Our Mission Rustic Pathways empowers students through innovative and responsible travel experiences to positively impact lives and communities around the world.
What’s Inside Map
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Why Rustic Pathways
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Evaluating Rustic Pathways Programs
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Enrolling and Traveling with Pathways Programs
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The Rustic Pathways Global Team
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Scholarships
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Health and Safety
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Global Community Impact
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Student Impact at Rustic Pathways
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Rustic Pathways Critical Issues Summit
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Additional Critical Issues Programs
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New Programs
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Young Explorers Programs
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Spring Break Programs
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Base House Programs
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Mystery Trip
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Australia
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Cambodia
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China
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Costa Rica
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Cuba
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Dominican Republic
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Fiji Islands
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Laos
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Mongolia
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Morocco
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Myanmar
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Peru
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Tanzania
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Thailand
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United States
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Vietnam
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Group Travel
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Gap Year Programs
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Get In Touch
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United States Morocco Cuba Dominican Republic Costa Rica
Peru
17 countries 100+ programs
Australia
Costa Rica
Operating Since: 1983 Program Count: 7
Operating Since: 2003 Program Count: 15
Cambodia
Cuba
Operating Since: 1999 Program Count: 4
Operating Since: 2016 Program Count: 2
China
Dominican Republic
Operating Since: 2007 Program Count: 5
Operating Since: 2012 Program Count: 10
Mongolia
China
Vietnam Laos Cambodia
Tanzania
Fiji Myanmar Thailand Australia
New Zealand
Fiji
Morocco
Peru
United States
Operating Since: 1993 Program Count: 10
Operating Since: 2012 Program Count: 5
Operating Since: 2008 Program Count: 7
Operating Since: 2006 Program Count: 9
Laos
Myanmar
Tanzania
Vietnam
Operating Since: 2008 Program Count: 4
Operating Since: 2002 Program Count: 1
Operating Since: 2006 Program Count: 6
Operating Since: 2005 Program Count: 1
Mongolia
New Zealand
Thailand
Operating Since: 2009 Program Count: 2
Operating Since: 1993 Program Count: (included in Fiji)
Operating Since: 1999 Program Count: 15
Base house programs available in country
Why Rustic Pathways? Angela Tan Los Angeles, California
Arielle Greenspan Armonk, New York
Cole Falkner Shorewood, Wisconsin
Sacred Valley Service in Peru, 2017
Advanced Photography Workshop in Morocco, 2017
Come with Nothing: The Mekong Expedition and Snapshots of Southeast Asia, 2015
The main reason to travel with Rustic is to have a completely transformative experience; it will change the way you look at the world and will change the way you interact with people on a daily basis. I loved my program and the people that I met so much. It really changed my perspective on how I saw the world and made me so much more appreciative of the small things that I had at home like access to drinkable water. I also grew a lot as I became more independent and more unafraid to be myself.
I had the pleasure of working with amazing photojournalists and outstanding local guides. I’ve seen and experienced things that will forever change my perspective on my life and the world. I just want to thank Rustic Pathways for stressing the importance of learning about and respecting different cultures. Especially in times like this, it’s important for young adults to experience worlds that are different from their own; it allows for us to look at the world through a unique lens and make us kinder, better, more accepting people.
An entire culture was exposed to me in Southeast Asia and I developed a new way to approach life. By far the most important lesson I learned was to slow down. During my time speaking with monks I was awestruck by how simply they live. The simplicity of their lives and their ability to focus on the present is amazing. It is a challenge I have brought back home and something I have implemented into my life.
From Parents of Rustic Students Kathryn Wong, Brenden’s mom Laguna Beach, California
Kimberly White, Lark’s mom Chesapeake, Virginia
Traveling Soccer and Service Team, 2017
Sun, Sand, and International Service in Fiji, 2017
We love that our son not only had a great time, did community service work, met new friends, but also had a chance to be independent. His two trips have given me the confidence that he will be just fine on his own when he goes off to college! 6
800.321.4353
From beginning to end, the experience was professional, efficient, exciting and fulfilling. Having never traveled such a distance before, Lark might have had justifiable anxiety. However, the information Rustic provided along with the support parents received, allayed any fears we might have had.
How Students Have Connected Multiple Programs Connecting Programs in the Same Country I left every trip in awe of the amazing people I met and feeling grateful for the opportunities I had. I can confidently say my month spent in Tanzania changed my life for the better. I have grown in my understanding and acceptance of different cultures, I discovered a strength and resilience inside myself, and I developed relationships with wonderful people. Thank you so much Rustic! Sammy Rosenberg | Scarsdale, New York Tanzania African Wildlife Conservation Climbing Kili Serengeti to Zanzibar
Connecting Programs in the Same Region I learn so much from doing more than one trip. It allows you to deepen your learning and appreciation for the culture you are in and the places you meet. It also led me to becoming a better traveler, one who isn’t afraid to get out of their comfort zone, and also one who challenges themself to interact with everyone around them. I also set goals for myself when I start a new trip. It gives me time to reflect on my previous experiences, and allows me to look to the future and see what I could learn during this new program. I think connecting programs back to back is one of the best ways to travel deeper and learn more about yourself. Cate Brown | Waban, Massachusetts Laos: Come With Nothing: The Mekong Expedition Thailand: Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support Project
Connecting Programs on Other Sides of the World One reason that I chose to do Rustic Pathway programs was to get experiences and learn about other parts of the world. Why not be even more adventurous and check out two completely different countries and experiences in one trip? Each country has its own unique culture and environment. Transferring from one country to the trip was super simple with Rustic Pathways. In my opinion, their programs are best enjoyed while pairing two or more programs, so they make transfers super easy as many students decide to do this. Madison Golledge | San Juan Capistrano, California Peru: Andes to Amazon
Australia: Epic Outback
Enroll in Connecting Programs Many Rustic programs are designed to connect allowing you to visit multiple countries or mix and match program types to maximize your summer. Look for the connecting programs icon in the bottom corner of the program pages to see which programs work best together.
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Evaluating Rustic Pathways Programs
Rustic Pathways programs span the globe. Choose from more than 100 unique summer and spring break program options in 17 countries.
Rustic Program Types New Programs
Innovative programs that leverage our Student Impact Evaluation findings to improve the student experience.
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Base House Programs
Ideal for first-time travelers, these programs feature the comforts of home during an international service program.
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Young Explorers Programs
Introductory programs for students ages 12 and 13—because it’s never too early to start exploring the world.
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Mystery Trip
An epic journey where each twist and turn is a puzzle your group will decipher as the experience unfolds.
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Spring Break Programs
One-week programs for high schoolers offered in March and April for adventurous Spring Break travelers.
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High School Programs
100+ programs in 17 countries—designed for service buffs, adrenaline junkies, and students in between.
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Our summer programs are organized by destination country. Each country features a side-by-side program comparison. Use this tool to compare program accommodations, adventure and physicality, educational activities, on-program travel, service hours, trip length, and cost. That scale is intended to help you determine whether you’re looking for an introductory travel experience with familiar accommodations or something off the beaten path and more adventurous, or something in between. If you’ve read through the catalog and still have questions, or just want to talk through program options, contact one of our Global Program Advisors. Call 800.321.4353 or email rustic@rusticpathways.com.
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Enrolling and Traveling with Rustic Pathways
1. Choose a Program and Enroll Find your perfect program—choose from 100+ in 17 countries—and enroll online or over the phone with one of our global travel experts.
2. Prepare for Your Trip We’ll send you a packing list, info about your destination country, instructions to get a passport, and a pre-departure package with free travel swag.
3. Explore the World You’ll make lifelong friends, explore a new culture, complete meaningful service, and participate in adventure activities during an experience you’ll never forget.
4. Apply What You’ve Learned After returning home with new passions and skills, join our Alumni Association to connect with like-minded peers, and support the Rustic Pathways Foundation.
5. Find Your Next Adventure As a Rustic alumni, you’re eligible for special discounts and offers to help you plan your next incredible travel experience.
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The Rustic Pathways Global Team
The Rustic Pathways Team by the Numbers
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-ofa-kind experiences. The faces you see in this catalog (and many others!) ensure that you 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 and local staff, resulting in diverse groups that blend an understanding of students and their needs with deep local knowledge.
Our Program Leaders have backgrounds in teaching, experiential education, service learning, psychology, 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’re all dedicated to creating the best possible programs for students.
Check out the following team pages and visit rusticpathways.com/team to learn more about our global staff.
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more than
staff members from more than
countries across the globe speaking more than
different languages
Rustic Pathways Global Leadership Team
Chris Stakich
Karen Diedrich
Chief Executive Officer
Vice President of Finance
An expert on travel and service-based education, Chris leads Rustic Pathways with an eye for innovation and excellence. Since graduating from Harvard in 2001, Chris has worked in virtually all areas of the organization. He works diligently to develop future leaders who embody a broad perspective and compassion for the world. Chris lives in San Francisco with his wife and three sons.
A three-time Rustic Parent and lifetime traveler, Karen joined Rustic Pathways in 2018 from Athersys, a publicly traded biotechnology company where she was Senior Director of Finance. Karen is a graduate of Western University in London, Ontario, Canada. Outside of work, Karen enjoys cheering on her children at athletic events, and traveling with her family.
Anna Beckerman
Brent Watkins
Vice President of Sales
Vice President of Program Operations
An alumna of School Year Abroad and extensive traveler, Anna has a dual degree in geoscience and Mandarin from Dartmouth. She applies her passion for experiential education and travel at Rustic Pathways where she provides opportunities for students and teachers to immerse themselves in new surroundings and engage powerfully with other cultures.
Brent holds a master’s in teaching from Johns Hopkins University where he is also on the adjunct faculty. Prior to joining Rustic Pathways, Brent managed the training and preparation of new teachers for Teach For AmericaBaltimore. With extensive experience in learning development and training, Brent ensures the highest level of quality across our programming.
Ryan Gibbons
Andrea Bouch
Vice President of Business Operations
Rustic Pathways Foundation Executive Director
With a journalism degree from the University of Missouri, Ryan brings his talents in marketing and photography to Rustic. Ryan spent four years building our creative team before taking on business operations. He now focuses his time on creating a world-class client experience for every family at Rustic. He previously worked at NPR in Washington D.C., where he now resides.
Andrea has spent her career exploring social impact and sustainable development while working in microfinance, impact investing, philanthropy, education, and tech. She holds an MBA in nonprofit management and international development from the University of Geneva, Switzerland, where she was also an adjunct professor in social entrepreneurship.
Kevin Porter
Erin Murphy
Global Program Operations Director
Student Impact Director
Kevin is entering his eighth year with our program operations team. Based in Boston, he manages our team of diverse country directors and ensures the quality of the programs we deliver. Kevin previously worked with development organizations in East Africa, completed research for the UN, and oversaw wilderness leadership programs while attending Harvard University.
Erin is passionate about Rustic Pathways’ vision of a world where travel is an essential part of every student’s education. After graduating from Notre Dame, Erin spent three years in northeastern Thailand teaching business English through a Princeton in Asia Fellowship. Erin holds a master’s in education from Harvard and brings energy to our team of educators.
Dave Dennis
Pete Brown
Safety and Risk Management Director
Safety and Risk Management Manager
Dave brings more than 20 years of experience and a master’s degree in risk management to our operations team where he works with local leadership to ensure quality and consistency across all programs. Prior to joining us, he owned a firm specialized in implementing risk management and response plans for tour operators. Dave lives in Colorado with his family.
A graduate of St John’s University in Minnesota, Pete developed his first love of travel studying abroad in New Zealand and Australia. Those experiences kicked off an 18-year career in travel focusing on safety and risk management. Pete has guided groups across the United States, Canada, and way up north to Alaska. Pete now lives in New York with his wife and daughters.
Ann Dunphy
Lauren Anderson
Medical Screening Manager
Program Staffing and Training Director
Based in Wisconsin, Ann has been in emergency medicine for over 35 years and has been a professional EMT and Wilderness First Responder instructor for decades. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education with certifications in specialized emergency medicine. Ann teaches for Wilderness Medical Associates and picks up ambulance shifts to keep her skills sharp.
Lauren joined Rustic Pathways two weeks after her graduation from Emory University, and has been a member of our team since 2008! She spent her first six years in Costa Rica overseeing our operations and seasonal staff, and now manages staffing and training across our global programs. She lives in Chicago, travels often, and enjoys maintaining her Spanish fluency.
Emily Sanders
Rachel Levin
Program Staffing and Training Manager
Community Engagement Manager
Emily first encountered Rustic as a student, traveling to Asia and South America. Her positive personality and leadership skills made her an integral part of team Costa Rica before moving to our Program Staffing team. Emily is a graduate of Florida State University with a degree in anthropology. Emily also completed Camino de Santiago, a 510 mile trek across Spain.
Rachel joined Rustic in 2013 and led programs for three summers in Costa Rica, Peru, and Ghana. A graduate of University of Vermont with degrees in sociology and Spanish, Rachel focuses her love for travel, writing, and her unquenchable curiosity of our natural world as Rustic’s Brand Engagement Manager. Based in Tahoe, CA, Rachel is a talented ceramicist and lover of the outdoors.
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Scholarships
2018 Scholarships by the Numbers
Rustic Pathways believes every student should have the opportunity to learn through travel. In 2018, we awarded nearly $285,000 in scholarships to students who demonstrated financial need or merit achievement in four categories:
Service Scholarships
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Service Scholarships high school students from anywhere in the world
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Teacher Appreciation Program Scholarships children of educators in middle or high school, or college
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Critical Issues Scholarships high school students from anywhere in the world
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Gap Year Scholarships students ages 17 to 21 and have graduated from high school by the time their gap year starts
Teacher Appreciation Program Scholarships
Critical Issues Scholarships
Students are required to provide proof of family income and answer essay questions about why they deserve a scholarship, and should apply before enrolling in a program. To apply for a scholarship, go to rusticpathways.com/scholarships. Click “Apply Now” for the scholarship that is the best fit for you and follow the instructions.
Gap Year Scholarships
Critical Issues Summit Scholarship This year, we’re offering 25 full scholarships + airfare to students interested in participating in our first Critical Issues Summit in Southeast Asia. This immersive two-week experience will combine exploration of one of five critical issues with a conference featuring issue experts, workshops, and community building. Need-based scholarships are also available. Learn more at rusticsummit.com.
Fundraising All students are also encouraged to review our fundraising resources. Many Rustic Pathways alumni have successfully raised some or all of the costs of their programs through a variety of fundraising methods. 1.
Student Feature: Lacing up Her Running Shoes for a Good Cause Mary Bragg Burmeister Age: 19 | Hometown: Mobile, Alabama
Create a crowdfunding page and spread the word on social.
Mary raised more than $1,000 for the Rustic Pathways Hill Tribe Service Base, which provides educational resources for local students, by asking for support as she trained for a half marathon.
2. Host an event and ask a local business to provide goods or services you can raffle. 3.
Make something you can sell and tell your customers why you hope they’ll support your fundraising.
For more fundraising ideas, tips about how to maximize your efforts, a potential donor checklist, and sample letters you can use with friends and family, check out Rustic Pathways’ Fundraising Guide at rusticpathways.com/fundraising-guide.
Where did you go with Rustic? I traveled with Rustic on the Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Conservation in Thailand! My trip with Rustic was the most exciting and humbling experience of my entire life. Why did you want to fundraise to support the Hill Tribe Service Base? The amount of gratitude that the children who live there have for education amazed me because so often in America we take education for granted. How did you decide to raise money through running half marathons? I met a Muay Thai instructor in Thailand who walked for an hour every morning. He told me how important it was to take advantage of every moment of sunlight and how far our feet can take us; I took it both physically and symbolically. What advice about fundraising would you give a fellow Impact Ambassador? Find something that you are passionate about and figure out a way to combine it with your fundraising. Sharing my fundraiser on all of my social media accounts also definitely helped out!
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Health and Safety Ensuring the safety of students as they travel with Rustic Pathways is the most important thing we do. For 35 years, we’ve refined our safety and security protocols to become a leader among providers of student travel programs. 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.
Rustic Pathways Health and Safety Measures Food and Water Rustic chefs and cooks prepare meals and can make necessary adjustments for specific dietary needs and allergies. Some meals will take place at trusted local restaurants. All water is bottled or purified. 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. 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. Visit rusticpathways.com/safety for more information.
Preparing for Your Trip 1. Complete Rustic’s Medical and Emergency form, which includes relevant medical histories, medications, food allergies, and dietary restrictions and our Participant Screening Team relays that information to Country Teams. 2. Ask your Personal Travel Advisor any additional questions about your upcoming trip. They can also provide pre-trip support before you leave, including instructions for obtaining vaccinations and visas, and offering packing tips. 3. Attend a pre-trip information session either in person or online to ask any last-minute questions about your trip.
During Your Trip 1. Fly with your Rustic Pathways Flight Leader to your destination country. 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. 3. Students and their parents have 24 / 7 emergency support and access to services from International SOS, the leading provider of international medical, security, and travel assistance.
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Global Community Impact 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 3.
Working together to achieve community and student goals
4.
Monitoring and evaluating the process and impact of ongoing initiatives
5.
Ensuring projects are sustainable and have a lasting impact
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.
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2018 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
Fiji Education Fund
Bringing education closer to home for young Fijian students
India Development Fund
Bettering the lives of humans and animals across India
Laos Education Fund
Providing Laotian students with safe living conditions
The Rustic Pathways Foundation
Peru Amazon Conservation Fund
Protecting and conserving the rainforest
The Rustic Pathways Foundation is a key piece of how we support the communities where our students travel.
Peru (Sacred Valley) Education Fund
Empowering young girls through secondary education
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 $145,000 through the first half of 2018.
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
Visit rusticpathways.org for more information on the Rustic Pathways Foundation.
U.S. (New Orleans) Housing Fund
Bringing families home after natural disasters
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Student Impact at Rustic Pathways Rustic Pathways programs are intentionally designed to encourage students to think critically while challenging them to grow personally. Our experienced Program Leaders work to facilitate meaningful discussion and reflection, and help students learn to amplify the positive impact travel can have on themselves and others in their home communities.
Student Learning Outcomes Focusing on these learning outcomes allows us to design program experiences 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
Why We Measure Student Impact We began measuring the growth our students experience in these learning outcomes as a result of participating in Rustic Pathways programs in 2016. Measuring our impact on students allows us to constantly improve our program design and execution to best deliver meaningful and lasting learning experiences. In fact, we’ve seen a strong correlation between student satisfaction in our programs and growth in our all learning outcomes.
How We Measure Student Impact To measure student impact, we survey students, parents, and Program Leaders to determine the impact of their Rustic programs on individual growth in our 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.
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The Results of our 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.
Average Student Growth*
Openness Sense of Wonderment
We found that students grew in nine of 10 Student Learning Outcomes when comparing responses before they traveled to immediately after their Rustic program.
Shared Humanity Desire to Positively Impact Empathy Self-Awareness Humility Grit Independence
* Based on 1492 pre-travel responses and 853 post-travel responses from high school students.
Intercultural Competence
4
5 *on a scale from 1 to 6
6
initial pre-trip survey post-trip survey
of students experienced growth in at least one of our Student Learning Outcomes after participating in a Rustic Pathways program in 2017.
The Future of Our Student Impact Evaluation We’ll use the ongoing impact assessment data to design program experiences that drive stronger—and more enduring—growth in the skills, habits, and mindsets we believe are critical for students’ success as they tackle their generation’s most significant challenges. Visit rusticpathways.com/student-impact for more information.
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Southeast Asia July 16 - Aug. 2 6 service hours $4,695 plus international airfare $480 internal airfare
HOW WILL YOU IMPACT OUR WORLD? START HERE. The Rustic Pathways Critical Issues Summit is a unique two-week experience that will bring together change makers from around the world. Students will explore one of five global critical issues before participating in a conference-style event featuring issue experts, workshops, and community building. Join about 100 students from more than 20 countries and members of local communities most impacted by the critical issues you’ll explore together. Create real change by participating in a design challenge with a $10,000 prize that the winning team will share to support an innovative solution to the critical issue in their home communities.
The Critical Issues • • • • •
Globalization: How sustainable is our current pace of global growth? Access to Education: Is it a right? Refugee Crises: Should we close borders to people in need? Gender Equality: How long until we reach equality? Access to Clean Water: Is there enough on the planet? To remove the barrier of cost, Rustic will award 25 full scholarships that include airfare. Enroll online at rusticsummit.com.
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How the Critical Issues Summit Works Students will explore one of five critical issues that their passionate about and want to address in their home communities.
Join community members most impacted by one of five critical issues in one of five Southeast Asian countries. Develop skills related to sustainable development, design thinking, storytelling, leveraging social media for change, and pitching a concept.
Hear from expert speakers on a variety of topics related to the critical issues and how to create change locally and globally. Compete in groups during a social innovation challenge for $10,000 in seed funding to apply what they’ve learned to address a critical issue after the summit.
Receive ongoing coaching for student-led solutions provided by the Rustic Pathways Foundation.
July 26 - Aug. 1: Action Week
The Itinerary July 18 - 25: Immersion Week Days 1 – 2: Travel to Southeast Asia. Day 3: Arrive in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, or Vietnam, depending on the critical issue you choose to explore. Days 4 – 7: Dive into the critical issue as it plays out in a local community and develop an understanding of the human side of that impact. Days 8 - 9: Meet with individuals and organizations working on the issue. Start to discuss the questions related to that issue and understand different perspectives about those answers. Day 10: Prepare to bring what you’ve learned to the Idea Exchange.
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Day 11: Arrive at Ricefields Service Base in Udon Thani, Thailand. Participate in an opening ceremony and start to become part of a community of change makers. Days 12 – 13: Develop skills in design thinking, pitching a concept, leveraging social media for change, sustainable development, and storytelling. Identify your design challenge teams. Day 14 – 16: Learn how to apply design thinking methods to create an innovative solution to your critical issue. Work as a team to refine your solution and prepare to present it to a panel of judges. Day 17: Present your solution during the Social Innovation Design Challenge showcase. The judges will choose the winning team, who will split the $10,000 prize. Day 18: Closings reflections and departures. 19
Developing the Next Generation of Global Leaders You will face incredibly complex and nuanced social, political, and environmental challenges. Your collective response to these critical issues will define your generation and we want to empower you to take action and create change. We introduced Critical Issues programs three years ago to expose students to our world’s most pressing challenges and give them the tools to start addressing those at home. In that time, Rustic students have studied climate change in Fiji, explored religious acceptance in Morocco, learned about gender inequality and access to education for girls in Peru—just to name a few. Exposure alone isn’t enough. We want to help students combine their passions with the skills and knowledge necessary to make real change in their communities and their world. Our Critical Issues Summit takes exposure to these issues a step further by connecting change makers from more than 20 countries during an innovative event in Southeast Asia.
Critical Issues Summit by the Numbers - 2 week program - 5 global critical issues - 20+ countries represented - 100+ student change makers - $10,000 social innovation challenge prize
Social Innovation Design Challenge Rustic Pathways is committed to using the Summit not just to expose passionate change makers to these critical issues, but to also empower them with both skills and resources to catalyze change when they return home. To achieve this, the Summit will culminate in a Social Innovation Design Challenge. Students will split into groups based on the issue they’re most passionate about and use the skills they’ve developed related to storytelling, using social media to amplify impact, and design thinking to create an innovative student-driven solution. They’ll pitch their plan to a panel of social entrepreneurs and sustainable development experts. Rustic Pathways will award $10,000 in seed funding to the most promising student-led solution and connect the winning group with ongoing support from a social innovation incubator.
Meets Capstone Requirements In most cases, Rustic Pathways can work with students to ensure the Critical Issues Summit meets the requirements of your high school capstone project.
Scholarships for All Rustic Pathways will provide 25 fully-funded scholarships, which will include the Summit cost plus airfare. Separate need-based scholarships will also be available to firsttime Rustic travelers.
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What Students Are Saying About Rustic Critical Issues Programs
Bronte Grimmer Beijing, China Life in the Bateyes, 2017
“After my service trip, I realized that I don’t need to travel to far away places to help, I can also do that within my community and country. I now am more aware of what issues my own community is facing and how and what I can help with. I volunteer and fundraise even more now in my community and hope to continue to do so.”
Sulwan Ahmed Portland, Maine Peace, Wonder, and Understanding Islam, 2017
Student Feature:
Creating Education Equity After her experience with Rustic Pathways in Morocco, Josie Rey said she felt empowered to make a difference. Josie, who’s in her first year at Stellenbosch University near Cape Town, wants to address “one of the biggest problems we have” in South Africa—the high school pass rate. Only 37 percent of South African high school students complete exams that allow them to graduate, she said. When Josie returned from participating in Rustic’s Critical Issues program Peace, Wonder, and Understanding Islam, she started creating note packs for other students. “It made me realize that I need to be in a career, in a position that enables me to create more positive change,” Josie said about participating in the program. The note packs are adapted from Josie’s own study notes. They’re organized by subject and include summaries, study resources, past exams, and tips for how to succeed. Her business is called EduBuntu, a blending of the words education and ubuntu, the Zulu word for humanity. Josie entered a few innovation challenges and won one, which provided some initial funding to create and distribute the note packs. EduBuntu will eventually become an online study hub where the subscription fees from affluent students would cover the cost for their less fortunate peers. She said her goal is to “create education equity.” According to the Global Partnership for Education, more schooling can reduce poverty, increase income, and promote gender equality, among other benefits. Josie’s starting with education, but she wants to do more to promote social entrepreneurship in South Africa. “I think that all goes down to being inspired to be a change maker from last year,” she said. “I think I’ve always been driven to help people but I think Morocco was the catalyst for action.”
“As a Muslim woman I felt that growing up I would surround myself with other Muslims because I thought it was more safe for me, but I was also always eager to talk to non-Muslims in my community about their perspectives on Islam and to change the stigma around it, but I was not quite prepared to do so yet. With the Peace, Wonder, and Understanding Islam program I was given a safe environment to learn and attain the skills I thought were necessary to bring back to my community in order to start dialogues on Islam and hopefully remove the stigma surrounding it—which I have been doing!”
Quentin Collins Remsenburg, New York Impact of Climate Change on Marine Environments, 2017
“My experience on the program was amazing and exceeded my expectations. On my trip, I learned just how reliant marine life is on the coral reefs and their ecosystems. We discussed the effects of rising waters, warmer water temperatures, and impact on the animal populations, and deforestation. Ultimately this is an issue that impacts all of us, particularly the poorest and most fragile amongst us. It was on this trip that I realized that my individual actions can create global change.”
rusticsummit.com 21
Additional Critical Issues Programs For the third consecutive summer, Rustic is offering a variety of Critical Issues programs to give students the opportunity to engage in deep cultural-immersion experiences that bring together a group of like-minded peers, spark dialogue, and encourage participants to take action. These programs are similar to what students who participate in the Critical Issues Summit will experience during Immersion Week, but take place outside Southeast Asia and allow future change makers to explore other global challenges. Look for the
icon throughout the catalog to review examples of our Critical Issues programs.
Country
Program
Critical Issue Topic
Page
China
China Rising
Impacts of globalization
page 52
Dominican Republic
Innovation in Action
Social entrepreneurship and economic development
page 88
Dominican Republic
Life in the Bateyes
Citizenship and human rights for migrant communities
page 89
Dominican Republic
Public Health in the Caribbean
Public health as a human right
page 90
Fiji
Impact of Climate Change on Marine Environments
Global climate change and aquatic ecosystem conservation
page 106
Morocco
Peace, Wonder, and Understanding Islam
Religious persecution and multicultural acceptance
page 129
Peru
Andes Women’s Education Initiative
Access to education, gender equality, and women’s empowerment
page 141
Tanzania
African Wildlife Conservation
Conservation and community development
page 152
Tanzania
Tanzania Clean Water Project
Natural resource accessibility and preservation
page 153
United States
Refugee Education Project
Refugee resettlement, access to education, and citizenship
page 181
22
rusticpathways.com/critical-issues
New Programs Each year, our Program Operations Team evaluates Rustic’s Student Travel itineraries to determine whether we’re providing the best experiences for students. We review data from our Student Impact Evaluation and current research in experiential education to implement program elements and activities that have the most impact on students. Country
Program
Description
Page
???
Mystery Trip
An adventure that challenges students to unravel each day’s itinerary
page 28
Australia
Aussie Surf and Service
An action-packed service adventure on Australia’s east coast
page 35
Australia
Young Explorers: Land Down Under
An introductory service and adventure exploration of the best of Aussie life
page 24
China
China Rising
An examination of China’s economic boom and its impact on communities urban and rural
page 52
China
Young Explorers: Panda Conservation and Wild China
Panda conservation, trekking, and cultural immersion in China
page 24
Costa Rica
Youth Empowerment Project
A project to expand access to income producing jobs for youth with mental disabilities
page 64
Dominican Republic
Innovation in Action
An introduction to design thinking for future change makers
page 88
Dominican Republic
Service Off the Grid
A service adventure exploring the mountains and beaches of the Dominican Republic
page 92
Mongolia
Reindeer Herders and Gobi Sands of Mongolia
An exploration of Mongolia’s mystical reindeer herders and Gobi Desert
page 124
Morocco
Judaism in Morocco
An exploration of Jewish identity in North Africa’s largest Jewish community
page 130
Thailand
Southeast Asia by Backpack
Hidden treasures of Southeast Asia during a unique self-directed adventure
page 172
Thailand
Marine and Rainforest Conservation in Thailand
An examination of tourism’s impact and efforts to protect the environment
page 174
United States
Rebuilding the American Dream
Hurricane recovery and cultural exploration in New Orleans and Houston
page 182
United States
Aloha Hawaii
Service and exploration in the lush tropical paradise of Hawaii
page 183
United States
American Adrenaline
A fast-paced tour of some of the most epic adventure destinations in the American West
page 184
Vietnam
Hanoi to Ha Long
A two-week adventure uncovering the hidden gems of northern Vietnam
page 191
Phone-Free Sessions In addition to new programs, we’ll be adding phone-free sessions to certain programs. We’re introducing this format to encourage students to completely immerse in their experiences this summer with Rustic. Students are allowed to bring their phones and use them as cameras, but unlike other programs, where they may have limited internet connectivity at certain times, internet access won’t be permitted during these sessions. Since students won’t be able to communicate directly with parents, our Country Teams will provide more frequent email updates. Phone-free sessions will be indicated by the FREE icon next to departure dates.
PHONE
rusticpathways.com/new-programs
23
Young Explorers We believe traveling enhances students’ education and shapes their perspectives of the world—and it’s never too early to start! Our Young Explorers programs are designed exclusively for students ages 12 and 13, and allow them to step outside their comfort zones by participating in culturally-immersive travel experiences. Visit rusticpathways.com/flights for info about domestic and international airfare.
Australia
Length
16 days
Land Down Under
Service
Up to 15 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,895 plus int’l airfare
Discover magnificent beaches, countryside, and rainforest through service and adventure in Australia—the perfect destination for budding young explorers. Visit Australia Zoo, experience farm life, and learn to surf, sandboard, and snorkel in this action-packed program. Spend time participating in meaningful community service projects at a wildlife rehabilitation center and local elementary school where you’ll interact with Aussie students. Gain confidence as a young international traveler in one of the world’s safest and most welcoming countries—the Land Down Under!
Ends Wednesday July 24 August 7
China
Length
15 days
Panda Conservation and Wild China
Service
Up to 14 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,895 plus int’l airfare $680 internal airfare
Work at a renowned panda conservation center alongside researchers to help care for this gentle species. Spend three days assisting with the pandas’ care at the Wolong Conservation and Education Center in Dujiangyan. Monitor their behavior, feed them, and clean their living spaces. When not working with the pandas, trek in Mount Siguniang National Park and explore a remote Danba Jiaju Tibetan Village. Venture to Chengdu and see the sites before spending your final full day in China walking along the Great Wall during this perfect introduction to Asian culture.
Starts Wednesday June 26
Ends Wednesday July 10
Costa Rica
Length
16 days
¡Pura Vida!
Service
Up to 17 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,695 plus int’l airfare
Start your exploration in La Fortuna by participating in community service projects at schools or local organizations. Visit an indigenous Maleku village to learn about traditional culture before hiking to the Celeste River Waterfall and whitewater rafting the Sarapiquí River. Relax on the beautiful beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula and enjoy the laid-back Pacific culture or join a pick-up soccer game on the sand. Try to spot dolphins in between attempts to ride the waves as you learn to surf. Enjoy your time in Costa Rica during this perfect blend of service and adventure.
Starts Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9 July 23
Ends Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24 August 7
United States
Length
14 days
California Rush
Service
Up to 10 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,495 plus int’l airfare
Journey through the diverse California terrain during this exciting road trip for aspiring environmentalists. Venture into the Sierra Nevadas, home to three national parks and 20 wilderness areas, including notable destinations you’ll visit to kayak and hike—Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park. Cruise along the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway between Big Sur and Monterey. Experience popular surf spots as you ride waves in Santa Cruz. Conclude your journey in historic San Francisco. Along the way, participate in environmental service and connect with California’s natural wonders during an experience you’ll never forget. 24
Starts Tuesday July 9 July 23
rusticpathways.com/young-explorers
Starts Saturday June 26 July 27
Ends Friday July 12 August 9
Spring Break Spring break programs are a great way for students to have a fun and rewarding alternative break experience. Designed for students to get the most out of one week, these programs provide an opportunity for experienced travelers to spend their spring break doing something meaningful or for first-time travelers to get their feet wet.
Costa Rica
Surf and Service Get to know the Tico people during construction, environmental, and social projects during this one-week spring break program. Work on ecoservice initiatives or volunteer in the nearby community by assisting local families with service projects. After service, find out why Costa Rica is a surfer’s paradise. With the help of our expert instructors, you’ll be riding the Pacific waves in no time.
Dominican Republic
Island Living and Eco-Service Spend your spring break helping communities in the Dominican Republic, assisting local volunteers with mangrove restoration, beach cleanups, and other community service initiatives. Learn from experts about efforts to maintain the extensive biodiversity of the region. After service, take a horseback ride to Las Galeras beach, discover ancient Taino paintings in hidden caves, and visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Santo Domingo.
Fiji Islands
Spring to Fiji Experience the magic of Fiji through a combination of service projects and daily adventures in one action-packed week. Zip line, kayak, and island hop with our happy-go-lucky staff before helping the community with education and infrastructure community service projects. enjoy the laid back, relaxed pace of island life with plenty of time to lounge in the sun and share laughs with your fellow Rustic travelers.
Peru
Sacred Valley Service Trade in a typical spring break at the beach for a meaningful service experience in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Play fútbol with new friends, learn traditional dances from local children, and practice Spanish with members of the community where you’ll stay. Contribute to projects in rural Peru while immersing yourself into Andean daily life. Conclude your Peruvian adventure with an unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu.
United States
Rebuilding New Orleans Join local residents and community organizations in the ongoing disaster relief effort to rebuild and preserve the physical, ecological, and social structure of New Orleans. Assist with home construction projects throughout New Orleans as you help rebuild a historic American city. After service, explore the area’s unique culture. Listen to live jazz in the French Quarter and spot alligators on an airboat tour in the bayou.
rusticpathways.com/spring-break
Service
Up to 12 community service hours awarded
Cost
$2,495 plus airfare
Length
8 days (departs Saturday)
Departures March 23, 30 April 6
Service
Up to 12 community service hours awarded
Cost
$2,195 plus airfare
Length
8 days (departs Saturday)
Departures March 16, 23, 30
Service
Up to 15 community service hours awarded
Cost
$2,195 plus airfare
Length
9 days (departs Friday)
Departures March 22 April 5, 12
Service
Up to 12 community service hours awarded
Cost
$2,195 plus airfare $480 internal airfare
Length
8 days (departs Saturday)
Departures March 16 April 13, 20
Service
Up to 25 community service hours awarded
Cost
$2,195 plus airfare
Length
8 days (departs Saturday)
Departures April 6, 13, 20
25
Rustic Pathways Base Houses At Rustic Pathways, you don’t need to choose between meaningful service and a comfortable living environment. Our purposefully-built service bases provide accommodation with familiar living standards and easy access to service projects with our long-standing partner communities. Our bases facilitate local immersion while ensuring our students can rest comfortably, play happily, serve wholeheartedly, and learn from their experiences. Look for the
icon throughout the catalog to review examples of our Base House programs.
Volcano and Rainforest Base
South Pacific Eco-Lodge Base
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Momi Bay, Fiji
Situated on the edge of a rainforest reserve and under Arenal Volcano’s shadow, this base allows ample space for playing outdoor games, swimming in the pool, or relaxing in a hammock. Students sleep in bunk beds, and access hot showers and western toilets.
Perfectly balancing an island getaway with access to meaningful service, our South Pacific Eco-Lodge boasts bunk beds, solar-heated showers, and standard western toilets.
Beds: Bunk beds Showers: Hot
Toilets: Standard Western Air Conditioning: No
Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica
page 61
Beds: Bunk beds Showers: Hot, solar-powered
Toilets: Standard Western Air Conditioning: No
Sun, Sand, and International Service Intro to Community Service in Fiji
page 100 page 101
Ricefields Service Base
Hill Tribe Service Base
Ban Chiang Yuen, Thailand
Mae Sariang, Thailand
Our largest service base, Ricefields features modern amenities, a Thai sala, café, swimming pool, sports fields, and even a few water buffalo. Students can expect single or bunk beds, hot showers, western toilets, and air conditioning.
Nestled in verdant rice fields and one of the largest teak structures in Thailand, the Hill Tribe Service Base blends unique program experiences with simple accommodation. It features mattresses with mosquito nets, hot showers, and western toilets.
Beds: Single beds or bunk beds Showers: Hot
Beds: Mattresses with mosquito nets Toilets: Standard Western Showers: Hot Air Conditioning: No
Toilets: Standard Western Air Conditioning: Yes
Ricefields, Monks, and Smiling Children Intro to Community Service in Thailand Community Health and Wilderness First Aid 26
page 163 page 164 page 165
Life on the Margin Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support Project Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Conservation
rusticpathways.com/base-house
page 167 page 168 page 169
Glass House Mountains Service Base Sunshine Coast, Australia
Beds: Bunk beds Showers: Hot Toilets: Standard Western Air Conditioning: Yes
You, A ‘Roo, and Australia Zoo
page 34
Kampong Cham Service Base Kampong Cham, Cambodia
Beds: Mattresses with mosquito nets Showers: Bucket shower with cold water Toilets: Sit down, ladle flush Air Conditioning: No
Access to Education: Cambodia
page 44
Surf and Service Base Playa Grande, Costa Rica
Beds: Bunk beds Showers: Fresh water (cold) Toilets: Standard Western Air Conditioning: No
Surf and Service Surf and Service (Spring Break)
page 63
Mountain Air Service Base Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic
Beds: Bunk beds Showers: Intermittently hot Toilets: Standard Western Air Conditioning: No
Mountain Air and Village Service
page 87
Highlands Service Base Nausori Highlands, Fiji
Beds: Sleeping mats with mosquito nets Showers: Cold Toilets: Standard Western Air Conditioning: No
Highlands and Islands Service Immersion
page 103
Islands Service Base Somosomo Village, Fiji
Beds: Cots with sleeping bags Showers: Cold Toilets: Self-composting outhouse Air Conditioning: No
Highlands and Islands Service Immersion Marine Service and Adventure Impact of Climate Change on Marine Environments
page 103 page 105 page 106
Mekong Service Base Luang Prabang, Laos
Beds: Mattresses with mosquito nets Showers: Intermittently hot Toilets: Standard Western Air Conditioning: No
Wonders of Laos
page 116
New Orleans Service Base Louisiana, United States
Beds: Bunk beds Showers: Hot Toilets: Standard Western Air Conditioning: Yes
Rebuilding New Orleans (Spring Break) Rebuilding the American Dream
page 25 page 182
rusticpathways.com/base-house
27
MYSTERY TRIP The best adventures lie in the unknown. Imagine not knowing where your travels will take you this summer—until arriving at the airport for your flight. When you sign up for Rustic’s Mystery Trip, you’ll get a Patagonia duffel bag in the mail filled with subtle hints about your upcoming adventure and a packing list about a month before you leave. That’s it. Even when you arrive in country, mystery looms. There’s no itinerary. Instead, you’ll wake to clues each morning and your group must decipher them to unravel that day’s adventure. Join Rustic’s third Mystery Trip and explore iconic sites, discover the remote villages of some of our most beloved staff members, and blaze a trail for future students by exploring destinations we haven’t visited. Are you willing to take the leap?
Ages
16 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Cost
$5,995 plus international airfare $680 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Starts Wednesday June 12 June 26
Ends Thursday June 27 July 11
Visit rusticpathways.com/mystery for more information.
rusticpathways.com
29
u Epic Outback, page 36
Australia
Australia The magical Land Down Under occupies a special place in our history as the location of the first Rustic Pathways program in 1983. As Rustic has grown across the world, Australia has remained at the heart of our operations, thanks to the tireless efforts of our energetic and expert Aussie staff. Whether on adventure or service trips, these blokes and sheilas bring with them years of experience, knowledge, and a strong pride in their wild homeland.
majestic Australia is ___________.
Population
23.2 million
Capital City
Canberra – the Australian Capital Territory
Currency
Aussie Dollar (AUD)
Language
English with Aussie slang
Attractions
The Great Barrier Reef – a 1,600-mile reef system visible from space
The Outback – home to Uluru and the world’s largest cattle ranches
Sydney Harbour – famous for its view of the Opera House
Known for its vast outback and pristine coasts, Australia programs feature awesome outdoor activities like surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, skydiving, encountering wildlife, and riding through the Outback in a 4WD. No matter which program you choose, you’re bound to have a blast!
Sam Murray | Australia Country Director “Novice and experienced travelers alike will find themselves in awe of Australia. While some come for our beaches, reefs, and wildlife, others seek the dramatic gorges and red dirt of the Outback. In a country that’s nearly the size of the United States, yet with only 23 million people, it’s not hard to escape the crowds and find true adventure.” 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-changing programs for students. Sam loves sharing adventures with people and is proud to show off his beautiful country. He lives near Melbourne with his wife and three young girls.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
You, A ‘Roo, and Australia Zoo
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
••••
••
•••••
••
30 hours
16 days
Aussie Surf and Service
•••
•••
•••
••••
25 hours
16 days
Epic Outback
•
•••••
•••
••••
15 hours
16 days
Great Barrier Reef Dive Expedition
•••••
••••
••••
•••
10 hours
16 days
Island Survival
•
•••••
•••••
•••
20 hours
16 days
Seven Wonders of Australia
••••
•••••
•••
•••••
15 hours
16 days
32
australia@rusticpathways.com
Cost $4,895 + airfare
$4,895 + airfare
$4,995 + airfare
$9,495 + airfare
$5,295 + airfare
$5,995 + airfare
Glass House Mountains Service Base Nestled amongst eucalyptus trees and rainforest on a 50-acre property on Australia’s Sunshine Coast, the secluded Glass House Mountains Service Base offers spacious communal living space, dormitory-style bedrooms with bunk beds, and modern bathrooms. Get to know this area of southeastern Queensland, which has a unique culture of laid back yet hard-working people. Located about one-hour north of Brisbane in the small town of Peachester, the base has beautiful views of the Glasshouse Mountains. During your downtime, hike nearby trails, tell stories around the campfire, play soccer on the lawn, or enjoy a game of ping pong indoors.
Service Initiatives Education: Participate in a variety of education activities to assist preschool and primary school teachers with their students during Young Explorers: Land Down Under. Join an art lesson, help with a special needs class, and play cricket with Aussie kids during school breaks. Environment and Animal Welfare: Work in pairs or small groups helping zookeepers maintain animal enclosures, prepare food, and feed animals during You, A ‘Roo, and Australia Zoo. Work in a different area of the zoo each day to experience how zookeepers care for different animals. Put your new knowledge to use assisting veterinarians at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital.
Jemma Laurie | Australia Program Manager Jemma joined Rustic in 2014 as a Program Leader and now manages our Sunshine Coast programs. With a degree in leisure management and outdoor recreation, she has a broad skill set and a sound understanding of program management. Her approachable persona and true-blue character makes students feel at home.
rusticpathways.com/au
33
Australia
You, A ‘Roo, and Australia Zoo A conservation program at Steve Irwin’s world-famous Australia Zoo
Ages
16 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 30 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,895 plus international airfare
Enjoy the ultimate backstage pass at Australia Zoo, one of the world’s most respected animal conservation destinations. Experience a day in the life of a zookeeper and learn the basics of caring for a variety of Aussie wildlife. Discover the incredible work being done at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital and see how they care for sick and endangered species at this world-class facility.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16
Returns Wednesday July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31
Connects well with… Epic Outback Island Survival
p. 36 p. 38
Channel your passion for wildlife during this program designed for animal lovers interested in zoology, ecology, conservation, or veterinary science. After orientation, you’ll help prepare food and enrichment for amazing wildlife, watch keepers present guest talks, and assist with interactive animal enclosures. Volunteer alongside keepers in a multitude of tasks like gardening, mulching, pond scrubbing, raking, and poop scooping—it’s all part of the experience! Meet some of the majestic creatures that call Australia home and return knowing what it’s really like to care for wildlife at a zoo. Base House Program: Glass House Mountain Service Base College Program: For students 18 and over we offer a special version of this program, The Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve Project, with one session starting June 25. For more information, please visit rusticpathways.com/college.
34
australia@rusticpathways.com
Australia
Aussie Surf and Service An action-packed service adventure on Australia’s east coast
Surf some of the country’s best breaks with expert Aussie surfing coaches.
Ages
14 and up
Road trip along the Australia’s east coast and visit beaches, explore mountains, and experience farm life at a real Australia bush camp.
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 25 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,895 plus international airfare
Volunteer at elementary schools, spend an afternoon playing basketball with the Sunshine Coast Special Olympics team, and support low-income families. Develop new skills, learn more about yourself, and make friends for life while exploring the hidden gems of Queensland. Spend two weeks in the water on this high-adrenaline service adventure. Learn to surf with Aussie instructors and develop your ocean skills at some of Australia’s best surf breaks. Stay at a surf house on the Sunshine Coast, then road trip to Surfers Paradise and Byron Bay. Ride a jet boat, sea kayak with dolphins, and spot humpback whales! Spend two nights at a farm and experience Australia’s ancient Aboriginal culture. Along the way, help special-needs athletes, participate in environmental preservation, and cook meals for the homeless through a series of service projects.
rusticpathways.com/au
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9 July 23
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24 August 7
Connects well with… Epic Outback
p. 36
35
Australia
Epic Outback The quintessential Rustic adventure in the remote Australian Outback
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 15 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,995 plus international airfare $ 1,360 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24
Travel has taught me the importance of loving everyone from all walks of life and has shown me the shared humanity between people from all corners of the world. Jessica Galen | Menlo Park, California
36
Travel in the footsteps of the original Rustic Pathways tours that kick-started our company nearly four decades ago. Venture across the Outback in a 4WD to the Kimberley—a wild and remote region of waterfalls, cattle ranches, cowboys, dingoes, kangaroos, and crocs. Enrich the lives of Aboriginal children through social service projects, provide meals for disadvantaged communities, and volunteer at a wildlife rescue center. Discover Australia’s ancient Aboriginal culture and partake in a workshop to learn about its traditions and customs. Step off the beaten path and into the wild heart of Australia. This program is exactly what it claims to be—an epic Outback adventure. Road trip, swim in billabongs, camp in swags under the stars, hike into spectacular gorges, and marvel at waterfalls. Along the way, listen to dingoes howling in the night, spot wild animals, and share stories around the campfire. In several towns, contribute to environmental and social service projects with Aboriginals, the guardians of a culture passed down for more than 50,000 years. Learn basket weaving, spear throwing, and how to play a didgeridoo. Work with partner organizations to run after-school activities for the children of Kununurra. Get to know real cowboys, learn how to muster cattle, ride horses (add-on activity), and cruise across Lake Argyle at sunset.
australia@rusticpathways.com
Australia
Great Barrier Reef Dive Expedition 21 dives during two live-aboard dive expeditions on this epic aquatic adventure
Snorkel with whales and help record data about their behavior.
Ages
15 and up
Earn your Professional Association of Diving Instructors open water certification and scuba dive in the Coral Sea and discover marine life on the largest reef system on the planet—the Great Barrier Reef.
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 10 community service hours awarded
Cost
$9,495 plus international airfare $640 internal airfare
Develop your knowledge of marine biology, learn about environmental threats, and think critically about solutions to conservation issues. Join the ultimate dive adventure on the Great Barrier Reef. Get certified as an open water diver or take an advanced course during your first live-aboard boat trip. Venture into the far reaches of the Coral Sea on a four-day trip to snorkel with dwarf minke whales, a type of baleen whale that visit the reef along their migratory path each year from June to August. When not swimming with whales and other marine animals, join marine biologists to help evaluate the sustainable management of ecotourism and experience magical night dives. Log up to 21 dives during your trip. Conclude your Australian adventure by whitewater rafting class III and IV rapids before heading home.
rusticpathways.com/au
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18 July 2
Returns Wednesday July 3 July 17
Connects well with… You, A ‘Roo, and Australia Zoo
p. 34
37
Australia
Island Survival The ultimate challenge for body, mind, and soul
Ages
15 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 20 community service hours awarded
Cost
$5,295 plus international airfare $640 internal airfare
Maroon yourself on Rustic Island—a remote island in the southern Great Barrier Reef, 45 nautical miles off the coast of Australia. Challenge yourself physically and mentally during Rustic’s survival program on a 13-hectare coral cay surrounded by reef and lagoon. Learn essential survival skills from survival specialists, build shelters, catch fish, and cook your own food.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday July 16
Returns Wednesday July 31
Connects well with… Seven Wonders of Australia
p. 39
This program showed me that when you get out of your comfort zone and really push yourself, you become comfortable pretty much everywhere and really grow and mature. Mehmet Inceoglu | Istanbul, Turkey
38
Complete a variety of environmental restoration projects and collect data during marine surveys in the lagoon. Fly to Australia and then get taken to a remote island off the coast with only five survival items of your choice. Think of this unique challenge as Rustic’s version of “Survivor.” For eight days, your group will inhabit Rustic Island, which is surrounded by coral reef and turquoise lagoons. Undertake a series of physical and mental challenges that are carefully designed and coordinated by Australian Army survival specialists. Develop valuable life skills, learn about yourself, and build friendships through intense teamwork activities. Between challenges, watch the sun rise and set over the ocean, snorkel on the reefs, observe marine life, and contribute to environmental projects to restore this island paradise. Are you ready for Island Survival?
australia@rusticpathways.com
Australia
Seven Wonders of Australia A picturesque journey through the landscapes of the land Down Under
Snorkel or scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef and learn about its marine ecosystem.
Ages
15 and up
Immerse in the beauty of the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest rainforest on Earth, and help preserve its tropical environment.
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 15 community service hours awarded
Cost
$5,995 plus international airfare $1,360 internal airfare
Explore the Outback, visit Ayers Rock, hike along the rim of Kings Canyon, and learn about bush food from Aborigines. Tour Sydney and see the iconic Opera House, climb Sydney Harbour Bridge, and take a ferry cruise through the beautiful harbor. Travel from cities to the Outback, and see more in two weeks than many do in a lifetime. After a stop in Brisbane, fly to Cairns—the adventure capital of Australia and the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef—where you can snorkel or scuba dive in a revered aquatic landscape. Then visit the Daintree where the rainforest meets the reef. In the Outback, hike through canyons, swim in natural springs, explore Kata Tjuta, see iconic Ayers Rock, and learn about Aboriginal culture. Bid Australia farewell among the landmarks of Sydney, including the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
rusticpathways.com/au
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7 August 14
39
u Floating Village Service Expedition, page 45
Cambodia
Cambodia Cambodia is a country with a painful past and a hopeful future. Rustic Pathways has partnered with social enterprises and local community development organizations since 1999 to help students gain a deep understanding of the beautiful and complex realities of Cambodia. Our staff members are skilled at teaching while keeping it fun, and students often leave with a changed perspective about their own lives.
eye opening Cambodia is _______________.
Angkor Wat’s ancient temples are jaw-dropping, the rural countryside is dotted with brilliant green rice fields, and the incredibly friendly locals are eager to show you around. Amidst the beauty, your program in Cambodia will also expose you to the pressing social and economic issues facing the country. The contrast can be shocking, but it can also be positively transformative.
Population
16.2 million
Capital City
Phnom Penh
Currency
Riel (KHR)
Languages
Khmer, English, and some French
Attractions
Angkor Wat – the largest religious structure in the world
Tonle Sap – the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and a UNESCO biosphere reserve
Mondulkiri Province – home to rolling green hills in northeastern Cambodia
Alexis Simchak | Cambodia Country Director “Through the years, Cambodia has become my second home. The moment I first stepped foot in the country, I felt welcomed and the people I’ve met have sincerely become my family. That’s simply how Cambodia operates.” Alexis has extensive experience in Southeast Asia where she has worked since 2012 leading programs and managing operations in Cambodia. Having discovered her passion for travel and service learning at a young age, Alexis loves exploring new places and uncovering hidden gems. She is a proud alumna of Penn State and is dedicated to service and cultural exchange in Cambodia.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
••••
•••
•••
•••
36 hours
18 days
$3,895
Floating Village Service Expedition
•
••••
•••••
••••
30 hours
18 days
$3,895
Off the Map: Cambodia
•
•••••
•••
•••••
42 hours
25 days
$5,695
Snapshots of Southeast Asia
••
•
•••••
•••••
N/A
18 days
$4,995
Access to Education: Cambodia
42
cambodia@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
Kampong Cham Service Base The Kampong Cham Service Base is a traditional two-story house in a local village northeast of Phnom Penh. Students can expect basic yet comfortable accommodations in this small provincial town surrounded by farming communities. When not participating in service projects, students can bike around the village, visit local attractions, compete in ping pong, or play a friendly game of cards. Students participating in the Access to Education: Cambodia will stay at the Kampong Cham base assisting our service partner Buddhism for Social Development Action (BSDA), a non-governmental organization. Seven monks founded BSDA to provide education, health care assistance, and income generation to women, children, and marginalized people in Kampong Cham.
Service Initiatives Education: Support BSDA by participating in education exchange activities with children and teens at centers that provide supplemental education to more than 200 students. Lead educational games and activities designed to facilitate teamwork, communication, citizenship, and intercultural competence skills. Infrastructure: Participate in infrastructure improvement projects at BSDA education centers. Assist local professionals with painting, plastering, and other projects identified and prioritized by BSDA staff.
Pu “Yusos� Sles | Cambodia Program Manager Full of energy and always smiling, Yusos has been the first one to the project site and the last one to leave since joining Rustic in 2010. Born near Kampong Chhnang, he now lives in Phnom Penh after graduating from the Royal University of Law and Economics. Yusos enjoys traveling, seeing new things, and meeting new people.
rusticpathways.com/kh
43
Cambodia
Access to Education: Cambodia Connecting with local youth and expanding their access to education
Ages
14 and up
Length
18 days from the United States
Service
Up to 36 community service hours awarded
Cost
$3,895 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 July 16
Returns Friday June 28 August 2
Connects well with… Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support p. 168
This program affected my views of the world and taught me many valuable lessons including to never take anything for granted. Ines Ladha | Muscat, Oman
44
Experience Cambodian culture while staying at Rustic’s Kampong Cham Service Base, a traditional Khmer house. Interact with Cambodian students as you participate in fun and engaging educational and exchange activities. Explore the ancient temple of Angkor Wat and bustling markets of Siem Reap. Partner with Buddhism for Social Development Action (BSDA), a grassroots nongovernmental organization founded by a group of monks to empower and support women, children, and marginalized members of the Kampong Cham community. Alongside BSDA, put your leadership skills into practice by organizing educational exchange activities for students at BSDA’s three community centers. Work on infrastructure improvement projects throughout the centers. After challenging but fulfilling service, head northwest to the city of Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat. Enjoy an unforgettable day exploring local markets and a few of Cambodia’s renowned temples.
Base House Program: Kampong Cham Service Base cambodia@rusticpathways.com
Cambodia
Floating Village Service Expedition Cambodian river life and service in communities on the Tonle Sap
Cruise past floating villages and immerse in Cambodian daily life.
Ages
14 and up
Build new floating homes alongside community members in Prek Toal.
Length
18 days from the United States
Discover Cambodia’s ancient culture and tumultuous past during visits to Phnom Penh’s museums and the UNESCO World Heritage site Angkor Wat.
Service
Up to 30 community service hours awarded
Jump aboard the Rustic Pathways boat and join one of our most unique service adventures. Travel around the Tonle Sap Lake and visit communities where thousands of families live and work in floating homes. At night, sleep at homestays with trusted host families and share in their day-to-day lives. Work alongside local professionals to repair and build new floating homes for the community. After service, take time to visit Siem Reap, one of Cambodia’s legendary destinations, and stroll through the breathtaking stone fortresses of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm. Complete your trip with a traditional Cambodian feast and a visit to the local markets.
Cost
$3,895 plus international airfare
Sothy Than | Cambodia Program Manager Sothy was raised in the Battambang countryside where he became a champion kickboxer. In addition to his native Khmer, Sothy learned English and Thai from the monks at Phreah Phrom Rach Pagoda. A member of Team Cambodia since 2011, he loves sharing his country with students on our Floating Village program.
rusticpathways.com/kh
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday July 2 PHONE July 16
Returns Friday July 19 August 2
FREE
Connects well with… Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support p. 168
I went on Floating Village Service in Cambodia and it completely changed my life. My leaders, friends, and activities were all amazing. Nicole Ryeom | New York, New York
45
Cambodia
Off the Map: Cambodia An adventure to discover remote Cambodia’s rich cultural tapestry
Ages
15 and up
Length
25 days from the United States
Service
Up to 42 community service hours awarded
Cost
$5,695 plus international airfare
Explore the wonders of the Kingdom of Cambodia, from the bustling streets of Phnom Penh to the relaxing beaches of Sihanoukville. Learn about the resilient Khmer culture from our local staff and expert program leaders—a history you won’t soon forget. Wander amid the magnificent spires and myriad ruins of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25
Returns Friday July 19
Connects well with… Floating Village Service Expedition
p. 45
I’m grateful for the amazing opportunity I was given to have such an unimaginable learning experience in Cambodia. Traveling teaches you more than any classroom could. Sage Spalter | Berkeley, California
46
Work with community members on service projects that include educational exchange and construction initiatives around the country. Venture off the beaten path in small Khmer villages and discover what life is like in rural Cambodia. After a dose of history in Phnom Penh and a few days exploring the beach, journey to rural communities to assist with ongoing service initiatives. Head deep into the rugged province of Mondulkiri and visit the Elephant Valley Project to learn about the gentle giants that inhabit this remote landscape. Travel north to the rarely visited Ratanakiri Province to explore Cambodia’s untouched natural wonders including remote jungle waterfalls and ancient volcanic lakes. Conclude your adventure with a boat trip to a floating village around Tonle Sap Lake where you’ll help build houses. As you visit the various regions of the country, get to know friendly people, eat delicious food, and gain a deep appreciation of life in Cambodia—past and present. cambodia@rusticpathways.com
Cambodia
Snapshots of Southeast Asia A professionally-led photo expedition through Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam
Experience Cambodia’s splendor in the ruins of Angkor Wat, bustling Phnom Penh, the Killing Fields, and the spectacular waters of Tonle Sap Lake.
Ages
15 and up
Length
18 days from the United States
Photograph French Colonial architecture, cascading waterfalls, and hundreds of orange-robed monks in the town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Cost
$4,995 plus international airfare $640 internal airfare
Stroll the bazaars of old Hanoi, taste fresh Vietnamese food, explore awe-inspiring natural beauty, and learn the history of Vietnam.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Improve your photography skills with help from professionals and return with powerful images from across Southeast Asia. Trek across Southeast Asia to see the majestic ancient temples of Angkor Wat, the monks of Luang Prabang, and the lively atmosphere of Hanoi during this traveling photography workshop. Explore the wonders of Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, and learn how to capture incredible sights and document the stories of people you meet. Learn technical skills and photojournalism techniques from our skilled photo guides. In verdant rice fields and bustling city streets, capture the vibrant culture of Southeast Asia through your lens and leave with an impressive portfolio.
rusticpathways.com/kh
Departs Tuesday June 18
Returns Friday July 5
All of the traveling was handled impeccably by the staff and all of the activities were fulfilling and so much fun. I learned so much on my program, both about myself and taking photos. Jane Gamble | San Francisco, California
47
u Panda Conservation and Wild China, page 54
China
China
Population
1.38 billion
Capital City Beijing
Rustic’s programs in China expose students to the wonders of this fascinating country. We’ve built partnerships with schools, non-governmental organizations, and conservation groups since opening China operations in 2007. Students venture from big cities to rural areas and explore, learn, and conduct service. They interact with members of our partner communities and leave with a better understanding of and appreciation for China and its culture.
China is __________. magical
Currency
Renminbi (CNY)
Languages
Mandarin Chinese and numerous regional dialects
Attractions
The Great Wall – built to protect China in the third century A.D.
Terracotta Warriors – a 2,000-yearold emperor’s army
The Forbidden City – the best preserved imperial palace in China
From giant pandas to giant cities, everything about China is grand. You’ll be surrounded by the lights and energy of Shanghai and Beijing one day and enveloped in the serene beauty of the rural countryside the next. Visits to iconic attractions and exploration of China’s historic culture will not disappoint.
Kevin Wang | China Country Manager “I’m always excited to see my home country though our students’ eyes and amazed by how much they change throughout their programs. They leave saying they’re going to introduce what they learned to their families. These moments make me proud. I feel like our students expand their view of the world in a way that defines Rustic Pathways.” Originally from the village of Minqin, Gansu, China, Kevin joined Rustic as a Program Leader in 2012 before becoming Country Manager. Kevin is a China history expert and loves to share his passion for his country with everyone he meets. He’s also been known to start a conga line during a traditional Chinese hot pot feast.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
•
••••
••
•••••
15 hours
15 days
$4,895
Chinese Language Immersion
••••
•
•••••
•
N/A
15 days
$3,995+
Panda Conservation and Wild China
•••
•••
•••
•••
14 hours
15 days
$4,895
Silk Road Service
•••
•••••
•••
•••
15 hours
15 days
$4,495
China Rising
50
china@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
China
rusticpathways.com/cn
51
China
China Rising An examination of China’s economic boom and its impact on urban and rural communities
Ages
15 and up
Length
15 days from the United States
Service
Up to 15 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,895 plus international airfare $490 internal airfare
Explore China’s rich imperial history and contrast that to how globalization has changed the country in recent decades. Interview local students and delve into how those changes have altered the hopes and aspirations of their generation. Participate in local community service initiatives to combat the environmental impacts of the country’s rapid development.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Wednesday June 12
Returns Wednesday July 26
Connects well with… Floating Villages Service Expedition Chinese Language Immersion Silk Road Service
p. 45 p. 53 p. 55
Walk along the Great Wall of China, dating to the Ming Dynasty in the 14th century, to understand how China’s history informs its place in the world today. Travel along the ancient Silk Road and visit bustling metropolitan cities Xi’an and Beijing and smaller rural villages in the Gansu Province to learn about how rapid development and globalization have changed daily life in China over the past four decades. Spend several evenings meeting with different groups of local students. Get their perspective about the country’s complex history as a global power before the discovery of the New World and what the rise of China means for their lives. Walk along the 1,300-mile Great Wall of China to truly feel China’s vast and fascinating history. Critical Issues Program Impacts of globalization
52
china@rusticpathways.com
China
Chinese Language Immersion Small group classes or private instruction for a custom learning experience
Learn from university faculty and native speakers in settings designed to boost your Mandarin conversational skills. Enjoy the culture alongside Program Leaders who will challenge you to use your language skills in a variety of settings. Practice your Mandarin while ordering dinner, chatting with new friends, or playing basketball with local students. Explore the Great Wall of China and the hutongs of Beijing. Dive into this program designed to accommodate almost any proficiency level in Mandarin, the world’s most widely spoken language. At the start of the program, take an assessment and decide whether you want to learn through one-on-one instruction or in a class of five to 10 students. Every day after class, try activities such as calligraphy and kung fu, or set out to explore and apply your language skills in the community. Try delicious Chinese hot pot, embrace the hustle and bustle of the city, and learn to bargain in colorful markets. Finish your experience with a visit to a remote section of the Great Wall of China, which stretches more than 1,300 miles. Leave with vastly improved Mandarin and a greater understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture and history.
rusticpathways.com/cn
Ages
14 and up
Length
15 days from the United States
Language Up to 28 hours classroom instruction Cost
$3,995 group instruction $4,395 private instruction $210 internal airfare plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Wednesday July 10
Returns Wednesday July 24
Connects well with‌ Panda Conservation and Wild China Silk Road Service
p. 54 p. 55
53
China
Panda Conservation and Wild China A unique learning experience protecting China’s iconic giant pandas
Ages
14 and up
Length
15 days from the United States
Service
Up to 14 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,795 plus international airfare $680 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Wednesday June 12 July 10
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 24
This program changed my perceptions on not only China, but the world. Almost immediately my expectations were shattered when I saw the mountains and temples and met our local guide. Eva Houser | Athens, Georgia
54
Learn how to protect and care for this vulnerable species from trained experts at a world-renowned panda conservation center. Gain knowledge through observations of panda behavior, discussions on ecological topics with experts, and visits to breathtaking national parks. Assist researchers and handlers with the pandas by cleaning facilities, preparing food, and feeding these near-extinct animals. Experience the natural landscapes and cultural highlights of China during visits to a glacier, the vast Tibetan steppe, and Sichuan province. Help giant panda caretakers with their daily responsibilities looking after one of the world’s most famous and beloved vulnerable mammals. Low birth rates and bamboo forest depletion have made it difficult for these gentle creates to thrive. According to the World Wildlife Fund, there are fewer than 1,900 giant pandas in the wild—an increase of about 17 percent in the last decade. The pandas’ status was recently changed from endangered to vulnerable, but anticipated deforestation could make their survival more challenging. Care for the pandas by preparing their food and cleaning their living quarters. Assist researchers by recording observational data about their behavior. Conclude your time in Sichuan Province with visits to some of the region’s natural wonders, including glaciers and the Tibetan steppe. china@rusticpathways.com
China
Silk Road Service An off-the-tourist-track service adventure through the Yunnan Province
Volunteer with non-governemental organizations focused on projects that support local communities and foster environmental protection.
Ages
14 and up
Length
15 days from the United States
Hike ancient Naxi trails along the edge of Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest and most scenic gorges in the world.
Service
Up to 15 community service hours awarded
Ride on horseback along the Southern Silk Road, an ancient network of trade routes, into the remote Bai village of Ma Ping Guan for an overnight stay.
Cost
$4,495 plus international airfare $880 internal airfare
Explore the ancient towns of Dali, Lijiang, and Shaxi and experience the cultures of China’s ethnic minorities including the Yi, Bai, and Naxi peoples.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Leave the skyscrapers of Shanghai behind as you join our grand service adventure through China’s famed Yunnan province. Yunnan is one of China’s most diverse provinces both in its ethnic makeup and its breathtaking landscapes. Fly into Kunming, the heart of Yunnan and a major intersection of China’s diverse cultures. For the next two weeks, spend time experiencing the patchwork of people that makes up Yunnan province. Volunteer with NGOs to support local communities and foster environmental protection, and explore the natural wonders of this beautiful province. As you travel from the city of Kunming to more rural communities, you just might fall in love with this special corner of China.
rusticpathways.com/cn
Departs Wednesday June 26
Returns Wednesday July 10
Connects well with… Chinese Language Immersion
p. 53
The friendships that I made on my Rustic program, formed through scenic hikes, muddy adventures, and meaningful service, were some of the closest and most meaningful that I’ve had. Tina Barrios | Miami, Florida
55
u Surf and Service, page 63
Costa Rica
Costa Rica Since opening Costa Rica operations in 2003, Rustic has expanded to include the most spectacular regions of this Central American paradise. From the Pacific to the Caribbean, from rainforests to rivers, from service to adventure, our programs here encompass the breadth of what Costa Rica has to offer. Our team of talented local staff members challenge veteran travelers with new experiences and introduce more novice adventurers to the joys of travel.
lush Costa Rica is ______.
With our large staff of local Ticos, you’ll quickly feel at home in Costa Rica and easily slip into the lifestyle of pura vida, a phrase meaning “pure life.” Embrace the idea of living life to the fullest as you learn to relax, appreciate nature, and experience everything Costa Rica has to offer.
Population
4.9 million
Capital City
San José
Currency
Colon (CRC)
Language
Spanish
Attractions
Arenal Volcano – the youngest of all the volcanoes in Costa Rica
Corcovado National Park – a showcase of Costa Rica’s biodiversity and commitment to conservation
Pacuare River – known as Costa Rica’s best whitewater river
Ricardo Romero | Costa Rica Country Director “Discover the warmth and laid-back Tico culture in the beaches, towns, and jungles of Costa Rica. Experience for yourself the power of sustainable environmental development programs. Contribute to sea turtle conservation efforts, immerse in the indigenous culture of the Bribri, hone your Spanish skills through unique homestays, explore the jungle, and zip line through the rainforest.” 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.
58
costarica@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
••••
•••••
•••
••
22 hours
9 days
••••
•••••
•••••
•
12 hours
9 days
Youth Empowerment Project
•••
•••
•••••
•
24 hours
9 days
Summer Camp Leadership in Costa Rica
••••
•
•••
••
60 hours
16 days
Surf and Service
Spanish Language Immersion
•••
•••
•••••
•
N/A
16 days
Ramp Up Your Spanish
•••
•••
•••••
•
N/A
9 days
Bribri Indigenous Culture and Service
••
•••••
•••
••••
15 hours
9 days
Heart of the Jungle
••
•••••
•••
••••
25 hours
16 days
Nicoya Turtle Expedition
••••
•••
•••••
••
35 hours
16 days
Turtle Conservation Project
••
•••
••••
••
30 hours
9 days
Costa Rican Adventurer
••••
•••••
•
••••
N/A
16 days
Caribbean Adrenaline
•••••
•••••
•
••••
N/A
9 days
Traveling Soccer and Service Team
•••
••••
•••
••••
25 hours
16 days
Cost $1,995 + airfare
$2,895 + airfare
$1,495 + airfare
$4,495 + airfare
$3,895+ + airfare
$1,995 + airfare
$2,495 + airfare
$4,695 + airfare
$3,995 + airfare
$2,295 + airfare
$4,895 + airfare
$2,895 + airfare
$4,295 + airfare
Team Costa Rica at a Glance About 60 full-time and seasonal staff members support our summer operations throughout Costa Rica. Of those, half are native Costa Ricans and many live in communities where Rustic programs operate. A majority of the host families who invite Rustic students into their homes are lifelong friends of current staff members. Tourism is a major part of Costa Rica’s economy and many of our full-time staff and local Program Leaders have degrees in sustainable tourism and ecotourism. Other seasonal Program Leaders have backgrounds in teaching and outdoor education. All of our staff share a passion for nature, sustainability, and giving back to community partners—characteristics they channel to ensure impactful experiences each summer in Costa Rica.
rusticpathways.com/cr
59
Volcano and Rainforest Service Base Situated on the edge of a beautiful rainforest reserve beneath the famous Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, the Rustic Pathways Volcano and Rainforest Service Base is the perfect hub for summer service and adventure. The base is within minutes of incredible service opportunities as well as plenty of heart-pounding adventure activities such as zip lining and rafting. It’s 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. The houses are equipped with electricity, private bathrooms with hot water showers, flush toilets, and fans. Enjoy delicious meals prepared fresh daily while socializing with your new friends.
Andrés “Fofo” Zúñiga | Costa Rica Program Manager A Turrialba native, Andres puts his master’s degree in environmental management and eco-tourism to use managing our base house in La Fortuna. He started working with Rustic Pathways in 2013 as a Program Manager and his passion and pioneering spirit have made him an invaluable member of our Costa Rica team.
60
costarica@rusticpathways.com
Service Initiatives Education: Serve as English language conversation partners with local students and reinforce the lessons they’re learning in their classrooms. Many students in Costa Rica study English in school to develop skills necessary for future employment opportunities. Environment: Costa Rica is world-renowned for its dedication to environmental protection. Rustic Pathways’ partnership with the Arenal Volcano National Park allows students to work alongside park rangers in various conservation projects within the protected areas. Infrastructure: Work on small-scale construction projects to create more effective learning environments for students in local schools, or work with our rural community partners to support infrastructure development projects. In the past, we’ve built new classrooms, installed tile floors and windows, and assisted with painting projects. We’ve also assisted community leaders with building projects such as the construction of a tilapia fish farm and a kitchen at a community center.
Costa Rica
Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica Exciting service and thrilling adventure at the Volcano and Rainforest Service Base
Live surrounded by rainforest in our comfortable base house beneath Arenal Volcano.
Ages
14 and up
Interact with school children and enhance their days with much-needed English language enrichment activities.
Length
9 days from the United States
Service
Up to 22 community service hours awarded
Cost
$1,995 plus international airfare
Savor the taste of tropical fruits while sipping smoothies and relaxing in natural hot springs during your downtime. Participate in a variety of adventure activities like zip lining over the jungle canopy and whitewater rafting the class II and III rapids of the Sarapiquí River. Work on a combination of service projects throughout your week at Rustic’s Volcano and Rainforest Service Base in La Fortuna. Whether helping out with service initiatives or participating in cross-cultural experiences, you’ll contribute to the community, practice your Spanish, and make new Tico friends. After service, experience some of Costa Rica’s best adventure activities like zip lining and whitewater rafting. Visit a secluded hot springs and a traditional Costa Rican farm to learn about the local culture. After action-packed days, relax in a hammock or take a dip in the freshwater pool. This program is great for first-time travelers and students interested in making new friends from across the globe.
Base House Program: Volcano and Rainforest Service Base
rusticpathways.com/cr
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 4 June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30 August 6
Returns Wednesday June 12 June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7 August 14 61
Surf and Service Base Located along the North Pacific Coast in Playa Grande, our two-story beachfront house is right next to Marino Las Baulas National Park—considered the home of leatherback turtles. The Surf and Service Base is just a short 15- to 20-minute drive from our service site, making it the perfect jumping off point for our projects in Guanacaste Province. When not participating in service nearby, students relax at the base, surf, or play soccer or volleyball on the beach. The Surf and Service Base also offers a perfect vantage point for catching the Costa Rican sunset each night during your program.
Rolando “Rolo” Carazo | Costa Rica Program Manager Rolo’s passions for surfing, the ocean, environmental conservation, and traveling have come in handy leading Rustic programs through Costa Rica’s great outdoors since 2011. Originally from Turrialba, Rolo’s vast knowledge of Costa Rica’s history and culture turn every adventure into a learning experience.
62
costarica@rusticpathways.com
Service Initiatives Economic Development: Rustic will be working in the next few years to help develop income generation projects to support the Playa Grande community. As the area’s popularity has increased attracting more tourists, so has the cost of living for local residents. Having additional revenue sources would allow community members to supplement their income, especially during the low tourist season. Infrastructure: We’ll support the community of Matapalo this year with construction projects, including a new irrigation system and changing rooms for the local soccer field. Finishing these projects will allow Matapalo to host soccer tournaments with surrounding communities. These tournaments will create an additional revenue source for the community while providing a safe place for area youth to hang out and play soccer.
Costa Rica
Surf and Service An introductory experience in a beautiful Pacific beach community
Ride the waves of Playa Grande on the best beach breaks in the country with conditions for all levels, from beginner to expert.
Ages
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Work on a variety of service projects that directly help the local community by improving their living conditions and recreational spaces.
Service
Up to 12 community service hours awarded
Spot marine life on a half-day boat trip and explore the wonders of the sea while snorkeling one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful areas.
Cost
$2,895 plus international airfare
Experience breathtaking sunsets, palm-fringed beaches, and blue waters during this week of surf, service, and adventure in Costa Rica. Settle in at the Playa Grande Surf and Service Base house and take in the beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. Participate in service designed to help the local community improve its quality of life. Grab your surfboard and head to the beach for lessons from expert surf instructors. Relax at the base house or play soccer or volleyball on the beach after service. No previous experience is necessary and experienced surfers will not be disappointed. Base House Program: Surf and Service Base Spring Break Program: We also offer a one-week version of this program between March and April for spring break. For more information and dates, please see page 24 or visit our website at rusticpathways.com/spring-break.
rusticpathways.com/cr
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 4 June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30 August 6
Returns Wednesday June 12 June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7 August 14 63
Costa Rica
Youth Empowerment Project A project to expand access to income producing jobs for youth with mental disabilities
Ages
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Service
Up to 24 community service hours awarded
Cost
Contribute to the development of a local foundation that supports vocational skills development to area youth with mental disabilities. Hike through the lush jungle trails of Juan Castro Blanco National Park. Tour a coffee plantation and experience Costa Rica’s incredible cuisine and culture. Zipline through the canopy of Central America’s most ecologically diverse zone.
$1,495 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16
Returns Wednesday July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24
Connects well with… Intro to Community Service in CR Surf and Service
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p. 61 p. 63
Partner with Fundación el Futuro es de Todos, an organization dedicated to providing access to sustainable income for vulnerable populations through vocational skills development. In Costa Rica, recent graduates with mental disabilities often struggle to find sustainable employment. Further compounding the challenge, access to vocational education is often limited for these students. Work alongside this organization to build a vocational skills training farm donated by the National Institute of Agrarian Development. After participating in service, explore the lush ecological diversity of Costa Rica with a hike through Juan Castro Blanco National Park and a heart-racing zip line adventure through the rainforest canopy. Learn how coffee is cultivated at a local coffee farm in Naranjo and tour the picturesque Costa Rican town of Zarcero.
costarica@rusticpathways.com
Costa Rica
Summer Camp Leadership in Costa Rica A unnique experience creating a summer camp for rural Costa Rican youth
Develop leadership skills as you work as a team to create a camp for local children.
Ages
14 and up
Empower youth in Costa Rican communities as you participate in an unforgettable summer, build friendships, and gain invaluable experience.
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 60 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,495 plus international airfare
Adventure around the country by whitewater rafting the Pacuare River, zip lining Arenal Volcano, and relaxing on the tropical Pacific coast. Gain valuable leadership and collaboration skills, and help enrich the lives of local community members as you develop a summer camp in La Fortuna. Start your journey with an exhilarating rafting trip followed by the start of your camp planning. Design a sixday summer camp in small teams, then meet the children you’ll lead in sports, arts, and other recreational activities throughout the week. Zip line, kayak, soak in natural hot springs, and boat along the picturesque Costa Rican coastline.
Stan Berrin | Costa Rica Program Manager After graduating from Pitzer College, Stan took a year-long trek around the world where he enjoyed cultural exchanges, seeing natural wonders, and, eating as much as he could. Stan joined Rustic in 2016 and will play any sport that involves a ball, is not afraid to sweat on the dance floor, and greets everyone with a big smile!
rusticpathways.com/cr
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 PHONE June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30
Returns Wednesday June 26 FREE July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7 August 14
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Costa Rica
Spanish Language Immersion A Spanish program in a traditional Costa Rican environment for two or more weeks
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Learn Spanish from native speakers in a small group or private setting during 40 hours of classroom instruction.
Language Up to 40 hours classroom instruction Cost
$3,895 for group instruction $4,295 for private instruction plus international airfare
Engage in Costa Rican family life and learn about the colorful Tico culture. Raft down the class III and IV rapids of the world-famous Pacuare River.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24
Connects well with‌ Intro to Community Service in CR Surf and Service Bribri Indigenous Culture and Service
66
Hone your conversational skills while exploring the quaint town of Turrialba, an adventure hot spot and welcoming community.
p. 61 p. 63 p. 68
Enhance your Spanish in this program designed for students of all skill levels. Learn from a native speaker in a classroom setting with other students of similar abilities. Classes will focus on conversational skills to prepare you for traveling in Costa Rica. Live with a local family in a carefully-selected homestay to enhance the linguistic and cultural elements of your trip. Continue practicing your skills even during adventure activities around Turrialba. Rappel down waterfalls, zip line through the forest, and raft the Pacuare River. This culturally-immersive two-week program is a great way to improve your Spanish before embarking on any of our other programs in Costa Rica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, or Peru.
costarica@rusticpathways.com
Costa Rica
Ramp Up Your Spanish Service and Spanish in the heart of rural Costa Rica
Boost your Spanish speaking skills with 20 hours of specialized classroom instruction from native speakers. Live with a local family, enjoy home-cooked meals, and experience an ideal environment to practice your Spanish.
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Language Up to 20 hours classroom instruction Cost
Explore the vibrant and peaceful town of Turrialba. Ride mountain bikes, zip line through the jungle, and make new Tico friends. Hone your Spanish skills during daily classes and conversational opportunities with native speakers. While only a 90-minute drive from the capital of San José, Turrialba is a peaceful town that provides an idyllic environment for students to practice their Spanish and integrate into traditional Tico culture. Live with a local family for a homestay experience that will enhance your language immersion while providing an inside look at daily life in the community. Outside the classroom, visit botanical gardens, check out a coffee plantation, or pick up a few new moves during a Latin dance class. Those looking for adventure can mountain bike, hike to the Aquiares Waterfall, rappel, and zip line through Turrialba’s stunning canyons.
Ages
rusticpathways.com/cr
$1,995 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16
Returns Wednesday June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24
Connects well with… Summer Camp Leadership in CR Heart of the Jungle Turtle Conservation Project
p. 65 p. 69 p. 71
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Costa Rica
Bribri Indigenous Culture and Service Service and cultural exchange in a traditional Bribri community
Ages
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Service
Up to 15 community service hours awarded
Cost
$2,495 plus international airfare
Explore the hidden treasures scattered throughout Talamanca and experience indigenous and Tico cultures. Interact with members of the community as you play games with children and swap stories with local elders. Visit a remote indigenous village and learn about the fascinating Bribri history, language, traditions, food, and culture.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9
Returns Wednesday June 19 July 3 July 17
Connects well with… Intro to Community Service in CR Surf and Service Nicoya Turtle Expedition
68
p. 61 p. 63 p. 70
Raft the exhilarating whitewater rapids of the famous Pacuare River and surf the crystal-clear waves of the Caribbean. Meet the Bribri people, Costa Rica’s largest indigenous group that has lived in the hills and valleys of the Talamanca region for hundreds of years. This population has held onto it’s traditional beliefs and customs while integrating into mainstream Costa Rican society. Immerse in indigenous life as you play an active role in development projects with community organizations and schools. Learn the secrets of artisanal chocolate making while lending a hand at a local business and pick up some Bribri phrases during activities with village children. Spend your free time hiking to hidden waterfalls or cooling off in the nearby river. At the end of the week, take a break from service and check out the picture-perfect Caribbean coast to conclude your trip.
costarica@rusticpathways.com
Costa Rica
Heart of the Jungle High adventure and rewarding service on the pristine Osa Peninsula
Kayak across the Golfo Dulce during a three-day adventure.
Ages
14 and up
Hike through the jungle and discover wildlife in the Osa Peninsula, one of the world’s most biologically diverse regions.
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 25 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,695 plus international airfare
Challenge yourself as you rappel down the spectacular 150-foot Diamante Waterfall and raft the whitewater rapids of the raging Savegre River. Enhance the local communities you visit by completing environmental initiatives and school improvement service projects. Start your journey by heading south to surf the hidden breaks and enjoy the secluded beaches of Dominical. Hike along beautiful trails and canyons to a series of impressive waterfalls where expert guides will teach you how to rappel. Set off on a three-day sea kayaking expedition through the Golfo Dulce in the Osa Peninsula. At night, camp on the beach and enjoy dinner next to a bonfire as you exchange stories about the day’s adventures. Venture into Corcovado National Park, keeping an eye out for monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws. When not exploring the jungle, participate in a variety of infrastructure service projects to support the communities you visit. You might work on housing projects for lowincome families or support other local small-scale construction projects. Conclude your adventure by rafting the whitewaters of the Savegre River.
rusticpathways.com/cr
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 4 June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30
Returns Wednesday June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7 August 14 69
Costa Rica
Nicoya Turtle Expedition Two weeks of turtle conservation and adventure on northern Pacific Coast beaches
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 35 community service hours awarded
Cost
$3,995 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9 July 23
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24 August 7
I experienced so much growth on this trip personally and my life has been positively impacted by every person I shared this with. I am beyond thankful. Katharine Drorbaugh | Issaquah, Washington
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Learn from experienced conservationists about ongoing efforts to save Costa Rica’s endangered sea turtles. Protect sea turtles during evening beach walks and spend your days working in the hatchery, continuing your education of this native species. Ride the blue waves of the Pacific Ocean in a sea kayak or on a surfboard, enjoy the Tico lifestyle, and truly understand what it means to live pura vida. Snorkel Costa Rica’s clear waters and discover the diverse marine life hidden beneath the surface of the Pacific. Spend two weeks contributing to the conservation of endangered sea turtles and exploring the beaches of Costa Rica. Work with park rangers at the Camaronal Wildlife Refuge to protect the fragile natural habitat of the turtles that make the local beaches their home. Walk the shores looking for turtle nests, help clean the beach, or assist with other restoration efforts. Travel to the funky beach towns of Carrillo and Sámara to snorkel, surf, and explore Chora Island in a sea kayak. Although this program runs during turtle nesting season, we can’t guarantee you’ll see a sea turtle. We can ensure, however, that you’ll make a significant contribution to the protection of this endangered species and leave Costa Rica with a new appreciation for local wildlife and Tico culture.
costarica@rusticpathways.com
Costa Rica
Turtle Conservation Project A one-week experience learning about endangered sea turtles
Monitor the beach at night to collect newly laid turtle eggs, take them back to the safety of a hatchery, and ensure they hatch into healthy baby turtles.
Ages
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Learn about the most effective turtle conservation initiatives in Costa Rica and around the globe from local experts.
Service
Up to 30 community service hours awarded
Enjoy life on a charming beach on the Pacific Coast, zip line through the rainforest, and learn to surf the deep blue ocean waters.
Cost
$2,295 plus international airfare
Journey to a secluded beach on the Pacific Coast to help protect Costa Rican sea turtles. These majestic creatures face threats to their nesting grounds from hunting, pollution, and development. While we can’t guarantee you’ll see a sea turtle, you’ll be certain to contribute to the conservation of this endangered species. In the mornings, join beach cleanup projects and help construct a hatchery. At night, monitor the beach for turtle nests, record the number of eggs you collect, and carefully transport them to the hatchery or a safer place along the beach. With help provided by expert volunteers, many of these eggs will hatch into healthy baby turtles. In your free time, raft the Savegre River and take trips to the beach town of Jaco to learn how to surf the incredible waves of the Pacific Ocean. Leave Costa Rica having contributed to a local conservation effort and with a better understanding of what it means to live pura vida.
rusticpathways.com/cr
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30 August 6
Returns Wednesday June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7 August 14
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Costa Rica
Costa Rican Adventurer A high-adrenaline adventure and exploration of Costa Rica’s natural wonderlands
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Cost
$4,895 plus international airfare
Ride the world-famous rapids of the Pacuare River and stay in a jungle lodge during an exciting three-day river expedition. Surf the sweet waves of Avellanas Beach on the Pacific Coast, sail on a catamaran, and snorkel in warm, tranquil waters.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24
Connects well with… Spanish Language Immersion Nicoya Turtle Expedition
p. 66 p. 70
I loved everything about my trip, especially the small group and fun leaders. I was really lucky to have such a small group because we were all able to get super close. Margaret Ryan | Fair Haven, New Jersey
72
Sleep in a cave hidden behind a waterfall and wake up to the sunlight filtering through the majestic falling waters. Start on the Pacific Coast, hike through the rainforest to a hidden cave, and rappel a 100-foot cliff as waterfalls surge on either side of you. Travel up the coast to spot monkeys and sloths, and enjoy the picturesque Costa Rican landscapes. Sail, snorkel, and surf in the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean on the cool coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. Zip line through the lush rainforest canopy and soak in natural hot springs in La Fortuna. Conclude your journey with a three-day whitewater rafting voyage down the Pacuare River.
Laura Eva Arroyo | Costa Rica Program Manager Eva was inspired to become a naturalist tour guide by the Confucius quote, “Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.” She joined Rustic in 2013 and now manages our Heart of the Jungle and Costa Rican Adventurer programs. Outside of work, Eva enjoys surfing, hiking with friends, drawing, and singing.
costarica@rusticpathways.com
Costa Rica
Caribbean Adrenaline Adventure and exploration on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast
Raft the whitewater rapids of the legendary Pacuare River on a two-day expedition, spending your nights in a comfortable jungle lodge. Surf the warm turquoise waves of the Caribbean coast. Zip line through the forest canopy and rappel down a cascading waterfall near the peaceful town of Turrialba. Experience Caribbean culture venturing along the coast with local staff and Program Leaders in this exhilarating adventure. Begin your journey with a mountain biking tour in Turrialba, where its proximity to two world-class rafting and kayaking rivers—the Pejibaye and the Pacuare—has made this town a paradise for adventure seekers. Learn about the coffee plantations and immerse in the local life in Turrialba, a peaceful mountain town with all the flair of true Tico culture. Hit the Pejibaye in an inflatable kayak, rappel down waterfalls, and zip line through the jungle. Take a a twoday rafting expedition on the Pacuare through impressive tropical canyons and over heartpounding drops. Stop halfway down the river for an overnight stay in a comfortable jungle lodge, then continue your adventure with a ride through class IV rapids. Spend your last days exploring the quaint beach towns of the Caribbean coast, surfing the turquoise waters, and strolling along miles of white-sand beaches.
rusticpathways.com/cr
Ages
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Cost
$2,895 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18 July 2 July 16
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24
Connects well with… Intro to Community Service in CR
p. 61
Experiencing Costa Rica and specifically Turrialba was incredible. Being in a non-touristy city was a great look into the real Costa Rican daily life. Clyde Leef | Basking Ridge, New Jersey
73
Costa Rica
Traveling Soccer and Service Team Soccer Games, rewarding service, and exciting adventure throughout Costa Rica
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 25 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,295 plus international airfare
Bring your A-game during indoor and outdoor soccer matches against village teams and local clubs while practicing your Spanish. Raft the whitewater rapids of the world-famous Pacuare River, visit an active volcano, and relax on the beach. Develop relationships with your homestay families during this unique experience.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 July 9
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 24
Connects well with… Spanish Language Immersion Turtle Conservation Project
p. 66 p. 71
Travel as a team and play local soccer clubs in different communities. Start in Turrialba and contribute to an ongoing service project before embarking on a whitewater rafting trip on the Pacuare River. Practice your Spanish and join pick-up soccer games before playing some competitive matches. Head into the mountains where you’ll stay with a Costa Rican family for a few days, participate in service work, and play several pick-up and competitive soccer games. Wrap up your journey on the Pacific Coast playing soccer on the beach or just enjoying the landscape.
Jason Quesada | Costa Rica Program Manager Jason joined Rustic in 2015 as a Program Leader after working in Costa Rica as a tour guide. He has a bachelor’s degree in architecture and a passion for eco-architecture. Jason is also passionate about soccer and loves to play, making him a perfect fit to manage Traveling Soccer and Service Team.
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costarica@rusticpathways.com
Costa Rica
rusticpathways.com/cr
75
u Intro to Photography in Cuba, page 81
Cuba
Cuba
Population
11.1 million
Capital City Havana
In true Rustic fashion, students have explored beyond Havana and the country’s tropical coastlines since we started offering Cuba programs in 2016. Built around local interaction, hands-on learning, and engaging community exchanges, our programs are designed to introduce students to what life is really like in Cuba. The country is only in the early stages of opening its doors to American tourism, and there is so much for us to learn and experience about this fascinating country.
captivating Cuba is ____________.
We invite you to get to know this intriguing Caribbean nation. The island’s vibrant streets, verdant rainforests, and undiscovered adventures will excite the most experienced travelers. Music and dance are an integral parts of life, and the lively beats of the island will provide a tantalizing soundtrack to your trip.
Currency
Cuban National Peso (CUP) and Cuba Convertible Peso (CUC)
Language
Spanish
Attractions
Old Havana – see what Cuba was like 200 years ago
Plaza de la Revolución – a historical icon and memorial to celebrate the leaders of the Cuban revolution
Rustic Pathways qualifies for the people-to-people general license established by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Under this license, Rustic Pathways offers educational and cultural exchanges with the people of Cuba. After enrolling, Rustic Pathways will send students traveling from the United States a Certificate of Legal Travel to Cuba to carry with them.
Kate Lubina | Cuba Country Manager “Cuba is a beautiful and fascinating place at a unique time in its history. Any preconceptions that you have will be challenged as you learn about the country’s resilient people and communities. Travel to Cuba with an open mind to experience a different way of life, learn about innovation and revolution, and appreciate a strong and vibrant culture.” 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.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
¡Viva Cuba! Culture and Conservation
••
•••••
••••
••••
24 hours
16 days
$5,695
Intro to Photography in Cuba
•••
••••
•••••
•••••
N/A
16 days
$6,295
78
cuba@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/cu
79
Cuba
¡Viva Cuba! Culture and Conservation Exploration of Cuba’s vibrant culture and tropical scenery through a local lens
Ages
14 and up
Learn Cuban history as you explore the streets of Havana and Trinidad with local guides.
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 24 community service hours awarded
Work alongside farmers and park rangers on reforestation, sustainable-farming, and ecological-conservation projects.
Cost
$5,695 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24
Traveling to Cuba was an eye opening experience. All of the people were incredibly friendly and willing to talk to me about their daily lives, which helped me learn about and understand the culture. Alexandra Kane | Duxbury, Massachusetts
80
Trek through the Lomas de Banao ecological reserve to see incredible waterfalls, discover local flora and fauna, and camp under the stars. Experience Cuban culture during salsa and rumba dances, vibrant regional music performances, and engaging camp activities. Immerse in Cuban culture and discover the country’s rich history. Visit iconic Havana and build relationships with community members. Partner with the National Organization for the Protection of Flora and Fauna to learn how Cubans conserve their natural resources and enjoy the spectacular beauty of the country’s pristine parks, forests, and coasts. Work alongside biologists and conservation experts near the Zaza River. Harvest red mangrove seedlings and plant them in deforested areas along the coastline to serve as a barrier against wind and waves during tropical storms. Move to the beat of Cuban music that pulses through the island during this unique program.
cuba@rusticpathways.com
Cuba
Intro to Photography in Cuba An immersive photography program with experienced teachers
Develop your photography skills during a two-week program designed to introduce you to Cuban society and culture.
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Capture unforgettable images of some of Cuba’s most important and iconic landscapes, monuments, and buildings.
Cost
$6,295 plus international airfare $300 internal airfare
Document the energy and emotion of the local community as you explore rural towns and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Influence the way people see and discuss Cuba by positively sharing and showcasing your photographic work with friends and family. Take an up close and personal look at Cuban life, architecture, and natural landscapes while enhancing your photography skills. Begin your Caribbean adventure by spending three days capturing images of life in Havana’s old city and its surrounding neighborhoods. Each afternoon during workshop and exposition, share photos with your group and learn new techniques for your art. Head west to some of Cuba’s most impressive natural landscapes. Hike to natural falls and swim in crystal-clear water from the mountains of Trinidad. Explore the French-inspired architectural wonders of Cienfuegos, said to be one of Cuba’s hidden gems few travelers explore. Learn about life in Camagüey, the epicenter of artistic expression in this multicultural island. End your trip in Santiago exploring Cuba’s Afro-Caribbean roots.
rusticpathways.com/cu
Departs Tuesday July 23
Returns Wednesday August 7
Connects well with… Viva Cuba! Culture and Conservation
p. 80
The valuable photography lessons and critiques helped me grow as a photographer and I learned so much more about making and taking photographs. I also learned so much about the local Cuban culture in ways that I could not have done on a regular trip. Eliza Beckerman-Lee | New York, New York
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u Island Living and Eco-Service, page 93
Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic Since Rustic Pathways started its Dominican Republic programs in 2012, our goal has been to emphasize the people over the places. While our staff and students adore the pristine beaches and idyllic settings, our programs go much deeper than the average tourist’s trip. Each program in the Dominican Republic dives into service opportunities, whether through community development, environmental stewardship, or public health, and allows our students to connect with members of the communities where they serve.
complex The Dominican Republic is ___________.
Population
10.7 million
Capital City
Santo Domingo
Currency
Dominican Peso (DOP)
Language Spanish Attractions
Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo – a UNESCO World Heritage site
Los Haitises National Park – famous for limestone caves filled with pictographs from the native Taíno
San Pedro de Macorís – home of MLB’s Dominican Winter League where many players get their start
While you’ll be sure to enjoy the picturesque beaches and tranquil mountains, you’ll also understand what life is really like for Dominican people. Next to resorts lie marginalized, impoverished communities called bateyes. Dominicans face many challenges and they have big hearts, warm personalities, and enjoy sharing their fun-loving culture.
Harry Alvarez | Dominican Republic and Cuba Country Director “Growing up between the Dominican Republic and New York has given me a unique perspective about what makes this country amazing. Most think of the Dominican Republic as vacation destination with beautiful beaches, but it’s so much more complex than that with many layers of history and politics. I hope students leave with an understanding of Dominican life and a different view of this Caribbean paradise.” Born in New York City 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 joined Rustic in 2008. He opened operations in the Dominican Republic in 2012 and Cuba in 2015. Harry enjoys cooking and hosting friends at his home in New Orleans.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
Mountain Air and Village Service
••••
••••
•••
••
20 hours
9 days
$1,995
Innovation in Action
•••••
•••••
•••••
•••••
12 hours
16 days
$4,695
Life in the Bateyes
••••
•••••
••••
•••
50 hours
16 days
$3,695
Public Health in the Caribbean
••••
•••
•••••
•••
30 hours
16 days
$4,695
Marine Life and Coastal Restoration
•••
••••
••••
•••
32 hours
16 days
$3,995
Service Off the Grid
•••••
•••••
•••••
•••••
24 hours
9 days
$1,495
Island Living and Eco-Service
••••
•••
•••
••••
12 hours
9 days
$2,195
Summer Camp Leadership in the Dominican Republic
••
•••
•••••
••••
60 hours
16 days
$3,995
Dominican Baseball Heritage
••••
••••
•••
•
20 hours
16 days
$3,895
84
dominican@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/dr
85
Mountain Air Service Base The Rustic Pathways Mountain Air Service Base is set in the region of the country known as the Dominican Alps. This mountainous countryside boasts picturesque views of the surrounding area. Located at Bohios Campos de AĂąil, students stay in bohios, Dominicanstyle homes made of cinder block with thatch or tin roofs. Each bohio has two bedrooms for up to five students. Students participating in Mountain Air and Village Service will stay at the base and get a feel for the local culture in this typical community setting. The surrounding mountain villages offer service opportunities to build aqueducts and construct wastewater treatment systems. In the evenings, relax by the pool or explore the vast grounds at the base.
Carlos Estrella | Dominican Republic Program Manager Carlos, a Santo Domingo native fluent in Spanish and English, is an avid outdoorsman who has summited Pico Duarte, the country’s highest peak, more than 30 times and hiked 500 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Carlos joined Rustic Pathways as a Program Leader in 2016 and now manages groups programs in the Dominican Republic.
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dominican@rusticpathways.com
Service Initiatives Environment: Water pollution in the Yaque del Norte River has increased as the regional population grows and families are settling nearer the river. We partnered with Rancho Baiguate and Plan Yaque to complete eight blackwater treatment systems to process wastewater from homes before entering the river since 2015. Infrastructure: In 2012, we began our collaboration with Obra Social Salesiana, a local nonprofit working to provide water access to underserved communities in the Jarabacoa region of the Dominican Alps. In that time, Rustic students have built 12 aqueducts.
Dominican Republic
Mountain Air and Village Service A cultural immersion and service experience in the heart of the Cordillera Central
Live at our service base in the Dominican Alps, known for its fantastic weather, amazing views, and comfortable amenities. Work with our partner communities on infrastructure projects, building aqueducts to bring running water to their villages. Hike to one of the region’s picturesque waterfalls. Swim in warm, turquoise waters and relax on white sand beaches under the island sun. Stay at the Rustic Pathways base in the mountains and make it your home away from home in the Domincan Republic. Experience daily life in the heart of the Cordillera Central, also known as the Dominican Alps because of its cool weather, scenic vistas, and high altitude. Many small villages here lack basic necessities and infrastructure such as running water and electricity. Contribute to Rustic’s ongoing efforts to bring water to these communities by helping with the construction of an aqueduct to serve local homes and farms. After service, enjoy a weekend of sun relaxing on one of the Dominican Republic’s beautiful beaches. Take part in challenging activities including a low ropes course and hiking to Baiguate Waterfall.
Ages
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Service
Up to 20 community service hours awarded
Cost
$1,995 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30
Returns Wednesday June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7
Base House Program: Mountain Air Service Base
rusticpathways.com/dr
87
Dominican Republic
Innovation in Action An introduction to design thinking for future change makers
Ages
15 and up
Turn insight into innovation with a course in problem-solving through design thinking.
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 12 community service hours awarded
Expand your critical-thinking skills as your group discusses and debates political, economic, social, and sustainability issues in today’s society.
Cost
$4,695 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10
Learn how to tackle real-world challenges and convert them into opportunities to create tangible and sustainable solutions. Discover the Dominican Republic’s history, culture, and daily life through interviews and cultural-exchange activities with locals. Get a head start on making a positive impact on the world by participating in this program designed for future leaders. Design thinking is an empathy-focused process used to find tangible solutions to problems on a local and global level. Explore critical issues facing the developing world and learn how to turn your ideas into actionable solutions. Then take your knowledge to the streets and interact with business owners to learn about challenges they face every day. Leave the program with a personal appreciation of Dominican society, the knowledge to drive toward action, and newly developed design-thinking skills.
Critical Issues Program Social entrepreneurship and economic development 88
dominican@rusticpathways.com
Dominican Republic
Life in the Bateyes A glimpse inside the lives of sugarcane workers and their families
Immerse in the lively Dominican-Haitian culture during service work to improve living conditions and expand access to resources in rural batey communities. Enjoy the beaches of Bayahibe and the Samaná Peninsula where you’ll swim and snorkel after completing meaningful community service. Work alongside community members to construct a new home for a family in need. Experience two very different sides of the Dominican Republic during this intensive program. Leave the resorts and tourist destinations behind as you travel deep into the heart of the country to the bateyes—underserved communities of predominantly Haitian sugarcane workers. Here you’ll find that though resources are in short supply, there is a generous sense of community. Listen to stories from local farmers, mothers, leaders, and youth, and contribute to service projects designed to create lasting improvements in these communities. Then travel northeast to experience a completely different side of the country. Reflect on your time in the bateyes amid the turquoise waters and white sand beaches. Critical Issues Program Citizenship and human rights for migrant communities College Program: For students 18 and over we offer a special version of this program, with one session running between Jan. 3 and Jan. 10, 2019. For more information, please visit rusticpathways.com/college.
rusticpathways.com/dr
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 50 community service hours awarded
Cost
$3,695 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9 PHONE July 23
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 FREE July 24 August 7
Rustic Pathways did a great job of showing me what people were living not only through learning the adults stories, but also the children’s. I’m not sure if my trip could have been better in any way. Cole Caress | Indianapolis, Indiana
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Dominican Republic
Public Health in the Caribbean Powerful community health service with underrepresented communities
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 30 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,695 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9 July 23
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24 August 7
I made so many friends and met people who were just like me—people who wanted to do something amazing, cared about the world, and had a passion to serve and help others. It was an amazing experience! Lila Hathaway | Baltimore, Maryland
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Practice your Spanish in a medical setting as you help implement public health initiatives in underserved areas. Learn about issues facing the Dominican Republic as you interact with health care professionals from the area. Earn your Wilderness First Aid certification and use your new knowledge to help create workshops for local youth. Hike to El Limón Waterfall and admire 120 feet of spectacular cascading water. Work alongside medical professionals on high-impact public health projects across the Dominican Republic. Explore the diverse regions of this beautiful country while experiencing local culture and practicing your Spanish in a health care setting. Meet with public health organizations and visit hospitals in Santo Domingo to witness how the country’s urban health system works. Travel inland to learn about the health challenges in more rural areas. Earn your Wilderness First Aid certification and apply your new skills to help communities in need. After your hard work, head to the Samaná Peninsula where you’ll explore turquoise waters and white sand beaches, hike to waterfalls, and enjoy the sun and fresh sea air. Critical Issues Program Public health as a human right dominican@rusticpathways.com
Dominican Republic
Marine Life and Coastal Restoration A hands-on conservation experience about island ecosystems in the Caribbean
Snorkel to a coral restoration site, identify native marine species, and explore the ecosystems of the warm Caribbean waters. Enjoy the country’s famed white sand beaches and turquoise waters in Bayahibe on the island’s beautiful southern coast. Partner with marine professionals from FUNDEMAR, an organization dedicated to the protection of local dolphin populations. Boat to Saona Island and learn about local efforts by volunteers to protect the sea turtle population that make local beaches their home. Grab your snorkel gear and dive into a marine adventure to protect the coastlines of the Dominican Republic. Stay in stunning Bayahibe and work with FUNDEMAR, a nongovernmental organization dedicated to the conservation of marine ecosystems. Learn about threats to local marine and terrestrial life as you gain hands-on experience in scientific conservation methods, including the construction of coral restoration structures and the rehabilitation of mangroves. On remote Saona Island, spend a night helping to protect sea turtles during an introduction to this unique species. Share what you’ve learned about marine conservation with local youth during a fun day camp. In your downtime, swim in freshwater caverns, search for sea stars in natural pools, and fall in love with island life.
rusticpathways.com/dr
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 32 community service hours awarded
Cost
$3,995 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7
Connects well with… Island Living and Eco-Service
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Dominican Republic
Service Off the Grid A service adventure exploring the mountains and beaches of the Dominican Republic
Ages
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Service
Up to 24 community service hours awarded
Cost
$1,495 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16
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Returns Wednesday July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24
Swim in tropical rivers, relax on white sand beaches, and experience beautiful turquoise waters on this island paradise. Contribute to sustainable infrastructure and environmental service projects created in collaboration with members of the local community. Camp overnight, falling asleep to the serene sounds of nature and waking up to picturesque mountain views. Travel to the heart of the Dominican Republic on this program that will allow you to live in harmony with nature, and experience life as locals live it in this diverse Caribbean island. Get to know the women of Las Majaguitas, who’ve set up an idyllic eco-lodge in the country’s central mountain range. Spend three days working on service projects, contributing to infrastructure and environmental initiatives. Depart on a half-day hike to a beautiful vista overlooking the town of Jarabacoa, and camp overnight. Head back south to the beaches near Juan Dolio and explore the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, where you’ll learn about the rich history of the country.
dominican@rusticpathways.com
Dominican Republic
Island Living and Eco-Service An introductory service experience on this island paradise
Preserve the biodiversity of the region as you work on ecological restoration projects.
Ages
14 and up
Explore mangroves, reef formations, and marine habitats at Los Haitises National Park and on the Samaná Peninsula.
Length
9 days from the United States
Service
Up to 12 community service hours awarded
Cost
$2,195 plus international airfare
Visit hidden caverns to see ancient Taíno cave paintings. Leave the typical tourist route and explore the real Dominican Republic. Begin your journey in the mountainous region of Jarabacoa. Learn about efforts to foster sustainable tourism and park management as you help maintain protected territories. Head to Samaná Peninsula and partner with the Green Brigade, a group of young environmental activists, to plant red mangroves along the coast to protect the region from storm surges. Take a break from community service to hike to the Baiguate or Jimenoa waterfalls, ride horses to the secluded beaches of Las Galeras, and take a boat ride across Samaná Bay to explore the islands of Los Haitises National Park.
Spring Break Program: We also offer a one-week version of this program between March and April for spring break. For more information and dates, please see page 24 or visit our website at rusticpathways.com/spring-break.
rusticpathways.com/dr
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23
Returns Wednesday June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31
Connects well with… Life in the Bateyes
p. 89 93
Dominican Republic
Summer Camp Leadership in the Dominican Republic An intensive service experience working with marginalized youth
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 60 community service hours awarded
Cost
$3,995 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 July 9 July 23
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 24 August 7
The bond that I created with not only my leaders and fellow peers, but also with the communities in the Dominican Republic will forever be an experience I hold very close to my heart. Anna Huthnance | Houston, Texas
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Develop your leadership skills while working as part of a team to design a summer camp for underserved youth. Bond with your new Rustic teammates and spend a night camping in the mountains known as the Dominican Alps. Visit underserved batey communities, home to the local children who will participate in the summer camp your group creates. Sail to Saona Island on a catamaran, stopping along the way to snorkel, swim in the ocean, and relax on remote beaches. Push yourself to become a leader and work as part of a team to design and run a day camp for children during this challenging program. Your trip begins in the adventure capital of Jarabacoa. Plan your curriculum while you camp in the Dominican Alps as you get to know the rest of the members of your group. Journey into underserved batey communities to meet your excited students and put your week-long day camp plan into action. Lead them in sports, arts, and other recreational activities. When the camp is over, reflect on your success while relaxing on a tranquil beach with your new friends, take a catamaran ride, and go snorkeling. Leave the Dominican Republic knowing you’ve impacted area children with an experience they’ll never forget.
dominican@rusticpathways.com
Dominican Republic
Dominican Baseball Heritage Two weeks of teamwork and service in Latin America’s baseball mecca
Experience the national pride, passion, and love for baseball in the Dominican Republic, home to more Major Leaguers than anywhere but the United States. Discover the incredible beauty of Bahia de las Aguilas, a pristine white sand beach.
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 20 community service hours awarded
Cost
$3,895 plus international airfare
Compete in baseball and softball scrimmages against local teams. Work on meaningful service projects in the batey communities that border famous baseball camps in the area. Join in dialogue with local leaders about the role baseball plays in Dominican culture. Experience the passion found at all levels of Dominican society as you play vitilla with children and scrimmage against community teams. Visit the country’s national baseball museum, Casa Museo del Pelotero Profesional Dominicano. Contribute to service projects to build a backstop and dugouts at baseball fields in underserved batey communities of predominantly Haitian sugarcane workers. Then play on the manicured fields located just a stone’s throw away—highlighting the disparities between those who make it to the big leagues and those who don’t. Take some time to experience the hidden wonders of the Dominican Republic with a visit to the inviting water of Bahia de las Aguilas, considered by many as the most beautiful beach in the world.
rusticpathways.com/dr
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25
Returns Wednesday July 10
Connects well with… Mountain Air and Village Service Island Living and Eco-Service
p. 87 p. 93
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u Highlands and Islands, page 103
Fiji Islands
Fiji Islands
Population
921,000
Capital City Suva
Our community partnerships in Fiji date to 1993. These deep roots mean that we have friends in every village we visit and our expert local staff members make students immediately feel at home. Arriving students are welcomed to their programs with a traditional sevu sevu ceremony and invited to share a taste of kava. Our Fiji programs visit villages on remote islands and in the mountainous highlands, locations that not many tourists ever have the opportunity to visit.
Fiji is _________. pristine
Currency
Fijian Dollar (FJD)
Languages
English, Fijian, and Hindustani
Attractions
More than 300 islands, only 106 of which are inhabited
Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park – famed for its giant dunes and rich archaeological history
Nausori Highlands – home to rich culture and Rustic’s longest partnerships
Sailing through the islands of Fiji feels like you’re in a postcard brought to life. Whether you’re in the highlands or among the islands, you’ll constantly be surrounded by calming tropical scenery. The warmth of the Fijian people will make you feel at home and you’ll easily adjust to Island life.
Evan Wells | Fiji Country Director “The South Pacific has always held a romantic allure of adventure and ancient traditions for many people. Everyone loves the clear, warm waters and tropical islands of Fiji, but for me it’s the people that keep me coming back—their loving attachment to the land, to the surrounding ocean, and to each other. Their warmth and exuberant enthusiasm for life are contagious.” 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.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
Sun, Sand and International Service
••••
••••
•••
•••••
60 hours
16 days
$3,995
Intro to Community Service in Fiji
••••
••••
•••
•
30 hours
9 days
$1,995
Highlands and Islands Service Immersion
••
•••••
•••
•••
45 hours
16 days
$3,995
Marine Service and Adventure
••
•••••
•••
••••
26 hours
16 days
$4,295
Impact of Climate Change on Marine Environments
••
•••••
•••••
••••
26 hours
16 days
$4,695
Fiji Diver’s Dream
•••••
•••••
••••
•
N/A
9 days
$2,995+
Big Fiji Explorer
••
•••••
•••
•••
6 hours
16 days
$4,695
Escape to the Fiji Islands
•••
•••••
•
••••
N/A
9 days
$2,695
Pacific Adrenaline
•••
•••••
•
••••
N/A
23 days
$7,295
98
fiji@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
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+ airfare
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South Pacific Eco-Lodge Base Established in 2004, the Eco-Lodge Base is integrated into the surrounding environment and community. The base is located between two villages and surrounded by a number of farms predominantly owned by families of Indian descent. The mixture of Fijian and Indian neighbors creates a vibrant atmosphere for exploration and learning about Fiji and its unique mix of cultures. The main lodge contains a kitchen, dining area, game room with billiards, and features a large deck with a swimming pool. The grounds have extensive gardens and sports fields tucked among fruit trees and swaying palms. Rooms are divided between dormitory-style bedrooms and several authentic bures, or cabins, spread throughout the property. Bathrooms are modern with flushing toilets and solar-powered, hot-water showers.
Jowave Nauluwavu | South Pacific Eco-Lodge Base Manager Jowave has brought great care and humor to our programs since joining Rustic in 2008. Born and raised in neighboring Momi, his knowledge of the area has opened wonderful doors for our students. When not overseeing Eco-Lodge programs, Jowave can be found spending time with his children.
rusticpathways.com/fj
Weekend Side Trips Students staying at the base for two or more weeks have the option to take a weekend side trip after their first full week of service. Highlands Discovery: 3 days, 2 nights | $295 Journey into Fiji’s rural interior and experience local life in a way few visitors ever have. Enjoy swimming beneath a towering waterfall and hiking along ancient trails. Spend the weekend learning from families about the traditional way of life in the Nausori Highlands. Tropical Island Interlude: 3 days, 2 nights | $355 Take a dip in the Pacific as you visit one of Fiji’s glorious island getaways. Enjoy your surroundings by playing beach soccer or volleyball, or napping in the sand. Our Tropical Island Interlude is a chance to recharge between your service projects and to escape to a beautiful island. Coral Coast Cruiser: 3 days, 2 nights | $395 Experience Viti Levu’s impressive Coral Coast. Challenge yourself on a high-ropes course, explore a rainforest preserve to learn about Fiji’s native plants, and visit Suva, the country’s capital, for dinner and a movie. Between activities, take a walk on the beach or relax by the pool.
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Fiji
Sun, Sand, and International Service Two weeks or more of community service and Fijian fun at the Rustic Pathways Eco-Lodge
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 to 65 days from the United States
Service
Up to 60 community service hours awarded
Cost
$3,995 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 4 June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30
100
Returns Wednesday June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7 August 14
Immerse in the fun and exciting tropical lifestyle in the hills surrounding Momi Bay for two weeks, four weeks, or the entire summer. Develop strong bonds with fellow students as you work together on rewarding community service projects. Absorb the friendly Fijian culture during lovo feasts, watch traditional meke dances, and play soccer with the locals. Choose an add-on weekend excursion and relax on a delightful beach, experience farm life in the highlands, or join adrenaline-pumping adventures in other parts of Fiji. Join us for at least two weeks on this service program at our Eco-Lodge base where you’ll work on meaningful environmental and needs-based service projects with local community members. After service, relax and take advantage of island living. This popular program will give you insight into the Fijian way of life and introduce you to the natural beauty of this island nation. The Eco-Lodge sits in the hills south of Nadi and is surrounded by the diverse mix of cultures that make this area unique. Work with a small group of fellow students each day on a variety of education and infrastructure service projects designed in partnership with the community. Base House Program: South Pacific Eco-Lodge Base fiji@rusticpathways.com
Fiji
Intro to Community Service in Fiji A fun and exciting variety of meaningful service and Fijian culture at our Eco-Lodge
Thrive at our Eco-Lodge base in the hills of beautiful Momi Bay—take a swim, play billiards, join a soccer match, or simply unwind with a good book.
Ages
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Contribute to one or more of the diverse service initiatives designed in partnership with our long-term community partners.
Service
Up to 30 community service hours awarded
Explore historical sites, coastal dunes, secluded hot springs, and pure white sand beaches—or discover natural underwater beauty with add-on scuba diving.
Cost
$1,995 plus international airfare
Participate in a variety of service projects and learn about different ways to support the local community while enjoying the relaxed and easy-going South Pacific lifestyle. Fijians have long believed that strangers should be welcomed as long-lost friends and given the highest degree of consideration and hospitality. Experience the inviting culture of Fiji while giving back to our host communities through a combination of service initiatives at the Eco-Lodge. Each group’s projects will be different, as we work with different schools, villages, and communities. Base House Program: South Pacific Eco-Lodge Base Spring Break Program: We also offer a one-week version of this program between March and April for spring break. For more information and dates please see page 24 or visit our website at rusticpathways.com/spring-break.
rusticpathways.com/fj
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 4 June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30 August 6
Returns Wednesday June 12 June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7 August 14 101
Highlands Service Base 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 this incredible valley in 1993 and immediately appreciated the warm hearts and rich cultural traditions of the highlands villagers. Since then, we’ve formed a close relationship with the villages and will continue to support ongoing service initiatives designed to meet their long-term goals. Programs that visit the highlands region allow students to live alongside local families, follow the rhythms of daily life, and participate in community service. Students on Highlands and Islands Service Immersion become a part of the special relationships we’ve developed since first coming to Fiji. Panapasa “Oro” Orodai | Fiji Highlands Program Manager Oro, who joined Rustic in 2005, hails from the rural village of Wauosi near the Nausori Highlands and studied at Nadi College. He holds a strong sense of adventure, athleticism, and extensive knowledge of Fijian cultures and geography. When asked how he is doing, Oro always responds, “110 percent.”
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fiji@rusticpathways.com
Service Initiatives Economic Development: We’ve joined forces with a local clan (extended family) to support a small-scale agricultural enterprise that will empower these families. From providing basic supplies, guidance, and training, to getting our hands dirty in the field, we are working closely with villagers to make this project a success. Education: In 2011, we started building a new elementary school in the village of Nasivikoso that would allow children to attend school closer to home. Since completing that project, we’re continuing to identify new partnerships to improve access to education in the Nasouri Highlands. Infrastructure: We’ve undertaken a wide range of projects to improve basic services in the remote communities of the highlands. Those include installing simple water systems to improve access to running water, construction of toilets and footpaths to improve sanitation, and renovation of community halls.
Fiji
Highlands and Islands Service Immersion Our signature educational service and cultural immersion program in Fiji
Partner with Nausori Highlands villagers, help children develop literacy and English skills, and lead arts and sports exchanges at schools. Live with a host family and immerse in the remote Fijian mountain lifestyle.
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 45 community service hours awarded
Cost
$3,995 plus international airfare
Explore hidden beaches and tropical coral reefs in the spectacular Yasawa Islands. Join a grassroots project designed to support basic needs within a Nausori Highlands community that could include education and access to health care. Live in pairs with a host family, an experience that will open cultural doors and introduce you to the Fijian lifestyle. Contribute to the ongoing development of a school, work on small-scale agriculture and construction projects, and lead afterschool enrichment programs for students in the village. Then travel to the Yasawa Island chain and sleep on the beach. Snorkel to tropical coral reefs, swim in the clear turquoise waters, and kayak to pristine beaches in this island paradise. Return home after this rewarding experience with a new perspective about the challenges this community faces.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9 July 23
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24 August 7
My trip was everything I had hoped for and more and the best part was all the great people I met on the trip, both locals and those in my group. The way my host family welcomed me into their culture made me feel like just another family member.
Base House Program: Highlands Base
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Margaret Larkin | Marblehead, Massachusetts
rusticpathways.com/fj
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Islands Service Base
Service Initiatives Environment and Animal Welfare
Located on a breathtaking stretch of pure white sand in Somosomo, our Islands Service Base is a slice of heaven. We’ve worked to make this base a sustainable and eco-friendly place for students to live in harmony with the neighboring village and the surrounding environment. By eating freshly-caught seafood, growing our own produce, and developing long-term partnerships with our neighbors, this base truly embraces simple island life. The base consists of large safari-style tents built on platforms where you’ll sleep each night. Meals are eaten in our rustic dining area or on picnic tables overlooking the water. Showers are outdoors and toilets are self-composting to minimize the impact on the environment. Kayak, snorkel, spear fish, learn to farm, or have a bonfire and guitar jam session on the beach with our local team on this island paradise. Leba Digitaki | Marine Program Manager Originally from Fiji’s remote Lau islands, Leba was raised in Suva and graduated with a degree in marine biology from the University of the South Pacific. Before joining Rustic in 2017, she worked as a marine biologist for environmental organizations and resorts. That background makes her a perfect fit for our Marine Programs.
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fiji@rusticpathways.com
Work on projects to help support regrowth of the coral reef system and help offset environmental degradation. Conduct reef checks on five different reefs, remove crown-of-thorn sea stars, build and install coral structures, and establish a nursery of giant clams. Work with local partners to track fish populations and monitor the overall health of the reef. Students will also contribute to the ongoing efforts to plant mangroves in the area. One mangrove can offset 800 kilograms of carbon dioxide.
Fiji
Marine Service and Adventure Preserving Fiji’s natural resources and unique ecosystems
Snorkel with manta rays, observe turtles in their natural habitat, and swim among schools of tropical fish in the South Pacific.
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Gather data on marine life to help monitor the health of Fiji’s tropical coral reefs and coastal waterways as you explore underwater ecosystems.
Service
Up to 26 community service hours awarded
Support community initiatives and contribute to the overall health of the island’s pristine oceans through marine service projects.
Cost
$4,295 plus international airfare
Embody island life with a beach at your doorstep and immerse in Fijian culture. Explore the world’s third-largest coral reef system and thousands of marine species in Fiji. Get a head start on your career in marine or animal conservation by tracking fish populations, monitoring the health of various reef habitats, and observing marine life behavior. Then help with development projects that contribute to the ecological balance of this aquatic wonderland. Your hard work will be rewarded with snorkeling trips alongside manta rays, exotic fish, squid, and sea turtles in this gorgeous stretch of reef. Visit majestic sand dunes and kayak with your new friends along the coast before parting ways.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 July 9 July 23
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 24 August 7
It was the best program I’ve ever been on I can’t think of a way to improve it because no improvement is needed. It taught me a lot about diversity and how to accept people. Christian Evans | Covington, Louisiana
Base House Program: Islands Service Base
rusticpathways.com/fj
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Fiji
Impact of Climate Change on Marine Environments A deeper look into the impact climate change has on Fiji’s fragile marine habitat
Ages
14 and up
Learn about the effects of climate change on sensitive marine ecosystems.
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 26 community service hours awarded
Work alongside marine biologists and support conservation efforts such as coral cleanups, crown of thorns sea star removal, and fish counts.
Cost
$4,695 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25
Returns Wednesday July 10
My program was very informational and taught me so much about conservation and the marine environment. The itinerary has a good balance of service and outdoor activities.
Observe sharks, manta rays, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. Develop your understanding of the challenges facing island nations like Fiji. In 2016, the largest tropical cyclone on record in the Southern Hemisphere made landfall in Fiji. Cyclone Winston caused massive damage and destruction to extensive areas of the country. With more than 300 islands, Fiji is one of the countries most vulnerable to rising ocean waters, changing water temperatures, declining animal populations, and deforestation. Monitor and assess environmentally-sensitive habitats that contribute to the overall health of the Fijian ecosystem, home to the world’s third-largest coral reef system and thousands of marine species. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to snorkel among exotic wildlife and experience the wonder of Fiji’s famous reefs. Cap off your experience by hiking along the Sigatoka Sand Dunes, kayaking down the coast, and exploring hidden waterfalls.
Maren Kavanagh | Lake Forest, Illinois
Base House Program: Islands Service Base Critical Issues Program Global climate change and aquatic ecosystem conservation 106
fiji@rusticpathways.com
Fiji
Fiji Diver’s Dream The South Pacific lifestyle by land and sea
Discover an underwater world filled with incredible marine life and colorful coral in this world-famous dive location. Earn a PADI Open Water Diver certification or advance your current scuba certification and improve your underwater skills. Explore stunning Momi Bay from above and below the surface during unforgettable dives and fun add-on activities. Trek to the beautiful Fiji Islands to explore the renowned waters of the South Pacific. The underwater landscapes are vibrant, varied, and teeming with life. If you’re not a certified diver, you can obtain a Professional Association of Dive Instruction Open Water Diver certification. After classroom lessons and diving pool practice, you’ll be ready to experience the majestic Fijian coast. If you’re already a certified diver, participate in up to eight dives, depending on your group and add-on activities, and have the opportunity to advance your level of certification for an additional fee. When not exploring life under the sea, immerse in traditional Fijian culture, hike sand dunes, or kayak through mangroves. Leave with a far better understanding of life above and below the surface of this fascinating island paradise. Base House Program: South Pacific Eco-Lodge Base
Ages
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Cost
$2,995 plus international airfare $3,095 including PADI Open Water Certification
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18 July 2 July 16
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24
Connects well with… Marine Service and Adventure
p. 105
I learned so much about scuba diving. The group leaders were not only very sweet and knowledgeable, but they were great role models. Leyla Namazie | Tarzana, California
rusticpathways.com/fj
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Fiji
Big Fiji Explorer Wonderful waves, waterfalls, and wild wanderings throughout the Fiji Islands
Ages
14 and up
Cruise through impeccable waters around the magical Mamanuca Islands.
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 6 community service hours awarded
Hike along coastal trails and across the golden sands of Fiji’s beaches before going for a dip in refreshing crystal blue waters.
Cost
$4,695 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 4 June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30
108
Returns Wednesday June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7 August 14
Snorkel over brilliant rainbow-colored coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and exotic marine creatures as you explore these underwater ecosystems. Adventure through Fiji during this action-packed program that will keep seasoned explorers’ adrenaline pumping and provide a great introduction for students traveling abroad for the first time. Swim beneath waterfalls hidden deep in the interior of Viti Levu, visit the Yasawa Islands to snorkel with manta rays, and kayak in Fiji’s coastal wilderness. Stay at a variety of locations and live like a local. Hanging out around a beach bonfire, you’ll soon realize the Fijian people have found their way into your heart with their welcoming and carefree nature. Savenaca “Save” Rodan | Fiji Adventure Program Manager Save came to Rustic from the capital city of Suva in 2015. His extensive background in tourism and adventure sports have been great assets to our Big Fiji Explorer, Escape to Fiji, and Pacific Adrenaline programs. Save can frequently be found building bicycles at our South Pacific Eco-Lodge Base.
fiji@rusticpathways.com
Fiji
Escape to the Fiji Islands Mountains, beaches, and spectacular sunsets in the stunning South Pacific
Live on a secluded beach, hike to a towering waterfall, snorkel the calm waters of the Mamanuca Islands, and zip line above ancient cave systems. Immerse in everyday rural life alongside our longtime Fijian friends from the lush jungles of the remote Nausori Highlands. Explore Fiji’s underwater world as you snorkel along reefs to observe fish and other tropical marine life in this unique ecosystem. Experience this program’s combination of adventure and exploration, which is perfect for students looking to get off the beaten path. Live in a remote camp and fall asleep to the uninterrupted flow of the river. Relish the escape from technology and adapt to your beautiful surroundings. Prepare traditional foods, hike to see magnificent views, play games with locals, and enjoy an area of Fiji that few tourists ever venture. Witness spectacular sunsets and swim in tranquil waters just steps from your front door. Swim, kayak, scuba dive (add-on activity), and hike through gorgeous hills overlooking stunning waterfalls. Or just relax with a book on the beach and enjoy this island paradise.
rusticpathways.com/fj
Ages
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Cost
$2,695 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25 July 2 July 9
Returns Wednesday July 3 July 10 July 17
Connects well with… Sun, Sand, and International Service Intro to Community Service in Fiji
p. 100 p. 101
109
Fiji
Pacific Adrenaline An epic and challenging adventure through beautiful Fiji and New Zealand
Ages
14 and up
Length
23 days from the United States
Cost
$7,295 plus international airfare $750 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 July 2 July 9 July 16
Returns Wednesday July 3 July 10 July 24 July 31 August 7
Everything about my trip was amazing: the people, the locals, the places, everything. Anne Beckerman | Short Hills, New Jersey
110
Kayak along white sand coastlines, swim beneath waterfalls, relax on beautiful beaches, and hike through virtually untouched rainforests. Explore remote islands and plunge into Fijian culture as you travel with our experienced local Program Leaders. Challenge the concept of time as you stand in both the present and the past on your visit to the international date line. Raft the wild whitewater rapids of the Kaituna River and explore underground glowworm caves in nearby New Zealand. Participate in an exhilarating three-week exploration of Fiji and New Zealand designed for seasoned travelers and created with a small group of adventurers in mind. Discover the beautiful Yasawa Islands, the remote Nausori Highlands, and Taveuni—the “Garden Island” of Fiji. Hike through exquisite rainforests, swim among waterfalls, scuba dive in pristine waters (add-on activity), and kayak past stunning beaches. Then high adventure awaits in New Zealand, the Land of the Long White Cloud. Whitewater raft down the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, roll down a zigzag track in a slippery Zorb ball, and spend time relaxing in natural hot springs.
fiji@rusticpathways.com
rusticpathways.com/fj
111
u Southeast Asian Adventurer, page 119
Laos
Laos
Population
7.1 million
Capital City Vientiane
Experience breathtaking scenery and immersive service projects in Laos, where we’ve operated since 2008. Many of our programs visit the villages our local staff call home, taking students off the tourist path. Our leaders help students understand Laos’ complex past, developing present, and hopeful future. Every year students fall in love with this littleknown country and leave with a better understanding of its distinct culture.
stunning Laos is __________.
Even the most well-traveled students find themselves entranced by Laos’ landscape. Golden temples gleam against winding dirt roads. Vast, rolling hills spotted with palm trees and rice fields create a backdrop of limitless shades of green. Remnants of the country’s French Colonial past are woven into the fabric of tribal life. Laos will delight you at every turn.
Currency
Kip (LAK)
Languages
Lao is the official language, though many ethnic minorities speak dozens of different languages
Attractions
Luang Prabang – a French colonial UNESCO World Heritage site
Pha That Luang – a golden stupa and national symbol
Khone Falls – the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia
Keegan Kennedy | Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar Senior Country Manager “Take your shoes off, sit back, and watch the awe-inspiring sunset from the deck of the Rustic Pathways base as the Mekong River flows beneath you. Whether you’re in remote villages surrounded by limestone cliffs, zip lining alongside waterfalls, or giving morning offerings to a procession of Buddhist monks, Laos will leave you with a constant grin and new appreciation for life.” 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.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
•••
•••
••••
••
N/A
11 days
$2,495
Sticky Rice Service Adventure
••
••••
•••
••••
35 hours
18 days
$3,695
Come With Nothing: The Mekong Expedition
•
•••
•••
••••
60 hours
25 days
$4,995
Southeast Asia Adventurer
••••
•••••
••
••••
N/A
18 days
$4,695
Wonders of Laos
114
laos@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
Mekong Service Base Rustic Pathways’ Mekong Service Base in Luang Prabang was fully renovated in 2014 and is a welcoming retreat for students participating in our Laos programs. Located in the country’s primary cultural city overlooking the Mekong River, the base is a perfect jumping off point for your Rustic adventure. The base is designed to provide a rural village living experience with access to all of the resources and activities you’ll experience during your program. Featuring traditional Laosstyle accommodations—with many houses being accurate replications of homes from across the country—students sleep on simple mats with mosquito nets and personal fans. Bathrooms are modern with showers and flushing toilets. Outside, students may enjoy playing bocce ball, soccer, or frisbee with local staff and children. Lay Lay Ooh | Mekong Service Base Operations Manager
Support Initiatives Education: Students who participate in Sticky Rice Service Adventure serve as English language conversational partners with teenage students at a nonprofit literacy center in Luang Prabang. Environment and Animal Welfare: During Wonders of Laos, students spend two days and one night at the Elephant Conservation Center a few hours west of Luang Prabang over mountain passes on misty jungle roads in Xayaboury Province. On-site veterinarians and mahouts, traditional elephant keepers, provide students with instruction in animal conservation practices, basic veterinary training, and enrichment and socialization activities for the elephants. Infrastructure: Students on Come With Nothing: The Mekong Expedition and Sticky Rice Service Adventure assist with an ongoing construction projects in the villages of Nong Tok and Na Som.
Born in Myanmar, Lay Lay Ooh has been an integral member of the Rustic Pathways team since 2004. He is fluent in Burmese, English, Lao, and Thai, and has traveled extensively throughout Southeast Asia and the USA. He now uses his strong leadership skills to manage our beautiful base in Luang Prabang, Laos.
rusticpathways.com/la
115
Laos
Wonders of Laos Adventure and culture at the tranquil Mekong Service Base
Ages
14 and up
Length
11 days from the United States
Cost
$2,495 plus international airfare $420 internal airfare
Stroll the charming streets of Luang Prabang where you’ll pass French Colonial buildings and exquisite Buddhist temples. Trek through the seven-tiered Kuang Si Falls, one of the most renowned and beautiful sites in all of Southeast Asia.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25 July 2 July 23
Returns Friday July 5 July 12 August 2
Connects well with… Ricefields, Monks, and Smiling Children Intro to Community Service in Thailand
p. 159 p. 160
Relax at the serene Rustic Pathways’ base on the banks of the Mekong River. Embrace meaningful animal conservation work with an overnight bungalow retreat at the Elephant Conservation Center. Experience the best of Laos in this action-packed week in the charming town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Float across the Mekong River to explore the limestone Pak Ou Caves adorned with dozens of Buddhist statues. Climb the steps of Mount Phousi to get sweeping panoramic views of temples, French architecture, and the great river as it wraps around Luang Prabang. Wake up with the sun and give alms to monks who wander the town collecting offerings in traditional bowls. Venture out to western Laos to spend two days at the Elephant Conservation Center. Learn about their approach and best practices in elephant conservation and veterinary techniques, and spend a night in a lakeside bungalow. Base House Program: Mekong Service Base
116
laos@rusticpathways.com
Laos
Sticky Rice Service Adventure A two-week experience combining service and the outdoors in Laos
Immerse in village life and service while learning about local tribal customs and traditions in rural Laos.
Ages
14 and up
Length
18 days from the United States
Delve into the heart of Laos on a memorable service adventure among breathtaking green hills and along ancient rivers.
Service
Up to 35 community service hours awarded
Explore the French-Colonial streets of Luang Prabang, swim under pristine waterfalls, and snack on sticky rice and baguettes.
Cost
$3,695 plus international airfare $420 internal airfare
Discover Na Som Village, the epitome of beauty in Laos, with its towering green karsts and bamboo huts sprinkled among rice fields. Experience rural life in this Hmong village, learn about animistic traditions and the role of the village shaman, swim in a cool lagoon, and explore nearby caves. Then head to the town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Rise early to give alms to monks and swim in the seven-tiered Kuang Si Falls. Work alongside villagers on service projects and experience the traditions of Laos firsthand.
Long Lee Phixiaxaicher | Laos Program Manager Long Lee hails from Na Som village, outside Vang Vieng in central Laos, where his father is currently the head of the village. Long Lee joined Rustic Pathways in 2017 as Sticky Rice Service Program Leader, hosting Rustic students in his village and sharing Laos’ culture and traditions.
rusticpathways.com/la
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 July 9
Returns Friday June 28 July 26
I would qualify my trip as meaningful, rich, and memorable. I loved being able to discover a culture, have the opportunity to help others, and make friends all over the world. Eugenie Volker | Paris, France
117
Laos
Come With Nothing: The Mekong Expedition An advanced service program on the Mekong River in Thailand and Laos
Ages
15 and up
Length
25 days from the United States
Service
Up to 60 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,995 plus international airfare $420 internal airfare
Travel with only what fits in one carry-on bag and get whatever else you need in local markets along the way—or live without! Experience life as a highland villager and pour your energy into grassroots service projects designed with our community partners. Explore the ancient capital of Luang Prabang in Laos and travel through the Chiang Rai province across the border into northern Thailand.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 July 2 July 9 July 16
Returns Friday July 5 July 12 July 26 August 2 August 9
Connects well with… Floating Village Service Expedition Amazing Thailand 118
p. 45 p. 173
Leave rich in spirit with a better understanding your place in the world. Disconnect from the life you know on a service expedition through remote Thailand and Laos. You’ll be limited to one carry-on-sized bag with a change of clothing, toiletries, medicines, and no more than five personal items. Your journey begins in the mountainous province of Chiang Rai in Thailand. Next, take a two-day boat trip on the Mekong River into Laos, where you’ll live for two weeks high in the mountains outside the town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit three villages for about five days each and expect beautifully simple living conditions. Meet with non-governmental organizations and local leaders to learn about the needs of the area while engaging in service. This demanding program creates lasting memories and will give you different perspectives about the world.
laos@rusticpathways.com
Laos
Southeast Asian Adventurer An action-packed two-week adventure in Laos and Thailand
Venture to remarkable natural landscapes in the remote Bolaven Plateau and Thailand’s southern islands. Feel the rush as you zip line across ancient rainforests, hike through lush countrysides, and kayak down the Mekong River. Discover Southeast Asia as you explore the incredibly fascinating Thailand and Laos. Adventure through the misty green mountains of northern Laos and the beaches of southern Thailand. Trek in the Bolaven Plateau and zip line through jungle canopies. In Laos, swim in waterfalls, kayak down rivers, and bike through the charming streets of Luang Prabang. Make your way to the spectacular islands and limestone cliffs of southern Thailand. Finish your expedition with rock climbing, snorkeling, and relaxing on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
Khampao Sivilay | Laos Senior Program Manager Khampao has been a student favorite on Team Laos since joining Rustic in 2008. He completed three years of vocational study in electronics in Luang Prabang before joining Rustic. Khampao grew up in Xayaboury, the province with the highest number of elephants in Laos, and lends his expertise to our programs.
rusticpathways.com/la
Ages
15 and up
Length
18 days from the United States
Cost
$4,695 plus international airfare $830 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9 July 23
Returns Friday June 28 July 12 July 26 August 9
I’m thankful that Rustic taught me not to be scared of failing but rather scared of not trying in the first place. Sydney Diamond | Westport, Connecticut
119
u Off the Map: Mongolia, page 125
Mongolia
Mongolia
Population
3.1 million
Capital City Ulaanbaatar
We’ve offered programs in Mongolia since 2009. Since then, our programs have worked with nomadic communities in the Tavan Bogd mountain region where villagers still live in traditional gers, circular buildings constructed of a wooden lattice and sheep felt. Mongolia has the lowest population density of any country in the world (3.2 people per square mile) and more horses than humans. Most Mongolians learn to ride horseback at a young age, and some ethnic groups still use trained golden eagles for hunting.
Mongolia is __________. rugged
Travel to Mongolia and reconsider your definition of rustic. You may not shower or have clean clothes, but you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring surroundings. Mongolia’s nomadic culture and expansive, untouched landscapes appeal to the hardiest of travelers and the most determined of adventurers.
Currency
Tugrik (MNT)
Languages
Mongolian and other ethnic languages
Attractions
Naadam Festival – Mongolia’s national holiday and a celebration of the “three games of men”—archery, wrestling, and horse racing
Steppe – the green rolling hills of central Mongolia
Nomadic lifestyle – 30 percent of Mongolia’s people are nomadic
Amanda Cortes | Mongolia and China Country Director “It’s hard to encapsulate Mongolia in a phrase. Is it the vast beauty of the country’s wide open spaces? The mountains that seem to reach the sky? The delicious khorkhog? Sitting around a ger talking and drinking milk tea? Or is it meeting the amazing people and experiencing their fascinating culture? Mongolia is all those things and so much more. You won’t regret your decision to experience it for yourself.” 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 camping-based adventure tours across the Lower 48 states, Canada, and Alaska. Amanda returned indoors to train leaders and manage operations with Rustic in 2015.
Program at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
Reindeer Herders and Gobi Sands of Mongolia
•
••••
•
•••••
N/A
15 days
$4,295
Off the Map: Mongolia
•
•••••
•••
••••
21 hours
22 days
$5,995
122
mongolia@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/mn
123
Mongolia
Reindeer Herders and Gobi Sands of Mongolia An exploration of Mongolia’s mystical reindeer headers and Gobi Desert
Ages
15 and up
Length
15 days from the United States
Cost
$4,295 plus international airfare $750 internal airfare
Hike into one of Mongolia’s few remaining Tsaatan reindeer camps in the rugged Sayan Mountains to learn about the lifestyle of the traditional Mongolian herder. Experience a local means of transportation as you ride a camel in the Gobi Desert, which stretches across southern Mongolia and into northern China.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Wednesday July 3
Returns Wednesday July 17
Connects well with… Off the Map: Cambodia Off the Map: Mongolia
124
p. 46 p. 125
Drink traditional milk tea and sample dairy products that help sustain the people who produce these local staples. Experience Mongolia’s two incredible extremes, the snowy north and desert south. Pack your winter clothing for an exciting journey north to a remote reindeer community near the border with Russia. Living deep in some of the few forests in Mongolia, the Tsaatan people struggle to maintain their lifestyle in a rapidly developing world. Shed your coat and head south to the sand dunes of the Gobi Desert where you’ll ride a camel to experience this vast landscape. Explore the history of this region that dates to the Mongol empire. The journey will take you to opposite ends of this fascinating country and you’ll find that it’s been more than worth the effort.
mongolia@rusticpathways.com
Mongolia
Off the Map: Mongolia An epic immersion experience into the far reaches of central and western Mongolia
Live in a traditional village and sleep in a Mongolian ger far from modern conveniences.
Ages
15 and up
Engage with children of the nomadic Kazakh minority as you discuss healthy food options and help in the local garden.
Length
22 days from the United States
Service
Up to 21 community service hours awarded
Cost
$5,995 plus international airfare $680 internal airfare
Explore the capital of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s largest city, and learn about the country’s rich history, tradition, and culture. Hike into Altai Tavan Bogd National Park on a three-day expedition to see the natural diversity of the region. Journey from the central Mongolian lowlands to the rugged mountains of the country’s wild west. Leave modern devices at home as you explore untamed regions and trek through countryside. Glimpse an ancient way of life traveling from ger to ger across Mongolia’s arid steppe without the luxuries of electricity, running water, or paved roads. From Kazakh eagle hunting to Tuvan throat singing, the nomadic herders of Mongolia maintain traditions that date to the empire of Genghis Khan. In remote western Mongolia, help a local nongovernmental organization that offers herding families nutritional guidance, educational opportunities, and improved infrastructure. This is a challenging experience—an adventurous spirit, positive attitude, and keen sense of exploration are required.
rusticpathways.com/mn
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Wednesday June 12 PHONE July 17
Returns Wednesday July 3 August 7
FREE
Connects well with… Floating Village Service Expedition Elephants and Amazing Thailand
p. 45 p. 171
125
u Moroccan Wanderer, page 132
Morocco
Morocco
Population
34 million
Capital City Rabat
Rustic Pathways’ programs began in Morocco in 2012 and encompass the breadth of this gorgeous country with visits to jaw-dropping sights such as the Cascades d’Ouzoud waterfall and Hassan II Mosque. Traveling to the indigenous Amazigh villages of the Atlas Mountains will expose photography students to rich cultural traditions and service students to community-based projects focused on education, agriculture, and cultural preservation.
diverse Morocco is __________.
Iconic images of camels trekking across the desert fall far short of capturing what Morocco is really like. From the red sands of the Sahara to the crashing waves of the coast and the fragrant spice stands of Jamaâ El-Fna market in Marrakech, Morocco is a country you have to see firsthand to truly understand.
Currency
Dirham (MAD)
Languages
Standard Arabic and Tamazight, Darija (Moroccan Arabic) and French
Attractions
The Sahara Desert – the largest nonpolar desert in the world
Fez – a medieval city that includes the world’s largest car-free urban area
Jamaâ El-Fna – a UNESCO World Heritage marketplace in Marrakech
Chaima Ait El Mekki | Morocco Country Director “Morocco is this flourishing tree with roots in Africa and branches and leaves in Europe. It’s a land of diversity that resembles our national dish, tagine. Just as many different ingredients form the perfect stew, the variation of the mountains and deserts, ancient medinas and modern cities, French and Arab cultures will make you want to savor every bite.” Born and raised in Marrakech, Chaima has been with Rustic since 2012. Fluent in Darija, Arabic, French, and English, she is an invaluable resource to our students. With a degree in actuarial finance, she uses her knowledge of business, languages, and culture to manage transformative programs. Chaima is a strong believer in cross-cultural discussions to better understand one another.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
•••••
•
•••••
•••••
N/A
16 days
$4,495
Judaism in Morocco
•••••
••
•••••
•••
10 hours
16 days
$4,895
High Atlas Mountain Service
•••••
•••
•
••••
25 hours
16 days
$3,895
Moroccan Wanderer
••••
•••••
•••
••
10 hours
16 days
$4,895
Advanced Photography Workshop
•••••
•••••
•••••
•••••
N/A
16 days
$4,895
Peace, Wonder, and Understanding Islam
128
morocco@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
Morocco
Peace, Wonder, and Understanding Islam An immersive examination of marginalized Muslim populations
Explore the rich and fascinating history of the Islamic religion and culture through the experiences of Muslim spiritual and community leaders in Morocco. Discover how this religion and its people have become victims of unfair characterization by media outlets and societies. Develop deep personal connections with your group during thought-provoking discussions designed to challenge your perceptions. Dive into the beliefs and culture of the Islamic faith in Morocco during this Critical Issues program. Islam is often misrepresented in media and politics, leading to polarization and fear surrounding the religion. Discover the roots of Islamic stereotypes in an effort to promote peace and build empathy by connecting with Muslims in Morocco. Leave ready to stand against hate and misinformation and carry your newly recognized change-making skills into your community. This is a program for spirited leaders with curious spirits who believe we can impact the world through positive engagement and our understanding cultural and religious differences.
Critical Issues Program Religious persecution and multicultural acceptance
Ages
15 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Cost
$3,895 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11
Returns Wednesday June 26
Connects well with‌ High Atlas Mountain Service Moroccan Wanderer
p. 131 p. 132
Peace, Wonder, and Understanding Islam was undoubtedly one of the most transformative and meaningful experiences of my life. It was an absolute privilege to be part of such an extraordinary initiative to promote understanding and empathy. Josie Rey | Cape Town, South Africa
rusticpathways.com/ma
129
Morocco
Judaism in Morocco Exploring Jewish identity among one of the largest populations of Jews in northern Africa
Ages
16 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 10 community service hours awarded
Cost
Discuss the history of the Jewish population in Morocco and explore how the country’s place between the European and Arab worlds has led to a vibrant mix of cultures. Trace the footsteps of a popular Hiloula, a Moroccan Jewish pilgrimage custom. Attend Shabbat services and learn from local students about their experience growing up Jewish in Morocco.
$4,895 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday July 9
Returns Wednesday July 24
Connects well with… High Atlas Mountain Service Moroccan Wanderer
130
p. 131 p. 132
Wander the endless thousand-year-old souqs of Marrakech and bargain with local merchants for handicrafts and spices. Examine Jewish identity in Morocco, once home to the largest Jewish diaspora in the Muslim world dating back more than 2,000 years. In that time, the rich artisanship, cuisine, and architecture of the Jewish community in Morocco has become intertwined with Moroccan culture. Explore the Museum of Moroccan Judaism in Casablanca. Attend Shabbat services and hear first-hand what growing up with a Jewish identity in Morocco means. Trace the footsteps of a popular Moroccan Jewish pilgrimage, known locally as a Hiloula. Along your journey, learn how Morocco’s geographic location between Europe and the Arab world made it a mixing pot of cultures and ideas. Explore holy Muslim sites in Morocco, including Hassan II Mosque and engage in discussion with local Jewish and Muslim faith leaders on the relationship between the two religions.
morocco@rusticpathways.com
Morocco
High Atlas Mountain Service Community service and adventure in the mountains of central Morocco
Bond with local youth as you work with organizations on education, agriculture, and cultural-preservation projects in an Atlas Mountains village. Venture off the tourist path with your group and experience the little-known Berber traditions and culture of rural Morocco. Hike to stunning waterfalls and explore the surrounding countryside. Bargain for handicrafts, spices, and more in the markets of a 1,000-year-old medina. Travel to the imperial city of Marrakech and enjoy a welcoming feast in the middle of Jamaâ El-Fna marketplace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Absorb the buzzing energy of the old medina before making your way through the High Atlas Mountains to settle in for a week of challenging and rewarding service in a Berber village. Volunteer on community service projects focused on education, agriculture, and cultural preservation with Moroccan youth organizations and Amazigh, or Berber, associations. After time in the village, test your negotiating skills during a day of shopping in the labyrinthine markets known as souqs. Visit the blue city of Chefchaouen and hike to Akchour Waterfall before concluding your service journey at the vast Hassan II Mosque.
Ages
16 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 25 community service hours awarded
Cost
$3,795 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25 July 23
Returns Wednesday July 10 August 7
Connects well with‌ Moroccan Wanderer
p. 132
The program was an incredible, immersive experience that I will never forget. The bonds and memories created are irreplaceable and I will forever be grateful for every moment. Arianna Carpati | New York, New York
rusticpathways.com/ma
131
Morocco
Moroccan Wanderer Across the mighty desert, over the mountains, and to the sea
Ages
16 and up
Work on development projects in a small village nestled in the High Atlas Mountains.
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 10 community service hours awarded
Ride a camel over the shimmering sands of the Sahara desert and explore the dunes under a blanket of stars.
Cost
$4,495 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30
132
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 August 7 August 14
Wander through a maze of colorful souqs and riads in the ancient city of Marrakech. Zip line over the majestic landscapes of the grand Atlas Mountains and play in the waves along Morocco’s famed coastlines. Marvel at the imposing mud brick ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its appearance in films such as “Gladiator.” Journey to Casablanca and visit Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, before heading off to begin your service projects. Along the way, stop by the ancient Ait-Ben-Haddou and pass through scenic Dadès Gorge. Set off on a sunset camel caravan to a desert camp, then take part in community service projects. Learn about the indigenous Amazigh, or Berber, culture in a remote valley nestled in the craggy High Atlas Mountains. In Marrakech, visit the buzzing market square and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Jamaâ El-Fna. Conclude your trip with a visit to the white-walled Medina of Essaouira, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can snack on fresh crepes and take surf lessons.
morocco@rusticpathways.com
Morocco
Advanced Photography Workshop A documentary photo project in Morocco’s Sahara desert and Atlas Mountains
Live the life of a photojournalist as you traverse Morocco’s varied landscapes and encounter its diverse people. Develop an engaging photography portfolio under the watchful guidance of an expert photojournalist who will provide instruction throughout the program. Ride a camel into the Sahara desert and photograph the traditions of the indigenous Amazigh, or Berber, culture. Master the manual settings of your camera, key photography concepts of framing and lighting, and other tricks of the trade. Capture images of the snake charmers and medieval mosques of Marrakech. Use your camera to document Morocco’s vibrant cultures, landscapes, and traditions under the guidance of a professional photojournalist. From the medieval streets of Fez, the world’s largest car-free urban area, to the tranquil landscapes of the Rif Mountains surrounding Chefchaouen, capture the diversity of life in this colorful nation. Hike to the Bridge of God and the waterfall of Akchour, then make your way toward the gateway of the Sahara. Hop on a camel for a ride into the dunes to meet Berber people and learn about their ancient way of life. After a farewell dinner in Marrakech, head to Casablanca and explore Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest and most impressive.
rusticpathways.com/ma
Ages
16 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Cost
$4,895 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18
Returns Wednesday July 3
Connects well with… Moroccan Wanderer
p. 132
I loved being on the Advanced Photography Workshop in Morocco this year. I learned so many new skills in photography that I will hold onto for life and I also met some really incredible people along the way. Paloma Lazzarino | Los Angeles, California
133
u Irrawady Village Service, page 137
Myanmar
Myanmar
Population
55.1 million
Capital City Naypyidaw
Even though Rustic Pathways started full-time operations in Myanmar in 2002, the country has only recently opened itself to general tourists, which means its spectacular beauty is still largely untouched. Our Myanmar Program Managers are native Burmese, enabling us to take students off the increasingly popular tourist track and into the villages and homes of their family and friends.
unique Myanmar is _________.
Largely cut off from the Western world for decades, Myanmar can feel a little like a land lost to time. Its colorful cultures, stunning landscapes, and complex history make it a fascinating destination. Experience a nation wrestling with issues of globalization, internal politics, technological advancement, and cultural sovereignty—all while seeing and experiencing what life is really like in Myanmar.
Currency
Kyat (MMK)
Languages
Burmese is the official language, although dozens of other languages are widely spoken
Attractions
Shwedagon Pagoda – one of the world’s most spectacular temples
U Bein Bridge – the world’s oldest and longest teak bridge
The temples of Bagan – more than 2,000 pagodas in 16 square miles
Chit Oo | Myanmar Country Manager “Myanmar is often described as the Golden Land because of its richness in natural resources and glittering pagodas. It’s filled with many unique cultures and generous people, as more than 135 ethnic groups call this country home. I love introducing our unique and fascinating culture to students who visit Myanmar with Rustic.” Hailing from Kengtung in eastern Shan State, Chit Oo has been an integral member of Rustic’s Myanmar team since 2009. With a degree in geography from Kengtung University, he enjoys sharing his Shan culture and stories of colorful highland people with our students. Chit Oo has mastered English, Burmese, and Thai, and loves practicing his photography during programs.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
Irrawaddy Village Service
•••••
•••
•••
••
30 hours
18 days
$4,295
136
myanmar@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
Myanmar
Irrawady Village Service Service immersion during a two-week experience in Myanmar
Connect with Burmese students in a rural village along the Irrawaddy River.
Ages
14 and up
Admire the splendor of Bagan’s ancient temples and surrounding landscapes as you bike through the dazzling landscape at sunset.
Length
18 days from the United States
Service
Up to 30 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,295 plus international airfare $380 internal airfare
Impact the local community through education and water distribution service projects. Experience life in Myanmar as you work on community service projects in remote villages and get to know its people. Travel to the home village of our local staff, located on an island in the middle of the Irrawaddy River. Contribute to infrastructure projects and meet village leaders and monks. Visit the ancient city of Bagan, where the landscape is peppered with thousands of temples dating to the time of the Burmese kings. Explore the complexities of Myanmar’s colonial past and learn how the country is changing as it rapidly opens itself to visitors from the outside world.
Soe Than | Myanmar and Thailand Program Manager Raised in the small island village that Irrawady Village Service visits, Soe Than has enjoyed sharing his home with our students since 2011. He is an impressive athlete who enjoys cane ball and loves introducing this acrobatic sport to students. An enthusiastic traveler, Soe Than has visited nearly every country in Southeast Asia.
rusticpathways.com/my
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25 July 9
Returns Wednesday July 12 July 26
My trip to Myanmar was truly outstanding. Not only did I learn more about our global community by immersing myself in this different culture, but I also developed lifelong relationships with students and Rustic staff from across the globe. Morgan Zee | Hong Kong, Hong Kong
137
u Andes to Amazon, page 144
Peru
Peru
Population
31 million
Capital City Lima
Students who join us in Peru have scaled glaciated Andean peaks, explored ancient Inca ruins, explored the depths of the Amazon Jungle, and worked alongside villagers in rural communities since we introduced operations here in 2008. Students partner with local organizations to understand some of the area’s most significant challenges, which include access to clean water and education for girls. Outside of service, Peru offers students a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, rafting, zip lining, and mountain biking.
Peru is __________. inspiring
Whether it’s the mountains, the beach, the rainforest, or valley towns, every view in Peru is breathtaking. Meet hardworking people in remote villages, contribute to service projects that make a tangible difference, and leave the country feeling refreshed and inspired. You’ll want to return as soon as you leave.
Currency
Nuevo Sol (PEN)
Languages
Spanish and Quechua
Attractions
Machu Picchu – the “Lost City of the Incas”
The Amazon – the largest tropical rainforest in the world
Lake Titicaca – the highest navigable body of water
Arequipa – the “white city” was once Peru’s capital and is the country’s second-largest city
Kelly Moynihan | Peru Country Director “For me, Peru is much more than a stamp in my passport. It’s being welcomed like family into Quechua communities. It’s being overwhelmed by incredible vistas in the Sacred Valley. And it’s trekking deep into the Amazon and truly learning about the power of nature. Tourists will come to see Machu Picchu, but travelers fall in love with the raw beauty, rich culture, and endless adventures Peru has to offer.” More than a decade of Program Leader experience, fluency in Spanish, and commitment to community service make Kelly a natural fit to lead our Peru operations. Kelly previously worked in Costa Rica after joining Rustic in 2008. Originally from New Jersey, Kelly earned a degree in journalism from American University in Washington, D.C.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
••
••••
•••••
••••
10 hours
15 days
$4,695
Sacred Valley Service
•
•••••
•••
•••
40 hours
15 days
$4,295
Lake Titicaca Service Adventure
••
•••
•••
••••
25 hours
15 days
$4,295
Andes to Amazon
••
•••••
•••
•••
20 hours
15 days
$3,995
Off the Map: Peru
••
••••
•
•••••
N/A
15 days
$4,895
Peru by Backpack
••••
•••••
•••
•••••
10 hours
22 days
$5,895
Andes Women’s Education Initiative
140
peru@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
Peru
Andes Women’s Education Initiative A exploration of access to education and opportunities for women
Examine the challenges facing women in Peru and join the dialogue on equality and education for girls around the globe.
Ages
14 and up
Length
15 days from the United States
Learn traditional Quechua weaving techniques as you spend a day working with expert leaders at a textile cooperative.
Service
Up to 10 community service hours awarded
Trek along the high mountain path many Andean girls take from their rural community to the nearest town with access to education.
Cost
$4,695 plus international airfare $490 internal airfare
Climb 400 meters up a rock face and enjoy sweeping views of the picturesque Sacred Valley as you zip line back down.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Explore the current issues facing girls and women in Peru during a two-week service adventure in the Andean highlands. Learn how local nonprofits tackle daily challenges and visit a girls’ secondary-education dormitory, a vocational-training center and home for young mothers, and a women’s textile weaving cooperative. Immerse in traditional Quechua culture during a homestay in the Sacred Valley, and develop relationships with the Peruvian families you meet. Find adventure as you zip line down a 400-meter rock face and spend a day exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. Critical Issues Program Access to education, gender equality, and women’s empowerment
rusticpathways.com/pe
Departs Tuesday June 18 July 2 July 16
Returns Tuesday July 2 July 16 July 30
Andes Women’s Education Initiative was an amazing program that educated me about so much more than women’s rights and protection of cultural heritage. It was a life-changing experience that I never want to forget. Anna Christina Maukner | Vienna, Austria
141
Peru
Sacred Valley Service Community service, cultural immersion, and adventure near Machu Picchu
Ages
14 and up
Length
15 days from the United States
Service
Up to 40 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,295 plus international airfare $490 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 PHONE July 23 July 30
142
Returns Tuesday June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 FREE July 30 August 6 August 13
Immerse in colorful communities near Ollantaytambo and get to know the people during service work and homestays. Raft your way through the Sacred Valley and test your limits on a high adventure rock climb and zip line course—if you dare! Marvel at the sight of Machu Picchu and other ancient ruins scattered throughout the heart of the Inca Empire, which once spanned much of western South America. Discover hidden valleys, stunning scenery, and rural villages on our most popular program in Peru. Rooted in service, this program pairs students with local communities on sustainable projects designed to address economic development, public health, and educational needs. Alongside the physical service work, play fútbol with new friends and practice Spanish with locals. Experience adventure while whitewater rafting and biking through the valley. Hike to the ruins of Machu Picchu for an awe-inspiring end to your incredible journey. Spring Break Program: We also offer a one-week version of this program between March and April for spring break. For more information and dates please see page 24 or visit our website at rusticpathways.com/spring-break. College Program: For students 18 and over we offer a special version of this program March 9 - 16, 2019. For more information, please visit rusticpathways.com/college. peru@rusticpathways.com
Peru
Lake Titicaca Service Adventure The ultimate community service tour through southern Peru
Experience the idyllic islands, regional cuisine, and ancient culture of Lake Titicaca.
Ages
14 and up
Contribute to meaningful community service projects in partnership with the members of Lake Titicaca’s island communities.
Length
15 days from the United States
Service
Up to 25 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,295 plus international airfare $490 internal airfare
Roam the Inca capital of Cusco, explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, and wander the impressive city of Arequipa. Play friendly volleyball and soccer matches with young Peruvian boys and girls amid magnificent views of the vast Andean Plateau. Explore several distinct regions of Peru for one unforgettable experience. Start your adventure with an incredible visit to Machu Picchu, one of the new wonders of the world. Then travel to Cusco to learn more about the history and beauty of Peru. Make the overland journey to Lake Titicaca, where you’ll live and work among indigenous people who subsist much as they did hundreds of years ago. Learn about ancient weaving and dyeing techniques from master artisans and visit the floating islands of Uros to experience a unique side of Peru. Finish your adventure in Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city and one of its best-kept secrets. Marvel at impressive architecture and scenery as you conclude this epic journey in southern Peru.
rusticpathways.com/pe
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9 July 23
Returns Tuesday June 25 July 9 July 23 August 6
Connects well with… Sacred Valley Service Andes to Amazon
p. 142 p. 144
143
Peru
Andes to Amazon A unique service adventure in two of Peru’s most famous destinations
Ages
14 and up
Length
15 days from the United States
Service
Up to 20 community service hours awarded
Cost
$3,995 plus international airfare $490 internal airfare
Discover a region of Peru rarely visited by tourists and enjoy adventure activities like whitewater rafting and zip lining. Journey into the heart of the Amazon rainforest, an extraordinary ecosystem teeming with exotic plants, rare animals, and diverse cultures. Explore regions of Peru not typically visited by most tourists. Assist at an animal rehabilitation center and learn about conservation efforts in Peru.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9 July 23
Returns Tuesday June 25 July 9 July 23 August 6
Connects well with… Lake Titicaca Service Adventure
144
Travel from the base of the Andes, one of the world’s largest mountain ranges, into the Amazon rainforest on this incredible service adventure. Get to know your group through community service, mountain treks, and picturesque bus rides while experiencing seldomvisited regions of Peru. A flight over the Andes offers views of majestic peaks, valleys, and glacial lakes before descending into the Amazon jungle for a unique journey through dozens of microclimates. See wildlife up close as you volunteer at an animal rehabilitation center. Then journey deep into the rainforest to an eco-lodge and work alongside the jungle community on conservation projects.
p. 143
peru@rusticpathways.com
Peru
Off the Map: Peru Cultural exploration and adventure from the Sacred Valley to the Amazon
Enjoy high-energy adventure as you bike, hike, and zip line your way through the Sacred Valley and in the foothills of Apu Ausangate. Glimpse picturesque glaciated peaks, relax in natural hot springs, and learn some Quechua during your journey in Peru. Wonder at Machu Picchu as you explore the ancient Inca ruins. Descend from the high-altitude Andes into the lush Amazon basin, passing through diverse ecosystems along the way. Join an unforgettable journey that combines cultural immersion with adventure as you discover Peru’s geography from the top of the Andes to the heart of the Amazon. Plunge 7,000 feet by mountain bike, zip line across green valleys, and hike through a cloud forest to arrive at the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in the Sacred Valley. Pass through remote communities, observe how they maintain cultural traditions, and learn some Quechua phrases on the journey to Cusco. After exploring the cobblestone streets of Cusco, hike below the snow-capped peaks of Apu Ausangate. Finally, descend 14,000 feet into the heart and soul of the Amazon jungle to witness the front line in the battle to save the rainforest.
rusticpathways.com/pe
Ages
14 and up
Length
15 days from the United States
Cost
$4,895 plus international airfare $490 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18 July 2 July 16
Returns Tuesday July 2 July 16
Connects well with… Sacred Valley Service
July 30 p. 142
After a strenuous hike with some of the best friends you’ll ever make, you look up and see this view. It makes you realize how grateful you are for being able to have such a life-changing experience. Sam Simpson | Birmingham, Alabama
145
Peru
Peru by Backpack This alumni-only program allows you to curate your own adventure as you trek across Peru
Ages
16 and up
Gain valuable backpacking experience and plan your journey across Peru.
Length
22 days from the United States
Service
Up to 10 community service hours awarded
Explore the most fascinating, eye-opening, and downright beautiful locations in this incredible South American country.
Cost
$5,895 plus international airfare $490 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18 July 9
Returns Tuesday July 9 July 30
The student-led program aspect to it was done very well. This program changed me as a person and my view on the world. It really taught me how to be far more independent than I thought I could be. Allison Rosenoff | Quebec City, Canada
146
Bond with your group as you work together to strategize, execute, and problem-solve during this epic travel adventure. Develop invaluable life skills and transform yourself from casual tourist to seasoned world traveler ready to apply what you’ve learned to your next adventure. Become a savvy, adventurous backpacker on this life-changing trek through Peru’s many natural wonders. This is a unique Rustic experience designed for Rustic alumni that puts the journey in your hands. Living out of your pack, manage your budget, negotiate with locals, and learn to travel like a pro. Camp under the stars in the magnificent Andes, trek to the most beautiful turquoise lagoons and glaciated peaks, and explore one of the greatest archaeological landmarks on the globe—Machu Picchu. After an intense yet rewarding three weeks, return home knowing how to find hidden spots off the tourist track, meet fascinating people, and truly interact with local culture.
peru@rusticpathways.com
rusticpathways.com/pe
147
u Serengeti to Zanzibar, page 156
Tanzania
Tanzania
Population
54 million
Capital City Dodoma
Since 2006, Rustic has introduced students to the people and cultures of Tanzania. Between safari trips and Mt. Kilimanjaro climbs, students are exposed to indigenous tribal groups, such as the Maasai of the Great Rift Valley and the nomadic Hadzabe, who still maintain traditional lifestyles. Students also work alongside villagers on collaboratively-designed service projects, enabling them to integrate with the community and develop a local perspective.
welcoming Tanzania is ____________.
Currency
Shilling (TZS)
Languages
Swahili and English
Attractions
Serengeti National Park – home to Africa’s big five game animals
Zanzibar – the vibrant spice island off the coast of Tanzania with brilliant white sand beaches
Mt. Kilimanjaro – the highest point in Africa and the world’s tallest freestanding volcano
What you will remember most from your time in Tanzania is the people. Tanzanians welcome you with big smiles and are genuinely excited to share their culture and customs. Be ready to become part of the community while you sip tea and listen to stories from your host families, community members, and other locals.
Patrick Ziemnik | Tanzania Country Director “When you think of Tanzania, you perhaps think of postcard photos: the vast savannas of the Serengeti, majestic African wildlife, the mighty Kilimanjaro towering overhead, the beauty of Zanzibar. But after experiencing life in Tanzania, you’ll remember the smiling faces of your friendly hosts, delicious food, and charismatic cultural experiences of this fascinating country.” Patrick is dedicated to building community partnerships and creating meaningful student experiences in Tanzania, where he leads operations. Patrick joined Rustic in 2012 after serving as AmeriCorps volunteer and managing the First-Year Outdoor Program at Harvard, where he graduated with honors.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
Tanzania Clean Water Project
••
•••
•••••
•••
25 hours
16 days
$4,495
African Wildlife Conservation
••
••••
•••••
••••
25 hours
16 days
$4,995
Culture and the Crater
•
••••
••••
•
50 hours
16 days
$4,295
Njoro Village Service Immersion
•••
•••
•••
•
25 hours
9 days
$2,695
Serengeti to Zanzibar
•••
••
••
••••
N/A
9 days
$3,895
Climbing Kili
•
•••••
•
•
N/A
16 days
$6,895
150
tanzania@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/tz
151
Tanzania
Tanzania Clean Water Project An exploration of the global water crisis on a local level
Ages
14 and up
Learn about issues related to clean water and access in Tanzania.
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 25 community service hours awarded
Collaborate with communities, NGOs, and water, sanitation, and hygiene experts to implement solutions and scale repeatable processes.
Cost
Deliver clean water education to partner communities. Engage with local students and village residents by immersing in the culture, history, and lifestyle of your gracious hosts.
$4,495 plus international airfare $130 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18
Returns Wednesday July 3
Connects well with… Culture and the Crater Serengeti to Zanzibar
p. 154 p. 156
Partner with locally-run NGOs to explore one of the most important issues of this generation—the global water crisis. A changing climate and continued lack of educational resources have only increased the burden on communities with limited access to clean water. Explore location-specific approaches to tackling water, sanitation, and hygiene issues—commonly referred to as WASH—and model good hand washing, one of the most effective hygiene interventions, to the primary school students you encounter. Discuss the challenges of scaling community-centered solutions for use across Tanzania with local experts and serve alongside masons and community educators on various projects. Critical Issues Program Natural resources accessibility and preservation
152
tanzania@rusticpathways.com
Tanzania
African Wildlife Conservation Hands-on training with animal and environmental conservation initiatives
Participate in a variety of service projects such as planting trees, collecting forest data, building a tree nursery, and constructing beehives. Explore Tanzania to learn about the history and lifestyle of the local communities that surround the vital wildlife corridor. Track wildlife on an unforgettable trip to one of Tanzania’s world-famous national parks. Join young conservationists all over the world as part of Rustic’s environmental conservation program. Travel around Tanzania to aid habitat restoration efforts, while working alongside community members on projects that support development and conservation. Spend a day in one of Tanzania’s national parks to see the animals you’re protecting in their natural habitat. Visit one of East Africa’s most notable wildlife management colleges, and meet with conservation trailblazers. Return home an active global citizen and perhaps be inspired to do one thing each day to bring positive change to people, animals, and the environment in your community.
Ages
16 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 25 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,995 plus international airfare $840 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday July 2 July 16
Returns Wednesday July 17 July 31
Connects well with… Culture and the Crater Njoro Village Service Immersion Serengeti to Zanzibar
p. 154 p. 155 p. 156
Critical Issues Program Conservation and community development
rusticpathways.com/tz
153
Tanzania
Culture and the Crater Village community service on the edge of the immense Ngorongoro Crater
Ages
14 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Service
Up to 50 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,295 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18 July 2 July 16
Returns Wednesday July 3 July 17 July 31
Culture and the Crater was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Rustic Pathways has this indescribable way of making its students feel less like tourists and more like locals and friends of the village. Henry Fernandez | Pinecrest, Florida
154
Build infrastructure projects with community leaders in a rural village and befriend local students in and out of the classroom. Track animals with a group of Hadzabe tribesmen during a simulated hunt. Observe incredible wildlife while on safari in the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Tanzania’s most iconic national parks and home to some 25,000 exotic animals. Experience rural Tanzania on one of our most rustic programs as you work with village leaders on service projects to improve basic living conditions and infrastructure. Partner with small groups of students for educational exchange activities to foster communication and teamwork, and forge friendships in the classroom and on the soccer pitch. Take a break from service to hunt for small game with the nomadic Hadzabe people, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes, visit local blacksmiths to learn how to make tools and jewelry from recycled scrap metal, and embark on a safari in the Ngorongoro Crater.
Jackson Paul | Tanzania Program Manager Hailing from Karatu in northern Tanzania, Jackson has been an invaluable member of our team since 2013. With a wealth of knowledge about the region, Jackson is constantly looking for ways to innovate and tweak our programs to improve the experience for our students and the communities in which we operate.
tanzania@rusticpathways.com
Tanzania
Njoro Village Service Immersion Tanzanian village life during a unique service adventure
Partner with locals to improve the physical learning environment at an area primary school in Poli Ward’s Njoro Village. Lead educational activities for students and pick up some Swahili along the way.
Ages
14 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Service
Up to 25 community service hours awarded
Cost
$2,695 plus international airfare
Explore marketplaces and farms, and learn how to prepare local cuisines. Live, work, and play under the shadow of mighty Mount Meru, the second highest mountain in Tanzania after Kilimanjaro. Help transform a rural village school into a more effective learning environment and get a firsthand introduction to Tanzanian culture during this introductory service program. Help the community with construction projects and increase local students’ confidence with English by engaging in conversational activities. Take a break from service to explore bustling marketplaces and rural farms, and learn how to cook local staple foods like ugali. Spend an afternoon on safari at Arusha National Park. Live comfortably in a cozy village guesthouse and try your hand at traditional pottery after a demo from local craftswomen.
rusticpathways.com/tz
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25 July 9 July 23
Returns Wednesday July 3 July 17 July 31
Connects well with… Serengeti to Zanzibar
p. 156
155
Tanzania
Serengeti to Zanzibar Incredible wildlife and breathtaking beaches
Ages
15 and up
Length
9 days from the United States
Cost
$3,895 plus international airfare $480 internal airfare
Explore the world-famous Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater on a thrilling three-day safari expedition. Spot the big five game animals: African buffalo, lion, leopard, elephant, and rhino, and learn about wildlife ecology and endangered species.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18 July 2 July 16
Returns Wednesday June 26 July 10 July 24
Connects well with… Njoro Village Service Immersion Climbing Kili
156
p. 155 p. 157
Feast on the fresh catch of the day, snorkel in azure waters, and sail on a traditional dhow during your stay in Zanzibar. Roam historic Stone Town as your group winds its way through the city’s maze-like streets and learn about its complicated history. Combine an epic African safari with the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania’s island paradise, during this extraordinary program. Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater—two of the most picturesque wildlife refuges in the world—provide the setting for the first half of your expedition. Set out on safari and learn about wildlife ecology and endangered species in Tanzania as you try to glimpse Africa’s big five game animals. Then head to the archipelago of Zanzibar for the second part of your adventure. This semi-autonomous region of Tanzania boasts some of East Africa’s most fascinating history and culture. Take a day trip to nearby islands and soak up sun on remote stretches of sand. Visit a fascinating spice farm and wander the lively marketplaces of historic Stone Town.
tanzania@rusticpathways.com
Tanzania
Climbing Kili A challenging and exhilarating expedition to the top of Africa
Immerse in the history and culture of the local Chagga tribe who live in the area around the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Traverse four climate zones and experience a variety of flora and fauna on your way to the summit with a team of professional guides, porters, and cooks.
Ages
15 and up
Length
16 days from the United States
Cost
$6,895 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Summit Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Celebrate the 19,341-foot ascent to Uhuru Peak with your group. Adventure to the ”Roof of Africa” on this seven-day trek to the continent’s highest peak and the world’s tallest freestanding mountain. Start with a short introduction to the unique culture of the region as you engage in community activities, learn tribal history, and acclimate to prepare for your expedition. Considered a non-technical climb, the route up Mt. Kilimanjaro is highly challenging but conquerable by anyone with good physical and mental fitness. Hike along scenic trails each day and spend your nights sleeping in tents under the stars. After several days of climbing, wake before dawn for your final ascent to the summit where you’ll stand above the clouds and look down on some of the finest views in Africa. End in Arusha where you’ll explore the local markets and enjoy a farewell feast with your hiking companions.
Departs Tuesday June 18 July 2
Returns Wednesday July 3 July 17
Connects well with… African Wildlife Conservation Serengeti to Zanzibar
p. 153 p. 156
Our group leaders were involved, compassionate, and, most of all, relatable. My trip to Kili was life-changing, and it was led by two amazing people who helped me embark on one of the hardest challenges I’ll ever face in my entire life. Jeremy Allen Navarro | Framingham, Massachusetts
rusticpathways.com/tz
157
u Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Conservation, page 169
Thailand
Thailand Rustic Pathways first offered Thailand programs in 1999, and the country has since become the hub of our Southeast Asia operations. We have an extensive team of incredible local staff who are experts at ensuring students have authentic, transformative experiences. Thailand offers the widest range of Rustic programs, from gritty service trips and animal conservation programs to outdoor adventures and immersive cultural experiences.
Thailand is _____________. enchanting
Known as the Land of Smiles, Thailand will immediately welcome and captivate you. The local people are incredibly friendly and deeply enjoy sharing their Buddhist culture, spicy food, and love for laughter. There is a peacefulness about the country, and the scenery is always enchanting.
Population
68.4 million
Capital City
Bangkok
Currency
Baht (THB)
Languages
Thai is the official language, although dozens of other languages and dialects are spoken
Attractions
The Grand Palace – former residence for the kings of Thailand
Ayutthaya – city built in the 1300s by King U Thong
The Golden Triangle – tri-point of Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar
Bryan Haggerty | Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar Country Director “A mystical feel radiates from every corner of Thailand; tastes, colors, and scents seem more vibrant than anything you’ve encountered before. Experiencing village life—where time slows down, food is homegrown, and family comes first—refreshes the soul. Experiencing this lifestyle will help remind you to notice the small things and how beautiful life can be without so many distractions.” 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.
160
thailand@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Ricefields, Monks, and Smiling Children
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
•••••
••
•••
••
39 hours
18 days
Intro to Community Service in Thailand
•••••
••
•••
•
24 hours
11 days
Community Health and Wilderness First Aid
•••••
•••
•••••
•••
18 hours
11 days
Life on the Margin
••
••••
••••
••••
32 hours
18 days
Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support Project
•••
••••
••••
•••
17+ hours
11+ days
Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Conservation
••••
••••
•••••
•••
23 hours
18 days
Southeast Asia by Backpack
•••••
•
•
•••••
8 hours
18 days
Thai Elephant Conservation Project
•••
•••
•••••
••
4 hours
11 days
Elephants and Amazing Thailand
•••
••
••••
••••
4 hours
18 days
Amazing Thailand
••••
••
••••
••••
N/A
11 days
Marine and Rainforest Conservation in Thailand
•••
•••••
•••
•••••
26 hours
18 days
Island Hopping and Diving
•••
••••
••••
••••
N/A
18 days
Backroads of Southeast Asia
•••
•••••
•••
•••••
12 hours
25 days
Wonders and Riches of Southeast Asia
•••••
•
•
•••••
N/A
18 days
Cost $3,895 + airfare
$1,995 + airfare
$2,895 + airfare
$3,995 + airfare
$1,995+ + airfare
$4,495 + airfare
$4,895 + airfare
$2,895 + airfare
$4,895 + airfare
$2,495 + airfare
$4,195 + airfare
$4,995 + airfare
$7,295 + airfare
$7,695 + airfare
Team Thailand at a Glance Rustic Pathways’ Thailand operations are comprised of more than 60 full- and part-time staff members who hail from all over the country, including remote Hill Tribe areas and small villages where our programs operate. Our team speaks eight languages, including English and many more dialects. They are former medical professionals, teachers, lawyers, monks, professional athletes, and resort managers who spend most of their time living at our Ricefields Service Base outside Udon Thani or Hill Tribe Service Base in Mae Sariang. Many staff members are certified Wilderness First Responders and regularly attend international trainings throughout the region. When you visit Thailand with Rustic Pathways, you become part of our extended family and shouldn’t be surprised if you begin planning your return to the region even before you head home.
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Ricefields Service Base Located 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. Founded at the Sanboon family home in Baan Chiang Yuen, the Ricefields Service Base has been host to Rustic Pathways students since 1999. Due to our long-standing relationship with the Sanboons and the local community, we’re able to offer students a truly immersive experience. Home to some of our most popular programs, including Intro to Community Service and Community Health and Wilderness First Aid, Ricefields provides a comfortable setting to introduce students to international travel.
Kadum Sanboon | Ricefields Service Base Director A devout Buddhist, Kadum spent six years as a monk before joining Rustic in 1999. He has lovingly managed our Ricefields Base for more than 10 years. With fluency in three languages and intimate knowledge of our global operations, Kadum is one of the most experienced and respected members of our global team.
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thailand@rusticpathways.com
Weekend Side Trips Students staying at the base for at least two weeks have the option to add a weekend side trip after their first full week of service. Laos Weekend Escape: 4 days, 3 nights | $495 Head north and hop across the Mekong River into the Land of a Million Elephants. Photograph incredible landscapes, swim in a turquoise jungle lagoon, hike to a mystical cave, and learn about traditional Hmong culture. Buddhist Retreat: 3 days, 2 nights | $395 Spend three days living like a Buddhist monk or nun while learning how meditation and mindfulness are a part of daily life in Thailand. Get acquainted with the basic tenets of Buddhism and leave the temple refreshed and grounded. Escape to Paradise: 3 days, 2 nights | $695 Relax on some of Thailand’s most pristine and stunning beaches in Phuket. Snorkel amid coral and colorful fish in aquamarine waters and climb jungle-covered rock formations.
Thailand
Ricefields, Monks, and Smiling Children Six rewarding service projects at the Ricefields Service Base
Immerse in Thai life, try tasty foods at the local market, learn about Thai culture at the nearby temple, and enjoy a rich social life with new friends and inspiring leaders.
Ages
14 and up
Length
18 days from the United States
Dedicate yourself to a variety of meaningful service projects that benefit the communities surrounding the Ricefields Service Base.
Service
Up to 39 community service hours awarded
Explore Laos, visit a Buddhist retreat, or relax on the beach during one or more optional weekend side trips.
Cost
$3,895 plus international airfare $300 internal airfare
Engage in life at Ricefields, an exciting blend of service and culture at our hub in Southeast Asia. Ricefields offers six service projects to choose from each week: Welcome Homes, Meals on Flip Flops, Bobbing and Floating, English Exchange, Teaching and Tutoring, and Hands in the Dirt. Developed over many years with our partners in the region, these service projects produce life-changing experiences for our students and long-term outcomes for the communities. Many students who come to the base stay for two to four weeks, or even the entire summer. Choose from several exciting side-trip options during your stay to enhance your Ricefields experience and maximize your summer in Southeast Asia.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9
Returns Friday June 28 July 12 July 26
Connects well with‌ Wonders of Laos p. 116 Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support p. 168 Amazing Thailand p. 173
Base House Program: Ricefields Service Base
rusticpathways.com/th
163
Thailand
Intro to Community Service in Thailand A glimpse of life at Rustic Pathways’ most popular service base
Ages
14 and up
Length
11 days from the United States
Service
Up to 24 community service hours awarded
Cost
$1,995 plus international airfare $300 internal airfare
Live in one of the most welcoming and friendly villages in Thailand at our Ricefields Service Base where you’ll make lifelong friends. Embrace the warm culture of rural Thailand during service projects that help children, the elderly, and families. Learn about Buddhism, cook tasty Thai food, participate in basic construction projects, and create English language enrichment activities for children.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25 July 9
Returns Friday June 21 July 5 July 19
Connects well with… Wonders of Laos Sticky Rice Service Adventure Thai Elephant Conservation Project
p. 116 p. 117 p. 170
Bond with our exceptional Ricefields base staff as you soak in traditional culture and fall in love with rural Thailand. Join an exciting week of service and enriching cultural activities at Ricefields. With several meaningful service projects running each week, Ricefields has something for every student. Throughout the week, choose between construction, creating English language exchange activities for local children, or helping local elders. Over the weekend, work with new friends on a larger service project and explore nearby sites. In your downtime, cool off with a swim in the pool, play a game of soccer, or join cultural activities organized by the staff. You’ll quickly see the impact of your service firsthand and begin to feel like a part of this special community. Base House Program: Ricefields Service Base
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thailand@rusticpathways.com
Thailand
Community Health and Wilderness First Aid Wilderness First Aid and CPR training while gaining hands-on medical experience
Build a solid foundation in emergency medicine by earning certifications in Wilderness First Aid and CPR, and prepare for any situation.
Ages
16 and up
Length
11 days from the United States
Enhance your skills while working alongside medical professionals during evaluations in nearby rural communities.
Service
Up to 18 community service hours awarded
Develop tangible skills, accredited certifications, and a greater understanding of community-based medicine.
Cost
$2,695 plus international airfare $300 internal airfare
Enjoy the beauty of Thailand while earning Wilderness First Aid and CPR certifications at our Ricefields Service Base. Learn how to triage injuries, manage life-threatening medical emergencies, and recognize early warning signs of critical problems. Practice providing basic life support and airway management, and learn to determine when a patient needs to be evacuated from a wilderness or rural location. Apply your new knowledge about community health with focused service projects in nearby villages and schools. Help screen for diabetes and high blood pressure and participate in an infrastructure project that provides safe and sanitary living conditions to a member of the community in need. Return home with a new outlook on the world of health care and village life in rural Thailand.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18 July 2
Returns Friday June 28 July 12
Connects well with‌ Thai Elephant Conservation Project Amazing Thailand
p. 170 p. 173
Base House Program: Ricefields Service Base
rusticpathways.com/th
165
Hill Tribe Service Base The Rustic Pathways Hill Tribe Service Base in Mae Sariang was established in 2007 to support local youth from remote areas of northwestern Thailand. These Karen Hill Tribe children and teens lack access to education, forcing them to leave home to pursue it. The Hill Tribe Service Base gives them a safe place to live while they attend school. In addition, students who live at the base also receive school fees, books, uniforms, homework tutoring and English lessons. They also participate in exchange activities with visiting Rustic Pathways students. Many of these local students graduate high school, continue on to universities, and begin successful careers in a variety of fields. Wanlapa “Nan” Loedbunlattana | Hill Tribe Base Program Manager Nan has been an instrumental part of the Rustic Pathways Hill Tribe Service Base since 2010. She wears a variety of hats and provides the students with the love, care, and guidance that they need to flourish in their home away from home. She currently serves as a mentor, housemother, and head cook.
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thailand@rusticpathways.com
Service Initiatives Education: Rustic Pathways works with three public schools in Mae Sariang and several rural village schools to support English language enrichment and provide cultural exchanges. Our full-time staff members collaborate with these schools to build initiatives that support key priorities and our students make a major contribution to this project through language engagement and cross-cultural learning. Infrastructure: Rustic Pathways has partnered with several villages in the region on the Rural Outreach and Development program (ROAD). This ambitious project was established in 2011 to address issues facing Karen villages, where full-time students from the Hill Tribe Service Base live with their families when they aren’t attending school. Over the years, Rustic students have worked with village residents to construct a kindergarten, two playgrounds, two libraries, and a dining hall. The ROAD program is currently constructing four new classrooms at Mae Lai school.
Thailand
Life on the Margin Service in remote villages and a refugee camp along the Thai-Myanmar border
Experience the rich Karen culture and open-hearted communities in this region.
Ages
16 and up
Embark on a multi-day excursion through remote border outposts, including a refugee camp, where you’ll meet people who have carved out a living here for generations.
Length
18 days from the United States
Service
Up to 32 community service hours awarded
Cost
$3,995 plus international airfare $340 internal airfare
Collaborate with people who have access to limited resources and learn about the beauty of living simply. Develop an understanding of the marginalized Karen people in the mountains of northwestern Thailand. Start at the Hill Tribe Service Base, a year-round facility that offers access to education for Karen students. Learn about their lives, help them improve their English, and explore Mae Sariang together during cultural outings. Then head into the remote border region where Rustic has developed long-term partnerships with Karen communities to host our students as they work on ongoing service projects. Spend extended time at a camp that’s home to tens of thousands of Karen refugees who have escaped civil unrest in Myanmar. Finish your program with a trip to the border town of Mae Sot, where you’ll cross into Myanmar to gain perspective on the dynamics of the region.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18 PHONE July 2
Returns Friday July 5 July 19
FREE
We all have the same yearning for inner peace, love, and happiness. I saw this firsthand in Mae Sariang’s diverse population in how the locals communicate and live together in harmony. Rebecca Rosenzweig | Los Angeles, California
Base House Program: Hill Tribe Service Base
rusticpathways.com/th
167
Thailand
Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support Project Cultural and language exchange with Karen youth
Ages
14 and up
Live alongside ethnic Karen teens and learn about their culture, lives, and aspirations.
Length
11+ days from the United States
Service
Up to 17 community service hours awarded
Serve as an English conversation partner with your new Karen friends, and assist them with their reading and writing studies.
Cost
$1,995 plus international airfare $340 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23
Returns Friday June 21 June 28 July 5 July 12 July 19 July 26 August 2
Soak up the idyllic atmosphere of mountains and rice paddies while relaxing on the breezy veranda of the Hill Tribe Service Base. Meet like-minded students who want to make a difference in the lives of these exceptional, young Karen people. Delve into the warmth and camaraderie of the Hill Tribe Service Base and you‘ll never want to leave. Get to know the students who live here year-round. Service initiatives take place either at the Hill Tribe Service Base or at one of several public or village schools in the Mae Sariang area. Help with development projects in the surrounding Karen communities as part of our outreach program. Lead English exchange activities, tutor your new friends, help our team tend to the base house gardens, and join service excursions to remote communities. If you’d like a longer and even deeper experience at the Hill Tribe Service Base, opt for the two-week Life on the Margin program.
Base House Program: Hill Tribe Service Base 168
thailand@rusticpathways.com
Thailand
Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Conservation Assisting Karen youth and spending time at a unique elephant sanctuary
Experience life at the Hill Tribe Service Base and take an overnight excursion to a nearby village to learn about life in the rural mountains of Thailand’s western frontier.
Ages
14 and up
Length
18 days from the United States
Learn about elephants through activities and service projects at a world-class facility home to well-respected experts in the field.
Service
Up to 23 community service hours awarded
Explore Chiang Mai, mountaintop temples, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque rice fields, and develop a deeper appreciation for this diverse country.
Cost
$4,495 plus international airfare $340 internal airfare
Become a part of our extended family at the Hill Tribe Service Base, where your journey begins. This gorgeous facility is a year-round home to Karen students who attend school nearby. Design and implement lesson plans with help from trained educators, spend a night in a nearby village to work on a construction project, and gain important perspective about how people live in this part of the world. Head to Chiang Mai and then to a progressive elephant sanctuary. Spend several days completing elephant-related service projects and learning about these majestic creatures. In between sessions with the elephants, enjoy engaging discussions about the diverse experiences you’ve shared with the rest your group.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23
Returns Friday June 28 July 5 July 12 July 19 July 26 August 2 August 9
Base House Program: Hill Tribe Service Base
rusticpathways.com/th
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Thailand
Thai Elephant Conservation Project A hands-on experience working directly with elephants at a world-renowned facility
Ages
14 and up
Work with a mahout to feed, bathe, and care for your elephant.
Length
11 days from the United States
Cost
$2,895 plus international airfare $340 internal airfare
Head deep into the jungle and spend a night camping in the wilderness and laughing around a bonfire with your group.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30
170
Returns Friday June 21 June 28 July 5 July 12 July 19 July 26 August 2 August 9
Learn about the complexity of animal conservation issues in Southeast Asia, and review plans for preserving endangered species and habitats for future generations. Live at the Thai Elephant Conservation Center, the largest conservation center in the country dedicated to the preservation of Asian elephants. Earn a certificate in elephant handling from your mahout, a Thai elephant caretaker. Learn how to care for your elephant as you help to ensure its healthy future. This program includes lessons, discussions, practical training, an overnight camping adventure deep in the jungle, an excursion to the world’s first and finest elephant hospital, social time with the mahouts, and plenty of quality contact with the elephants. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with an amazing team who have dedicated their lives to caring for elephants while preserving the ancient and sacred customs developed to live harmoniously with these magnificent beings.
thailand@rusticpathways.com
Thailand
Elephants and Amazing Thailand A fantastic adventure combining elephants with the best sights in the Land of Smiles
Learn about Asian elephants at a renowned conservation center in northern Thailand.
Ages
14 and up
Venture through Thailand after spending a week in the jungle caring for elephants.
Length
18 days from the United States
Explore charming Chiang Mai, visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho in the bustling city of Bangkok, and take a chartered boat cruise down the Chao Phraya River.
Service
Up to 4 community service hours awarded
Experience two programs—Thai Elephant Conservation Project and Amazing Thailand—in one action-packed trip. Spend your first week at an elephant conservation center attending classes, gaining hands-on experience with Asian elephants and their mahouts, and earning a formal certificate of participation. Start the second week by visiting ancient temples, swimming under waterfalls, and shopping at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. Then, head north to experience picturesque village life in the shadows of Doi Chiang Dao peak before continuing on to the Chiang Rai region. Finish your journey in Bangkok by visiting the Grand Palace, attending a championship Muay Thai match, and experiencing a nighttime dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River.
Cost
$4,895 plus international airfare $340 internal airfare
College Program: For students 18 and older we offer a special version of this program, which also includes three days on the beaches of southern Thailand, starting in-country on June 4th, 2019. For more information, please visit rusticpathways.com/college.
rusticpathways.com/th
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23
Returns Friday June 28 July 5 July 12 July 19 July 26 August 2 August 9
171
Thailand
Southeast Asia by Backpack Hidden treasures of Southeast Asia during a unique self-directed adventure
Ages
16 and up
Journey by train, bus, and van across seldom seen parts of Thailand and Myanmar.
Length
18 days from the United States
Trek through the lush jungle of Hpa An and sleep overnight in a remote monastery.
Cost
$4,895 plus international airfare $180 internal airfare
Bike through remote fishing villages along the southern coast of Myanmar.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25 July 9
Returns Friday July 12 July 26
Connects well with‌ Wonders of Laos p. 116 Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support p. 168
172
Explore cave temples by boat and relax along the pristine beaches of Southern Thailand. Develop valuable life skills as you plan your own adventures. Become an experienced backpacker as you navigate transportation and daily adventures while managing a budget, picking up local languages, and planning excursions. Start with an epic cross-country train journey north through the heart of Thailand. Travel along the northern border between Thailand and Myanmar, exploring remote Hill Tribe communities. Venture to destinations rarely visited by tourists in the Mon and Karen states in Myanmar. Hike through the lush jungles of Hpa An and relax on untouched beaches of southern Thailand. Living out of your pack for two weeks, this experience is only for the truly adventurous.
thailand@rusticpathways.com
Thailand
Amazing Thailand A classic journey from Chiang Mai and the northern mountains to Bangkok
Hike through remote Hill Tribe villages, discover Thailand’s rich culture, and develop a deep appreciation for Buddhist traditions.
Ages
14 and up
Length
11 days from the United States
Admire mighty mountains, a majestic waterfall, colorful cultures, and mystical caves in the peaceful town of Chiang Dao.
Cost
$2,495 plus international airfare $340 internal airfare
Shop in funky local markets, check out the view from Doi Suthep, visit the Grand Palace, and make lifelong friends during this nonstop week of adventure and touring.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Wander around ancient stupas, browse eclectic markets, and check out the mountain temple of Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai. Head for the hills, where the road snakes through lush mountains and terraced rice fields. Explore a waterfall and a holy cave, learn about local cultures, and enjoy the view of the mighty Doi Chiang Dao peak. The final stop is Bangkok, where you’ll visit the Grand Palace, see a championship Muay Thai match, and hop on a chartered long-tail boat ride. Surasak “Koko” Kengla | Thailand Senior Program Manager Born near Chiang Dao Mountain, Koko is an avid outdoorsman, teaches jungle survival, and leads biking and trekking excursions throughout the region. Since joining Rustic in 2007, Koko has enjoyed introducing students to Buddhist philosophy and his positivity makes a lasting impression on everyone he meets.
rusticpathways.com/th
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30
Returns Friday June 21 June 28 July 5 July 12 July 19 July 26 August 2 August 9
173
Thailand
Marine and Rainforest Conservation in Thailand An examination of tourism’s impact and efforts to protect the environment
Ages
16 and up
Length
24 days from the United States
Cost
$4,195 plus international airfare $400 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 June 25
Returns Friday June 28 July 12
Connects well with… Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support p. 168 Thai Elephant Conservation Project p. 170 I’ve never felt more confident that I can make a difference in the world, no matter how small it is. Thailand gave me that. Anna Hentschel | Austin, Texas
174
Discover Southern Thailand’s unseen treasures, from deserted white sand beaches to the oldest rainforests in Southeast Asia. Look for elusive endangered species—including dugongs and Irrawaddy dolphins—as you learn about the fragile marine and mangrove habitats. Stay with a local family in a traditional fishing village and learn about community conservation efforts from non-governmental organizations. Delve into the challenges facing southern Thailand as communities work to balance a beneficial tourism industry while protecting the beautiful land they call home. Paradise is indeed at a crossroads. Southern Thailand is home to idyllic beaches, pristine waters, and limestone karsts that have made it a world-famous destination. While popularity has brought international renown, the influx of tourism is starting to negatively impact the marine environment in many popular places. Learn about the challenging dynamic between the industries that sustain local populations with the conservation of fragile habitats, home to wondrous creatures that call these waters home. Assist with efforts to monitor rare species, snorkel on dazzling coral reefs, and explore ancient rainforests. Return home with a deep understanding of the complex issues facing the region and an appreciation for the majestic landscapes of southern Thailand.
thailand@rusticpathways.com
Thailand
Island Hopping and Diving Tropical wonders and exotic islands of beautiful southern Thailand
Discover the rich culture, pristine waters, lush tropical jungles, and towering limestone cliffs of southern Thailand. Plunge into the emerald Andaman Sea as you snorkel or scuba dive on some of the best reefs in all of Southeast Asia. Earn your PADI Open Water or Advanced Open Water certification. Challenge yourself on the cliffs of Railay Beach while rock climbing with professionals amid a stunning tropical landscape. Experience some of the best destinations in southern Thailand—from the quaint fishing villages and coconut farms of Ko Yao Noi to popular destinations like world-renowned Phuket and Ko Phi Phi. Spend time on the beach, in the jungles, and atop the striking limestone cliffs that define this majestic landscape. Earn your Professional Association of Diving Instructors Open Water or Advanced certification in Ko Phi Phi as you snorkel and scuba dive within its spectacular coral reefs. Climb the world-famous cliffs at Railay Beach, and finish your experience on the relaxing beaches of Phuket. Start the program learning about traditional culture and local industries, and throughout your journey, consider how the people in this region have adapted to the influx of international tourism.
rusticpathways.com/th
Ages
16 and up
Length
18 days from the United States
Cost
$4,995 plus international airfare $400 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday July 9 July 23
Returns Friday July 26 August 9
Connects well with… Ricefields, Monks, and Smiling Children Amazing Thailand
p. 163 p. 173
There’s not a lot of stress involved with traveling. Everything is pre-planned and organized so you just have to enjoy the trip. Connery Adams | Carmel, California
175
Thailand
Backroads of Southeast Asia An epic four-country journey through some of the most beautiful locations in the region
Ages
16 and up
Length
25 days from the United States
Service
Up to 12 community service hours awarded
Cost
$7,295 plus international airfare $1,360 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 18 July 16
Returns Friday July 12 August 9
My group leaders changed my life the same, if not more, than the actual trip. This program changed the way I viewed the world. As clichĂŠ as it sounds, it truly changed my life. Emily Leonard | Calabasas, California
176
Explore the best off-the-beaten-path locations most tourists never see in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar. Delve into the region’s diverse cultures while helping with service projects and learning how people live in these remote and traditional villages. Discover the majesty of Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, the awe-inspiring ruins of Bagan, the unique floating villages of Inle Lake, the traditional Vietnamese culture in Hanoi, and the picturesque beaches of Thailand. Start your adventure in the town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the cultural heart of Laos. Explore caves and the turquoise pools of Kuang Si Falls, and climb the steps of Mount Phousi for a panoramic view overlooking Luang Prabang. Leaving Laos behind, travel to Hanoi where traditional Vietnamese culture collides with the modern world. Trek into the mountains for a village homestay before visiting the otherworldly Trang An Grottoes. Your next stop is Myanmar, the Golden Land. Visit the home village of several of our Rustic staff members on an island in the Irrawaddy River, and explore the shores and floating villages of Inle Lake. Conclude your trip on the beaches of southern Thailand and reflect on your journey with new friends in an idyllic, tropical paradise.
thailand@rusticpathways.com
Thailand
Wonders and Riches of Southeast Asia The best attractions across four incredible countries
Thailand: Visit the Royal Palace, get fitted for custom clothes by the country’s top tailor, and catch a Muay Thai fight from a ringside seat as you see the best of both bustling Bangkok and hip Chiang Mai. Laos: Explore historic Luang Prabang, swim under towering waterfalls, and ride a long-tail boat to seldom-seen villages. Cambodia: Take in the awe-inspiring ruins of Angkor Wat and learn about Khmer culture as you tour the floating village region. Vietnam: Tour old Hanoi, cruise Ha Long Bay on a luxurious teak boat, and witness the contrast between Vietnam’s history and its modern reality. Travel in style through four countries in Southeast Asia, staying at luxury resorts and enjoying the finest cuisine in the region. Take an overnight chartered boat through the tropical island wonderland of Ha Long Bay, cheer ringside at a championship Muay Thai match, witness Hanoi’s Old Town from the back of a rickshaw, and explore the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat. Learn about the complexities of Southeast Asian cultures from monks, shamans, and our team of local All-Stars in each location. Hone your bargaining skills while shopping for funky artwork, teak wood carvings, rare silver jewelry, and just about anything else you could imagine.
rusticpathways.com/th
Ages
16 and up
Length
18 days from the United States
Cost
$7,695 plus international airfare $1,570 internal airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 11 July 9
Returns Friday June 28 July 26
Connects well with… Intro to Community Service in Thailand p. 164 Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support p. 168
The Rustic leaders were amazing and in general I had the most amazing time. One of the best choices I’ve ever made was to travel to Asia for the first time with Rustic. It was extraordinary. Rebeca Montano | Key Biscayne, Florida
177
u Rebuilding the American Dream, page 182
United States
United States One theme in each of our United States programs is home. Some students work with refugees who are assimilating into a new home, some help the residents of New Orleans rebuild their homes, and some learn to feel at home amid the vast natural beauty of our national parks. International students gain a new perspective on the United States and American students often feel as though they are rediscovering their home country.
surprising The United States is ____________.
Even if the USA is your home country, you’re bound to encounter something unexpected on one of these programs. The United States is diverse in every sense, boasting a wide range of sights, activities, people, food, and cultures. You’ll be surprised by the issues you’re exposed to and amazed at how much you will discover.
Population
326.6 million
Capital City
Washington, D.C.
Currency
U.S. Dollar (USD)
Languages
English, some Spanish
Attractions
The Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Park – two of the country’s most incredible natural wonders
The French Quarter – home to historic Jackson Square and jazz
District of Columbia – the U.S. capitol packed with museums and monuments
Dani Hainstock | United States Country Manager “The cultural, environmental, and social diversity in the United States provides an incredible opportunity for students to learn and grow. From remote mountains to vibrant cities, and everything in between, our USA programs give students an opportunity to challenge themselves and to understand more of the world around them.” Dani has spent the majority of her working life trip leading, teaching, and directing outdoor education programs. She led five young women on a 45-day backpacking trip in Alaska, wrote and executed lesson plans for undergraduate students at Fort Lewis College’s Adventure Education program, and trained her staff on risk management practices prior to their backcountry trips. Since joining Rustic in 2017, Dani has brought her experience to the Rustic Pathways USA team.
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
The Refugee Education Project
•••••
•
••••
•
35 hours
14 days
$4,295
Rebuilding the American Dream
•••••
••••
•••
•
40 hours
14 days
$3,995
Aloha Service
••
•••••
•••
••••
30 hours
14 days
$5,295
American Adrenaline
••••
••••
•••••
•
N/A
14 days
$4,895
California Rush
••
•••••
•••
••••
10 hours
14 days
$4,495
Off the Map: Alaska
•
•••••
•
••••
N/A
14 days
$4,995
180
usa@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
United States
The Refugee Education Project Assist refugee students’ education and explore Washington, D.C.
Assist refugee children recently resettled in Baltimore during daily language and life skills lessons. Learn the history of local refugees and efforts to help them settle into a new home. Explore the national monuments and museums in nearby Washington, D.C., and catch a Major League Baseball game at Camden Yards. Partner with the Baltimore City Community College Refugee Youth Project to assist students and their families as they transition to life in a new country. Young adults tend to adapt and learn languages and cultures more easily than their parents, often becoming interpreters and case workers for their loved ones. Build relationships with students by serving as an English language conversational partner and assisting them with life skills at a nonprofit summer camp. Learn about refugee and humanitarian issues and complexities that face resettled families. Explore lively Washington, D.C. with visits to Smithsonian Institution museums, Arlington National Cemetery, and other national landmarks.
16 and up
Length
14 days
Service
Up to 35 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,195 plus airfare
Airfare is not included. Students are responsible for arranging their own airfare. Please see rusticpathways.com/flights.
Starts Sunday June 23 July 7 July 21
Ends Saturday July 6 July 20 August 3
The program was incredible! It was wildly empowering; I left feeling more informed and independent. I made so many great friends and took pride in the work I was doing. I actually felt that I could make a difference in someone’s life. Abigail Goldfarb | Voorheesville, New York
Critical Issues Program Refugee resettlement, access to education, citizenship
Ages
rusticpathways.com/us
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United States
Rebuilding the American Dream Hurricane recovery and cultural exploration in New Orleans and Houston
Ages
15 and up
Repair homes damaged by hurricanes Katrina and Harvey.
Length
14 days
Experience the unique local cultures of New Orleans and Texas.
Service
Up to 40 community service hours awarded
Listen to live jazz in the French quarter and sample legendary Texas barbecue.
Cost
$3,995 plus airfare $450 internal airfare
Learn about the impacts of natural disasters on local communities and the complexities of rebuilding neighborhoods after substantial loss.
Airfare is not included. Students are responsible for arranging their own airfare. Please see rusticpathways.com/flights.
Starts Saturday June 8 June 22 July 6 July 20 PHONE
FREE
Ends Friday June 21 July 5 July 19 August 2
Connects well with… The Refugee Education Project
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Assist in the ongoing hurricane relief efforts in Houston and New Orleans. Neighborhoods in both New Orleans and Houston experienced unprecedented damage following Hurricanes Katrina and Harvey. Help residents and local organizations working to rebuild homes and neighborhood infrastructure. Soak up New Orleans’ famous atmosphere as you enjoy live music, fresh jambalaya, and the true meaning of Southern hospitality. Learn what it means when locals say “Everything’s bigger in Texas.” Explore NASA’s Johnson Space Center and savor true Texas barbecue in Houston. Base House Program: New Orleans Service Base
p. 181
Spring Break Program: We also offer a one-week version of this program in New Orleans only in April for spring break. For more information and dates please see page 25 or visit our website at rusticpathways.com/spring-break. usa@rusticpathways.com
United States
Aloha Service Service and exploration in the lush tropical paradise of Hawaii
Relax on Hawaii’s famous white sand beaches and take a dip in the Pacific.
Ages
14 and up
Learn to surf on the world-renowned Kona coast from expert coaches.
Length
14 days
Explore volcanoes, tropical forests, and teeming reefs on this ecologically-diverse island.
Service
Volunteer alongside local organizations working to safeguard Hawaii’s biodiversity and provide access to rich education for all Hawaiians.
Up to 30 community service hours awarded
Cost
$5,295 plus airfare
Work alongside local organizations in their mission to safeguard Hawaii’s biodiversity and provide access to rich education for local students. After completing service, get a taste of what makes Hawaii an island paradise. Relax on the white sand beaches, learn to surf, hike through lush forests, and take in millions of stars atop Mauna Kea. Learn about the unique and rich history of Kanaka Maoli, Hawaii’s native people. Before heading home, glimpse the powerful forces that created this island in Volcanoes National Park.
Airfare is not included. Students are responsible for arranging their own airfare. Please see rusticpathways.com/flights.
Starts Saturday June 15 June 29 July 13 Connects well with… California Rush
rusticpathways.com/us
Ends Friday June 28 July 12 July 26 p. 178
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United States
American Adrenaline A fast-paced tour of some of the most epic adventure destinations in the American West
Ages
16 and up
Explore the renowned narrows of Zion Canyon and hike to the top of Angel’s Landing.
Length
14 days
Float the Moab Daily, a 14-mile class III portion of the Colorado River.
Cost
$4,795 plus airfare
Bike through the stunning red desert landscape of Canyonlands National Park.
Airfare is not included. Students are responsible for arranging their own airfare. Please see rusticpathways.com/flights.
Starts Saturday July 13 July 27 Connects well with… California Rush Off the Map: Alaska
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Ends Friday July 26 August 9 p. 181 p. 182
Hike to the famed Havasupai Falls and camp under the stars in the desert. Marvel at the Grand Canyon, and learn about its unique geological history. Spend two weeks traveling through some of America’s most famed natural treasures in Utah and Arizona. Feel the rush as you hike in renowned national parks, raft through deep canyons, and bike around golden sandstone arches in Utah. Peer out over the edge of the Grand Canyon, sleep under the stars, and discover the rich Native American history in Arizona. Though designed for adrenaline junkies, this program also provides a full dose of stunning beauty and fascinating history.
usa@rusticpathways.com
United States
California Rush Hike, surf, and camp on this epic road trip
Sleep under the starry skies surrounded by redwoods in several of California’s picturesque national parks.
Ages
14 and up
Length
14 days
Service
Up to 10 community service hours awarded
Revel in the diverse outdoor adventures and landscapes the Golden State has to offer.
Cost
$4,495 plus airfare
Explore the beautiful, diverse landscape of California on this road trip and visit locations that are among the most beautiful in the United States. From stunning mountains to incredible beaches, the Golden State is home to limitless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visit preserved ghost towns and impressive tufa towers at Mono Lake. Camp in the world-renowned Sierra Nevada mountains and Yosemite National Park—ending each evening by sharing meals and stories around the campfire. Then head west and up the coast along historic Highway 1 through Big Sur, Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Francisco. Explore the incredible natural wonders found across California and leave with an experience you’ll dream about forever.
Airfare is not included. Students are responsible for arranging their own airfare. Please see rusticpathways.com/flights.
Learn to surf on the historic beaches of Santa Cruz. Hike the Sierra Nevadas and explore the beaches and waterfalls of Big Sur.
Young Explorers: We also offer a Young Explorers version of this program designed for students ages 12 and 13. For more information and dates please see page 26 or visit our website at rusticpathways.com/young-explorers.
rusticpathways.com/us
Starts Saturday June 15 July 13
Ends Friday June 28 July 26
We were always on the go exploring new exciting places around Northern California. There was never a moment when I felt like I was bored or not doing something fun and interesting. The trip impacted me because it helped me broaden my horizons. Evin Nesburn | Pacific Palisades, California
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United States
Off the Map: Alaska A tough and rewarding journey through the Last Frontier
Ages
16 and up
Challenge yourself in the rugged lands of the 49th state of the union.
Length
14 days
Cost
$4,995 plus airfare
Kayak on a glacial lake, whitewater raft in glacier-fed rivers, and ice climb in beautiful Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Airfare is not included. Students are responsible for arranging their own airfare. Please see rusticpathways.com/flights.
Starts Saturday June 15 June 29 Connects well with… Aloha Service American Adrenaline
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Ends Friday June 28 July 12 p. 179 p. 180
Watch for whales as you cruise by boat past breathtaking fjords and astounding glaciers. Venture through untouched lands, conquer tough hikes, and take in the beauty surrounding you. Set out for an adventure of a lifetime. Alaska comes from the Aleut word alyeska, meaning “great land,” and this journey will show you how the state earned its name. Home to 17 of the 20 highest peaks in the United States, 3,000 rivers, and more than three million lakes, Alaska is a land full of awe-inspiring places to explore. Trek through Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest peak, and spot diverse wildlife such as black bears, mountain goats, and caribou. Learn how to ice climb, hike the Root Glacier trail in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, and whitewater raft down the Matanuska River. Even the most active wilderness lovers and adventurers will be struck by the wild beauty of Alaska.
usa@rusticpathways.com
United States
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u Hanoi to Ha Long, page 191
Vietnam
Vietnam
Population
96.2 million
Capital City Hanoi
Vietnam is a unique mix of cultures, languages, and histories. Rustic Pathways has partnered with local communities and development organizations across Vietnam since 2010 to help our students gain a profound understanding and appreciation for the astonishing story of this charming Southeast Asian country. Students often leave Vietnam after having meaningful experiences, returning home with changed perspectives and want to contribute in positive and impactful ways to their own communities.
Vietnam is __________. timeless
Wander the quaint streets of 1,000-year-old Hanoi, sampling exquisite flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Cruise the waters across Ha Long Bay, marvel at the cliffs overhead, and wander through lush rice fields. Shop in bustling local markets and learn about Vietnamese culture and history throughout the ages.
Currency
Dong (VND)
Languages
Vietnamese, English, some French and Chinese
Attractions
Hanoi – Vietnam’s capital, where the ancient meets the modern
Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO World Heritage site with more than 1,000 islands and islets
Hoi An – the elegant “City of Lanterns” served as a trading port in the 15th century
Viet Nguyen | Vietnam Program Manager “Vietnam is my home and I’m proud to history, charming culture, and tasty expect to see eye-opening historical service initiatives. Rustic Pathways passion—my life!”
expose students to this marvelous country’s rich delicacies. Students who travel to Vietnam can landmarks and assist communities on impactful Vietnam is not simply a 9 to 5 job. It is my
Originally from Hanoi, Viet joined Rustic Pathways in 2015. Viet developed a passion for creating life-changing experiential education experiences as a volunteer tour guide in college, making him the perfect fit to lead our Vietnam operations. Outside of work, you’ll find Viet jamming along with The Beatles and Queen, or trying to hit the highest note from A-ha’s “Take on Me.”
Program at a Glance Program Name
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
Service
Trip Length
Cost
Hanoi to Ha Long
•••
••••
••
••••
24 hours
18 days
$4,895
190
vietnam@rusticpathways.com
+ airfare
Vietnam
Hanoi to Ha Long A two-week adventure uncovering the hidden gems of northern Vietnam
Wander the streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter in this capital city and explore rich culture, fascinating history, and captivating sites. Support ongoing community service initiatives with communities inside the Ngoc Son-Ngo Luong Nature Reserve. Weave through Trang An’s breathtaking grottoes and explore Vietnam’s ancient city. Cruise past karsts and islands in the UNESCO World Heritage centre of Ha Long Bay. Explore the charming and historic streets of Old Hanoi, sampling Vietnamese cuisine on every corner. Trek through Ngoc Son-Ngo Luong Nature Reserve and live in a Muong Village where you’ll contribute to an ongoing service initiative. Cruise along Trang An grottoes in Ninh Binh and learn about the rich history of Vietnam’s ancient capital city. Bike through the green rice fields and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Overnight aboard a private junk boat in Ha Long Bay, stopping to explore caves, karsts, and islands as you go. Participate in an on-board cooking class before your journey ends.
rusticpathways.com/vn
Ages
14 and up
Length
18 days from the United States
Service
Up to 24 community service hours awarded
Cost
$4,895 plus international airfare
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Departs Tuesday June 25 July 9
Returns Friday July 12 July 26
Connects well with… Floating Village Service Expedition Elephants and Amazing Thailand
p. 45 p. 171
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We’re more than a travel company. We’re also educators who understand the value of providing a learning experience outside the classroom. Because every school and class is different, we customize our Group Travel programs specifically for educators and their students. To keep it easy for busy educators, we’ll even do all the work!
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
How to Design the Perfect Travel Program Step 1: Partner with a Rustic Program Coordinator and discuss program options and customization, get proposals in one to two days, make adjustments or ask questions. Step 2: Recruit students with a custom program webpage, posters, flyers, email templates, and other materials that we’ll design. Plus, you travel for free when six students enroll! Step 3: Travel on an incredible adventure—immerse in local culture, participate in meaningful service, create lasting memories, and apply lessons to the classroom after returning. When you return, get involved with the Rustic Pathways Foundation to continue supporting the communities where your class traveled. And start planning your next program! Call 800.321.4353 (United States) or +1 440.975.9691 (international), email groups@rusticpathways.com or visit groups.rusticpathways.com to customize the perfect trip for your students.
Tim Reilly Head of School International School of Texas Austin, Texas Peru, 2017 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!
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groups.rusticpathways.com
A gap year is anything but a year off. Deciding to defer college for a semester or a year is often the most important educational decision a student makes—supported by top colleges and universities. Gap years are formative experiences that encourage personal growth while helping students determine how they want to spend the next four years and beyond. Rustic Pathways is an accredited member of the Gap Year Association. Our programs include structured three-month semesters or one-month blocks designed to provide different opportunities for travel, cultural immersion, service and non-cognitive skills development. In addition to our traditional gap semesters, we’ve recently partnered with Verto Education to offer students the opportunity to earn college credits during an immersive international travel experience. Verto’s programs are affordable, accredited academic programs that include acceptance to one of its partner colleges.
What does a gap year with Rustic look like? 3-Month Semester Programs
College Credit-Bearing Semesters with Verto Education
South Pacific Service and Ocean Skills Participate in community service projects while immersing in the culture of the South Pacific. Surf, sail, scuba dive, and earn a Bronze Medallion lifesaving certificate on this program with the highest level of supervision and mentorship by our local and international staff in Fiji, Australia, and New Zealand.
Latin America: Costa Rica Spanish Immersion | 12 credits This semester is designed to expose students to the relevant issues in environmental studies, sustainability, and ecology. Students spend a total of 12 weeks in Costa Rica immersed in a Spanish language course.
Spanish Immersion: From Havana to Machu Picchu Stay with local families and interact in Spanish during unique homestay experiences. Improve language skills, dive into indigenous culture, participate in meaningful community service projects, and explore the best landscapes in three regions: Central America, the Andes, and the Caribbean. Golden Lands and World Heritage Explore ancient ruins; travel by tuk tuk, train, and riverboat; compare religious values and customs; and get to know local staff members as they share undiscovered gems across Southeast Asia on this program with the highest level of supervision and mentorship by our local and international staff. Visit gap.rusticpathways.com for more information about taking a gap year with Rustic Pathways.
Latin America: The Dominican Republic and Costa Rica | 16 credits This semester is designed to explore the work of international development and systems of public health in Central America. Students spend 13 weeks abroad, including seven weeks in the Dominican Republic and six weeks in Costa Rica. South Pacific: Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia | 12 credits This semester is designed to explore the relationship between humans, ecosystems, and societies. During this semester, students spend thirteen weeks abroad, including seven weeks in Fiji, two weeks in New Zealand, and four weeks in Australia. Southeast Asia: China and Thailand – 12 credits This semester is designed to develop students’ understanding of issues in international business, global corporate ethics, international financial systems, and international development. Students spend thirteen weeks abroad, four weeks in China and nine weeks in Thailand. Learn more at vertoeducation.org.
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Frequently Asked Questions Below you’ll find some of the most each family is assigned a Personal having a single point person helps of your questions aren’t
frequently asked questions at Rustic Pathways. Upon enrolling, Travel Advisor to help them prepare for their trip. We believe simplify the process and provides a personalized touch. If any addressed below, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
General Questions
Travel Arrangements
Is Rustic Pathways right for me? Our programs are designed for positive and level-headed students with interests in experiential learning and travel. Our programs aren’t suitable for students with conduct disorders, chemical dependencies, an inability to work constructively in team environments or follow instructions, or an unwillingness to behave in a culturally sensitive manner.
Listed below are some common questions and answers regarding traveling with Rustic Pathways and how our international and internal flight processes work. For more information specific to each travel destination, please visit rusticpathways.com/flights.
Where do Rustic Pathways students come from? Rustic Pathways students come from all over the world. Approximately 80 percent of our students are from the United States, and we are thrilled to welcome more and more international students each year. How old are most Rustic Pathways students? What about gender? This varies for each program and program date. If you are curious about the age and gender of other participants on a particular program, let us know and we’ll tell you! Do most people travel with a friend? No. Most Rustic Pathways students do not know anyone when they arrive. Some students do choose to travel with a friend, and either way, you’ll have an incredible Rustic experience. Are Rustic Pathways staff members certified in first aid? Every program includes staff members who are certified in First Aid and CPR at a minimum. Many of our programs include staff members with Wilderness First Responder (WFR), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Ocean Lifeguard, and other certifications. What are Rustic Pathways’ Rules? At Rustic Pathways, we value community. We cherish diversity and inclusivity and we actively strive to create a culture of acceptance, tolerance, and respect. Students are expected to be respectful of their peers and the communities in which they visit and work. They are also required to follow their Program Leaders’ instructions at all times. In addition to respectful behavior, Rustic Pathways has a few zerotolerance rules. Any student involved in bullying, drugs or alcohol, or sexual activity during their program may be removed immediately. By no means is this an exhaustive list of rules. Please refer to our website rusticpathways.com/rules for more information. Can you cater to my needs? Rustic Pathways Personal Travel Advisors are always available to work with you to meet your specific needs. Whether you have special dietary needs, wish to combine programs, or want more details about a program, we’re here to help you.
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Can I connect between countries and programs? Yes! Many Rustic Pathways students choose the exciting option of combining multiple trips. While many of our programs are designed to easily connect, others take a bit of coordinating. Contact us if you have any specific questions about connecting programs or countries. How does air travel work? Do I purchase international flights through Rustic Pathways? In most cases, chaperoned international flights leave from our gateway airports within the United States. We highly recommend that all our students arrive at their gateway airport at least four hours before the international flight. Prior to departure, we will send detailed airport information and flight times to parents. If you’re beginning and ending your travels in North America, Rustic Pathways will handle your international ticketing. We purchase blocks of seats to ensure that all students travel on the same chaperoned flight. International airfare costs can be found at rusticpathways.com/flights. Are your flights escorted? How will I know my child has arrived? Yes, Rustic Pathways Flight Leaders escort our international flights from each gateway airport. We also have staff in these airports to ensure safe travel. On certain routes outside the United States, students may not be escorted, but they will be checked in for their flight by our staff and met again by staff at their arrival airport. Once your child arrives safely at their final destination, you’ll receive a safe arrival email from us. Why does Rustic Pathways arrange international flights? After 35 years, we’ve found this is the safest and most reliable way to operate. We can control ticketing, changes, and have a chaperone on board. There have been times in the past when parents ticketed their children to San Jose, California instead of San José, Costa Rica by mistake, and our group tickets minimize some of these wrinkles. Group flights are part of the Rustic experience, where students first meet and start to develop lifelong friendships. What about visas? Visas depend on both your nationality and the country you’ll be visiting. It’s ultimately your responsibility to make sure you meet the entry and exit requirements for each country. However, Rustic Pathways partners with G3 Visas and Passports, a well-known visa service provider to ease the process. We’ll provide you with more information once you’ve enrolled.
800.321.4353
Information About Your Trip What medical information do I need to know? Be an informed traveler! We’re here to help, but also consult with your physician prior to travel. All participants have access to the services of International SOS, a world-renowned medical and travel security company. Visit rusticpathways.com/international-sos to learn more about this service and let us know if you have any specific medical needs. Do I need travel insurance? Students must have international medical insurance coverage for the duration of their travels. Rustic Pathways partners with Trip Mate to provide clients with the option of enrolling in travel insurance (including primary medical coverage). In the event of injury or illness, we’ll take care of your child, however, the family is ultimately responsible for any expenses. Visit rusticpathways.com/trip-mate to learn more. Will I hear from my child or Rustic Pathways during the trip? Once your child arrives safely at their final destination, you’ll receive a safe arrival email from us within 24 hours. County Teams send mid-trip email updates about students on most programs. We encourage students to stay off their phones. However, depending upon the remoteness of their program, students may have the opportunity to email or contact you. We suggest working out these expectations with your child before the trip starts. Is there a packing list? What should I send with my child? Each of our programs has a packing list online at rusticpathways.com. To make packing for your program easy, you may also purchase some of our favorite travel essentials on our gear site at rusticgear.com.
Administrative Details Is there an enrollment deadline? No, but many popular programs begin to sell out in the late winter. You can still enroll up to eight days prior to departure for most programs, as long as we can make appropriate travel arrangements. We recommend enrolling as soon as you can to save your spot on the program and one of our chaperoned group flights. What does the program cost cover? The program cost covers all essential elements of your program from the time you arrive at the starting location until the program is over. This includes meals, lodging, and most activities. This does not include spending money or activities listed as “add-on” activities. What is your cancellation or revision policy? To make a change to your itinerary after you’ve enrolled, you may fill out a revision request form at rusticpathways.com/revision. Revisions incur a $100 fee plus any cost difference—as long as they’re not made within 30 days of your first start date. If you enrolled through our Star Alumni, Friends and Family, or Early Enrollment discount programs, please see your specific program details or Welcome Letter for more information. Refunds for program cancellations are issued on a sliding scale based on how soon the start date is. We highly recommend you purchase the Optional Cancellation Waiver which provides you with the security of a full refund of your program costs (airfare costs are dependent upon each carrier) up until 24 hours prior to departure. Should you choose to cancel your program, you can receive your refund according to which cancellation waiver your purchased or escrow those funds for up to two years to use at a later date. See rusticpathways.com/cancellation for more information.
What about international exchange rates and fees? Rustic Pathways pays for most of its international programs in local currencies. Should currencies fluctuate and thereby increase our operating costs, we reserve the right to increase our program fees proportionally and invoice participants for the increase in costs. We’re also in the process of reducing our fees. For a full list, please visit rusticpathways.com/fees. What forms does Rustic Pathways require? Once you enroll in a program, you’ll be assigned a Personal Travel Advisor. This will be your main point person at Rustic Pathways. Your Personal Travel Advisor will help you with all the required forms and make sure your questions are answered. I Still Have Questions Check out rusticpathways.com/faq for detailed information, maps, itineraries, and updates about programs that interest you. You’ll also find answers to more frequently asked questions at rusticpathways.com. Our global travel experts are available to speak on the phone. Call us at 800.321.4353 (United States) or +1 440.975.9691 (international). You can also email us at any time at rustic@rusticpathways.com or use the online chat function at rusticpathways.com. We can accommodate most home visit requests or visit you at your neighborhood coffee shop. We have staff in most major cities who would love to meet with you and your family. Request a home visit online.
Important Information This catalog provides a brief summary of some of the 2019 travel programs (“the programs”) offered by Rustic Pathways Australia (U.S.A.), Inc. (“Rustic Pathways”), a tour promoter based in the state of Ohio. 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 to all qualified participants. 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.
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Our 2019 Programs
Costa Rica Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica
page 61
Surf and Service
page 63
9 days | 22 service hours | $1,995 + airfare
Review all programs online at rusticpathways.com.
9 days | 12 service hours | $2,895 + airfare
Youth Empowerment Project
page 64
Summer Camp Leadership in Costa Rica
page 65
Spanish Language Immersion
page 66
Ramp Up Your Spanish
page 67
Bribri Indigenous Culture and Service
page 68
Heart of the Jungle
page 69
Nicoya Turtle Expedition
page 70
Turtle Conservation Project
page 71
Costa Rican Adventurer
page 72
Caribbean Adrenaline
page 73
Traveling Soccer and Service Team
page 74
9 days | 24 service hours | $1,495 + airfare
Australia You, A ‘Roo, and Australia Zoo
16 days | 30 service hours | $4,895 + airfare
16 days | 60 service hours | $4,495 + airfare page 34
Aussie Surf and Service
page 35
Epic Outback
page 36
Great Barrier Reef Dive Expedition
page 37
Island Survival
page 38
Seven Wonders of Australia
page 39
16 days | 25 service hours | $4,895 + airfare 16 days | 15 service hours | $4,995 + airfare 16 days | 15 service hours | $9,495 + airfare 16 days | 20 service hours | $5,295 + airfare 16 days | 15 service hours | $5,995 + airfare
18 days | 36 service hours | $3,895 + airfare
Off the Map: Cambodia
page 46
Snapshots of Southeast Asia
page 47
18 days | $4,995 + airfare
16 days | 25 service hours | $4,695 + airfare 16 days | 35 service hours | $3,995 + airfare 9 days | 30 service hours | $2,295 + airfare
16 days | 25 service hours | $4,295 + airfare page 45
25 days | 42 service hours | $5,695 + airfare
9 days | 15 service hours | $2,495 + airfare
9 days | $2,895 + airfare page 44
Floating Village Service Expedition 18 days | 30 service hours | $3,895 + airfare
9 days | 20 language study hours | $1,995 + airfare
16 days | $4,895 + airfare
Cambodia Access to Education: Cambodia
16 days | 40 language study hours | $3,895+ + airfare
Cuba ÂĄViva Cuba! Culture and Conservation
page 80
Intro to Photography in Cuba
page 81
16 days | 24 service hours | $5,695 + airfare 16 days | $6,295 + airfare
China China Rising
page 52
Chinese Language Immersion
page 53
Mountain Air and Village Service
page 87
page 54
Innovation in Action
page 88
page 55
Life in the Bateyes
page 89
Public Health in the Caribbean
page 90
15 days | 15 service hours | $4,895 + airfare 15 days | 28 language study hours | $3,995+ + airfare
Panda Conservation and Wild China 15 days | 14 service hours | $4,895 + airfare
Silk Road Service
15 days | 15 service hours | $4,495 + airfare
Dominican Republic 9 days | 20 service hours | $1,995 + airfare
16 days | 12 service hours | $4,695 + airfare 16 days | 50 service hours | $3,695 + airfare 16 days | 30 service hours | $4,695 + airfare
Marine Life and Coastal Restoration
page 91
Service Off the Grid
page 92
Island Living and Eco-Service
page 93
Summer Camp Leadership in the Dominican Republic
page 94
Dominican Baseball Heritage
page 95
16 days | 32 service hours | $3,995 + airfare 9 days | 24 service hours | $1,495 + airfare 9 days | 12 service hours | $2,195 + airfare 16 days | 60 service hours | $3,995 + airfare 16 days | 20 service hours | $3,895 + airfare
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Fiji
Morocco Sun, Sand, and International Service
page 100
Intro to Community Service in Fiji
page 101
Judaism in Morocco
page 130
Highlands and Islands Service Immersion
page 103
High Atlas Mountain Service
page 131
Marine Service and Adventure
page 105
Moroccan Wanderer
page 132
Impact of Climate Change on Marine Environments
page 106
Advanced Photography Workshop
page 133
16 days | 60 service hours | $3,995 + airfare 9 days | 30 service hours | $1,995 + airfare
16 days | 45 service hours | $3,995 + airfare 16 days | 26 service hours | $4,295 + airfare 16 days | 26 service hours | $4,695 + airfare
Fiji Diver’s Dream
page 107
Big Fiji Explorer
page 108
Escape to the Fiji Islands
page 109
Pacific Adrenaline
page 110
9 days | $2,995+ + airfare 16 days | 6 service hours | $4,695 + airfare 9 days | $2,695 + airfare
23 days | $7,295 + airfare
Peace, Wonder, and Understanding Islam 16 days | $4,495 + airfare
16 days | 10 service hours | $4,895 + airfare 16 days | 25 service hours | $3,895 + airfare 16 days | 10 service hours | $4,895 + airfare 16 days | $4,895 + airfare
page 129
Myanmar Irrawaddy Village Service
18 days | 30 service hours | $4,295 + airfare
page 137
Peru Andes Women’s Education Initiative 15 days | 20 service hours | $4,695 + airfare
Sacred Valley Service
page 142
Lake Titicaca Service Adventure
page 143
Andes to Amazon
page 144
Off the Map: Peru
page 145
Peru by Backpack
page 146
15 days | 40 service hours | $4,295 + airfare 15 days | 25 service hours | $4,295 + airfare 15 days | 20 service hours | $3,995 + airfare 15 days | $4,895 + airfare
Laos Wonders of Laos
11 days | $2,495 + airfare
Sticky Rice Service Adventure
18 days | 35 service hours | $3,695 + airfare
Come with Nothing: The Mekong Expedition 25 days | 56 service hours | $4,995 + airfare
Southeast Asia Adventurer 18 days | $4,695 + airfare
22 days | 10 service hours | $5,895 + airfare page 116 page 117
Tanzania Tanzania Clean Water Project
page 152
African Wildlife Conservation
page 153
16 days | 25 service hours | $4,495 + airfare page 118
16 days | 25 service hours | $4,995 + airfare page 119
Culture and the Crater
page 154
Njoro Village Service Immersion
page 155
16 days | 50 service hours | $4,295 + airfare
Mongolia
9 days | 25 service hours | $2,695 + airfare
Reindeer Herders and Gobi Sands of Mongolia
page 124
Serengeti to Zanzibar
page 156
Off the Map: Mongolia
page 125
Climbing Kili
page 157
15 days | $4,295 + airfare
22 days | 25 service hours | $5,995 + airfare
page 141
9 days | $3,895 + airfare
16 days | $6,895 + airfare
rusticpathways.com
197
Thailand Ricefields, Monks, and Smiling Children
page 163
Intro to Community Service in Thailand
page 164
Community Health and Wilderness First Aid
page 165
Life on the Margin
page 167
Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support Project
page 168
18 days | 39 service hours | $3,895 + airfare 11 days | 24 service hours | $1,995 + airfare 11 days | 18 service hours | $2,895 + airfare 18 days | 32 service hours | $3,995 + airfare
11 days | 17 service hours | $1,995+ + airfare
Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Conservation 18 days | 23 service hours | $4,495 + airfare
learn more on page 18
page 169
Thai Elephant Conservation Project
page 170
Elephants and Amazing Thailand
page 171
Southeast Asia by Backpack
page 172
Amazing Thailand
page 173
Marine and Rainforest Conservation in Thailand
page 174
Young Explorers Programs
Island Hopping and Diving
page 175
Australia: Land Down Under
page 176
China: Panda Conservation and Wild China
page 177
Costa Rica: Pura Vida!
11 days | 4 service hours | $2,895 + airfare 18 days | 4 service hours | $4,895 + airfare 18 days | 8 service hours | $4,895 + airfare 11 days | $2,495 + airfare
18 days | 26 service hours | $4,195 + airfare 18 days | $4,995 + airfare
Backroads of Southeast Asia
25 days | 12 service hours | $7,295 + airfare
Wonders and Riches of Southeast Asia 18 days | $7,695 + airfare
MYSTERY TRIP learn more on page 28
page 24
16 days | 15 service hours | $4,895 + airfare 15 days | 14 service hours | $4,895 + airfare 16 days | 17 service hours | $4,695 + airfare
United States: California Rush
14 days | 10 service hours | $4,495 + airfare
United States The Refugee Education Project
page 181
Rebuilding the American Dream
page 182
14 days | 35 service hours | $4,295 + airfare 14 days | 40 service hours | $3,995 + airfare
Aloha Service
14 days | 10 service hours | $5,295 + airfare
American Adrenaline 7 days | $4,895 + airfare
California Rush
14 days | 10 service hours | $4,495 + airfare
Off the Map: Alaska 14 days | $4,995 + airfare
page 183 page 184 page 185 page 186
Vietnam Hanoi to Ha Long
18 days | 24 service hours | $4,895 + airfare
Spring Break Programs Costa Rica: Surf and Service
8 days | 12 service hours | $2,495 + airfare
Dominican Republic: Island Living and Eco-Service
8 days | 12 service hours | $2,195 + airfare
Fiji: Spring to Fiji
9 days | 15 service hours | $2,195 + airfare
Peru: Sacred Valley Service
8 days | 12 service hours | $2,195 + airfare
United States: Rebuilding New Orleans
8 days | 25 service hours | $2,195 + airfare
College Programs page 191
Australia: The Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve Project 16 days | 60 service hours | $6,195 + airfare
Dominican Republic: Life in the Bateyes 8 days | 12 service hours | $2,095 + airfare
Base House Program
Critical Issues Program
Peru: Sacred Valley Service
8 days | 10 service hours | $2,095 + airfare
Thailand: Elephants and Amazing Thailand 18 days | $4,695 + airfare
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800.321.4353
online only
Get In Touch Enroll Online
Meet Us
Enroll online by visiting rusticpathways.com/enroll. If you still can’t decide between programs, contact one of our global program experts.
We’re hitting the road and heading to a city near you. Meet us in person and hear more about our 2019 spring break, summer, and gap year programs. Many of our events are hosted by families of students who have traveled with us, and all events will be attended by a Rustic Pathways staff member to answer your questions.
Our Global Program Advisors are here to answer your questions, discuss our various program options, and find the perfect fit for each and every student. They can also walk you through the enrollment process and connect you with both parent and student references from programs that interest you. This experienced team has collectively worked in just about every role at Rustic Pathways, from leading programs to running our in-country operations. After you’ve enrolled, a member of our team of Personal Travel Advisors will be assigned to you. They’ll assist and support you before, during, and after your amazing Rustic adventure with everything—invoices, medical forms, flights, packing lists, etc. You can even have the same PTA year after year! To connect with one of these travel experts, call 800.321.4353 or email rustic@rusticpathways.com.
We also host online information sessions and Facebook Live broadcasts to provide families with additional opportunities to connect with us. Visit rusticpathways.com/events and keep an eye on our social media pages for more information.
Connect With Us Join the larger Rustic Pathways community. Follow us on social media: @rusticpathways
@rusticpathways
/rusticpathways
/rusticpathways
rusticpathways.com
199
PO Box 429 | Chardon, OH 44024 800.321.4353 | rustic@rusticpathways.com rusticpathways.com