Teach & Travel May 2023

THE TEAM

KASIE SMITH, President & Publisher

COURTNEY VAN HAGEN, Art Director

EMILY ALSPAUGH, Graphic Designer

SARAH SUYDAM, Editorial Manager

JOSH VEAL, Editorial Manager

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RACHEL SYRBA, Marketing Cordinator

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JASA WEST, Marketing Cordinator

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MARCIE ELLISON Outerbridge President, Student and Youth Travel Association General Manager of Sales and Group Travel, Ellison Travel & Tours Ltd.

wWe say time flies, but it still tends to catch us by surprise. This past year has flown by, and we’ve already reached the final issue of Teach & Travel and opening letter during my time as SYTA President.

By the time the next issue arrives in September, a summer full of life-changing student travel will have passed, we’ll have spent an incredible weekend together in Winnipeg at the SYTA conference, and school will be starting back up again.

In the meantime, for this last issue of the academic year, we dive into the top student travel destinations all around the world, as found by SYTA’s 2022 Student Travel Business Barometer. From North America to international travel to “emerging destinations,” there are some “old faithfuls” and also a few surprise destinations.

I hope you enjoy reading two stories from educators on the highs and lows of performance travel, along with advice on keeping trip costs low and not judging a book (meaning, destination) by its cover.

This past year as SYTA President has been incredible. Thank you for supporting me, and more importantly, supporting SYTA’s mission of providing life-enhancing travel experiences to students and young people. Have a great summer!

SYTA STRATEGIC PARTNERS

SYTA and our research partner, BONARD, have been actively engaged in monitoring the global student group travel market since 2014. We introduced the quarterly Student Travel Business Barometer in 2019 to equip our stakeholders with timely, relevant and reliable data on the industry’s performance.

The 4th annual edition of the Student Travel Business Barometer, the only annual quantitative data resource of its kind for domestic and international student group travel, will be available in Spring 2023.

The Business Barometer includes trend data for previous years and provides forecast data on the coming year. The 2022 Business Barometer also provides analysis of trends and industry growth from 2019 through 2022—including the impact of COVID-19 on student group travel and anticipated vs. actual student travel numbers.

Survey respondents include both international and domestic tour operators.  In 2022, we were proud to partner for the first time with the American Bus Association (ABA) and NTA to significantly expand our database in the U.S. We will continue to work with our international partners to provide global insights and data.

TO VIEW THE STUDY, VISIT SYTA.ORG/STUDENT-TRAVEL-RESEARCH.

SYTA AND BONARD RELEASE 2022 STUDENT TRAVEL BUSINESS BAROMETER

TOUR THE GARDEN STATE

With a mid-Atlantic location conveniently situated between New York City and Philadelphia, New Jersey is packed with enlightening attractions and destinations. Featured itineraries offer a handy day-by-day format, plus insider tips on even more to see and do.

American Revolution - New Jersey has been proclaimed the Crossroads of the American Revolution. Your students can experience the historic sites, memorials and monuments that find their home in charming towns, cozy villages and vibrant cities throughout the state to commemorate our nation’s legendary journey to victory.

Black Heritage - The Black community in New Jersey has long been shaping the state’s history and culture with roots that trace

back to the mid-1600s. Cherish and learn from their remarkable lives as you visit destinations across New Jersey and explore some of the noteworthy museums and sites honoring its unique Black heritage. For assistance in planning your educational tour, including expert guidance on building a customized itinerary, go to visitNJ.org/travel-agentresources or call 609.292.4239.

SALEM BY THE SEA

No group visit to Massachusetts is complete without a trip to Salem, Massachusetts. This city by the sea, 16 miles north of Boston, has many stories to share; colonial, maritime, literary, and architectural, but what sets Salem apart is one of the most important events in American history: the Salem witch trials of 1692, and there is no better place for students of all ages to learn that

ATOP THE ROCK

Believe the hype. Top of the Rock’s three levels of indoor and outdoor observation decks deliver spectacular, unobstructed views of the city skyline. With terraces facing east, west, north, and south, Top of the Rock’s panoramic sights make it the ultimate observation deck in NYC. At the pinnacle of 30 Rockefeller Plaza’s 70 floors, it’s one of the top things to do in New York City. Find more information at rockefellercenter.com.

history, than at the Salem Witch Museum.

The mission of the Museum is to be the voice of the innocent victims of the Salem witch hunt of 1692 while also bringing awareness to the root cause of witch-hunts and how they continue to impact our society today. Two presentations help illuminate the factors behind the terrible events of 1692. The first is audiovisual and presents an overview of the events of that tragic year, while the second is a staff-guided tour which focuses on the European witch trials and how the image of the witch has changed and evolved throughout history and into the modern-day.

Spend a day in Salem. The memories of this visit will resonate with teachers and their students for many years to come. Visit SalemWitchMuseum.com for more information.

RENT TOGETHER

Rentyl Resorts offers ideal settings for group retreats, with spacious accommodations featuring up to 13-bedrooms - perfect for everyone to stay together under one roof. For

MERRIMACK AND MORE

team leaders, this brings the convenience and comfort of knowing you can focus on a single, shared, and safe space. For group participants, it brings an added sense of camaraderie and togetherness. You can book

with Rentyl Resorts now through June 30, 2023, and receive one $100.00 Resort Credit per group booking for stays beginning today until June 30, 2024 (limited terms apply). For more details, visit rentylresorts.com.

The Greater Merrimack Valley may be best known for its many historical sites. There is much more to see. For example, the Valley has a vibrant arts community that includes dozens of galleries, studios, and museums.

Western Ave. Studios & Lofts - Historic mills in Lowell, remnants of America’s Industrial evolution, are where you’ll now find the largest artist community in the US. Artists practice their crafts, exhibit them, and offer classes and workshops.

Brush Art Gallery & Studios - Located in the Lowell National Historic Park. The artists-in-residence here offer museum quality exhibitions and educational programs.

deCordova Sculpture Park & Museum - The largest museum of its kind in New England has a mission is to inspire, educate and delight, with contemporary art, including large outdoor sculptures and museum exhibitions. Located in Lincoln.

Chelmsford Center for the Arts - These Artists-in-Residence Studios, along with arts organizations are found in the Town Hall, a beautiful Italianate Revival building listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Whistler Museum of Art - Set in Lowell, this historic home is the birthplace of American artist, James McNeill Whistler. It is known internationally for its distinguished collection of 19th and early 20th century New England representational art.

BY JOSH VEAL

KEEPING TRIP COSTS LOW

w

We know student travel is well worth the cost, but that doesn’t mean we want our students to pay premium prices. Student travel should be accessible, whether it takes fundraising for families who can’t afford it or doing what you can to keep costs down—we suggest both. At a time when prices for just about everything are rising across the board, travel is no exception. So to make sure your trip can still happen, let’s take a look at a few top tips for keeping costs low.

PLAN EARLY AS POSSIBLE. While no one can forecast exactly how inflation is going to affect things, we can be pretty sure we’re not going to see those prices drop dramatically in the near future. If you book early, your rates for flights, motorcoaches and hotels are going to be locked in with your tour operator and other suppliers. Booking earlier also means a better selection for everything from rooming to transportation, and the assurance you’ll actually be able to get the dates you need, since demand is so high.

COMMUNICATE WITH PARENTS EARLY. With all the new concerns the pandemic brought, including inflation outpacing wages, parents need time to get comfortable with a trip mentally and financially.

If they can start paying in small amounts months (ideally a fully year or more) ahead of time, it’s much more manageable.

TRAVEL OFF-PEAK. Just like getting married on a weekday, prices are always going to be lower when you do it in a time when demand is lower. While spring and summer are often peak travel times, fall trips are a great way to welcome students back from break, and tend to see more participation alongside the lower prices and wide availability. Not to mention smaller crowds everywhere you go!

CARPOOL AS MUCH AS YOU CAN. Especially when it comes to motorcoaches, you’re not paying per seat filled (like a plane), but for the whole bus. Every person you have

on that bus is another person to help split the bill. If your student group isn’t large enough, consider inviting more chaperones/parents— or better yet, try to reach and invite another group from the school. If you want, you can open the trip to any student who wants to join.

WORK WITH A SYTA TOUR OPERATOR. When you have a company that’s been in the business for years and has developed real relationships that lend credibility, they have leverage in the form of both influence and buying power. They can work with suppliers and attractions to get you lower prices, better accommodations and even VIP treatment. A trusted tour operator will help you find the best prices across the board.

ADRIAN DYCK & PAIGE FREEBORN INSPIRING GROWTH THROUGH MUSIC

r“Running a successful music program takes an entire community,” say Adrian Dyck and Paige Freeborn, longtime life and musical partners who, in 2004, took up the challenge of creating a unique music program for Brockton School, an International Baccalaureate School located in North Vancouver, British Columbia.

The result was the school’s now acclaimed and internationally recognized World Music Program (WMP), which features eight different performing ensembles, including an alumni ensemble. Dyck and Freeborn serve as co-directors of this unique program that uses marimbas to teach students music theory and practice, while developing community-mindedness and compassion. The students, who may enter the program at grade six, have performed all over the world and in every concert hall in Vancouver.

Dyck and Freeborn are grateful for the opportunity to work with the extraordinary students, faculty, staff, and parents who make up the Brockton School community, and support this inclusive and diverse program. “We wish we could thank every teacher, colleague, parent, student, grandparent, extended family member, school administrator, community planner, advisor, and instrument maker by name,” they say.

We took a moment to talked with the husband and wife team, and gained insights about the goals, initiatives, and achievements of the program.

Tell us about the WMP

why you created it.

and

We both came out of the classical music world, which we experienced as competitive, and not always inclusive. We had always wondered how a “high performing” music program could be more inclusive and center compassionate collaboration, so when the founding families of Brockton School approached us in 2004 to start up an “alternative” music program, we thought about how music education could strengthen compassionate community engagement. In these early discussions, we articulated the WMP’s mission statement: “To

create a compassionate community consciousness through the act of co-creating and performing music together.”

How has the program evolved since its founding?

Over the years, the program has evolved significantly. In the early years, we had a limited budget for the program, so we used anything we could find to explore the musical landscape with students, including body percussion, vocals, an old piano, garbage can lids, brooms, half a bongo set, a cowbell, and a few other odds and ends students would bring in from home. The co-creative process that

emerged helped students discover identity, belonging, purpose, and agency through musical expression.

Fast forward to 2009, and we received an invitation to perform at the International Society for Music Education (ISME) conference in Beijing, China. The ISME, which includes more than 80 countries, is affiliated with UNESCO and is considered one of the most influential global organizations for music education. We sent in an audition tape of a piece our students had cocomposed called “The Gratitude Project,” which featured multiple gratitude statements housed

within a minimalist musical structure, including drums, vocalists, a couple of violins, and handbells. We ended up playing this half-hour piece to a sold out audience at the China National Convention Center, and one of the most poignant moments was after the show, when our students were speaking with educators from around the world. With the help of translators, audience members expressed that they had felt the students’ gratitude and compassion, even though they could not understand all of the words that were spoken and sung.

What have been some of your challenges and successes?

One of the biggest challenges we faced in the beginning was where to find music for our groups, as there were few notated arrangements for marimba ensembles of our size. Back in 2008, we began arranging music for the ensembles, and in order to keep our program as inclusive as possible, we began creating what has become a massive database of differentiated resources for students.

Creating music for the WMP has been a labor of love, involving a lot of learning and

experimentation on our part, and we share arrangements with other schools from around the world.

How do students qualify for the WMP?

All students are welcome to join, and the most important thing is their willingness to cultivate strong communication, collaboration, and selfmanagement skills, and show themselves and one another compassion throughout each and every challenge.

Do you have any trips or tours that are particularly memorable?

Every tour is memorable, and we are extremely grateful for Ellison Travels & Tours for supporting our most successful endeavors! It is hard to put into words the level of care and attention that Ellison provides, and for us this has included not just the logistical details of our travel itinerary, but holistic conversations about how we can support the mission of Brockton School throughout our tours.

This includes creating connections to our school’s curriculum and opportunities for students to learn about

equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization.

When we traveled to Austria, Germany, and the Czech Republic, students visited concentration camps, Berlin’s Holocaust Memorial, the Berlin Wall, and other cultural sites. In Austria, prior to a fundraising concert in support of descendants of the Chernobyl disaster, students learned about the history of this disaster, connecting their learning in interdisciplinary ways. Here in Canada, we are starting to come to terms with the horrifying impact of the violence perpetrated against Indigenous Peoples.

As a part of our school’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, we are connecting with local Indigenous artists to learn how we can more actively contribute to Truth and Reconciliation through music education. Needless to say, our mission goes beyond the notes we play on a stage. Our hope is to foster awareness and understanding in our students, through the universal language of music, so they will help create more compassionate communities.

SAFETY AND DISCIPLINE: SETTING BOUNDARIES

BY JOSH VEAL

tTraveling with students always offers challenges, but the better they know what’s expected of them, the less you’ll have to deal with on the road.

When you’re traveling, your entire tour group represents your school or musical program, possibly even your country if going abroad. You want to leave the best impression possible, whatever that takes, and it starts with setting the guidelines.

The goal here isn’t to run things like a boot camp and suck all the fun out of the trip, but rather to set your expectations for the group, just like you do in class and during practice. Build the students up and remind them they’re part of a legacy—that what they’re currently experiencing wouldn’t be possible if the last trip’s students had crossed the boundaries you’re setting. You should also take advantage the knowledge you have of your students and their personalities. Know one student who likes to get into mischief?

Instead of trying to keep your eyes on them at all times, consider giving them extra activities or responsibilities to keep them engaged in a more productive way.

We’re not here to set the boundaries for you or define the repercussions—those should differ from group to group and trip to trip. Rather, here are some aspects to consider, which can be used in conjunction with your tour operator’s own guidelines.

IMPORTANT ASPECTS FOR CONSIDERATION

Students will be held responsible for any damage caused in their room and on their motorcoach.

Students are responsible for phone calls made from their hotel room and other extra hotel expenses.

Students may not take hotel room items as “souvenirs.”

Running or shouting in hallways and other hotel areas is not allowed at any time.

In general, students should not go barefoot or shirtless when outside of their hotel room.

Students must remain serious and respectful when going through security and other checkpoints and lines.

Students should avoid confrontation or potentially charged conversations with strangers, especially when in other countries.

Alcohol and drug use, sexual misconduct/harassment and bullying require action, calls to parents or guardians, and the decision as to whether the students involved remain on the trip.

These guidelines may seem obvious to you, but that doesn’t mean they are to youth. Go over your rules clearly and in-depth with the students, their parents or guardians, and the chaperones.

On top of that, consider a signed contract with students to ensure they understand rules and repercussions. Obviously, shouting in the hotel hallway should carry lesser penalties than something serious like alcohol use, and even with the latter, you likely don’t want to leave those repercussions entirely up to parents.

Student travelers are often young adults and should be treated accordingly. Still, guidelines and boundaries are critical to ensuring group and individual safety, as well as supporting students’ efforts to reflect their school and community in a positive light. Safe travels!

TOP 5 EMERGING STUDENT DESTINATIONS

ALABAMA | The Yellowhammer State, the Cotton State, the Heart of Dixie — whatever you like to call it, Alabama is a gorgeous place bordered by four other states and an ocean. Add centuries of history and the Civil Rights Trail on top of that and you have the perfect student travel destination. Students can visit a famous space center with interactive exhibits, enjoy sea life at a renowned aquarium, and learn about civil rights at museums and memorials around the state.

BRANSON | Located in the beautiful Ozark Mountains, Branson, Missouri is filled with live entertainment, the world’s top theme parks, three pristine lakes for swimming and boating, and miles of hiking trails. Best known for live music shows, Branson boasts dozens of theaters featuring American music genres, such as rock ‘n’ roll, magic, comedy, country, gospel and bluegrass. It’s a bursting hub of live entertainment and fun education.

CLEVELAND | Cleveland rocks—it’s true! Students could explore the power and science behind rock music as they admire priceless memorabilia, before taking a trolley tour that covers more than 20 miles. Theaters where famous actors got their start offer elevated exposure to the professional arts. You could even learn about Tatoo! (Not that tattoo.) Travel back in time with museums featuring everything from diamonds to dinosaurs. Some serious rollercoaster and other ride fun happens nearby.

NEW ORLEANS | New Orleans teems with rich culture, one-of-a-kind stories and celebrations coveted worldwide. Students are afforded the opportunity to learn about the French Quarter on foot, the beauty of the natural world on dry land and underwater, and in-depth World War II history. Whether you’re seeking exposure to world-class jazz and musical heritage or a chance to perform alongside some of the world’s most renowned musical artists, students are sure to leave feeling inspired.

PHILADELPHIA | Home to the most historic square mile in the country, Philadelphia allows students to see where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were drafted and signed, among other notable occurrences. The City of Brotherly Love isn’t short on fun, either. The performing arts and hands-on learning are brought to life at various venues including a museum that encourages them to touch everything. Students will throw their hands up in victory, just like a famous fictional boxer native to Philly.

TOP STUDENT TRAVEL DESTINATIONS IN 2023

UNITED STATES DESTINATIONS (page 17)

NORTH AMERICAN DESTINATIONS (page 22)

INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS (page 26)

An “emerging” destination just a few years ago, Atlanta is city boasting countless must-see attractions and learning opportunities, offering the best of urban life and thousands of acres of serene nature. There are plenty of chances for students to learn about the civil rights movement and African-American culture, explore Midtown museums, visit the apartment where an iconic book was written, check out Georgia’s only 4D theater, be immersed in professional and college sports, and more.

BOSTON

Grounded in Colonial history and full of cutting-edge innovation, America’s Walking City is full of personality and options for taking in its burgeoning arts scene. Students can cruise on the Boston Harbor before learning about the Wampanoag People and the Colonial English community of the 1600s, the American Revolution—right where it was born—and more. Be sure to experience championship sport teams, world-class ballet and a show where students become part of the cast.

CHICAGO

Exploring the beauty of the underwater world and natural history is easy to do in Chicago. From tours by foot, bus, bike, or boat to examining science education inside one of the largest science museums in the world, students have plenty to take in. Don’t forget to see a show at one of the city’s more than 200 theaters! While the river may flow backward, a decision to visit the Windy City is always a step forward.

CALIFORNIA

A multicultural haven, California is more than sunny skies and palm trees. In Los Angeles, explore incredible zoos before heading to a museum dedicated to the biggest names in popular music. The movie industry comes alive through behind-the-scenes tours and you’ll find abundant theme park rides and performance opportunities. Or head up to San Francisco for beautiful views, a famous island prison and one of the world’s most famous bridges.

GETTYSBURG

For Civil War history enthusiasts, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania can’t be beat. The town is filled to the gills with American history going back to 1736. From interactive museums and handson demonstrations to civilian stories, unique battlefield tours, agricultural experiences and a multitude of group-friendly dining options, Gettysburg and the surrounding Adams County is an ideal student destination. See where Lincoln gave his famous address four months after a decisive battle turned the tides of the war.

Top U.S. Student Travel Destinations continue on page 20...

NASHVILLE

Nashville didn’t get its Music City nickname for nothing! Museums explore the history of country music and its most influential names, while well-known venues provide opportunities for performance and backstage tours. Students with an eye for mechanics will love the chance to soak up automotive history, while historic mansions and plantations offer a pathway to learn about—and from— the past. From there, a planetarium transports students into deep space.

NEW YORK

New York, New York is known as the Center of the Universe for good reason. The biggest city in the U.S. is densely packed with endless cultural experiences and history. Throughout the city’s five boroughs, students can find some of the most recognized monuments in the world; gaze upon iconic skylines from tens of stories above the ground; peruse world-class museums dedicated to art, oddities, and celebrities; and take in the sights. Memories are easy to make throughout the city, often favored for Broadway shows and their corresponding behind-the-scenes tours and workshops.

ORLANDO

Discover activities and attractions in the Theme Park Capital of the World—ones you can’t find anywhere else! Whether students seek high-flying thrills or a rousing dinner theater show, Orlando is the ultimate place for fun. Performance opportunities for enhanced music education along the coast abound along with plenty of dining options, some among prized music artifacts—perfect for when students need to fuel up for their next adventure.

WASHINGTON, D.C.

The incredibly walkable U.S. capital city has a thriving arts and theater scene. Various museums and monuments offer students an avenue to delve further into the importance of the First Amendment, journalism, government and more. They could also take advantage of many well-known and respected free attractions as they gain deeper understanding of the nation’s history. Don’t forget to check out some of the nearby professional sports games while you’re there!

WILIAMSBURG REGION

Once the capital of Virginia Colony, Williamsburg played a significant role in the American Revolution and remains one of the most important historical sites in the country. At its heart is Colonial Williamsburg, a highly immersive district and living-history museum featuring actors depicting 18th-century life and culture. From the world of Colonial medicine to working with iron in a blacksmith shop, African American religion, ox wagon rides and more, Williamsburg offers history with captivating fun.

Top North American Student Travel Destinations start on page 22...

MONTREAL

With an easy-to-navigate subway system and walkable attractions, students can do it all in Québec’s largest city—where European charm meets North American attitude—whether holding creepy-crawlers, ice skating year-round, taking part in an immersive planetarium experience, or exploring the archaeology and history of Montréal’s first inhabitants. Don’t miss one of the world’s largest botanic gardens and admiring the first “connected” bridge in the world.

NIAGARA FALLS

Students can have an authentic Niagara Falls experience by taking in the famous falls that share the city’s name on a cruise or by stunning tower views—520 feet in the air! Historic sites along the Niagara Parkway give way to scenes from some of the most famous turning points in Canadian history. Museums brimming with oddities and waterparks filled with splashy fun make Niagara Falls, unsurprisingly, a popular choice for students and teachers.

PUERTO RICO

An island full of true adventure, Puerto Rico offers students a chance to enjoy the unmatched beauty only found in the Caribbean. Whether ziplining through the rainforest, letting their imaginations run wild while exploring centuries-old castles, discovering pristine beaches and majestic mountains, or immersing themselves in new cultures, traditions, and the rich island cuisine, students will ask when they can return— before they even leave. Puerto Rico is truly a treasure worth discovering.

PUERTO VALLARTA

This Mexican resort city on the country’s Pacific coast is defined by the natural charm of its beaches embraced by the Sierra Madre mountains. Enjoy eco-tours and offroad adventures mixed with fun on the beach, take in art galleries around the city, sail around the bay, and enjoy the incredible local cuisine. Students can also experience botanical gardens, whale watching and a great naval museum.

QUEBEC CITY

Situated along the Saint Lawrence River, the mostly Frenchspeaking and truly European-feeling Québec City is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with picturesque architecture. Take in North America’s oldest streets while enjoying locally led tours—on foot, bus, bike, boat or horse-drawn carriage—and spending a quiet moment inside the oldest pilgrimage site north of Mexico. An interactive museum sheds new light on diverse societies while Eastern Canada’s largest theme park provides exhilarating thrills.

Top North American Student Travel Destinations continue on page 24...

OTTAWA

Canada’s capital city offers ample opportunity to learn about government, amid the Victorian architecture of Parliament Hill and beyond. Museums feature renowned collections of indigenous and Canadian art and more; elsewhere are waterpark adventures, hands-on fun with science and technology, lessons in aviation and space, and experiences with food and agriculture. Take in the beauty of the Ottawa River between education-filled excursions. In the coldest months, skate on the world’s largest naturally frozen ice rink!

TORONTO

This diverse and dynamic metropolis situated along Lake Ontario’s northwestern shore is one of Canada’s premier arts and entertainment, business, sports, and innovation destinations— an ideal place for students to get a little taste of everything. Despite being in the big city, students could enjoy their fair share of green spaces. From hundreds of acres of trails, beautiful beaches, and trekking though the treetops to a short ferry ride offering students a chance to explore nearby islands, Toronto maintains a sense of natural beauty among its iconic skyscrapers.

VANCOUVER

Nestled between the mountains and inlets of sparkling water, Vancouver is a bustling seaport city with a thriving art, music and theater scene. Students could take in breathtaking views on suspension bridges above the forest; discover science, art, and flora and fauna at museums and galleries; and visit local markets and more. Opportunities to learn about British Columbia’s indigenous First Nations, Inuit and Métis people give students background in rich traditions.

WINNIPEG

From ballet to dinner theater, Winnipeg offers plenty of performing arts opportunities. Explore the Exchange District, known for its art galleries and well-preserved 20th-century architecture, before getting up close with polar bears and rare animals. A museum dedicated to celebrating human rights activists and events offer students a deeper understanding of the world. Be sure to take a guided tour of the building responsible for producing the gold medals awarded in the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

YUCATAN PENINSULA

This large peninsula branching off of Mexico, Belize and Guatemala also separates the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, making it a confluence of international culture. Students can be awed by the tropical rainforests and jungles, snorkel with sea turtles and whale sharks, and swim in cenotes. This is also the home of ancient Mayan culture and archeological sites, with so much to see and learn, including the famous Chichén Itzá, a large city featuring the Temple of Kukulcan.

Top International Student Travel Destinations start on page 26...

AUSTRALIA

Trek “Down Under” to Australia, a country teeming with breathtaking natural sights and wildlife. It’s here students could see democracy in action in the capital city of Canberra, step behind the curtain and take in world-class performances inside a highly-recognizable white-roofed building in New South Wales, snorkel along one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World in Cairns, and hear from Indigenous storytellers in Adelaide. Despite the devastating bushfires a few years ago, they want you to know “There’s still nothing like Australia.”

CHINA

From capital Beijing and economic hub Shanghai to culturally rich Xi’an and beautifully scenic Guilin, vibrant China is home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations. Whether students tour stunning gardens, hike along iconic landmarks, look for the kneeling archer among 8,000 Terracotta Warriors, or enjoy a traditional performance—complete with ancient costumes, singing, and dancing—there’s much to experience. Be sure to partake in a tea ceremony and try the amazing cuisine.

COSTA RICA

Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica teems with biodiversity and is an ecotourism hub. Opportunities to immerse students in the local culture are plenty, with artisan crafted goods, markets, and distinguished expressions of music, theater, and art close by. Students could get an adventure fix with activities such as whitewater rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, surfing, snorkeling, birdwatching and more. ¡Pura vida!

FRANCE

A cultural powerhouse, France is the place for students to tour exceptional sites rooted in history while taking in beautiful sights renowned throughout the world. Dance and theater performances abound beside grandiose cathedrals and celebrated cuisine, while essential war landmarks and locations enthrall history enthusiasts. A particularly recognizable tower—the most visited monument in the world— offers sweeping views of Paris, from 906 feet up!

GERMANY

Museums inspire imagination and offer a wide range of subject matter. Soak up cultural epochs in Berlin, admire old and modern art in Frankfurt, and delve into science and technology in Munich. Through 16 national parks and 15 UNESCO biosphere reserves, Germany’s natural beauty is a hiker’s paradise, waiting to be tapped. Learn a history lesson at the site of the Berlin Wall, the most visible manifestation of Cold War mentality that existed after World War II.

Top International Student Travel Destinations continue on page 28...

IRELAND

Whether seeing historic castles and cathedrals and a museum dedicated to Irish heritage in Dublin or catching a Donegal Bay wave, you won’t need luck to truly take in all Ireland has to offer. Aspiring performers will delight in film and music festivals and opera performances. Students with a passion for golf will love teeing off at world-renowned Royal Portrush—but not before visiting a famous set of cliffs, named a UNESCO Global Geopark.

ITALY

Home to more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other country, Italy is a vision of history, art and culture. Museums, historical cities, libraries and archaeological sites abound—along with performance opportunities in once-in-a-lifetime venues. Students will be in awe of world-renowned sculptures and paintings, created by some of art’s most recognizable names, in addition to taking in outdoor attractions and wildlife exploration. A sinking city and a leaning tower await!

NEW ZEALAND

Incredible rock formations, unique islands and active volcanoes are just the beginning! A dose of adventure is never far away, with caving, jet boating, canyoning and whale watching available year-round. Enjoy a wealth of performing arts, literature, museums and art galleries before learning about New Zealand’s Maori culture— an integral part of Kiwi life. There’s even a chance to journey to Middle Earth and The Shire, as well as catch the stunning southern lights in a Dark Sky Sanctuary.

SPAIN

Spain offers opportunities for students to become immersed in rich culture and traditions alongside unparalleled looks at art, history, science, technology, and beyond. Through a diverse landscape filled with lakes, mountains, volcanoes, marshes, forests, valleys and cliffs, there are endless ways to soak up fresh air while having fun along the way. The country is an ideal destination for elevating students’ Spanishspeaking skills, giving them a lesson in real-world usage

UNITED KINGDOM

Whether you fancy England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, or all four, the United Kingdom is a storied land filled with history—and maybe mystery—worth exploring. Soak up highly recognizable landmarks, among them the world’s most famous clock tower, in London. A bustling arts and theater scene compliments museums celebrating timeless writers and a legendary detective. In Scotland and Wales, you get buzzing cities and off-the-beaten-path natural beauty with fairytale-like castles. And Northern Ireland is the ideal place for history buffs!

FOR EDUCATORS WHO PLAN STUDENT TRAVEL THE LEADING SOURCE

teachtravel.org

mMany people (particularly Americans) believe that the French people are rude and unwelcoming to foreigners who do not speak their language. In high school, I took two years of French classes where I learned to say the basics: hello, goodbye, my name is, how much does this cost, where is the toilet, please and thank you. I was so nervous on my first trip to France because I had heard so many stories of impolite French people. I knew that my French speaking skills were limited, plus I knew that I would not properly pronounce the words or use proper grammar. To my surprise, I was given a warm welcome. Often, I heard, “Bonjour, je m‘appelle Celine. Comment allez-vous? Puis-je vous aider.” This is French for, “Hello. My name is Celine. How are you? How can I help you?”

Since that first trip to France, I have returned numerous times and always had a pleasant interaction with the locals. Year later, I went to Siberia and studied Russian. My language class had five French people, in addition to

"DON'T JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER"

students from other countries, in it. Matthieu, one of the French students, and I struck up a friendship that has lasted for years. Three years after visiting Siberia, I traveled to China and I learned that Matthieu was also in Beijing. The next thing you know, we met at a local restaurant. I could not wait to see my ami (French for friend) and catch up. French people are rude and unwelcoming is just a myth. Do not judge a book by its cover. Learn for yourself how friendly people can be.

Frequently, I travel around the world. People often tell me that it is not safe for a female to travel overseas alone, which I often do. Mind you, these warnings usually come from people who do not travel much outside of the USA let alone by themselves. Before I begin any adventure, I conduct research on the country to learn about tourist attractions, but also the people, culture and most importantly, safety. I highly recommend that people go to the website: www. travel.stage.gov to learn about a destination. It highlights entry & exit requirements, local laws,

customs, health conditions, travel advisories and alerts. If a country seems risky and unsafe for me to travel there, I do not go. No matter which country I choose to travel to, whether alone or with a group of people, I always sign up for the Smart Travel Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service allows U.S. citizens traveling or living abroad to receive the latest updates from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate while traveling. It also allows the U.S. embassy to contact me and provide assistance during an emergency overseas.

If I judged a book by cover (in other words, listened to everyone who told me not to travel overseas alone), I would not have experienced 91 countries. Yes, there are some countries known for viewing gender roles differently than the United States does, but by being aware of the differences, staying cognizant of one’s surroundings, using common sense and gut instinct, women can continue to explore the world. While in Egypt, one man who was intrigued with me offered camels as a dowry for my hand in marriage. Of course, I said no. I was not offended by his offer but used this experience as an opportunity to learn about their customs.

In India, I hired a male tour guide to lead me around the country. There were numerous times when I could not enter the same door to a theatre, tourist site, restaurant, or place of worship as the male guide. Each time, I had to remind myself that this was a cultural thing and to not be personally insulted. My trips to Ukraine, Greece, Russia, Moldova, and other countries did not allow women to expose their shoulders and knees or an uncovered head while visiting mosques and

cathedrals. I learned to carry two large scarfs and a wrap-around skirt in my day pack that could be used to cover up, as needed. These cultural experiences taught me so much about their practices. I may not always agree with their rules, but I respect and adhere them.

Traveling teaches us that the outward appearance of something is not a reliable indication of something. I was born and raised in the Midwest, making me a meat & potatoes lover. However, when I travel, I try a variety of food/ The restaurant in Adelaide, Australia served kangaroo. The meat looked so rare (I love a well-done steak). My first thought was yuck, not cooked enough for me. Imagine my surprise when I tried the kangaroo and discovered that I really liked it. I have been to Australia three times and

each time, I make a point to order and eat kangaroo. The waitress in Cape Town, South Africa suggested that I try warthog. When she brought out my plate of food, the entrée looked amazing, and it tasted delicious. It is probably my favorite foreign food that I have ever had. Trying cuy (guinea pig) in Ecuador was an interesting experience. Just the thought of eating guinea pig and then seeing it on your plate made me second guess, but honestly, it really wasn’t that bad. I had a less pleasant experience with a petrified duck egg in China, but I’m so glad I tried it.

As we travel and explore, we need to be careful to not judge a book by its cover. Often, things are not as they seem. What we see on the outside or what we perceive without knowing the full situation is not an indication of its

BY JULIE BECK

value or worth. Travel, like a book’s pages, has a lot to be discovered. Be open-minded. Be inspired by what’s inside. If you judge a book by its cover, you might miss out on an amazing story, person, or opportunity. “L’adventure en vaut la peine.” This is French for “Adventure is worthwhile!”

MY NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP TRAVEL NIGHTMARE

iIt was my third year as the Director of Choirs at Northridge High School, and the plan was to finish our competition season with an out-of-state trip, the first in 25 years. Both my assistant director, Catherine, and I were so excited about the possibilities.

Then, it happened. We received an invitation to perform in Radio City Music Hall as part of a contest in New York City! The fees were affordable, and we’d get to see an actual Broadway show. The school board and community were behind us 100% of the way.

Our trip was only a month away when the warning signs started. The head of the competition stopped answering emails. With three weeks before the contest and almost $50,000 paid, we got the call that the venue was now a “great” theater in the heart of Times Square. Then, it was the week before the trip, and a host of changes started coming, daily.

Luckily, a friend in the student travel business came along. He asked me why I chose not to have a travel company help. I used stereotypical answers, “We just can’t afford a trip like that,” and, “I have to do all this anyway.”

We arrived at the Marriott Marquis Times Square hotel and were relieved to find other schools registered for the contest. After talking with some

directors, I learned that some schools requested and were waiting for confirmation numbers or hotel reservations but were unsuccessful, and these schools never got their (paid-for) Broadway tickets.

I was one of the lucky ones, because I kept asking the contest assistant questions and persisted with getting confirmation numbers. The schools that were not fortunate enough to get rooms had to stay outside of the city, costing thousands of additional dollars.

Having not slept a wink in almost 48 hours, it was now the contest day! As we walked into the “great” venue, I was mortified. This national championship venue looked a couple of decades removed from functioning. They again reassured us everything would be fine and set up before the performance.

In a rush, we somehow managed to make it to the bare concrete performance stage. We were the first to perform, and audio techs laid cable and installed microphones DURING performance! Our well-rehearsed costume change went terribly wrong because their techs were in the way and watching the girls backstage as they changed.

Our mixed show choir performed later in the day, and the contest was running three hours behind.

BY DAN BAKER, HEART OF AMERICA PRODUCTIONS

I would later hear stories about the judges being given no breaks or food. Also, our kids were super excited to be introduced by TV star Mario Lopez. Only some received this honor, as the contest ran so late he was only contractually obligated to announce two groups.

Around one in the morning, I sent my students back to the hotel. Awards finally occurred at three in the morning. We ended up fourth in the nation! I was too tired to care. I kept thinking of how thankful I was for the parent chaperones, additional staff, and friends who traveled to help us survive this journey. I finally slept.

What I learned from this was simple: Plan special occasions with the help of a travel company. I could have avoided many of these trials had I reached out and let them sort through them. I work with many travel operators to help with our groups and events. The experience has shaped me as a better educator and event director. Lessons learned!

For more information on Heart of America Productions, visit hoachoir.com.

EMBRACING NATURE

iInhaling a breath of fresh air and a tuft of sheep’s hair was all I needed to feel at home. Surrounded by ovine oddness — goats running amok, sheep searching for milk, dogs herding stubborn sheep searching for milk — I was instantly invested in the wildlife and ecology of the area. So much so that I was able to overlook the ear-piercing bleats and unpleasant smells; shearing a sheep is an intensive process. Prepare your finest galoshes and raincoats, because the sheer odor will give you plenty of memories to reminisce on.

My trip across Ireland in the summer of 2019 connected me with the essence and livelihood of amazing local people descended from similar ancestry as myself, and led me to recognize the impact of an environment on culture.

It’s no secret that Ireland receives significant amounts of rainfall, but I had always considered rain to be an impediment to travel plans and events. Beachgoers pray for sunshine and feel they’ve been cut short when thunderstorms strike. But in Ireland, unpredictable and tumultuous weather is merely the

way of life. There is never bad weather — just bad clothes. So we donned our ponchos, traveled to local pubs, and inhaled the scent of fresh rain. Sometimes, we danced in it, too. Although rain occurs everywhere at some point in time, the frequency and severity of weather events varies by location, and it was fascinating to see how different cities adapt to their conditions.

Driving cross-country, I stared out the window to fixate on the stunningly green landscapes and open pastures. The purest air coursing through my lungs, and wind through my unruly locks of hair. Four seasons in one day: shivering rain at 8 AM, sixty degrees with clouds at 10 AM, sunshine at noon, and breezy, cool air at 2. Every breath was a temporary snapshot, disappearing with an exhale right back into the vibrant flora of the Earth.

Sometimes, the best souvenirs can’t return home with you. They remain as mental images, some even video replays of the intricate traditions and culture you cherish long after the airplane or car brings you home.

Visiting the most memorable parts of a city doesn’t just mean

BY LINDSAY MCBRIDE

the beautiful ones. I worried for the sheep I visited on the coast, and how rising water levels would impact their food sources or mating patterns. The rain and warmth I was surprised to experience are only exponentially increasing with global warming. For more people to understand the urgency of our climate crisis, we may seek to increase exposure to different environments and cultures.

Through a week-long trek through the island, I connected with the animals and people on a level impossible through a picture or screen. Interactive, live experiences are integral to education and taught me the value of global citizenship — especially as it relates to protecting animals and remote communities. We have the power to learn, merely by moving.

Lindsay is in the 11th grade at the Academy of Notre Dame in Villanova, Pennsylvania.