country Manager Originally from the village of Minqin, Gansu, China, Kevin has led Rustic programs since 2012 before becoming our China Country Manager in 2016. Kevin is a China history expert and loves to share his passion for his country with everyone he meets. Kevin has also been known to start a conga line during a traditional Chinese hot pot feast.
Also consider... Shaxi and Beijing or Beijing Sights to experience China’s busy capital and one of the most powerful cities in the world. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 41
COSTA RICA
Bribri Indigenous Culture and Service Explore rural life and indigenous culture during this unique experience in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Spend the majority of your trip in Yorkin, a community only accessible by boat, to immerse with members of a Bribri tribe. Stay in tents in the village, work with community members on small-scale education and development service initiatives, and learn about their fascinating culture. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,595 USD plus airfare
8Âto 10 days
Up to 20 students
15 to 30 service hours
42 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Costa Rica Arrive into San José International Airport (SJO) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the Tico culture. Depending on your arrival, you may spend the night in the capital city or drive to Turrialba. Day 2: Whitewater Rafting on the Pacuare Grab your paddles and hit the rapids of the class III-IV Pacuare River in the direction of the Caribbean Coast. Enjoy the rich greenery, narrow canyons, and vibrant wildlife that have given the river a reputation for having the most beautiful whitewater in the world. Day 3: Experience Yorkin Journey 90 minutes by boat to Yorkin, an indigenous Bribri community in the mountains of far southeast Costa Rica. Settle in and receive an introduction to this unique culture and its people, one of the few remaining indigenous tribes in Costa Rica. Days 4 – 5: Community Service in the Mountains Spend the next two days working alongside community members on a variety of education initiatives. Assist local primary and secondary schools and Aventuras Naturales, a tourism and economic development initiative run by Yorkin community members that creates income generation opportunities for its people. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 6: Chocolate and Local Medicine Take a break from your service work to participate in cultural activities. Learn to make chocolate from cacao and get a lesson about how local plants are used medicinally in everyday life. Take a river tour before returning to the community for a delicious dinner and group discussion. Day 7: Cahuita National Park Leave Yorkin in the morning and head back to the coast. Spend a few hours relaxing on the beach and spotting sloths, toucans, and other wildlife at Cahuita National Park before returning to San José for your final night in Costa Rica. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Return Home Say adios to Costa Rica. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Rustic Pathways
®
Bribri Aqueduct Project The Rustic Pathways Foundation completed work in June 2018 on a 20,000-liter water storage tank and three-mile aqueduct to deliver clean, reliable drinking water to the more than 200-person community of Yorkin, Costa Rica. Yorkin is a Bribri community, one of eight remaining indigenous peoples in Costa Rica. From its inception four years ago, the $30,000 in fundraising, local labor, and ultimately, the successful completion of the tank and aqueduct, was the result of a community of people that spans borders.
Also consider... Surf and Service in the North Pacific or Soccer and Service to combine volunteer work with one of Costa Rica’s most popular sports. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 43
COSTA RICA
SarapiquĂ Service Adventure Experience the biodiversity of Costa Rica in this ecological program dedicated to understanding tropical biology and the ecosystems of SarapiquĂ. Live nestled in the rainforest, at the La Selva Biological Station surrounded by this dynamic rainforest ecosystem. Whitewater raft, learn to surf, and snorkel. Experience nature through responsible ecotourism, research, sustainable adventures, and appreciate the diversity of the natural world. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,445 USD plus airfare
7 to 10 days
Up to 30 students
10 to 18 service hours
44 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Bienvenidos a Costa Rica! Arrive into San José International Airport (SJO) and meet your Rustic Pathways Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Intro to the Rainforest Meet with La Organización para Estudios Tropicales (OTS), which you’ll partner with for your next few days in Sarapiquí. During their orientation, learn about the research they do and some of the initiatives that make Costa Rica famous for its incredible expanses of tropical spaces and unique species across the ecosystems that make up the surrounding area. Conclude your day with your first Tico dinner of gallo pinto at La Selva. Day 3: Chocolate and Ecology Join your group for a demonstration of the process that turns cacao into edible chocolate, and taste the result! After lunch back at the center, join the La Selva crew for a discussion about how plants adapt to different ecosystems in Costa Rica. Learn about these adaptations and understand how to classify and identify them in this environment. Get hands-on training on basic research methods that are used in the field to assess reconnecting once contiguous forests impacted by tourism. Spend your evening searching for and classifying nocturnal insects. Day 4: Service and Tropical Ecosystem Immersion with OTS Wake and spend your morning working in San Ramon de Sarapiquí on a service project alongside members of the local community to help build a home and bathroom facilities. In the afternoon, learn about the Audubon Christmas Census and how it has contributed to understanding avian populations and movements around the world. Learn about bird counts and the species you’ll identify by sight and sound. Have dinner before another night excursion, building on what you’ve learned about nocturnal species. Day 5: Infrastructure Service in Sarapiquí After breakfast in La Selva, continue your service project. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experi- enced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 6: Beach Day at Cahuita Rise early for breakfast before departing for a two-hour bus ride to Cahuita for lunch on the beach. After a short safety lesson, spend the afternoon snorkeling and exploring the reef ecosystem. Learn from your Program Leaders about the species that inhabit this part of the Caribbean sea. Day 7: Puerto Viejo Beaches Depart after breakfast for a one-hour bus ride to Puerto Viejo, another beach with a very different vibe. Surf and enjoy this part of the island. If it’s your first time, no problem! Our Costa Rican professional surf instructors will have you riding waves within an hour! Enjoy some souvenir shopping and relaxation on the palm-lined beaches before heading back to San Jose. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Return Home After some final group photographs and high-fives with the Tico team, your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure. Pura Vida! groups.rusticpathways.com 45
COSTA RICA
Spanish Language Immersion Perfect for students of all abilities, this program will allow you to learn Spanish from native speakers in a small group. Practice Spanish with fellow students and live with a welcoming host family that will introduce you to the warm tico culture. Outside of the classroom, participate in some of the heart-pounding adventure activities that make Costa Rica famous, including zip lining and whitewater rafting. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Language Immersion
Sample itinerary starts at $2,045 USD plus airfare
7Âto 12 days
Up to 24 students
12 to 16 instruction hours
46 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Costa Rica Arrive into San Jose Airport (SJO) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight, and join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Meet Your Host Family in Turrialba Wake early for a simple breakfast before heading to Turrialba, a peaceful mountain town with all the quaintness of home, and flair of true Tico culture. You and at least one other student will be living, eating, and relaxing with this friendly and carefully-selected local family. Spend afternoons working at a nearby village elementary school or a local home. The projects will be small-scale construction, repairs to the school facility or houses, and environmental maintenance on the school grounds. While projects vary depending on the season and community need, each is designed in partnership with community leaders. Additionally, each service initiative will be coupled with a group discussion about service, cultural immersion, global citizenship and other topics. Get to know your host family during evenings and practice conversational Spanish skills. Day 3: Rappel and Explore the Canopy Wake early to help your host family with breakfast and prepare for a morning of community service. After lunch, spend your afternoon canyoning, rappelling waterfalls, zip lining over the jungle canopy, and walking across a 132-foot hanging bridge. Day 4: Bike Tours and Tropical Gardens Continue your community service after another tasty breakfast with your host family. Take a bike tour after lunch through the Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE). CATIE is a research and graduate education center that specializes in teaching management, conservation, and sustainable use of natural resources. It also works to improve standards of living for rural families in the Latin American tropics. Bike through CATIE’s tropical plantations and botanical gardens—terrain for any skill level. As you ride, your guide will point out examples of the local biodiversity, including fruits and vegetables, plants and flowers, and birds, mammals, and reptiles. Day 5: Raft the Pacuare Experience whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River, one of the most widely acclaimed rivers in the world! Because of its pristine waters, the thrilling class III and IV rapids and the flora and fauna of the surrounding rainforest, the river is a must visit for any group exploring Costa Rica. Return to Turrialba buzzing from the experience and enjoy dinner with your host family, telling them about your exciting experience on the river. Day 6: Service and Turrialba Nature Conclude your service project with one more day of hard work. Hike that afternoon to a beautiful waterfall before a trip to a nearby indoor climbing wall. Say goodbye to your new family and friends, and head back to San José and spend your last night in Costa Rica. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 7: ¡Adiós, Costa Rica! We hope the people you’ve met and lessons you’ve learned will continue to serve you at home while practicing your new Spanish skills in your own community. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure. groups.rusticpathways.com 47
COSTA RICA
Volcano and Rainforest Service Base Spend a week participating in service and adventure activities from our stunning Volcano and Rainforest Service Base in beautiful La Fortuna. Its rainforests, volcanic peaks, and two coasts make Costa Rica one of the most beautiful nations in Central America. Home to some of the most biodiverse areas on the planet, Costa Rica is famed for its natural environment and commitment to preserving it. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,845 USD plus airfare
7Âto 12 days
Up to 24 students
24 to 30 service hours
48 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Volcano and Rainforest Base La Fortuna, Costa Rica Situated on the edge of a beautiful rainforest reserve beneath the famous Arenal Volcano, the Rustic Pathways Volcano and Rainforest Service Base is the perfect hub for service and adventure. The base is comprised of two stone and wood houses, a freshwater swimming pool, a soccer field, a volleyball court, several ponds, a small waterfall, and a lush rainforest for a backyard. Capacity: 45 students Beds: Bunk beds Showers: Hot Toilets: Standard western Air Conditioning: No
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Costa Rica! Arrive into San Jose Airport (SJO) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Days 2 – 5: La Fortuna Community Service Work on service initiatives in the villages around La Fortuna. Split your time between morning and afternoon service sessions. Choose from a variety of ongoing service initiatives designed and monitored by Rustic Pathways staff in cooperation with local community leaders. Projects will focus on community infrastructure development, educational facility improvement, and environmental initiatives. Spend your evenings hanging out at the Volcano and Rainforest Service Base, hiking to waterfalls and hot springs, or exploring La Fortuna’s markets. Days 6 – 7: Zip Lining and Hiking Having completed your service projects, take advantage of Costa Rica’s exciting adventure opportunities. Choose from optional activities including zip lining or whitewater rafting. Learn about Costa Rica's indigenous cultures through a presentation from a nearby community. Learn to salsa and merengue. Return to San José for your last night. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: ¡Adiós, Costa Rica! We hope the people you’ve met, perspectives you’ve gained and lessons you’ve learned will serve you well as you head home to use your new Spanish skills in your own community. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure. groups.rusticpathways.com 49
CUBA
Innovation in Action Critical Issues: Social entrepreneurship and economic development
Explore critical issues facing the developing world and turn ideas into actionable solutions during design thinking workshops. When applied to social issues, this intentional design process outlines how entrepreneurs can conquer some of the world’s most pressing challenges. You’ll also immerse in Cuban culture to explore the sights, music, and food of this incredible Caribbean gem. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $3,535 USD plus airfare
8to 16 days
Up to 14 students
10 to 12 service hours
50 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Cuba! Arrive into Jose Marti International Airport (HAV) in Havana and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the guesthouse and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Go out for dinner at Paladares, one of Havana’s new privately-owned restaurants before heading off on your adventure throughout the “Pearl of the Antilles!” Day 2: Entrepreneurship in Havana Start learning about design thinking, growth mindsets, and entrepreneurship. Explore Havana’s three distinct neighborhoods: Havana Vieja, Centro Habana, and Vedado. Walk the streets and learn the history and demographics of each neighborhood and the challenges that habaneros face. Interview owners of a casa particular, paladar, agromercado, and other cuentapropistas to understand their business struggles. Day 3: Visit Viñales Valley Visit tobacco farms, hear about organoponicos from local farmers, and learn how the recent tourism boom has influenced the town. Start an innovation challenge by putting yourself in the shoes of a Cuban entrepreneur. Brainstorm business ideas, and evaluate and sketch prototypes. Day 4: Visit Las Terrazas Explore all entrepreneur-related activities at Las Terrazas, on the return drive from Viñales. Begin today's design workshop after returning to Havana. Build a prototype and get feedback from peers, including other teams. Day 5: Explore Trinidad Set off on a cultural exploration trip to Trinidad—a UNESCO World Heritage site and a city full of history. Complete a scavenger hunt designed to connect you with locals and their small businesses. Continue building and refining your prototype based on ideas and feedback from peers and business owners. Head to the steps of Trinidad’s Casa de la Musica for a dance lesson to use as you move to the rhythm of the local beat. Day 6: The Art of a Pitch Workshop Have a mock interview session and Q&A with your Program Leaders and Innovation in Action facilitators. Using your mission and vision, develop a pitch that you’ll make to your classmates at tomorrow’s final session. Take a break at the beautiful Playa Ancón, one of Cuba’s best southern beaches and a perfect spot to watch the sunset. Day 7: Present Your Designs Complete your last design thinking workshop and present your idea to a panel of judges. Return to Habana Vieja where you’ll relax along the Malecón, try the world famous Coppelia ice-cream, and share one last meal with your group. Day 8: Enjoy Havana’s Best Take a walking tour of Havana Vieja and see the city through a local lens. Ride a 1950s American classic car in Plaza de Revolución and el Malecón. Music and dance are very important in Cuban culture, so feel the beat and end your program dancing with your new friends. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 9: ¡Adiós, Cuba! Say goodbye to your new friends and to beautiful Havana. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Intro to Photography in Cuba for an educational exploration through your camera lens with an experienced photo instructor. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 51
CUBA
Viva Cuba! Culture and Conservation Work alongside local farmers and learn about Cuba’s long-term sustainability and conservation projects. Visit an ecological biosphere, ride on horseback to a refreshing lagoon, participate in a six-mile hike and camp under the stars at the Lomas de Banao. Visit Cuba’s tropical beaches and experience the history and culture of colonial cities Trinidad and Havana. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $3,045 USD plus airfare
6 to 10 days
Up to 18 students
10 to 12 service hours
52 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Cuba! Arrive into Jose Marti International Airport in Havana (HAV) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the guesthouse and settle in, relaxing after your long flight, and join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Go out for dinner at Paladares, one of Havana’s new privately-owned restaurants, before heading off on your adventure throughout the “Pearl of the Antilles!” Day 2: Charco Azul Lodge Take a one-hour drive to Charco Azul, an ecolodge tucked into the hills just west of Havana. You’ll be introduced to the work of conservation specialists from Flora y Fauna, a local nonprofit who manage the majority of the protected territories in Cuba. In partnership with the local communities, the organization helps reforest the area and work with farmers to control the use of harmful toxins and train them in sustainable farming practices. Day 3: Visit Las Terrazas Visit Las Terrazas, the first ecologically-sustainable community in Cuba and a UNESCO biosphere reserve. See what ecotourism means when you set up services inside an environmentally informed community. Head back and take a horseback ride to the famous Charco Azul lagoon. Day 4: Banao Mountains Travel five hours to the Banao Mountain Preserve enjoying the sites of the Cuban countryside. Get an overview of the natural ecological preserve from park rangers and an introduction to their conservation efforts, including the projects your group will work on. Day 5: Conservation and Adventure Support reforestation efforts in the Lomas de Banao natural reserve as you help build erosion control barriers that will improve soil conditions and contribute to sustainable projects. End the day with a short hike and swim under the Bella Waterfall. Join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you'll begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far. Day 6: Tunas de Zaza Mangrove Restoration Head to the coastal town of Tunas de Zaza, one of the best spots for watching wildlife in Cuba, particularly pink flamingos. Enjoy the catch of the day at the park ranger station before heading up the Zaza River on a boat tour. Gather seeds from red mangrove trees along the way to replant further down the river, which is critical to sustain the local marine ecosystem. Day 7: Trinidad Beach Day Head back toward Havana. After breakfast, set off on a cultural exploration trip to Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a city full of history. Spend your afternoon relaxing at the beach and enjoying the warm Caribbean waters. Head to Havana for dinner. Day 8: Enjoy Havana's Best Take a walking tour of Havana Vieja and see the city through a local lens. Ride a 1950s American classic car to Plaza de Revolución, and the Malecón. Music and dance are very important in Cuban culture, so feel the beat and end your program high dancing with your new friends. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 9: ¡Adiós, Cuba! Say goodbye to your new friends and to beautiful Havana on your way home. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Spanish Language Immersion to put your students in a unique study environment for hands-on learning in daily lessons and through interactions with local community members. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 53
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Life in the Bateyes Critical Issues: Citizenship and human rights for migrant communities
Explore the ongoing challenges facing the bateyes, barracks originally built for migrant sugar cane workers, and now used as permanent settlements for families and entire communities—typically with substandard housing. Get to know the community and contribute to ongoing infrastructure service projects such as building and repairing homes or supporting local agriculture and education initiatives. Take a break from service and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Bayahibe where you’ll swim and relax. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,655 USD plus airfare
7 to 14 days
Up to 35 students
24 to 50 service hours
54 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Rustic Pathways
®
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to the Dominican Republic! Arrive into Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head directly to the volunteer center in San Pedro and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Have a hot, local dinner and get some sleep for a big day tomorrow. Days 2 – 5: Batey Community Projects Contribute to ongoing development projects to support local communities of sugar cane workers marginalized by Dominican society. Work on service projects in the batey community for the next four days. Projects may include infrastructure rehabilitation, agricultural work with local farmers, or health initiatives. Day 6: Tropical Paradise Wake up early and board the bus to Bayahibe, a beautiful coastal town with white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Take a catamaran tour of Isla Saona, stopping along the way to snorkel and enjoy various beaches. Spend the evening relaxing in this quaint Dominican town. Day 7: Explore Santo Domingo Head back to the capital in the morning for a tour of the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the first university, cathedral, and hospital in the Americas. Tour the walled city and learn about the deep history of the first European settlement in the Americas. After touring the Colonial Zone, head to a special dinner and dance show at a typical Dominican restaurant. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Adiós, Dominican Republic! Say goodbye to your new friends and to the beautiful Dominican Republic. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Monte Coca Batey Housing Project Rustic Pathways started supporting home construction in batey Monte Coca in 2014. Bateyes are underserved communities historically home to sugar cane workers of Haitian descent and their families. Rustic students assist local home builders while learning about social, racial, and economic issues. Rustic students have supported the construction of 13 homes, impacting more than 50 people through the end of 2018. Rustic has worked with the community to prioritize building a total of 35 homes over the next several years to provide residents with safe and dignified housing.
Also consider... The Bateyes and Baseball for a unique immersion experience exposing students to Dominican culture through the country’s favorite sport. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 55
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Mountain Air and Village Service Spend the week surrounded by nature in the mountains known as the Dominican Alps in comfortable accommodations for an immersive service experience. Join our ongoing community service projects designed to help create infrastructure in rural villages, including our work building nine aqueducts to provide water to more than 1,400 people in nearby communities. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,335 USD plus airfare
8Âto 14 days
Up to 100 students
24 to 40 service hours
56 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to the Dominican Republic! Arrive into Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head directly to Jarabacoa, a more than three-hour drive, and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Have a hot, local dinner and get some sleep for a big day tomorrow. Day 2: Explore Your Surroundings in Jarabacoa Learn about the environmental initiatives taking place in the region and the harmonious relationship economic and ecologic communities have built around them. Begin your service today by heading deeper into the mountains to help build aqueducts for communities without running water, working on the next steps of an ongoing project that includes prepping, digging, fitting, and finishing plumbing from a dammed river upstream to the nearby homes. Projects may also include parallel elements to protect the runoff water from polluting downstream, such as working on bio-treatment systems. Days 3 – 4: Service in the Mountains Spend these days continuing work on infrastructure projects. After service, share a coffee with neighbors and get to know the local community. Explore the mountains, eat delicious Dominican food, and learn about local music and history. Discuss your service experience focusing on responsible tourism and water access, making connections between the local ecological and community resources and how they're interconnected.
Mountain Air Service Base Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic Located in the heart of the Dominican Alps, the Mountain Air Base offers dormitory-style bedrooms with modern bathrooms, showers, and electricity. Meals at the base are buffet-style, prepared with organic fruits and vegetables grown at the base and served in an open-air cafeteria. You’re just steps away from a swimming pool and hiking trails. Capacity: 100 students Beds: Bunk beds Showers: Intermittently hot Toilets: Standard western Air Conditioning: No
Day 5: Beach Day at Sosúa Take a two-hour bus ride to the coastal towns of Sosúa and Cabarete where you’ll spend the rest of the day relaxing on the North Coast beaches. Eat coastal specialties and swim in the turquoise water of the Caribbean, soaking up the sun after a week of hard work. Day 6: Back into the Mountains Snorkel to start your day before saying goodbye to the coast and heading back to Jarabacoa. Settle into your old home and refuel before departing on a hike to one of the beautiful waterfalls in the region. Join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you'll begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far. Day 7: Explore Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone Head back to the capital in the morning for a tour of the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the first university, cathedral, and hospital in the Americas. Tour the walled city and learn about the deep history of the first European settlement in the Americas. After touring the Colonial Zone, head to a special dinner and dance show at a typical Dominican restaurant. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Adiós, Dominican Republic! Say goodbye to your new friends and to the beautiful Dominican Republic. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Spanish Language Immersion to put your students in a unique study environment for hands-on learning in daily lessons and through interactions with local community members. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 57
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Public Health in the Caribbean Critical Issues: Public health as a human right
Work alongside health care professionals on public health projects across the Dominican Republic. Explore this Caribbean island while immersing in local culture and practicing your Spanish in a health care setting. Identify health needs of rural, urban, wealthy, and impoverished communities and contribute to meaningful public health initiatives. Apply your new knowledge to helping communities in need. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,035 USD plus airfare
8Âto 15 days
Up to 35 students
15 to 30 service hours
58 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to the Dominican Republic! Arrive into Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head directly to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Have a hot, local dinner and get some sleep for a big day tomorrow. Day 2: Learn About the Issues Visit a NGO that supports women’s health and a hospital to get a first-hand look at what the urban health care system looks like in Santo Domingo, where Dominican Republic’s disparities between rich and poor are clear. Head to the province of San Pedro de Macoris in the evening. Days 3 – 4: Wilderness First Aid Training Get ready for two full days of learning as you embark on your Wilderness First Aid Certification. Think about how the skills you're learning in class can be applied to your service over the next several days. In the evenings, you'll discuss the areas surrounding where you're staying, delving into some of the prevalent public health issues in local impoverished communities in a predominantly agricultural environment. Days 5 – 6: Public Health Community Projects Participate in service that may include health-related construction projects, such as sanitation or clean water initiatives, or conducting educational health workshops for locals. Visit a rural clinic and speak with locals about their community health issues. Discuss public health case studies each evening with your group that relate to your service projects to better understand the issues locally. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Days 7 – 8: Samana Peninsula and the Beach Head north by bus and boat to the town of Samana, where you'll spend two days exploring waterfalls and some of the most picturesque beaches in the country. This rough terrain will take you to some of the most culturally-unique parts of the country, and you'll see how the food tastes more Caribbean and the beaches open up to beautiful, rare wildlife. Day 9: Explore Santo Domingo Head back to the capital in the morning for a tour of the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the first university, cathedral, and hospital in the Americas. Tour the walled city and learn about the deep history of the first European settlement in the Americas. After touring the Colonial Zone, head to a special dinner and dance show at a typical Dominican restaurant. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 10: Adiós, Dominican Republic! Say goodbye to your new friends and to the beautiful Dominican Republic. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Adding certification for your students in Wilderness First Aid. This instruction costs an additional $300 per student. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 59
FIJI
Highlands Service Immersion Enjoy island paradise and rural mountain living during this immersive program. Spend time in a mountain village where you’ll live in pairs with a Fijian host family. Spend your days working on infrastructure projects, and living with among the local village. Rustic Pathways has been working in this village for many years and has very close ties with the community. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum or requirements of the Duke of Edinburgh award. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,595 USD plus airfare
6 to 12 days
Up to 22 students
15 to 24 service hours
60 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Highlands Service Base Nausori, Fiji Far from the white sand beaches that make Fiji famous, the mountainous interior of Fiji’s main island is one of the least-developed regions in the country. Rustic Pathways first came to the region in 1996 and has since formed close relationships with local villages. Students to live alongside local families in homestays, follow the rhythms of local daily life, and participate in communitydriven service.
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to the Fiji Islands Arrive into Nadi Airport (NAN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the Eco-Lodge in rural Momi Bay and settle in to your new home. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to local culture.
Capacity: 24 students Beds: Sleeping mats with mosquito nets Showers: Cold Toilets: Standard western Air Conditioning: No
You’ll have a chance to swim, snorkel, and relax at beautiful Natadola Beach. Participate in a traditional welcome sevusevu ceremony and begin learning the intricacies of cultural practices in Fiji. Wearing your new sulu, get to know the local staff over a bowl of kava. Day 2: Bound for the Highlands Gather any last minute supplies before heading into the mountains to a remote village deep in the Nausori Highlands. Hop in the back of a four-wheel drive vehicle and enjoy the scenic and adventurous one-hour ride to the village. Meet the local chief while presenting the yagona plant and participate in another sevusevu ceremony. Tour the village and meet your homestay families who will quickly become an emotional focal point of the experience. Days 3 – 6: Life in the Village Learn the Fijian language through daily informal lessons from your homestay family and our local staff. Contribute to ongoing grassroots infrastructure and education projects within the village. Explore the surrounding highlands area, visit a waterfall, swim in the river, and share time with the local families. Share stories, enjoy a traditional Fijian dance and debrief each night with your group in our base house. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evenings, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 7: Return to the Coast Say your final goodbyes to your village hosts and begin the journey back to the coast. Stop by Nadi for lunch and an ice cream before heading onward to our Momi Bay Base. Walk to a historical gun site at sunset and enjoy the serene outlook as the sun drops below the horizon. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Moce, Fiji! Explore Nadi and shop for souvenirs for your family and friends. Enjoy your final meal in Fiji with a view of the sunset before leaving for the airport. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
The selflessness and nurturing personalities of your staff made this trip amazing. This program has impacted me in a way that my eyes are opened to the world; inspiring a desire to explore the world, as well as inspire a change in my priorities." Tabatha Knudson | Student Henry J. Kaiser School Honolulu, Hawaii
Also consider... Adding an islands excursion to your inland program or a multi-day trekking expedition to experience the diversity of Fijian culture during your trip. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 61
FIJI
Marine and Environmental Field Studies Critical Issues: Global climate change and aquatic ecosystems conservation
Take a deeper look into Fiji’s marine ecosystem and the impact climate change has on this fragile habitat. Learn about the various strategies in place to protect, conserve, and restore Fiji’s marine environment. When not participating in service, relax and enjoy island life and get to know Fijian culture by visiting the nearby village of Somosomo on Naviti Island. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,145 USD plus airfare
6 to 14 days
Up to 24 students
10 to 18 service hours
62 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Islands Service Base Somosomo Village, Fiji
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in the Fiji Islands Arrive into Nadi Airport (NAN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the Eco-Lodge in rural Momi Bay and settle in to your new home. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to local culture. You’ll have a chance to swim, snorkel, and relax at beautiful Natadola Beach. Participate in a formal sevusevu ceremony and begin learning the intricacies of cultural practices in Fiji. Wearing your new sulu, get to know the local staff over a bowl of kava.
Located on a breathtaking stretch of pure white sand in Somosomo, our Islands Service Base is a slice of heaven. The base consists of large safari-style tents built on platforms. You’ll shower outdoors and use and self-composting toilets to minimize the impact on the environment.Students eat meals in our rustic dining area or on picnic tables overlooking the water. Kayak, snorkel, hike to vistas overlooking Naviti island, or have a bonfire with our local team in this island paradise. Capacity: 24 Students Beds: Cots with sleeping bags Showers: Cold Toilets: Self-composting outhouse Air Conditioning: No
Day 2: Island Bound Board a ferry and take a four-hour boat ride through the breathtaking Yasawa Islands. Call one of these tropical islands home for the next six days and explore the white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush surrounding hills. Live without electricity and sleep on cots in large safari tents only a few yards from the ocean. Enjoy a kava ceremony with the locals from Somosomo Village who will make you feel at home under the bright constellations of the Southern Hemisphere. Days 3 – 6: Marine Monitoring Explore and contribute to projects throughout the marine reserve established near your island home. Study the ridge-to-reef ecosystem while working on grassroots projects that focus on the distribution, diversity, formation, ecology, and conservation of the coral reef and surrounding environment. Interact with the local community by participating in a traditional Fijian dance called the meke and learn the craft of mat weaving from the village women. Embrace island life by snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking along the beautiful island of Naviti. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 7: Return to Nadi Finish service projects and visit with your new Fijian friends before saying farewell to the Yasawa Islands and journey back to Nadi. Enjoy some of Fiji’s best pizza before returning to the Eco-Lodge. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Moce, Fiji! Explore Nadi and shop for souvenirs for your family and friends. Enjoy your final meal in Fiji with a view of the sunset before leaving for the airport. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Adding a multi-day kayaking expedition, scuba diving, or a trip into the Nasouri Highlands for a unique cultural experience. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 63
FIJI
South Pacific Eco-Lodge Service Base Ccntribute to community service projects from the Eco-Lodge Service Base in Momi Bay. Service projects range from our Meals on Flip-Flops program for a local women’s shelter to helping with a construction project in a nearby village. Spend quality time with our local staff as you learn how to cook traditional dishes and get to know the Fijian culture and way of life. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,755 USD plus airfare
6 to 14 days
Up to 100 students
15 to 40 service hours
64 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
South Pacific Eco-Lodge Service Base Momi Bay, Fiji Established in 2004, the Eco-Lodge is located between two villages and surrounded by a number of farms predominantly owned by families of Indian descent, creating a vibrant atmosphere for learning about Fiji's unique mix of cultures. The main lodge contains a kitchen, dining area, game room, and swimming pool. Rooms are divided between dormitory-style bedrooms and several authentic bures. Capacity: 100 students Beds: Bunk beds Showers: Hot, solar-powered Toilets: Standard western Air Conditioning: No
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to The Fiji Islands! Arrive into Nadi Airport (NAN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the Eco-Lodge in rural Momi Bay and settle in to your new home. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to local culture. You’ll have a chance to swim, snorkel, and relax at beautiful Natadola Beach. Participate in a formal sevusevu ceremony and begin learning the intricacies of cultural practices in Fiji. Wearing your new sulu, get to know the local staff over a bowl of kava. Days 2 – 6: Community Service and Adventure Complete grassroots projects that benefit the local communities around the country. Visit villages nearby to help with infrastructure, environmental, or social-based service projects. Enjoy adventure and cultural activities: hike sand dunes, kayak through mangroves, swim in the local hot springs, watch a sunset at historical Momi Guns, visit local markets, and learn a traditional Fijian war dance called the meke. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 7: Island Hopping Day Depart Momi Bay and head out on an island-hopping excursion to explore the beautiful islands off the coast of Viti Levu. Swim and snorkel these warm South Pacific waters, and pass Cloudbreak, the world famous surf spot. Relax on the white sand beaches and grab an ice cream or a cold drink at one of the picturesque resorts. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Moce, Fiji! Explore Nadi and shop for souvenirs for your family and friends. Enjoy your final meal in Fiji with a view of the sunset before leaving for the airport. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Customizing this program to incorporate a focus on women’s community development, leadership skills, or PADI Open Water Certification. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 65
INDIA
Indian Wildlife Conservation Participate in meaningful service to assist Wildlife SOS with its work rescuing dancing sloth bears, circus elephants, and other wildlife that were trained for entertainment purposes. Work as a group to build an enrichment structure for a sloth bear’s enclosure and feed, bathe, and walk elephants during daily service. No trip to India would be complete without a visit to the famed Taj Mahal to wrap up your time in this fascinating country. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,545 USD plus airfare
5 to 10 days
Up to 20 students
15 to 20 service hours
66 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to India! Arrive into Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Agra Bear Rescue Drive from Delhi and head to the Agra Bear Rescue Facility (ABRF). Meet with the Wildlife SOS team members and watch a documentary about their rehabilitative work rescued dancing sloth bears and circus elephants, and their partnership with the Kalandar community. See the sloth bears and elephants in their new homes as you tour both rescue facilities. Day 3: Conservation Service with Sloth Bears Spend the morning at ABRF monitoring bear behavior, washing them and preparing their food, feeding the bears and cleaning their dens. You’ll also design and construct an enrichment structure for a bear enclosure as a group. After lunch, participate in the evening bear routine followed by your group’s orientation at the elephant rehabilitation facility and first elephant feeding. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 4: Elephant Conservation Get paired with an elephant to walk through the beautiful Indian landscape. Feed and bathe the elephants as a group before lunch at the ABRF, which includes an amazing array of vegetarian Indian dishes. Brainstorm bear enrichment construction designs and ideas before heading back to the house for another delightful Indian meal. Day 5: Bird Watching on the Yamuna River Embark on a morning bird watching tour by boat on the serene Yamuna River and try to spot exotic bird species. Come ashore for a driving safari in search of wild antelope, hyenas, porcupines, and more! Head back to ABRF for lunch and to finalize your group’s plans to the enrichment structure design before construction. Build the enrichment structure with the help of Wildlife SOS staff members and take joy in watching the bears play on their new jungle gym. Day 6: Last Day of Conservation Work Soak up every minute of your morning walk with the elephants as well as the group’s last time preparing food, feeding, and bathing the elephants. You’ve helped improve the lives of these remarkable elephants and bears. Head to nearby Sapera Village where men used to work as snake charmers. Wildlife SOS helped stop the practice and now the village men work as snake rescuers. Gather in the village courtyard for an evening of music and dancing. Day 7: The Taj Mahal Get up early and catch the Taj at sunrise as the colors of the marble shift and change with the light. Head to breakfast afterward with your group before visiting Agra Fort, where you’ll learn about the Mughal Empire and Shah Jahan—the emperor who constructed the Taj Mahal. Finish your tour and head back to the ABRF to bid goodbye to your friends at Wildlife SOS. Pack your bags and drive back to Delhi, where you’ll spend your last night in India. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Namaste, India! Venture into the old city of Delhi and visit Red Fort. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through the bazaars and use your bargaining skills to find the perfect souvenir. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport after a final dinner as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... North India Advanced Photo Workshop for an educational exploration through your camera lens with an experienced photography instructor. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 67
INDIA
Service in the Clouds Delve into Tibetan culture and daily life in rural communities during unique homestay experiences in the foothills of the Himalayas. Develop a better understanding of the Tibetan conflict through language service with a refugee and interactions with artists, faith leaders, and former political prisoners. Take Bollywood dance lessons and learn how to cook local dishes from your host families in this culturally-immersive program. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,395 USD plus airfare
5 to 14 days
Up to 25 students
15 to 20 service hours
68 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to India! Arrive into Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Delhi Day Enjoy the sights, sample new foods, and start practicing some basic Hindi phrases in India’s vibrant capital. Walk in the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi, marvel at the famed Lotus Temple, and help make chapati bread. Days 3 – 4: Travel to McLeod Ganj and Intro to Tibetan Culture Fly to the Kangra Valley and take a short drive to McLeod Ganj. Home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in exile. McLeod Ganj will be the site of your first homestay and cultural learning experience with Tibetan families. You'll begin your service project working with Tibetan refugees through Lha Charitable Trust, a local nonprofit that provides English language and life skill development training. Pair up with a Tibetan mutual learning partner for a scavenger hunt. Day 5: Tibet Museum and Cultural Exchange Visit the Tibet Museum, which highlights aspects of Tibet’s history and the more current occupation by China. Spend the afternoon with your language partner at Lha before returning to your homestay for evening cooking lessons. Days 6 – 7: Temples and Tibetan Buddhist Life Start these two days with yoga or meditation before continuing your language service. In the afternoons, hike to the temples of nearby Bhagsunath or head to the Norbulingka Institute of Art to see work by local artisans. Day 8: McLeod Ganj to the Himalayan Foothills Enjoy a final breakfast with your host family and goodbye conversation with your language partner before the hour-long trip to Balla for your next homestay. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Balla is home to Gaddi and Gurkha communities—two different Himalayan cultures with their own dialects and histories. Days 9 – 12 : Balla Service, Temples, and Bollywood Dancing Contribute to service that could include construction, education, or environmental service. Following your service projects, head to the nearby river for a quick dip in the stream, or take off your shoes and shake a leg—Bollywood style. Take a short drive to the Gyuto Monastery, home to the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, one of the high lamas of Tibetan Buddhism. This introspective look into Buddhism will help wrap up your time in northern India on a spiritual note! Take a break from your service to visit a nearby school for students with special needs. Share a final dinner with your homestay family, then come together for a night of music, dancing, and food. Day 13: Back to Delhi After a final breakfast and heartfelt goodbye to your host family, travel to the airport for a short flight to New Delhi, where you’ll spend your final evening in India. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 14: Namaste, India! Venture into the old city and use your bargaining skills to find the perfect souvenir. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Meenakshi to Munnar: South India Service for an educational service experience across the country’s beautiful Tamil Nadu region. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 69
LAOS
Northern Laos Mountain Service and Trekking all in love with the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang during this service and adventure program. Get to know this charming town and marvel at its fascinating mix of French colonial architecture and traditional Buddhist influence. Enjoy the Rustic Pathways base house on the Mekong, equipped to create a traditional Lao experience with some comforts of home. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,155 USD plus airfare
Â6 to 14 days
Up to 20 students
8 to 30 service hours
70 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Laos! Arrive into Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) and head to Mount Phousi in the center of Luang Prabang’s old city for a spectacular view of the historic city at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. After a delicious dinner, settle in for an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Conversation Partners and Kuang Si Waterfall Visit Big Brother Mouse, a local non-profit where students serve as English conversation partners with local students. Head after lunch to the famous Kuang Si Falls, one of the prettiest natural places in Luang Prabang, to swim and hike. Day 3: Drive North to Nong Khiaw Rise early to the sound of the gong calling monks to morning prayer before heading to the main street to give morning alms. Then, venture three hours into the mountainous northern countryside to a rural village outside of Nong Khiaw, your home for the next few nights. Meet the village headman and tour the scenic riverside village before settling into your homestay. Day 4: Village Life and Service Wake to sounds of roosters and the magnificent site of the cloudy peaks and begin service, which will vary depending on the needs of the village. Spend your afternoons with village children, helping them improve their English and playing soccer. Conclude your day with a big family-style meal as the sun sets over the mountains. Days 5 – 6: Village Service and Culture Continue your service project working with your new friends. Appreciate the slower and simpler pace of life here in the mountains. After a reflection and discussion, enjoy some time relaxing or journaling before getting a good night’s rest. Rise early on your last day in the village and get back to work after a hearty breakfast. Celebrate with a goodbye baci ceremony and reflect on what you’ve experienced here in rural Laos. Day 7: Boat Cruise and Kayaking the Nam Ou River Cruise down the Nam Ou River, enjoying the views of the surrounding limestone cliffs. Arrive at Muang Ngoi, a charming town on the river for lunch. Kayak the gentle river and hike to the top of a nearby mountain vista for sunset before returning to your bungalow. Day 8: The Land of a Million Elephants Say goodbye to beautiful Nong Khiaw and head back to Luang Prabang. Stop at the MandaLao Elephant Conservation Center to learn about threats facing the elephants and ongoing efforts by conservationists to maintain a healthy herd. Spend the evening with a traditional local troupe of Lao dancers who will perform and teach you a few moves. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 9: La Kone, Laos! On your last morning in Laos, rise early and enjoy one last French baguette and Lao coffee, before heading to the airport for your departing flight. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Impacts of the Vietnam War, which includes a trip into Vietnam, to better understand the regional history of this recent conflict. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 71
LAOS
Southern Laos Adventure Get ready for an adventure-packed week in UNESCO World Heritage sites amid the backdrop of unbelievable nature! Explore ancient stone temples, trek to waterfalls, kayak through river islands, spot dolphins, taste the unique Laotian flavors, and much more! Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Sample itinerary starts at $2,155 USD plus airfare
6 to 10 days
Up to 40 students
72 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Laos! Arrive into Ubon Ratchathani Airport (UBP) in Thailand and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. You’ll take a short drive across the Laos border, a transition that will surely feel like you’ve gone back decades in time. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: UNESCO World Heritage Site Wat Phou Champasak Board a long-tail boat and cruise Lao-style on the Mekong river to Champassak. Arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Wat Phou, a Khmer Hindu temple complex dating to the fifth century. Explore the ruins, climbing over the stones to discover carvings that adorn the palace walls in the style of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Walk to the top of the mountain for some incredible views before heading back to Pakse for the evening. Day 3: Trekking to Waterfalls in the Bolaven Plateau Venture into the Bolaven Plateau, created long ago by a volcano and home to breathtaking mountain views, extensive coffee plantations, and cascading waterfalls. Follow your local guides through the countryside on an all-day trek that includes a picnic lunch and a swim at one of the many waterfalls that dot the trails. Stop at the famous Tad Yuang Waterfall, taking in the views of the valley. Enjoy a traditional Lao massage tonight. Day 4: Four Thousands Islands Wander among the bustling stalls of the local Pakse Market to see how local commerce takes place in this part of the world. Drive three hours south in private vans to Si Phan Don, the four thousands islands region of southern Laos. Take a boat ride out to Don Khon, where you’ll spend the next few days getting into the groove of southern Laos living. Day 5: Biking and Dolphin Watching Hop on bikes and explore the island of Don Khon, passing through local villages and riding between water buffalo on your way to waterfalls where the locals do their fishing. Climb aboard a long-tail boat and head onto the river and search for endangered Irrawaddy dolphins! Continuing by bike, you’ll ride to the gushing Li Phi Falls. Day 6: Kayaking and Back to Pakse Explore the waters of Si Phan Don, kayaking between the small islands and taking in the gorgeous scenery. Pack and head to the mainland, driving back to Pakse for a final celebratory meal and take stock of all you’ve seen and done this past week. Day 7: La Kone, Laos! On your last morning in Laos, rise early and enjoy one last French baguette and Lao coffee, before heading to the airport for your departing flight. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Khamla Sibounheuang Laos Country Manager Khamla has managed our Laos operations since 2008. Originally from the Xayaboury province, he received a degree in economics from Souphanouvong University in Luang Prabang, where he now lives with his wife and young daughter. Khamla has also been instrumental in the expansion of our Mekong Service Base in Luang Prabang.
groups.rusticpathways.com 73
MONGOLIA
Service and Skiing on the Steppe Join an action-packed service adventure in the land of steppe and sky. Explore city and rural life in Mongolian communities, and enjoy the pristine winters of northern Asia. This program offers opportunities for cultural exploration, urban community service, and rural adventuring. Students will dogsled, hike to a hidden temple, explore the national park, and ski Dream Mountain. Meet local community members and learn about life in Mongolia, a unique corner of the world, especially in the beautiful snow-covered winters. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,545 USD plus airfare
6 to 10 days
Up to 40 students
0 to 18 service hours
74 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Mongolia! Arrive into Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the guesthouse and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Ulaanbaatar and the History of Mongolia Visit the National History Museum of Mongolia, where you’ll learn about the fascinating history of Chinggis Khaan and his family who built the world’s largest contiguous empire in history. In the afternoon, climb the 300 steps to reach the sweeping views of Ulaanbaatar at Zaisan Memorial, which honors fallen Russian soldiers and commemorates the relationship between Mongolia and Russia throughout history. Enjoy an evening cultural show that features traditional dances, folk music of Mongolia’s various ethnic groups, and the one-of-a-kind khoomi throat singing. Day 3: Ger District Service and City Life Partner with a Ulaanbaatar-based organization that focuses on water hygiene and sanitation in the city’s expansive ger districts, which house 62 percent of its population. Work on a service project to benefit students in a small village outside of Ulaanbaatar called Gaachurt. Underprivileged, orphaned, or impoverished students come from four nearby neighborhoods to study in a building that was originally built in 1976 for military use, with few upgrades since. Work on a multipurpose room for students to practice and perform cultural arts like music, drama, and dance. In Mongolia, the government often offers monetary awards to winners of different cultural competitions. Currently students at this school are at a disadvantage in these competitions, because they don't have a space to practice and perform. Day 4: Ger District Service and Terelj Adventure Spend your morning completing the service project you started the day before. Venture in the afternoon to Terelj National Park, famous for its unique rock formations. Stop at the largest seated horse statue in the world, featuring Chinggis Khan. Arrive at the park early in the evening and spend the last few hours of daylight exploring the natural beauty surrounding you and getting accustomed to life on the steppe. Visit Aryabal Temple, the park’s mountainside Buddhist monastery, and explore this center of peace. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced through hands-on work in the community. Day 5: Terelj Dog Sledding and Herding Family Life Drive down to the shore of the Terelj River, the site of our dog sledding adventure. Take turns on the sled and spend some time getting to know the dogs who spend their lives here in the park. In the afternoon, visit a herding family who live in the park year-round and learn about the daily hardships faced by nomadic living in Mongolia’s harsh winter. Day 6: Skis Up at Dream Mountain Rise early to journey back to Ulaanbaatar, stopping at Dream Mountain on the way for a skiing lesson. This is the only ski resort in Mongolia and boasts several routes down the mountain. We’ll start with a lesson on the bunny slopes and experienced skiers can move to slightly more advanced runs from there. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 7: Bayartai, Mongolia! Say goodbye to Mongolia and your new friends before heading home. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Off the Map: Mongolia to participate in one of the most rustic experiences we offer during this inside look into Mongolian daily life. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 75
MONGOLIA
Terelj Park and Nomadic Service Journey to beautiful Mongolia, one of the most rustic locations we visit. Marvel at breathtaking scenery near Ulaanbaatar. Participate in service to support members of ger communities where 62 percent of the city population thrive in spite of challenging living conditions. Explore Mongolia’s fascinating history, including the emperor Chinggis Khan, whose influence on the world’s culture and history is largely underemphasized in Western textbooks. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,625 USD plus airfare
6 to 10 days
Up to 100 students
0 to 18 service hours
76 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Mongolia Arrive into Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the guesthouse and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Explore Mongolia’s History Start your day with a 300-step climb to Zaisan Memorial for sweeping views of Ulaanbaatar. Unwrap the history of nomads and the Mongol Empire at the National Museum of Mongolia. Discover the intellectual games and puzzles of Mongols at the International Intellectual Museum. Day 3: Travel to a Ger District Work in the district outside Ulaanbaatar City to support a public school. Help build a more attractive and comfortable learning facility for children who face the hardship of low-income life in the ger district, the area not connected to water or sewage lines. Day 4: Finish Service Projects Enjoy a cultural show from the students at the school where your group volunteered to conclude your service. Be prepared to potentially perform a cultural show of your own! Stop on the way back to camp at the 130-foot-tall Chinggis Khan sculpture, the largest equestrian sculpture in the world. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 5: Aryabal Temple Hike and Archery Hike to Ariyapala Temple and spend time reflecting about your experience so far in Mongolia at this center of peace. Take a lesson in archery, one of Mongolia’s traditional “manly” sports. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings before visiting a herding family to try different types of dairy products. Day 6: Journey Back to Ulaanbaatar Marvel at the views over the expansive city as your trek further out into Mongolia’s wilds. Look out for snowy and icy patches, camels crossing the road, and a hospitable family’s ger to stop for tea. Arrive back in the city in time for a hot dinner of dumplings or noodles and settle in. Day 7: Experience Mongolian Culture Spend the day souvenir shopping at fair trade stores. Enjoy a rousing cultural show that features traditional dance, music of various ethnic groups, and the one-of-a-kind khoomi throat singing. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Bayartai, Mongolia! Say goodbye to Mongolia and your new friends before heading home. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you and reflect on your adventure.
Anya Budan-Erdene Mongolia Country Manager Growing up in the land of nomads, traveling has always been a part of Anya’s life. She has a deep respect for the places she visits—a value she has imparted on Rustic Pathways students since joining us in 2013. After graduating from Ikh Zasag International University, Anya supported relief, income generation, and health projects for an NGO that served people from 21 provinces in Mongolia.
groups.rusticpathways.com 77
MOROCCO
French Language Immersion in Morocco Experience bustling cities and rural life in the Atlas Mountains on this French Immersion and cultural adventure program. Visit the largest mosque in Africa in Casablanca. In Marrakech, wander the UNESCOacclaimed thousand-year-old market where you can watch snake charmers entrance their cobras and vendors hawk their wares. Hike, participate in a scavenger hunt, bargain in the souqs, eat delicious authentic cuisine, and dive into Moroccan culture and history—all while fine-tuning your French skills! Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Language Immersion
Sample itinerary starts at $2,445 USD plus airfare
8 to 14 days
Up to 24 students
16 to 20 instruction hours
78 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Bienvenue au Maroc! Arrive into Mohammed V Casablanca International Airport (CMN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Visit the intricate and mammoth Hassan II Mosque, Africa’s largest mosque and the only one open to non-Muslims in Morocco. The tour of the mosque will be a great introduction to the multilingual Moroccan people—your guide will be able to converse with you about the mosque in French, Arabic, and English, and likely a handful of other languages as well. Enjoy your first cup of mint tea, a warm sweet tea famous in North Africa. Days 2 – 6: Parlez-vous Francais? Start each day with a traditional Moroccan breakfast before heading out for three hours of French instruction. Prepare yourself for conversation-focused classes in small groups with students at a similar proficiency level. After lunch in the medina and a relaxing sieste, or study session, venture out to practice what you’ve been learning and explore the city life in Marrakech! Spend your afternoons and evenings practicing your French while exploring Marrakech during the following a variety of activities. Participate in a souq scavenger hunt to test your bargaining skills, hear from local artisans about their crafts, visit the stunning Ben Youssef Madrasa, partner with a native Moroccan French speaker to interact one on one, take a cooking class, get a henna tattoo, and experience other cultural activities—all conducted in French. Join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you'll begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far. Day 7: Visit an Amazigh Village Drive to an Amazigh Berber village near Marrakech for your first experience with this fascinating culture. Walk around the village and meet with a local family for an open dialogue. Finish your afternoon with lunch prepared from local ingredients at the base of the High Atlas Mountains before heading back to Marrakech.
Also consider...
At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home.
Arabic Language Immersion to put your students in a unique study environment for hands-on learning in daily lessons and through interactions with local community members.
Day 8: Bsslama, Morocco! Your Program Leaders will take you to Mohammed V Casablanca International Airport (CMN) for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 79
MOROCCO
High Atlas Mountain Service Experience rural life in the high Atlas Mountains on this service-intensive program. Learn about everyday life in this remote region of Morocco, and work with local organizations on education, health, and cultural preservation initiatives. These service projects provide important space for exchange between our students and locals, while investing positive energy and resources into the ongoing development initiatives in rural Morocco. Explore the bustling city of Marrakech, and take note of the stark contrast between urban and rural life. Bargain your way through the famous souqs before heading home. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,655 USD plus airfare
7 to 10 days
Up to 20 students
10 to 20 service hours
80 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Morocco! Arrive into Mohammed V Casablanca International Airport (CMN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Depart directly to Bin El Ouidan, literally meaning “between the rivers.“ Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Leave for Zawyat Ahansal Depart for a Berber village nestled in the Zawiya Ahansal Valley of the High Atlas Mountains, the largest mountain range in North Africa. Get settled and have a hearty dinner and brief orientation to the surrounding area. In the evening, prepare for tomorrow’s service work with your group. Days 3 – 5: Village Service and Cultural Immersion Wake to the jaw-dropping mountains surrounding you and participate in language lessons with locals over breakfast. After breakfast, head to the service site. Community service projects are always designed with a grassroots approach, meaning they're generated and implemented collaboratively with community members and Rustic groups. These projects provide important space for exchange between our students and locals, while investing positive energy and resources into the ongoing development initiatives in rural Morocco. Considering service initiatives in the village are ongoing, we'll be able to identify our specific service goals at the beginning of the week. On one afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to meet the sheikh (authority figure) of the village. Come prepared with questions about politics, religion, and Berber culture. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 6: Journey to Marrakech Bid the community farewell and weave your way through the final towering peaks of the High Atlas Mountains toward the red city of Marrakech. Before arriving in the afternoon, stop at the Ouzoud Waterfalls for a delicious lunch, and embark on a short hike. Day 7: Explore the Vibrant Markets of Marrakech Explore Marrakech and its bustling souqs full of fascinating wares—everything from magic boxes to ostrich eggs and whale vertebrae. Visit Bahia Palace, and an authentic spice shop. Conclude your day with dinner in Jemaa El-Fna square. The mosque will sound a call to prayer as smoke from kabob stands billows overhead in this frenetic market. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Bsslama, Morocco! Your Program Leaders will take you to Mohammed V Casablanca International Airport (CMN) for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Often, students have preconceived notions about countries and cultures. Though educators try to break down those stereotypes through innovative lessons, nothing compares to students seeing a culture first-hand and meeting people from that culture who don't fit any mold they have seen in the media. During our time with Rustic Pathways, my students were able to have meaningful conversations and discussions that slowly melted away any stereotypes they had. I saw my students blossom as they discussed religion, politics, and education with locals and their Rustic Pathways Program Leaders. My students came away with a profound appreciation of another culture, and I believe if every student had this experience, there would be so much more understanding in this world." Alexis Savas | French Teacher Rock Canyon High School Highlands Ranch, Colorado
Also consider... Advanced Photography Workshop for an educational exploration through your camera lens with an experienced photography instructor. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 81
MOROCCO
Peace, Wonder, and Understanding Islam Critical Issues: Religious persecution and multicultural acceptance
Dive deep into the belief system surrounding Islamic faith in Morocco on this Critical Issues program. Islam is often misunderstood in media and politics, leading to polarization and fear surrounding this religion. Join us to explore the roots of stereotypes in an effort to promote peace and build empathy by engaging with Muslims in Morocco. By taking a look at global issues as they're lived on the ground, students will develop skill sets like critical analysis, creative problem solving, collaboration, and empathy—all essential capabilities for future leaders, innovators, social entrepreneurs, and peacemakers. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Sample itinerary starts at $2,075 USD plus airfare
7 to 10 days
Up to 20 students
82 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Morocco! Arrive into Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Arrive in the imperial city of Marrakech, where you’ll settle in to your hotel the heart of the old medina. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Days 2 – 4: Islam Deep Dive in Marrakech Spend the next three mornings in workshops with local Islam experts, learning about their work and their lives. Engage with university professors, Quran scholars, and religious leaders called imams. Discuss gender roles and Islam with a female religious leader, known as a mursheda. She’ll share her experience being a female Muslim spiritual leader and what led her to that position. Examine the role of the media in furthering stereotypes. Some of the afternoons will be dedicated to open discussions with similarly-aged local students on the topic that was explored in the morning, allowing you to get a more nuanced perspective from your Moroccan peers. Join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you'll begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far. Days 5 – 6: Learn About Islam in Rural Morocco Transfer to a nearby Berber village. We intentionally want you to be exposed to many different aspects of Moroccan and Muslim culture to give you a more multifaceted picture of life here. Head to an Amazigh village in the Ourika valley. Upon arrival, settle into your guesthouse and tour the village. The role of religion and rural life in general look very different than in the city. Compare and contrast what you’ve seen in the urban areas with this small Berber village. It won’t be hard to notice that all women wear headscarves in the village whereas only some do in the city. This is just one of the more observable differences you might note. You’ll have time explore these differences with your group during evening discussions. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 7: Bsslama, Morocco! Your Program Leaders will take you to Mohammed V Casablanca International Airport (CMN) for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Moroccan Wanderer for an 11-day exploration of the country’s rich history and culture during this immersive service experience. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com.
groups.rusticpathways.com 83
MYANMAR
Biking and Hiking Inle Lake Embrace the natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes of Myanmar’s Shan state. Hike through hills of farmland and bike the epic route from Kalaw to Inle Lake. Cruise the waters, watch the graceful fishermen, and meet floating communities that call Inle Lake home. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Sample itinerary starts at $1,545 USD plus airfare
6 to 14 days
Up to 40 students
84 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Myanmar! Arrive into Yangon International Airport (RGN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Catch another quick flight north to Heho (HEH), the gateway to the beautiful Shan state. Join your Program Leaders for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Have dinner with the group and settle in for the night. Days 2 – 3: Trekking to Inle Lake Spend the next two days trekking through the stunning mountains, stopping in villages, and learning about life in one of the premier hiking destinations in Southeast Asia. One of these villages will be your host for the night before continuing our trek in the morning! Day 4: Biking the Final Leg to Inle Lake Switch from trekking to biking as you make the final push to beautiful Inle Lake, one of the most-visited natural attractions in Myanmar. Spend five to six hours cruising along dusty roads and visit villages for snacks and lunch along the way. Shower, relax, and reflect on the journey you just completed from Kalaw to Inle Lake.
Thien Than Aung Myanmar Program Manager
Day 5: Inle Lake Immersion Hit the waters of Inle Lake early on your way to a bustling morning market and the vibrant villages on the shores of the lake. Hunt in teams to find various local handicrafts and learn about the journey many products have made from rural villages to reach this market. Visit the homes of some of our staff, learning to cook a few Myanmar and Shan classic dishes before a game of soccer to end your day.
Aung’s famous smile and laid-back attitude make him a favorite among both staff and students. Before joining Rustic in 2013, Aung worked at a five-star hotel in his hometown of Inle Lake, where he serves as our regional specialist. He has led a variety of programs across Southeast Asia including Dreams of a Nation, the Thai Elephant Conservation Project, and Life on the Margin.
Day 6: Journey to Yangon Make the short drive to Heho Airport and fly to Yangon. Explore Myanmar’s majestic and glistening Shwedagon Pagoda. Navigate the bustling stalls of Bogyoke Market as you bargain for souvenirs and gifts for your family.
Also consider...
At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home.
Heart of Myanmar: Service on the Irrawaddy to volunteer for three days on an island that is home to several Rustic staff members and where few tourists rarely go.
Day 7: Ta Tar, Myanmar! Grab your last local snacks before your flight home. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
Join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you'll begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far.
groups.rusticpathways.com 85
MYANMAR
Documenting Democracy Critical Issues: Political change, storytelling, and democratization
Explore the evolution of democracy in Myanmar through interviews with local artists, filmmakers, students, and families. Myanmar is slowly making strides to open itself up to the outside world, which is reflected in local art. Spend a week developing a story about how life has changed in recent years through the eyes of your interview subjects in Yangon, Bagan, and Mandalay. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Sample itinerary starts at $1,795 USD plus airfare
6 to 12 days
Up to 36 students
86 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Myanmar Arrive into Yangon International Airport (RGN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. After dropping off your bags, visit the country’s pride and joy, the famous golden Shwedagon Pagoda. Learn about the legend behind it and why thousands of Buddhists make the pilgrimage to this site every year. Dine with the group for for first Burmese meal at the former office of Gen. Aung San, Myanmar’s national hero. Join your Program Leaders afterward for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Minglabar! Day 2: The Power of Storytelling Identify your story through a series of activities led by experienced Rustic staff before heading into the streets of Yangon to put your new skills to the test. Explore the famous Bogyoke Market, have conversations at tea shops, and interview university students. Day 3: Burmese Storytellers and Buddhist Traditions Visit a local monastery and give alms, an integral part of local Buddhist tradition and Burmese culture. Screen two Burmese documentaries before meeting the filmmakers. Get the millennial perspective of how Myanmar has changed through interviews with young people at Inya Lake. Day 4: Fly to Bagan Explore Bagan! Wander the dusty roads and observe the hundreds of temples that dot the landscape and photograph this ancient site that is both intricate and grand. Visit a monastic school in the afternoon to learn about its initiatives and goals for students, meeting young monks and starting to understand what buddhist monastic life is like. Watch the sunset over ancient ruins and sacred pagodas. Day 5: Meet Rustic Families Take a chartered boat across the Irrawaddy to a small island in the middle of the river rarely visited by tourists—home to several of Rustic Pathways’ staff members and their families. Learn about the village by meeting local community members, including the head of the village. Play soccer and cane ball, ride oxen, and enjoy a traditional Burmese dinner. Spend time with your hosts and listen to their stories of a country in transition. Day 6: Fly to Mandalay Touch down in Mandalay, one of the most famous and intriguing cities in all of Southeast Asia and home to 70 percent of the country’s Buddhist monks. Head across the historic U Bein Bridge to explore the village of more Rustic staff from the region. Meet the families and learn about the complicated land rights issues playing out in Myanmar. Day 7: Finish Your Interviews Explore a village where traditional life plays out as it did several decades ago during home visits—your last day to conduct interviews and develop your story. Take an evening flight to Yangon and reflect about the people you’ve met, places you’ve visited, and moments you’ve captured. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Ta Tar, Myanmar! Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Dreams of a Nation to discover Myanmar’s colonial history and hill tribe roots, and how it’s evolution as opens up to the rest of the world. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 87
NEPAL
Himalayan Photo Adventure in Nepal Bring your camera and explore the Land of the Himalayas while learning about village and city life across beautiful Nepal. See and experience the communities, landscape, and colors of Nepal while honing your photography skills and taking on a true traveler’s adventure. We'll provide a professional photographer as one of your Program Leaders to ensure you have the technical support and structure to grow and explore your talents as a photographer. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Sample itinerary starts at $1,585 USD plus airfare
8 to 10 days
Up to 25 students
88 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Nepal! Arrive into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. After some rest and lunch, visit the city’s temples, and get introduced to the hustle and bustle of Nepal. Day 2: Buddhist and Hindu Roots Explore the Kathmandu Valley, a treasure trove of stunning scenes and contrasts. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Kathmandu and get to know Buddhist and Hindu temples and palaces, learning about their history and context, and taking time to capture them carefully. If you’re lucky you might see the living goddess Kumari, a child worshipped and respected in both Hindu and Buddhist communities. Days 3 – 4: Lumbini, the Birthplace of Buddha Wake early for a long van drive to the town of Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautama Buddha and Buddhism. Lumbini bustles with people who make the pilgrimage to this holy site. Explore Lumbini and the sacred garden spread over eight square kilometers. This UNESCO World Heritage town is celebrated by Buddhists around the globe. Spend an afternoon taking shots and capturing images that resonate the most with you and your group. Days 5 – 6: Himalayan Landscapes and Pokhara Town Head to Pokhara, the city of ancient lakes, gorges, waterfalls, and majestic views of the Himalayas. Hike to Peace Pagoda, constructed by the Japanese Nipponzan-Myohoji monks as an example of Buddhist architecture embodying peace and harmony. Enjoy breathtaking views from the top of Himalayan ranges, the beautiful Phewa Lake, and the city below. Explore the bustling markets of Pokhara and spend time by the lake watching the sun set. Join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you'll begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far. Day 7: Australian Camp Trek to the Australian Camp at Dhampus Village and explore the nearby communities where global climbers come to start their treks. Spend the night at base camp and get a glimpse of extreme athletes and climbers getting ready for their adventures. Day 8: Hike Back to Pokhara Start your journey back to Pokhara. After lunch, explore the market or get a massage after your trek. Enjoy the mountain town for another night before heading back to the city in the morning. Day 9: Back to Kathmandu Rise early for the van ride back to Kathmandu, watching the mountains unfold until they open into the city nestled in the shadow of Everest. Explore the city sights to learn about Nepal’s unique climbing history and how the country responded to the 2015 earthquake. Kathmandu is the intersection of many Buddhist and Hindu cultures, not to mention other global influences. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 10: Namaste, Nepal! After your last hearty Nepalese breakfast, explore the market and spend your final few hours at Boudhanath, a famous Buddhist monument. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
groups.rusticpathways.com 89
NEPAL
Himalayan Village Life and Service Join ongoing service initiatives designed to address community needs related to post-earthquake disaster relief—infrastructure, education, environmental conservation, access to drinking water, and general quality of life improvements for local villages. Learn about daily life in a Nepalese village and understand the challenges and great rewards of living in a remote mountain environment under the shadow of Mount Everest and the mighty Himalayas. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,525 USD plus airfare
5 to 14 days
Up to 25 students
16 to 24 service hours
90 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Nepal! Arrive into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. After some rest and lunch, head out to learn about local culture and religion, visit the city’s temples, and get introduced to the hustle and bustle of Nepal. Day 2: Whitewater on the Sunkoshi River Hop into vans and head to Sun Koshi River for your first big adventure. After a safety and skills training, charge into class II-III rapids, enjoying the thrilling turns and taking in the beautiful landscape of the Nepali backwoods. Set up camp on the riverbanks, where you’ll stay that night. Relive that day’s biggest moments with your group and listen to the surrounding sounds of nature as you fall asleep. Day 3: Hike to Your Village Home Hike to a nearby village in the morning to meet your homestay family, who will great you with a traditional welcome ceremony. Stay for the next few nights, getting to know village members and learning about Nepali village life where families are dependent on agriculture, there are minimal city services, and education stops at fifth grade. Spend meals and downtime with your host family, getting to know them and learning about local customs. Days 4 – 7: Village Homestay and Service Days Wake up to the cool mountain air and enjoy a home-cooked breakfast with your host family. Spend the next several days participating in ongoing service that could include earthquake relief projects, construction work, or educational enrichment activities. Adopt the slow pace of village life and learn what makes this village unique. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 8: Trek to Nature and Namobuddha Say goodbye to your host families and spend the day hiking to Namobuddha, a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site and home to a beautiful monastery. Explore the monastery and have lunch at a local dhaba before settling in for the night in the mountains. After a half-day hike with your group, telling stories along the way, arrive for a night in the mountains at a local guesthouse for a hot meal and a good night’s sleep. Day 9: Namobuddha to Kathmandu Rise early for the van ride back to Kathmandu, watching the mountains and winding roads unfold until they open into the city nestled in the shadow of Everest. Drop your things at the hotel and explore the city sights to learn about Nepal’s unique climbing history and how the country responded to the 2015 earthquake. Kathmandu is the intersection of many Buddhist and Hindu cultures, not to mention other global influences. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 10: Namaste, Nepal! After your last hearty Nepalese breakfast, explore the market and spend your final few hours at Boudhanath, a famous Buddhist monument. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Divya Parameshwaran Nepal Program Leader With an MBA in Tourism Marketing from Delhi, eight years of guiding experience, and fluency in four Indian languages, Divya is an excellent ambassador in the local communities in which we work. A native of Kerala, India and an invaluable member of our Rustic Pathways India and Nepal team since 2010, Divya’s constant cheerful demeanor and zest for adventure makes her extremely popular among Rustic Pathways students.
Also consider... Yeti Expedition for adventure that includes rafting the Trishuli River, trekking the Annapurna Range, and exploring Kathmandu. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 91
NEW ZEALAND
North Island Service and Culture Explore the great outdoors of New Zealand! Complete environmental service projects in the Bay of Plenty while staying with the native Maori. Appreciate the beauty of the land with hikes, surf lessons, and cave exploration during this unique service adventure in the South Pacific. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,105 USD plus airfare
7 to 12 days
Up to 24 students
8 to 20 service hours
92 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to New Zealand! Arrive into Auckland Airport (AKL) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hostel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Eat a traditional meat pie and explore downtown Auckland. Head to Sky Tower, the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, and take an optional (add-on cost) SkyJump or SkyWalk. Conclude your first day at Mount Eden before sunset to get an orientation while looking at the Auckland skyline. Days 2 – 3: Community Service Depart Auckland and travel southeast to see beautiful rolling farms and hundreds (if not thousands) of sheep on your way to the Bay of Plenty. Contribute to projects that may include invasive species removal, native species replanting, or infrastructure projects to help contribute to conservation efforts in the area. Stay on tribal grounds in the marae of a local Maori tribe. Learn about the culture, hear stories, enjoy games, hikes, and participate in daily debriefs after these full days of service. Days 4 – 5: Cultural History, Hiking, and the Luge Explore the buried village of Te Wairoa, learning about the history of the area and gaining an understanding of the New Zealand way life more than 100 years ago. Take a gondola to the top of Mount Ngongotaha where you'll strap on your helmet and race your friends down the high speed luge track. Hike the blue and green lakes, the geothermal area, and the Redwood forest as you adventure around Rotorua. Day 6: Waitomo Glow Worm Caves and Black Water Rafting Venture underground for an exhilarating caving experience that blends climbing, tramping, and floating through a unique underground river system. Lower yourself into a sinkhole to see the awesome limestone and experience the adrenaline rush as you slide through squeezes, walk the black water-filled abyss, and scramble up waterfalls in your pursuit of daylight. Day 7: Surfing in Raglan Take a surf lesson with professional surf instructors who call the world-class surfing destination of Raglan home. Test your sea legs, jump into your wetsuit, and head out into the break with your instructors. Paddle out and continue to catch wave after wave. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home.
Also consider...
Day 8: Goodbye, New Zealand! Pack up and head into the city for some final souvenir shopping. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
North Island Environmental Service, for immersive cultural service with Maori communities in the Bay of Plenty.
groups.rusticpathways.com 93
NEW ZEALAND
South Island Glacier Adventure Explore the highlights of New Zealand's South Island! Learn about the glacial history as you explore crystal clear rivers and hike stunning mountain vistas. Experience the jaw-dropping thrills that make Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world. Take on the luge, go jet boating, and zip line through lush forest. Choose between three commercial bungy jumps, including one of the highest in the world! Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,595 USD plus airfare
7 to 12 days
Up to 24 students
8 to 20 service hours
94 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to New Zealand! Arrive into Queenstown Airport (QZN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hostel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Go downtown to enjoy a famous Fergburger for dinner. Watch the sunset on the Queenstown mountain range of the Remarkables that stand above Lake Wakatipu. Day 2: Luge and Zip line Head straight up the Queenstown gondola for a day experiencing the luge and zip line! Race your friends around the bends, or pull in for a breather and enjoy the awesome views. Burn it up on the advanced track or cruise down the scenic track. Fly from tree to tree as you zip line on a journey through the forest that is an exciting eco-adventure experience. Day 3: Jet Boating Around Wanaka Travel to the other side of the Crown Mountain Range to spend the afternoon zipping around Lake Wanaka in a high speed jet boat. Get your adrenaline pumping as you speed through the water, sliding around turns through this shallow rocky river system. Helicopter Rides (at an additional cost) are available for those looking to land near a glacier with an incredible view of Mount Aspiring. Day 4: Franz Josef and Lake Matheson Drive up the West Coast to Franz Josef Glacier where we'll spend the afternoon at nearby Lake Matheson, famous for its reflective qualities. Experience a photographer’s dream! Lake Matheson’s crystal waters create a mirror image of New Zealand’s highest peaks, Aoraki (Mount Cook) and Mount Tasman. Indulge in the glacier hot pools before settling in for the evening with a traditional Kiwi barbeque for dinner. Join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you'll begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far. Day 5: Glacier Valley Hike Walk along the Waiho Riverbed as you follow the path of Franz Josef’s glacial retreat. Learn about the history of one of New Zealand’s fastest moving glaciers and observe the firsthand effects of climate change. Journey to the rock scree below the glacier through rainforest and over river rocks. Finish hiking and then head back to Queenstown. Day 6: New Zealand, the Adventure Capital Skydive, bungy jump, paraglide, hang glide, or take a ride in a stunt plane (all for an additional cost)! Take on the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping with three to choose from in Queenstown—the freestyle bungy, the original Kawarau Bridge bungy, or the super high Nevis Highwire—one of the highest bungy jumps in the world at 440 feet! Day 7: Last Day in New Zealand Take time to explore town in the morning, buy souvenirs, and hike along Lake Wakatipu before a big final Kiwi dinner. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Goodbye, New Zealand! Finish packing and head into the city to explore Queen Street and the marina. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Peaks to Powder, a ski and snowboard trip on the North Island that also includes, hiking, blackwater rafting, and luge racing. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 95
PERU
Machu Picchu and the Amazon Travel from the base of the Andes into the Amazon rainforest on this unforgettable adventure. Fly into the Andean mountains to view majestic peaks, valleys, and glacial lakes before descending into the Amazon jungle for a journey through dozens of microclimates. See wildlife and experience the ecological diversity of Peru while getting an up close look at Peruvian life. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Sample itinerary starts at $2,545 USD plus airfare
10 to 14 days
Up to 18 students
96 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Peru! Arrive into Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head by private bus to the Miraflores neighborhood and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Travel to Cusco and the Sacred Valley Rise from a good night’s sleep and head back to the airport for the final leg of your journey. Leaving from the coast, the group will fly high into the Andes to the historical capital of the Inca Empire. End your day at a comfortable hotel in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Days 3 – 4: Service and Quechua Culture Hike to rural communities, visit families, explore Inca ruins, and witness majestic mountainscapes to better understand life and culture here in Peru. Participate in a meaningful service project that in the past has included assisting on a potable water project and helping at a girl’s dormitory. Play soccer and enjoy the beautiful surroundings after service. Day 5: Travel to Aguas Calientes Start your day with a picturesque train ride to Aguas Calientes, the base town of the Machu Picchu ruins. The group will have some time to explore the town, shop and even go on a short hike to a nearby waterfall and butterfly garden. Finish the day with a delicious meal and then check in at our hotel. Join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you will begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far. Day 6: Explore Machu Picchu Wake up early and experience the grandeur of Machu Picchu in the early morning mist. After a guided tour to orient the group with the site’s history, spend the morning exploring the intricate stonework of this magnificent structure or steal a moment of relaxation with the breathtaking views of the perched terraces. Afterward, the group will take a train back to Ollantaytambo.
It was quite a powerful experience for our students to work alongside students within the community that were their same age. Rustic helped our students step outside of their comfort zone and take a humble approach to service and culture. As an IB World School, taking action is a quality we try to instill within our students every day. To have them do this on a global scale was monumental. We look forward to planning our next trip!" Tim Reilly | Head of School International School of Texas Austin, Texas
Day 7: Capital of the Inca Empire Travel to Cusco and explore the ancient Inca capital and UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, we'll have the chance to visit the Chocolate Museum and even make our own handmade chocolates from Peruvian cacao. Day 8: To the Amazon Wake early and fly to Puerto Maldonado, our gateway to the Amazon. Head up river to a secluded jungle lodge deep in one of the worlds most biodiverse ecosystems. After having the opportunity to relax, venture into the jungle as a group in search of animals and insects. Days 9: Issues of the Amazon Learn about many of the complex issues that threaten the Amazon and about creative ways to combat deforestation. At night, go on the river and look for nocturnal wildlife. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 10: Puerto Maldonado, Lima, and Home Bid farewell to the jungle before you start the journey home. Before boarding your departure flight, enjoy one last night together as a group and reflect on your experience in Peru.
Raul Cobos Mejia Peru Program Manager Raul, a Cusco native, joined Rustic in 2010 and is now our Sacred Valley Service community service coordinator. Raul is trilingual, speaking Quechua, Spanish, and English. He has a passion for social change and is a beautiful storyteller, sharing stories with students of the Inca Empire. Raul’s passion for indigenous rights and commitment to social service projects make him a fantastic Program Leader for Team Peru.
groups.rusticpathways.com 97
PERU
Sacred Valley Service Understand life in rural communities of the Peruvian Andes by exploring issues such as clean water infrastructure, education, and access to public services. Live with local families (hotel option available), contribute to sustainable service projects, and learn about the former capital of the Inca Empire. Immerse in vibrant Peruvian culture, hike through majestic mountains, make lasting connections with welcoming locals, and conclude your journey with a visit to Machu Picchu. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,295 USD plus airfare
8 to 13 days
Up to 24 students
12 to 28 service hours
98 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Peru! Arrive into Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM) in Lima and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Flights don’t cross the Andes after dark, so you’ll relax here overnight for an early flight to the Sacred Valley. Day 2: Cross the Andes to the Sacred Valley Wake up and take a bus to the airport for your quick flight to the Sacred Valley and Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco. Leaving from the coast, the group will fly high into the Andes to the historical capital of the Inca Empire. End your day in a comfortable hotel in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Day 3: Pisac and Sacred Valley Tour Explore the market in Pisac, the central source of trade for villagers and local artisans and a key component to understanding the local way of life. Reconvene to discuss your hopes and expectations before heading to the host village. Visit a museum of pre-Inca cultures and tour the famous Sacred Valley en route to your homestays.
Day 8: Experience Machu Picchu Wake up early and experience the grandeur of Machu Picchu in the morning mist. Start with a guided tour of the site’s history before marveling at the intricate stonework or stealing a moment of relaxation with the breathtaking views from the perched terraces. Take the train back to Ollantaytambo.
Rustic Pathways has partnered with our school to explore and design credit-based travel opportunities that meet our curricular goals and broaden student skills and cultural competency. They have made advertising and enrolling in our summer term a snap, put us face-to-face with risk managers and safety coordinators, connected us with in-country program representatives to explore options, handled billing and travel arrangements, and created outreach webinars for prospective families and students who will be traveling this summer. In short, they have met every expectation and forged an enduring partnership with our school."
Day 9: The Ancient Inca Capital of Cusco Enjoy this mix of the past and present as we explore Cusco—a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the historic capital’s 16th-century cathedrals, ancient Inca temples, and colonial streets. Visit the Chocolate Museum and make your own handmade chocolates from Peruvian cacao.
Don Gibbs | Dean of Academics and Institutional Assessment Pomfret School Pomfret, Connecticut
Days 4 – 5: Community Projects and Quechua Culture Participate in a meaningful service project that in the past has included assisting with a potable water project and helping at a girls dormitory. Play soccer and enjoy the beautiful surroundings after service. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 6: Hike and Mountain Bike the Andes To get a sense of indigenous lifestyles, hike into the rural communities, visit families, explore Inca ruins, and witness majestic mountainscapes. In the afternoon, meet our biking team and ride down to the valley floor. Day 7: Travel to Aguas Calientes Start your day with a picturesque train ride to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of the Machu Picchu ruins. Explore the town, and gear up for the adventure ahead.
At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 10: Adios, Peru! Visit the local San Pedro market, taste the local fruits and vegetables, and bargain for any last-minute gifts. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure to Lima and then back home as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... The Andes Women’s Education Initiative to participate in service related to educational challenges facing girls and women in Peru. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 99
TANZANIA
Climbing Kili Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with a challenging seven-day trek on the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro, the roof of Africa. Improve your safety and chances of successfully summiting by allowing your body to better acclimate to the altitude with this longer route. Recover from your climb with a relaxing safari experience. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $5,335 USD plus airfare
9 to 14 days
Up to 24 students
6 to 12 service hours
100 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Tanzania! Arrive into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Arusha and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Settle in at the guesthouse and join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Rainforest Trekking Move through five unique climate zones on your way to the summit. Trek through rainforest from the gate to the first base camp of Machame. Check in each day with your trip leaders and mountain guides who will monitor your health and encourage you to hydrate and fuel up for the days to come. (Distance: 6.8 miles; Altitude: 5,380 to 9,350 feet; Hiking time: five to six hours) Day 3: Into the Moorlands Practice Swahili hiking songs as you trek out of the rainforest and into the rolling moorlands to Shira 2 Camp. (Distance: 6.8 miles; Altitude: 9,350 to 12,500 feet; Hiking time: four to six hours) Day 4: Arrow Glacier Spend the next few days acclimatizing to the elevation. Hike from Shira Plateau up to Lava Tower (15,190 feet) and past the Arrow Glacier (16,000 feet) before descending to Barranco Camp (13,044 feet). Follow the “climb high, sleep low” wisdom. (Distance: 6.2 miles; Hiking time: six to eight hours) Day 5: Altitude Adjustment Allow your body to continue adjusting to the altitude during the hike from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp. (Distance: 3.2 miles; Altitude: 13,044 to 13,107 feet; Hiking time: four to five hours) Day 6: Preparation for the Final Push Continue through alpine desert to Barafu Camp on the penultimate day of your ascent to complete the South Circuit. Rest at Barafu, enjoy dinner, prepare for the summit day, and take a moment to marvel at the remarkable night’s sky before getting a few hours of sleep. (Distance: 2.5 miles; Altitude: 13,107 to 15,331 feet; Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours) Day 7: Summit Day! Start your summit approach at midnight on your way to the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. Ascend through the most challenging portion of the trek toward Stella Point on the crater rim, hopefully in time for a breathtaking view of that day’s sunrise. Continue another hour or two through the arctic zone to Uhuru Peak for a group photo and well-deserved brief celebration. Descend to Barafu for lunch and a short rest before heading down to Mweka Camp for the night. (Distance: 3.2 miles ascent, 7.5 miles de- scent; Altitude: 15,331 to 19,341 feet ascent, descent to 10,068 feet; Hiking time: seven to eight hours ascent, four to six hours descent) Day 8: Return to Moshi Head downhill to Mweka Gate. Receive your certificates of accomplishment and take one last group photo, and thank your porters for the vital work they did to help you along the way. Reflect on your experience back in Moshi, the challenges, and what you learned about your potential. (Distance: 6.4 miles, Altitude: 10,068 to 5,380 feet; Hiking time: three to four hours) Day 9: Relax at the Hot Springs Recover from your climb with a casual morning resting and exploring the markets of Moshi before a stop at the Moshi hot springs, locally popular but largely off the beaten path. Day 10: Safari in the Wild Awake early for one last adventure in Arusha National Park, an oft-overlooked gem in Tanzania’s famed Northern Circuit, full of giraffes and buffaloes. Day 11: Kwaheri Na Safari Njema, Tanzania! Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Jackson Paul Tanzania Program Leader Always full of energy and entertaining students with jokes and stories, Jackson has been an invaluable member of our Tanzania team and a favorite on our programs since 2013. Using his knowledge of the region, Jackson is constantly looking for ways to innovate and tweak our programs to improve the experience for students and the communities in which we operate.
Also consider... Adventure, Immersion, and Safari for a program experience that satisfies the Duke of Edinburgh Award requirements. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 101
TANZANIA
Village Service and Safari Contribute to a sustained relationship with a friendly and welcoming community outside Arusha as you participate in a long-term service construction project. No trip to East Africa is complete without an epic safari in Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,785 USD plus airfare
7 to 12 days
Up to 30 students
18 to 42 service hours
102 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania Arrive into Kilimanjaro International Airport (ARK) in Arusha and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the Usa River village where you’ll be staying and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Have some snacks before bed and get some sleep for your adventure. Days 2 – 4: Service With a Purpose Focus on an education and infrastructure project designed to enhance the capacity of the community to provide an improved and sustainable learning environment for students. Engage in after-school games and activities with the primary school students to enhance their cross-cultural competence, communication, and teamwork skills. Immerse in village culture as you learn to cook local foods, milk a cow, try to make the local style of pottery, and explore the geography of the village. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evenings, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 5: Into the Wild View the country through a different lens on an epic two-day safari! Spend a half day in Tarangire National Park, which has the most dense elephant population left in the world. Make the most of your safari by picking the brains of your experienced guides, who are eager to teach you everything they know about animals, their behaviors, and their environment. Overnight at a cozy tented campground over the Rift Valley, fenced for safety and comfort. Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater Wake up before sunrise and head to the famous Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive through dense animal populations. Experience the scenic descent into this lush valley, known for its herds of zebra and wildebeest, lion prides, and hyena packs. If you’re lucky, the group could spot the endangered black rhino, but there are no guarantees in the wild. Return to Arusha in the evening. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 7: Kwaheri Na Safari Njema, Tanzania! Enjoy a delicious meal in town and do some last-minute souvenir hunting for family and friends. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
It was meaningful for the students to be able to work alongside the local community. They also found the conversations surrounding service particularly meaningful because it allowed them to see that when service puts the community and culture first, the work they do is beneficial and enhances the community rather than being superficial. They walked away from this week seeing how a weeklong service project could actually make an impact." Anne Ferrara | Counselor Hong Kong International School Hong Kong
Also consider... Environmental Conservation with the Jane Goodall Institute to assist with habitat restoration efforts with local community members to help protect area wildlife. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 103
THAILAND
Hill Tribe Support Project Rustic Pathways has long-standing relationships with several ethnic minority villages throughout northern Thailand. Immerse in the local culture as you help with ongoing infrastructure initiatives in nearby villages, contribute to education enrichment projects at our partner schools, and become part of the extended family in this welcoming corner of the world. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,765 USD plus airfare
5 to 10 days
Up to 60 students
17 to 24 service hours
104 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Chiang Mai! Arrive into Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Begin the trek out to this rural corner of northern Thailand, outside of the city of Chiang Mai. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Delve into Thai and Karen Culture Jump into Karen and Thai culture. Visit a nearby village to learn about traditional weaving and the legendary art of Muay Thai (Thai kickboxing and self-defense) with a training session at the open-air gym. Begin learning the basics of lesson planning as you prepare for your education enrichment service later in the week. Day 3: Infrastructure Service Work in the Mountains Head into the mountains to one of our partner villages to take part in our Rural Outreach and Development program. Once settled, get straight to work on your service project. The specific projects will depend on the time of year and needs of the village. Past projects have included building a library, a canteen, and adding a floor to the school building. Be prepared to get your hands dirty working in collaboration with our staff and villagers. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 4: Infrastructure Service and Village Life After a hearty breakfast, continue working on your service project. Working side by side with staff and locals, accomplish your construction goals for the day and enjoy getting to know the community members. After wrapping up for the day, take time in the afternoon to play soccer with the locals, practice your new Thai vocabulary with our staff and villagers, or find a quiet place to journal. Day 5: Return to Town from the Village After breakfast, say your goodbyes to the village and make your way back down the mountain. Prepare in the evening for the English camp activity at a nearby school. You'll also take some time to debrief your time in the village before resting up for the big day tomorrow.
I cannot thank enough Rustic Pathways and the wonderful people working tirelessly to make a difference to educators’ minds and to students’ hearts. After so many years of experience, after so many trips and events organized for generations of students, I was not convinced myself before the trip that I have made a good choice for my year 12 IB students. There were months of constant work, things sometimes went two steps forward and three backwards but remembering every day of the trip, the little details and the amazing moments, I am fully convinced that no effort was too big to make a dream come true. If I had to go all the way to Thailand in order for some miracle to happen, to see attitudes changing, to instill positive energy and enthusiasm into young people, to change a whole perspective on the need of service in a school, well, I guess IT HAPPENED!!!!!
Day 6: English Camp and Return to Chiang Mai It’s time for the English camp! Work as a team to deliver the plan you have designed together. Once the camp is finished, it’s time to say goodbye to your friends in rural Thailand and return to Chiang Mai. Enjoy a final dinner and discussion before shopping for souvenirs at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.
Irina Fieraru | CAS Coordinator British International School Istanbul Besiktas, Istanbul, Turkey
At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home.
Also consider...
Day 7: Chok dee, Thailand! Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Science and Sustainability: Northern Thai Reforestation to participate in Thailand’s environmental conservation efforts with local biologists. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 105
THAILAND
Intro to Community Service in Thailand Contribute to home construction efforts, get your hands dirty with community garden and agriculture projects, and deliver meals to local families in this fantastic introduction to meaningful service projects in Southeast Asia. Relax after service at our Ricefields Service Base in Udon Thani, a beautiful and comfortable setting for your service program. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,395 USD plus airfare
5 to 10 days
Up to 115 students
18 to 30 service hours
106 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Ricefields Service Base Udon Thani, Thailand
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Thailand! Arrive into Udon Thani International Airport (UTH) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the base and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Take a dip in the pool, or join a pickup soccer or volleyball game before enjoying a Thai feast in the traditional sala before learning about your upcoming service projects. Day 2: Dive into Service Work Participate in the Welcome Homes project to help build and repair homes for elderly and disadvantaged families in the area. Return for lunch at the base before getting your hands dirty and your thumbs green with Hands in the Dirt, the local community garden and agriculture project. Past projects have included building organic sustainable gardens and assisting local farmers. Finish your day with team-building exercises and other fun activities as part of Thai Games.
Situated in the heart of a rural farming village in northeast Thailand, Ricefields is a modern oasis amid traditional Thai life. Surrounded by expansive rice fields and village homes (and with the neighborhood Buddhist temple only steps away) students have the opportunity to witness traditional, rural Thai life. Ricefields, our largest service base, has a swimming pool, workout facilities, a Thai sala, fishing pond, and a few wandering buffalo. Capacity: 115 students Beds: Single beds or bunk beds Showers: Hot Toilets: Standard Western Air Conditioning: Yes
Day 3: Issan Service Immersion Continue working on the Welcome Homes project in the morning before contributing to another project in the afternoon. Visit a local market in town and buy supplies for the Meals on FlipFlops project. Cook the ingredients you bought and deliver the finished meals to elderly and ailing members of the community. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 4: Getting into the Groove Start your morning on the Welcome Homes project before shifting to an educational exchange initiative in the afternoon called Teaching and Tutoring. Prepare English language enrichment activities at the base to implement with local students. Try local Thai delicacies later during an activity called No Reservations. Day 5: Final Day of Service Work Spend your last day of service finishing your work on Welcome Homes before switching to Hands in the Dirt that afternoon. Enjoy a swim and some pick-up sports before an evening trip into town to see the night market in Udon Thani. Day 6: Experience Buddhist and Hindu Culture Visit the Smugglers Market along the Mekong River and enjoy a traditional Thai-Lao lunch. Explore the fascinating and strange sculpture garden Sala Keoku and marvel at the large concrete sculptures inspired by both Buddhist and Hindu legends and traditions. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 7: Chok dee, Thailand! Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
groups.rusticpathways.com 107
THAILAND
Medical Certification and Community Health Earn an internationally-recognized Wilderness First Aid certification through Wilderness Medical Associates while enjoying the legendary amenities of the Rustic Pathways Ricefields Service Base. Learn how health care works in a rural context and gain valuable experience working on service projects designed to provide support for community health projects in the area. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,795 USD plus airfare
7 to 12 days
Up to 30 students
12 to 18 service hours
108 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Ricefields Service Base Udon Thani, Thailand Capacity: 115 students Beds: Single beds or bunk beds Showers: Hot Toilets: Standard Western Air Conditioning: Yes
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Thailand! Arrive into Udon Thani International Airport (UTH) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the base to settle in and relax after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Take a dip in the pool, or join a pickup soccer or volleyball game before enjoying a Thai feast in the traditional sala before learning about your upcoming service projects. Days 2 – 3: Wilderness First Aid Certification Learn how to assess medical situations, determine appropriate medical response in an emergency, provide basic first aid and CPR, and care for wounds. Return to the base and delve into Thai culture with engaging activities with your group. Days 4 – 5: Community Health Service Partner with a local clinic that provides outreach health services to the community by assisting with patient screenings for high blood pressure and diabetes, and with screenings at local schools. Learn how rural health care is delivered in Thailand what obstacles local communities face in accessing medical services. Spend the afternoons and evenings playing games at the base or visiting town. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 6: Experience Buddhist and Hindu Culture Visit the Smugglers Market along the Mekong River and enjoy a traditional Thai-Lao lunch. Explore the fascinating and strange sculpture garden Sala Keoku and marvel at the large concrete sculptures inspired by both Buddhist and Hindu legends and traditions. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 7: Chok dee, Thailand! Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Wilderness First Aid Rustic Pathways is proud to partner with Wilderness Medical Associates to offer a first-rate Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification program. Valid for three years, a WFA certification serves as an introduction to general medical concepts with an emphasis on patient assessment and management in limited-resource and remote environments.
Also consider... Adding certification for your students in Wilderness First Aid. This instruction costs an additional $300 per student. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 109
UNITED STATES
Aloha Service Assist local organizations in their mission to safeguard Hawaii’s biodiversity and foster environmental stewardship. After completing service, get a taste of what makes Hawaii an Island paradise. Relax on white and black sand beaches, learn to surf, hike through lush forests, and observe millions of stars atop Mauna Kea. Learn about the unique and rich history of Kanaka Maoli, Hawaii’s native people. Before heading to your next destination, glimpse the powerful forces that created this volcanic island in Volcanoes National Park. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $4,035 USD plus airfare
7 to 10 days
Up to 20 students
0 to 8 service hours
110 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Hawaii! Arrive at Kona International Airport (KOA), where you’ll be greeted by your Rustic Pathways Program Leaders. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Days 2 – 4: Hawaii’s Natural Resources and Wildlife Visit organizations helping to preserve Hawaii’s natural resources and wildlife. The group will snorkel, learn to surf, hike, and contribute to ongoing service projects aimed at habitat restoration and reforestation. One evening, welcome an oral historian who will tell the group more about Hawaii’s rich and complex history. Join your group for a mid-trip discussion where you'll begin to reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned so far. Day 5: Volcanoes National Park Visit the world’s most active volcano to better understand its geology, history and ties to Hawaiian culture. Learn about the most recent volcanic activity in the visitor center before hiking through the park and exploring the power and natural beauty of this portion of the island. Day 6: Volcanoes and Hilo Hike through the park one last morning before heading over to the west side of the island. Settle into your hostel before walking through the quaint downtown Hilo area and doing some shopping. Day 7: Explore Hilo and Mauna Kea Start off your day with an exciting zip line tour outside of Hilo. On your way back to town grab a quick lunch before visiting the Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii for a look into its connection to the stars. Then, grab your jacket and head up to the Mauna Kea visitor center to see the stars after sunset. Day 8: Return to Kona After breakfast begin your journey back to west Hawaii. Settle into your home for the evening before hiking to Makalawena Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Enjoy your last meal together eating traditional Hawaiian foods. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 9: Aloha Hawaii! Pack your bags and say goodbye to this island paradise. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Off the Map: Alaska to hike in Denali National Park, camp in the Kenai Peninsula, boat near Exit Glacier during this ultimate outdoor adventure. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 111
UNITED STATES
Design Thinking: Silicon Valley Explore creativity and entrepreneurship in a hands-on environment while learning about the design thinking model and creating practical solutions for real-world problems. Explore the beautiful California coastline and the bustling city of San Francisco with its iconic landmarks. Watch picturesque West Coast sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Sample itinerary starts at $2,695 USD plus airfare
7 to 10 days
Up to 20 students
112 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in California! Arrive at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and meet your Program Leaders. Head to the hotel to settle in, and join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Have a healthy local dinner and get some sleep for your adventure this week. Day 2: Innovators and Entrepreneurs Talk with entrepreneurs and innovators about their professional journeys and learn why this corner of the world is known for innovation and creativity. This will be an open discussion so come prepared with questions and ideas to share! Break into groups in the afternoon and begin the design thinking process by generating ideas and working through its early stages. Have dinner in the city and head to bed after a long day. Day 3: Prototyping Start your day by brainstorming, sketching, and building your prototypes before visiting another site to pitch your ideas to mentors, entrepreneurs, and innovators in the Bay Area. After receiving feedback about your prototypes, head to the Exploratorium, an interactive museum to learn about creative solutions to complex problems in the world. Day 4: Continue Prototypes and Explore Alcatraz Continue to refine your prototypes and take part in several practice activities the pros use to enhance their presentations. After lunch, head to another site to pitch your concepts before an afternoon visit to Alcatraz, the infamous prison from legends and movies. End the evening with another local dinner in a city known for its freshness and diversity of food. Day 5: Presentation Day Presentation Day! Put the finishing touches on your pitches and give mock presentations with a Q&A from your peers. After lunch, present your prototypes to local judges and have a debrief discussion about the design thinking process and what you learned over the past four days. Celebrate your hard work with a meal in the city and dessert at a local hotspot. Days 6 – 7: Explore Big Sur and Monterey County After a week of hard work, the next day and a half will be spent exploring Big Sur and Monterey County. Cruise down Highway 1 as you make your way along the coastline with stops for hikes, swims, and picturesque views like McWay Falls. Set up your campsite and relax under the redwoods and stars, telling stories and enjoying the fresh air of the ancient woods. Spend the next day hiking and enjoying the scenery as you head back to San Francisco. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Goodbye, California! Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
ď‚Ť Also consider... California Rush to hike Muir Woods, explore Tahoe and Santa Cruz, discover San Francisco, and participate in service to aid homelessness in the city. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 113
UNITED STATES
Rebuilding New Orleans Explore New Orleans’ African, colonial, and Native American roots through culture, identity, and community. Understand how the rebuilding conversation is changing from focusing on post-Hurricane Katrina development to other natural disasters, climate change, and new challenges facing the city. Learn about the region’s history, ecosystems, and stories during service and interaction with local community members. Hear traditional and modern music, try local foods, and understand what makes this city unique. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to take place in Houston, Texas, to assist with Hurricane Harvey relief. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $2,485 USD plus airfare
5 to 10 days
Up to 24 students
16 to 30 service hours
114 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
New Orleans Service Base Louisiana, United States Located in the heart of the city, the New Orleans Service Base provides a comfortable retreat after a long day of service. The base boasts large communal spaces with an open floor plan, dorm-style bunk rooms, and modern western bathrooms. Spend downtime relaxing by the nearby lake, listening to live music, exploring New Orleans' vibrant neighborhoods, and trying local cuisine like crawfish, gumbo, or beignets from Café du Monde.
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in New Orleans Arrive at Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) in New Orleans and meet you Program Leaders for the week who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the base house and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Enjoy your first taste of jambalaya and spend the evening watching and discussing a documentary about the city’s history and recovery. Welcome to New Orleans!
Capacity: 20 students Beds: Bunk beds Showers: Hot Toilets: Standard western Air Conditioning: Yes
Day 2: Discover the French Quarter Spend the morning in the historic French Quarter, eating hot beignets and wandering through the European-designed streets to hear musicians play as you shop and explore the area. Visit the French Market, the historic St. Louis Cathedral, and a museum dedicated to the disaster and recovery of Hurricane Katrina. Try more local foods throughout the day and walk by the Mississippi River, just miles before it turns into the Gulf. Learn about some of the most important historical aspects of the city on a walking tour. You’ll also visit Preservation Hall and learn about traditional music of the city in a venue dedicated to its preservation. Days 3 – 6: Volunteer and Enjoy the City Over the next three days, you’ll learn how New Orleans values community. Assist various organizations and New Orleanians who work in food security, environmental justice, or rebuilding. In the afternoons and evenings, listen to live jazz, funk or zydeco music, engage in friendly bowling competition at Rock ‘n’ Bowl, and try endless amounts of delicious food (maybe even learn to cook a few dishes!) After a long day of service, head back to the base for a homecooked meal. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evenings, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. Day 7: Explore the Bayou Visit a plantation outside of the city to learn more about how slavery shaped Louisiana and the south. Head to the swamp that in the afternoon for an airboat tour. The airboat guides will catch alligators and bullfrogs with their bare hands and teach you about the various plants and animals that call the swamp home! It will be a night you’ll truly never forget. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 8: Alright Alright, New Orleans! On your last day, say one final goodbye to the Big Easy. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
Also consider... Beyond Capital Hill to explore iconic D.C. landmarks and partner with an NGO assisting refugee families in Baltimore. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 115
VIETNAM
Impacts of the Vietnam War Wander the quaint and historical streets of Old Hanoi and sample the freshest flavors of Vietnamese cuisine on every corner. Learn about the Vietnam War from a local perspective. Visit infamous battle sites in southern Vietnam and explore the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels, and the charming Mekong Delta, which serves as a vital waterway for southern Vietnam. Customizable Program Options This program can be adapted to meet the CAS requirements of the IB curriculum. Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Sample itinerary starts at $1,550 USD plus airfare
7 to 12 days
Up to 20 students
116 groups@rusticpathways.com
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Vietnam! Arrive into Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Hanoi City Tour Acclimate to life in Vietnam and explore the city of Hanoi, the political capital of the Viet Cong during the wars against the French and the United States. Hanoi celebrated its 1,000th birthday in October 2010 and is one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia. Explore the vibrant mixture of colonial French and traditional Vietnamese architecture and enjoy the treelined streets and many beautiful lakes. Visit to Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum and the National Museum before going to Truc Bach Lake, where Sen. John McCain was captured. Visit the famous Hoa Lo prison where McCain and many other POWs were interned during the war. In the afternoon, visit the Military Museum to learn how Vietnamese soldiers fought and thrived during French Colonization and the Vietnam War. Afterwards, walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, the center of Hanoi’s urban life. Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City Tour Tour the Reunification Palace where communist tanks crashed into the gates and Saigon surrendered to North Vietnam in 1975. In the afternoon, visit the War Remnants Museum and end your day winding through the Ben Thanh market, the largest wholesale market in Ho Chi Minh City. Day 4: War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace Tour the Reunification Palace where communist tanks crashed into the gates and Saigon surrendered to North Vietnam in 1975. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the War Remnants Museum and end your day wandering the Ben Thanh Market, the largest wholesale market in Ho Chi Minh City. Day 5: Cu Chi Tunnels Head to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels, rooms, field hospitals, and booby traps the Viet Cong used to revolt against the United States-backed South Vietnamese government. In the afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh city for a traditional water puppet show. Day 6: The Mekong Delta Spend your final day in Vietnam visiting the famed Mekong Delta. The massive region of braided streams and canals is a geographic marvel and an important source of food and trade for southern Vietnam. It was also the scene of fierce fighting between the Viet Cong and Americans who patrolled the waterways. Explore the semi-aqueous environment and the communities living on it. Meet with villagers who still live a largely traditional way of life and hear their stories from the war. Return to the city for a farewell dinner and a discussion about the week’s events and your understanding of the Vietnam War. At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home. Day 7: Tam biet, Vietnam! The Vietnam War was a defining event in modern American history with reverberations felt around the world. After a firsthand exploration of Vietnam, you'll have a much greater understanding of the causes, consequences, and solutions for conflict resolution. Though Vietnam is still affected by the war and its lingering impacts, the nation has largely recovered and has changed dramatically since. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
groups.rusticpathways.com 117
VIETNAM
Northern Vietnam Service Adventure Wander the quaint and historical streets of Old Hanoi and sample the freshest flavors of Vietnamese cuisine on every corner. Trek through Ngoc Son-Ngo Luong Nature Reserve where you'll stay in a Muong village and contribute to an ongoing service initiative. Spend a night aboard a private junk boat on Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stopping to explore caves, karsts, and islands as you go. Customizable Program Options Starting Cost
Typical Program Length
Capacity
Community Service
Sample itinerary starts at $1,595 USD plus airfare
9 to 12 days
Up to 20 students
18 to 24 service hours
118 groups@rusticpathways.com
Service Types
Sample Itinerary Day 1: Welcome to Vietnam! Arrive into Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Day 2: Hanoi City Tour Today will be spent acclimatizing to life in Vietnam and exploring the city of Hanoi—one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia that boasts a vibrant mixture of colonial French and traditional Vietnamese architecture. Visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and other famous landmarks. In the afternoon, explore Museum of Ethnology to learn about 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam and dive deeper into the diverse yet unified cultures of Vietnamese. Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, the center of Hanoi’s urban life, to take in the evening atmosphere and sample delicious street food along the way. Day 3: Tu Do Commune Villages Enjoy the breathtaking views of the passing landscape during the three-hour mountain drive above lush rice fields to Tu Do Commune Villages. Arrive and meet your homestay families in this community inside the Ngoc Son-Ngo Luong Nature Reserve rarely visited by tourists. Have lunch in the home of a local family before trekking the remaining distance to your homestay for the next few nights. Days 4 – 5: Service and Village Life in Tu Do Commune Rise early to the smell of freshly-cooked breakfast. Feel the remoteness of your new surroundings and appreciate the simplicity of village life. Assist the community with an ongoing service project, designed by a local association to either support the protection of the area’s natural and cultural resources, create alternative income opportunities, or improve the infrastructure of the surrounding villages. After service, explore the rice fields or relax and enjoy the scenery before dinner. Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community. On the final night in the village, end your time with a community celebration showcasing traditional Muong culture through song and dance. Day 6: Back to Hanoi Through the Countryside Say goodbye to your host families and trek back to the village to meet the bus. Journey back to Hanoi and enjoy an evening in the city. On the way, enjoy ice-cold fruit shakes and delicious bowls of noodle soup and other wonderful northern Vietnamese delicacies. Explore the rambling streets, busy markets and old world charm of this bustling city. Day 7: Junk Boat on Ha Long Bay Drive to Ha Long Bay and climb aboard a traditional Chinese junk boat for a cruise among the jagged limestone karsts. Explore Sung Sot Cave and swim in the waters off Ti Top Island. Settle in for a night under the stars on the deck of the boat. Day 8: Luon Cave Kayaking and Fire Island Continue your boat trip around Ha Long Bay. Go kayaking in Luon Cave and stop by Bai Tu Long Bay and Fire Island to see the exotic birds, monkeys, and antelope. Return to Hanoi in time for dinner. Day 9: Tam biet, Vietnam! On your last morning in Vietnam, rise early and enjoy one last baguette and strong Vietnamese coffee before heading back to Hanoi for your departing flight. Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.
The students completed service work alongside the villagers we were staying with, which demonstrated to them that the work was necessary and therefore meaningful. I enjoyed the variety in the programme and gained something different from each part. Our students were very happy to complete the service and they unanimously loved kayaking and spending a night on a boat in Ha Long Bay!" Sarah Hill | Middle Years Program Coordinator Victoria Shanghai Academy Hong Kong
Also consider... Environmental Conservation and Adventure for a unique mix of cultural exploration and service in Cuc Phuong National Park. See the full itinerary and learn more at groups.rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 119
120 groups@rusticpathways.com
groups.rusticpathways.com 121
Our 2019-2020 Programs
China Beijing Sights Chinese Language Immersion Giant Panda Conservation Project
See full sample itineraries and learn more about Rustic Pathways Group Travel at groups.rusticpathways.com.
Mangroves and Tulous Environmental Conservation Shaxi Adventure Shaxi and Beijing
online only page 36 page 38 page 40 online only online only
Costa Rica Bribri Village Service Expedition
Australia Ancient Cultures and Coral Coasts
online only
Aussie Surf and Service
online only
Australia Zoo and Wildlife Rehab Project
online only
English Immersion and Service
online only
Epic Outback Golden Sands and Helping Hands Island Survival
online only page 20 page 22
Outback Survival
online only
Photography Down Under
online only
Reef and Rainforest
online only
Sydney Sights and Service
online only
Urban Life: Melbourne
online only
West Coast Wanderer
online only
You, A 'Roo, and Australia Zoo
page 42
Costa Rica Natural Wonders
online only
Osa Peninsula Conservation
online only
Sarapiqui Service Adventure
page 44
Spanish Language Immersion
page 46
Soccer and Service
online only
Summer Camp Leadership
online only
Surf and Service in the Pacific
online only
Turrialba Service Experience
online only
Turtle Conservation Project
online only
Volcano and Rainforest Service Base Young Explorers
page 48 online only
page 24
The Balkans Cultural Crossroads Culture, Conflict, and Service
page 26 page 28
Cambodia Elephant Valley Project
online only
Floating Village Service
online only
From the Ground Up Siem Reap Fun and Adventure Snapshots of Southeast Asia Village Service and Cultural Immersion
page 30 online only page 32 page 34
Cuba Innovation in Action Intro to Photography in Cuba Spanish Language Immersion in Cuba Viva Cuba! Culture and Conservation
122 groups@rusticpathways.com
page 50 online only online only page 52
Dominican Republic
Laos
Bateyes and Baseball
online only
Island Living and Eco-Service
online only
Life in the Bateyes
page 54
Marine Life and Coastal Restoration
online only
Mountain Air and the Bateyes
online only
Mountain Air and Village Service
page 56
Public Health in the Caribbean
page 58
Spanish Language and Mountain Immersion
Come with Nothing: The Mekong Expedition Laos Adventure and Culinary Experience Laos Elephant Retreat and Luang Prabang
online only
Mekong Service Base
online only
Northern Laos Mountain Service and Trekking Rock Climbing in Laos Southern Laos Adventure
Big Fiji Explorer
online only
Dive Fiji
online only
Highlands and Islands Marine and Environmental Field Studies Ridge to Reef Expedition South Pacific Discovery and Adventure South Pacific Eco-Lodge
page 70 online only page 72
Mongolia Off the Map: Mongolia
Highlands Service Immersion
online only
online only
Fiji
Fiji Surf
online only
Service and Skiing on the Steppe Terelj Park and Nomadic Service
online only page 74 page 76
online only page 60
Morocco
online only
Advance Photography Workshop
online only
page 62
Arabic Language Immersion
online only
online only
French Language Immersion
page 78
online only page 64
South Pacific Sports Tour
online only
Women's Community Development
online only
Yoga, Sun, and Service
online only
High Atlas Mountain Service Moroccan Wanderer Peace, Wonder, and Understanding Islam
online only page 82
Myanmar Biking and Hiking Inle Lake
India
page 80
Documenting Democracy Dreams of a Nation
page 84 page 86 online only
Children of India
online only
Himalayan Photo Expedition
online only
Golden Triangle Service
online only
Indian House Boat Service Adventure
online only
Magic of Myanmar
online only
Indian Wildlife Conservation
page 66
Meenakshi to Munnar: South India Service
online only
Namaste India
online only
North India Advanced Photo Workshop
online only
North Indian Cultural Experience
online only
Service in the Clouds
page 68
Service on the Irrawaddy
online only
Nepal
Thailand
Himalayan Photo Adventure in Nepal
page 88
Himalayan Village Life and Service
page 90
Yeti Expedition
online only
Agriculture and Social Enterprise
online only
Amazing Thailand Adventure
online only
Come with Nothing, Go Home Rich
online only
Hill Tribe Support Project
page 104
Hmong Culture, Elephants, and Chiang Mai Intro to Community Service in Thailand
online only
Life on the Margin
online only
Medical Certification and Community Health
Maori Cultural Experience North Island Explorer North Island Service and Culture Peaks to Powder South Island Glacier Adventure Trek New Zealand
Northern Thailand Adventure online only online only page 92 online only
Science and Sustainability: Northern Thai Reforestation
online only
Thai Elephant Conservation
online only
Veterinary Service
online only
online only
United States
online only
page 110
Beyond Capital Hill
online only
California Rush
online only
page 96
Civil Rights in the American South
Sacred Valley Service
page 98
Design Thinking: Silicon Valley
online only page 112
Digging Deeper: Southwest Archaeology
online only
Good Works and the Grand Canyon
online only
Off the Map: Alaska
online only
Rebuilding Houston
online only
Rebuilding New Orleans
page 114
Vietnam
Tanzania
Culture and the Crater
online only
Soccer and Service
Machu Picchu and the Amazon
Climbing Kili
page 108
page 94
Peru
Adventure, Immersion, and Safari
online only
online only
Aloha Service
Andes Women's Education Initiative
page 106
Island Hopping
Marine Conservation and Forest Restoration
New Zealand
online only
online only page 100 online only
Environmental Conservation and Adventure
online only
Impacts of the Vietnam War
page 116
Northern Vietnam Service Adventure
page 118
Environmental Conservation with the Jane Goodall Institute online only Usambara Trekking and Mountain Culture Village Service and Safari
online only page 102
Base House Programs
Language Programs
Critical Issues Programs
New Programs
Other Ways to Get Involved with Rustic Pathways Flight leading
Employment
Don’t have a class to travel with, but still hoping to get out and see the world next summer? Consider flight leading for a Rustic Pathways summer program, and escort students to and from their international trip. Keep an eye out for this volunteer position at rusticpathways.com/careers.
Every summer, Rustic Pathways hires hundred of seasonal Program Leaders to help us run our trips. If you are passionate about travel, love working with high school students, believe in experiential education, and need something to do next summer, apply at rusticpathways.com/careers.
Important Information Program Payments
General
All program prices are in U.S. dollars. Payments will be organized with your group's chaperones to consider your unique schedule. Our typical payment plan has an initial deposit due at the point of student enrollment, with the balance split between two subsequent payments, and due in full no later than 60 days prior to the program start date.
This catalog provides a brief summary of some of the 2019-2020 Group Travel programs (“the programs”) offered by Rustic Pathways Australia (U.S.A.), Inc. (“Rustic Pathways”), a tour promoter based in the state of Ohio. Each itinerary contained herein is a sample of a Rustic Pathways Group Travel program. Each program itinerary, group size, dates, service or instruction hours, and price will be customized to fit each unique group.
Rustic Pathways Waivers and Medical Forms As a condition of enrollment on a Rustic Pathways program, all participants must complete all required waivers and forms. These documents will be due no later than 60 days prior to the program start date.
Immigration Costs The participant will be responsible for any immigration costs, including but not limited to airline, airport, arrival, and departure taxes or fees; passport costs; and visa costs unless clearly stated on the invoice.
Taxes, Airline Fees, and Surcharges Quoted flight costs are subject to change without notice pending fare, tax, and surcharge fluctuation until tickets have been purchased. Participants will bear responsibility for any increased costs, including those resulting from inaccurate information provided during enrollment.
International Exchange Rates
All program participants and their parents and/or legal guardians (collectively “the participants”) are required to read, sign, comply with, and abide by a comprehensive Statement of Terms and Conditions and various waivers and liability limitations that govern and regulate participation in the programs. Rustic Pathways will furnish these various materials. All travel can be dangerous, and adventure travel to the more remote areas of the world poses unique risks. Rustic Pathways insists that all participants and potential participants seriously consider the dangers of any program undertaken. Participants should not apply for or participate in any Rustic Pathways program if they are unwilling to accept any and all of the potential risks and dangers such a program could pose. The number of days listed in each itinerary reflects time on the ground, not including travel time to and from the program.
The majority of Rustic Pathways’ programs operate outside the United States and are paid for in local currency. Should the value of the U.S. dollar change, we reserve the right to increase our program price in proportion with the U.S. dollar value change.
We reserve the right to alter program itineraries before and during the trip, with no notice and at the sole discretion of Rustic Pathways employees, if the environmental, social, political, or economic situation in the country of travel dictates such action.
Refunds and Cancellation Penalties
International travel to and domestic travel within overseas destinations will be on several airlines (“the airlines”). No airline by virtue of its endorsement in this brochure represents itself as contracting with any purchaser of the programs. The airlines are not responsible for any act, omission, or events during the time passengers are not on board their planes or conveyance. The passage contract in use by the airlines, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the airlines and the participant.
We reserve the right to cancel, alter, reschedule, or amend all programs offered at any time. If a trip is canceled by Rustic Pathways, all or a portion of the participant’s payment will be refunded, pending the cancellation date. If the participant cancels, it may result in a penalty of up to the full program tuition, depending on date of cancellation. Verbal notice will not serve as valid cancellation notification.
groups.rusticpathways.com 125
800.321.4353 440.975.9691 groups@rusticpathways.com groups.rusticpathways.com PRINTED IN THAILAND