yti
www.wysetc.org
Youth Travel International
The official magazine of the World Youth Student & Educational Travel Confederation
Mobility & Technology
Keeping up with today’s youth traveller
summe r 2011
contents 6 Strrretch Your Business Reaching out to young people on their mobile phones
8 Social Norms Key tools to improve your social media presence
11 Research and Market Intelligence The latest member benefit from WYSE Travel Confederation
13 Beyond the Spiral Notepad
19 Spanish Skypers Learning a new language online
22 Around the Associations See what WYSE Travel Confederation’s Sector Associations are all about
25 WYSTC 2011 Barcelona You’ve never seen a WYSTC like this before
28 Not so Fast Some sage advice reminding us to unplug sometimes
Tech tools for teaching
16 Skills Exchange
The STAY WYSE and ISTC Skills Exchange was a big success
WYSE Travel Confederation
30 Event Highlights See the Work Experience Travel Market and IAPA Annual Conference in Brussels
youth travel international 3
WYSE Travel Confederation is the global youth travel association dedicated to the development and promotion of the youth travel sector. Working for global youth travel is what we do and we are passionate about it. With over 600 active members from 120 countries, the Confederation can help you grow your business in a number of ways, including: • Making connections – to key industry players from every area of youth travel • Market intelligence – our research programmes, webinars, newsletters and more keep you on top of it all • Discounts to key events – including our annual World Youth and Student Travel Conference • Representation – at high levels of policy-making, including advocacy on specific industry challenges and visa issues • Specialised associations – our industry experts provide
Meet CIEE at WYSTC 2011 Visit our booth and learn how you can partner with CIEE—the leader in educational and cultural exchange for over 60 years.
experience. support. advocacy.
excellent guidance in the areas of Accommodation, Au Pair, Education, Insurance, Volunteer Travel, and Work Exchange
Work & Travel USA Internship USA
Become a member today! For more information and to join, please visit us at www.wysetc.org.
USA High School and more. . .
World Youth Student and Educational Travel Confederation
www.ciee.org
foreword Welcome to yti magazine Welcome to this latest issue of Youth Travel International magazine. We’ve given it an entirely new, fresh look which we hope you like. Also fresh is the mix of content – we know that inside each travel business, large or small, the people themselves are born travellers. That’s why we created a combination of content that provides you straight, valuable business insights with more personal stories that can still remind you how to relate to travellers today. Of course, the theme of the issue is Mobility and Technology: Keeping up with today’s youth traveller, so each article has a common thread of these two elements. In our lead article, for example, you will read how to reach students today – they are constantly on their phones, and are being inundated with information around the clock. As a business, how can you cut through this clutter? Other articles include some hard statistics on mobile phone usage, from which you can determine how you want to plan your own level of investment in mobile technology and marketing; how a young family is using technology to learn Spanish from afar; how the emergence of technologies like Foursquare are changing the game for marketing; and an “old-school” travel article that also reminds us to unplug and disconnect for a while when we’re on the road. At the end of the magazine, you will also see a listing of all our members as of August 2011 – a great chance for added exposure for our membership. We hope you enjoy this new-look YTI as much as we do. Hopefully we will see you in Barcelona September 20th-23rd for our annual event, the World Youth and Student Travel Conference. And if you are reading this as a non-member, we’d be happy to have you join our dynamic confederation dedicated to working for the global youth travel industry – you can find us at www.wysetc.org for more information. Best regards, Espen Falkenhaug Director General WYSE Travel Confederation
YTI magazine summer 2011 Publishing Info
Jason Malinowski, Alpaca Suitcase Blog
Advertising
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To advertise in the next issue of YTI, contact yti@wysetc.org
Summer 2011 Issue. Published by WYSE Travel Confederation
Photography iStockphoto, Ita Rahman
Editor Jeff Funnekotter, WYSE Travel Confederation
WYSE Travel Confederation Keizersgracht 174
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tel: 0031 20 42 1 2800 YTI Magazine has been produced and printed
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using fully sustainable materials.
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Jeff Funnekotter, WYSE Travel Confederation
Distribution
The World Youth, Student & Educational
William L. Gertz, American Institute of Foreign Study
Distributed free-of-charge to all members and
(WYSE) Travel Confederation is a not-for-profit
Marti Grimminck, Social Media Consultant
partners of WYSE Travel Confederation, Tourism
organisation.
Paul Jacobs, Student Universe
Boards and delegates at industry events.
Jacqueline Kassteen, WYSE Travel Confederation
View YTI online at www.wysetc.org
Mark Bakker, Scribbledesign.nl Contributors
WYSE Travel Confederation
youth travel international 5
Strrretch Your Business
Students live via their smart phones. Ever heard anyone say, “I feel naked without my phone?” Paul Jacobs knows if a student doesn’t have his/her phone in an easily accessible location, something just isn’t right. They don’t turn their phones off at night, or even during class. In fact, they don’t even consider it. Herein lies a potential gold mine
I save it to re-read later? Should it
You can make it or break it in a
to marketers. Students’ constant
be deleted, or worse, should I re-
second. The rewards have potential
need to feel connected means they
quest to unsubscribe?” After consid-
to be huge, but with that comes risk.
will see any message sent to them
ering each of these reactions in the
Here are some tips to guide you:
instantly, and in that same instant
time it takes to blink, you have either
they will make a decision about the
missed out on a potential customer
message and the brand. A student
or have gained a new impression.
Send SMS Messages to Students With Caution
will subconsciously ask him/herself
Your goal as a marketer is to secure
We mentioned that students are
a series of questions; “Does this
this impression.
pretty intimate with their mobiles. They keep them close to their body,
warrant a reply? Should I follow the suggested hyperlink right now? Shall
6 youth travel international
Managing this relationship is tricky.
and they even sleep with them very
WYSE Travel Confederation
close by. Coming between these two can
Facebook and Twitter from their mobile
week or every other week. As long as
have serious consequences. Not only are
phones regularly.
the content is relevant to them, they will open them. Remember to keep the
they offended by your abrupt impersonal message, but they will also associate
Tweet often
subject line simple. Don’t try to person-
negative emotions, fueled by unfulfilled
Twitter is easy, convenient, and student
alise a subject line with the user’s name.
expectations, with your brand. Kim was
approved. Students will get your message
Students see through mass customisa-
expecting for Ian to ask her on a date,
shortly after you tweet it since they volun-
tion. Instead, try to catch their attention
instead she got a text about a last minute
tarily check Twitter all day via their iPhone,
with a relevant subject. Most students
sale. What a let down! There is a way to
Blackberry, or Droid. Best of all, Twitter
have smart phones or feature phones, so
wiggle into this relationship. To care-
facilitates an interactive conversation and
they will see the email from their mobile
fully navigate this relationship, Michael
gets always opinionated students directly
right away. QA your emails before sending
Becker, North America managing director for the Mobile Marketing Association, recommends encouraging a reply that will generate a conversation. “Each interaction allows a marketer to learn more about the consumer, what they want and need and the value you can deliver to them.” Although marketers should strive to deliver messages that are targeted to the user across all verticals, SMS may be the most important. If you don’t have
After considering each of these reactions in the time it takes to blink, you have either missed out on a potential customer or have gained a new impression. Your goal as a marketer is to secure this impression.
something relevant and timely to say, then SMS is not your channel.
Facebook them some discounts Facebook can be a great tool. Companies
engaged. Lastly, tweets are short and
and make sure they look as smart as the
like Victoria’s Secret Pink (7 million fans),
sweet. When working with the attention
phones they are read on.
Starbucks (20 million fans), and even
span of a student, conciseness is vital.
Spongebob Squarepants (17 million fans)
Reaching students through their mobile
have harnessed the viral power of social
Do you have an app for that?
phones can be a golden opportunity.
media on Facebook. According to a focus
Apps are fun. They keep students en-
Be careful how you approach this tactic
group conducted by StudentUniverse
gaged and are always just a touch away.
though. You are reaching them through
Media, comprised of college students
Whether your company has an app, or
a very personal method of communica-
aged 19-22, many feel that Facebook is a
chooses to advertise on one, apps are a
tion, and managing this requires careful
place to connect with friends and would
great place to be these days. According
planning.
prefer to keep in touch with businesses
to Juniper Research, revenue from mobile
on Twitter, where messages are easier to
content and apps is expected to reach
navigate. However, many admit to follow-
$10 billion by 2015.
ing businesses on Facebook when they
Paul Jacobs Paul Jacobs is the Business Development
feel there is an opportunity to get dis-
Send Mobile-Optimised Emails
Manager at Student Universe
counts. Students do claim to check both
Students like to see emails once a
(www.studentuniverse.com)
WYSE Travel Confederation
youth travel international 7
500
Marti Grimminck highlights the continuing rise of social media and its implications for your business.
MILLION USERS ON FACEBOOK
SOCIAL NORMS 500 million users on Facebook, 106
hostel message boards to email, from
million users on Twitter, 100 million
text messaging to Facebook and T witter
users on LinkedIn, and growing. If there
updates via smartphones and iPads.
is one thing we know for certain, it is that
Travellers are passing valuable travel tips
social media is here. But just as we grow
and travel warnings and overall passion for
comfortable with the new ‘norms’ of social
travel through their networks and beyond.
media, trends and dialogues are once
8 youth travel international
again changing. At the heart of many of
Many companies have realised how
these changes is youth travel, or rather,
valuable these social halls are and have
@youthtravel.
looked for ways to be a part of the con-
WORD OF KEYBOARD
versation, while others are still trying to
It’s no secret to youth travel veterans about
annual growth of over 14% new US users
the power of word of mouth and how it
on social networking sites, as reported by
has transformed through the years, from
Arbitron/Edison’s new research, The Social
find value in their efforts. With dramatic
WYSE Travel Confederation
100
106 MILLION TWITTER
MILLION USERS ON LINKEDIN
USERS
Habit-Frequent Social Networkers, it is essential for
audiences we don’t engage with anywhere else, and
companies to at least understand what is happening.
that makes it a powerful lead generation tool.”
Arbitron/Edison reports even more phenomenal statistics that the number of people using social networking
LIFE IS A GAME
sites “several times per day” more than doubled in a
With 7.5 Million users and a joining rate of 25,000-
year from 18 million to 39 million. “With both usage
30,000 per day, Foursquare is fast making its mark in
of social networks and the frequency of that usage
the social media realm. With “life is a game” philosophy,
increasing dramatically, we are truly witnessing a sea
Foursquare is placing itself as a valuable tool for travel-
change in how mainstream consumers communicate.”
lers. Through a geo-mapping “check-in” tool, travellers can keep track of where they’ve been and what they’ve
This fast adoption and shift into social media highlights
thought about a location.
the customers’ new needs. Forrester’s recent research shows an increase of social media participation of
At the music and film interactive festival South-by-
24% between 2008 and 2010 by US online leisure
Southwest (SXSW) in February, Foursquare revealed its
travellers. More importantly, the style of engagement in
new ‘Explore’ function, which allows users to pull up
social media is changing. Forrester reports that there
specials and venues that are close to their vicinity. In
is a decrease in those who are social media “Creators,
discussion with Foursquare about the potential value for
Critics, and Collectors,” but an increase in those who
travel companies, a spokesperson responded: “Travel
are “ Joiners, Spectators and Conversationalists.” In
sites can utilise Foursquare to drive brand awareness
fact, the Conversationalists group, which recognises
by partnering with venues to offer specials. We have
people who participate in frequent – at least once a
tens of thousands of venues experimenting with spe-
week - conversations on social networking sites like
cials on Foursquare, and thousands more that our busi-
LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter, is increasing at 39% of
ness development team is processing.” Currently, 60%
US online leisure travellers, significantly more than the
of their users are in the US and only 40% in the rest of
US average online travel increase of 33%.
the world, but this number is increasing daily and open-
ARE YOU JUST THERE OR ARE YOU GOOD?
ing a world of new exposure opportunities.
With the ever-changing nature of social media, it is no
INTEGRATION AND CONNECTION
wonder that many companies walk away or embrace
Tools offered on Foursquare and other major social me-
social media with no real measured results from their
dia channels are now being incorporated into websites,
efforts. “Being ON social media and being GOOD at
and vice versa the other sites are bringing their technol-
social media are two entirely different things, according
ogy into social media. “Open and integrated,” states
to Rosie Akenhead at travel industry watchdog Eye to
Tripline founder Rick LaRocca. In March, Tripline 2.0
Travel. “Almost every travel brand has a Twitter account,
launched with a new series of features and enhance-
because you ‘have to’, but a very small proportion are
ments to their travel documentary tools. Not only does
actually utilising it to maximum effect.”
the site utilise third-party and open-source technologies, but it also offers seamless ways to integrate Tripline
Akenhead breaks down the social media barrier: “Social
tools into existing social networks including Facebook.
media is for client interaction and customer care, but it’s also an information point where we can reach
WYSE Travel Confederation
Tripline’s goal focused on integrating technology and
youth travel international 9
7.5
MILLION FOURSQUARE USERS
opening it up to different channels is a
customers. “It’s more about where does
of this for a travel company is only just
successful methodology from the user’s
your audience live. We know our cus-
being understood.
perspective. As LaRocca states, “We
tomers live on social sites; therefore,
understand that people already have
we need to be where they are. We are
At the moment Twitter is an opening
established social networks, and rather
simply following them... when they used
into a company, or as Nobel states:
than trying to be another one, we’ve
to read printed college newspapers, we
“Twitter allows you to see who is behind
focused on connecting them.”
were there too.”
the brand.” This is why Nobel person-
With over 47,000 ‘likes’ on Facebook,
important for everyone to know we’re not
ally sends out the tweets. “I believe it’s
FACEBOOK AT THE FOREFRONT AND TWITTER AT THE TOP
World Nomads has learned valuable in-
a faceless company. Hopefully the per-
sight into their consumers and other com-
sonality I impart through my engagement
panies through social media. “Facebook
on twitter allows people to understand
has become on one hand an invaluable re-
what we care about as a business.”
At the forefront of any conversation
search tool, a means by which to connect
about social media is Facebook and
with our community and better understand
The best advice from Nobel in terms
Twitter, and many companies are daunted
how to deliver value to them and on the
of successfully working within social
by strategies for these forums. However,
other, an effective sales channel as well,”
media: “Effective engagement through
within youth travel are some of the most
according to Chris Nobel.
social channels allows you to create
innovative and successful participants, starting with STA Travel. With the launch of their latest cutting edge campaign on Facebook, STA travel has once again shown to be a leader in the social media sector. ‘Unite the Invite’ is an interactive game where participants are given an invite to fly for free to the UK, the catch being that they only receive half the invite. The participants had to
BEING ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND BEING GOOD AT SOCIAL MEDIA ARE TWO ENTIRELY DIFFERENT THINGS
find the other half of their invite through Facebook. “You realise over a longer period of
programmes, develop content and build
For STA gaming is an important part of
engagement what questions and themes
products and services that are funda-
their strategy. “It’s an extension of our
connect with your community, which ones
mentally relevant and useful to your
brand personality,” states James Bell.
elicit not just a comment, but one that
community. If you can listen, learn and
“Our goal [in the use of social media] is
informs you about what’s important to
respond, you’ll not only build an engaged
to form a relationship with them, engage
them.”
community, but a community that delivers
with them and ultimately be their choice when they decide they want to travel.”
to your bottom line as well.” The social engagement does not just stop at Facebook. Twitter, celebrating
‘Unite the Invite’ is only one of many
its fifth year, has more than ever been
successful social media campaigns.
thrown into the spotlight due to its
MARTI WIGDER GRIMMINCK
STA Travel’s choice to engage in forums
major role in global events. The ability
Marti Wigder Grimminck specializes
like Facebook is not an endpoint, but
to access real-time conversation is draw-
in social media and travel -
rather a way to stay relevant with their
ing in more participants. The significance
@ChampagneBkpkr
10 youth travel international
WYSE Travel Confederation
Member benefit
Research Programme
New WYSETC Membership Benefit WYSE Travel Confederation (WYSETC) is bringing members a brand new benefit as part of its exciting, new Research Programme: Tailor-made research on demand at an exclusive, discounted rate. Market research is an important part of any business and
right agent to trade with in a new market to risk analysis and
organisation, and many of you will have specific needs in this
feasibility studies.
area. In order to meet these, WYSETC enables you to order Research on Demand (ROD) from our partner StudentMarketing,
Our Research on Demand is exclusively delivered by Student-
with big discounts as well.
Marketing, specialists in Market Research for the Youth and Student Travel Industry.
Whether a business fails or prospers depends on whether
the right kinds of decisions are made. The right decisions
Average prices for Research on Demand range from €3,800
are more likely to be made when informed by good
to €20,000, depending on project size and scope. Delivery
market intelligence. Market research is a key factor in
time ranges from two to three months, and the research itself
gaining competitive advantage with your target market,
begins approximately one month after order.
providing important information to identify and analyse the
market size, market needs, competitive environment and predicting valuable market trends. Successful marketing relies on accurate, robust information. Targeted research can help you make informed decisions based on real-time data and consumer preferences in products, prices, commissions, booking and buying patterns, and more. ROD (Research On Demand) is for WYSETC members only. You can specify exactly what you need – from locating the
WYSE Travel Confederation
WYSE Travel Confederation Members will recieve a 10% discount on these prices for orders of up to €7,999, and a 15% discount on above prices for orders of over €8,000. For more details and to specify and order Research on Demand – please see our website www.wysetc.org youth travel international 11
12 youth travel international
WYSE Travel Confederation
Beyond the Spiral Notepad UK language students receive iPads to improve their English and put the cool into school. Brazilian schools use Macs and SMART Boards to enhance their learning experience. Jeff Funnekotter looks at both sides of the equator to explore how technology is helping students learn abroad.
In the old days – say, 10 years ago – before heading away from home to study, students might have packed a pencil, a pen, and some notepads. Today, a power adapter and maybe some screen wipes are more in order, as high-tech solutions are being used as teaching and learning tools. One example of how pervasive new technology is becoming in the youth travel segment involves Education First, the international language school. EF International Language Centers is now providing students who travel abroad with iPads to bring real-life language and hands-on learning into the classroom.
WYSE Travel Confederation
youth travel international 13
“BRAZILIAN TRAVELLERS SPENT OVER US$ 11 BILLION ABROAD”
BE PART OF IT !
Expo Travel & Adventure 2012 is the only fair in Brazil allowing you to directly target travellers who are about to go abroad for work, culture or adventure. Why exhibit? • Unique opportunity to talk directly with those about to travel • Youth and mature travellers – Brazil’s two biggest travel markets • Cost-effective – talk to over 40,000 expected visitors • Enhance your brand and generate immediate business Who should exhibit? • International and local tour operators • Sport and special experience tour companies • Working holiday to hospitality companies • Education, vocational and short/summer courses • Airlines and travel agents to cruises operators • Embassies and international tourism bureaux • Hostels, hotels, ski resorts, golf, equestrian and spa resorts
Banco Central do Brasil report in September 2010 US$11.5 bn spent Jan-Sep 2010
EXPO TRAVEL & ADVENTURE BRAZIL 2012 SÃO PAULO March 31st & April 1st RIO DE JANEIRO April 3rd CURITIBA April 5th
www.expotravel.com.br 14 youth travel international
WYSE Travel Confederation
Beyond the Spiral Notepad continued
“We are proud to be the first and only language school to
are also going fully high-tech to enhance the learning experience.
fully integrate iPads into our curriculum. They are blended into our overall teaching method, the EF Efekta Learning
Using Macintosh computers and SMART Boards, the school
System which fundamentally improves the way students
administrators aim to provide what they call “the best tools
learn a language.“ says Eva Kockum, President of EF
available” to prepare students for the latest industry trends.
International Language Centers. SMART Boards, with some two million interactive whiteboards in The EF schools in Bristol and Manchester have already intro-
use worldwide, are dynamic, graphically vivid boards that teachers
duced dedicated iPads lessons, making the classes more inter-
can use in dozens of ways. Think well beyond the chalk and
active and inspiring. Students can use the devices to get instant
eraser of the old days.
access to real-life English by bringing live examples of English video, text or sound into their discussions and presentations.
Along with providing other functions, the whiteboards and Macs allow students to participate fully in class, as the lessons are
The size and cable-free design of iPads means that they can be
stored on the board and the digital content is then sent to
shared and passed around for collaborative work in a way that is
students by e-mail, on the same day of class. They can also chat
not possible in the traditional computer session. Students can
online with the school’s 3500 students and teachers about this
work on lessons or class presentations together which they can
shared content.
then take with them as they move around the campus, working with others and doing what language students want to do most:
In every case, going to school abroad is a life experience all on its
speaking English.
own. Doing so with cutting-edge technology can only add to the practical experience to stay ahead of the crowd as well.
Going Global South of the equator, four time zones and 9487 kilometres away,
Jeff Funnekotter is Communications Executive at WYSE Travel
students at Panamericana School of Art and Design in São Paulo
Confederation (www.wysetc.org)
WYSE Travel Confederation
youth travel international 15
With the main focus of this edition of Youth Travel International on mobility and technology, we found a prime example of both in one package – the ISTC Skills Exchange. The exchange was put together with the help of STAY WYSE (Safe Travel Accommodation for Youth) and ISTC (the International Student Travel Confederation). Both organisations are part of the World Youth Student and Educational Travel Confederation. Steve Lowy from umihotels provided the Âmobility,
STAY WYSE and ISTC combined for great results in the firstever skills exchange for organisations working in the accommodation industry.
16 youth travel international
WYSE Travel Confederation
travelling from London to the small
inspiring to hear about hoteliers who
“The experience has been wonderful
village of Siem Reap in Cambodia for
make that special effort, take their
and I really hope that the work and
two weeks early in 2011. And Rosy
social responsibility the extra mile, and
help done both at the guesthouse,
Guesthouse, the exchange “host”,
put their efforts where others merely
and at the charities, will be fruitful for
provided the technology – specifically,
pontificate,” according to John Firrell,
all parties. From the minute I landed
their website which was to undergo an
Director of Considerate Hoteliers
I have been so impressed with the
overhaul, along with their revenue man-
Association.
warmth and friendliness of everyone
agement system.
here”, said Steve Lowy. In that same spirit of volunteering and
Taking the expertise of a larger, more
giving back, Steve spent ten days in the
Rachel Band of Rosy Guesthouse was
established hostel operator with its
company of the owners of Rosy and the
equally pleased with the effect on her
head office in London and pairing it
village as a whole, where he managed
business: “The suggestions and push
with a small, active hostel in a Cam-
to make several charitable contribu-
in the right direction in the office is in-
bodian village was a great success for
tions and really felt the community
valuable and yet completely logical and
both parties.
spirit of the very hospitable locals.
something that we are already putting into practice and seeing results from
With a number of interested candidates
As for Rosy, they received a wealth of
on both sides of the exchange, the
business best practices that include
UK’s umihotels and Rosy Guesthouse
better financial reporting, forecasting,
Future exchanges are being planned. For
in Cambodia were ultimately chosen.
and a new website with the help of
more information, please see the STAY
The project, which will take place
umi partners 2am media that benefits
WYSE website at www.staywyse.org or
again with new participants in the near
both the hostel and young travellers
the ISTC website at www.istc.org.
future, has also caught the attention
who will be making their travel plans
of the larger companies. “It is always
from afar.
WYSE Travel Confederation
since Steve has left”.
youth travel international 17
18 youth travel international
WYSE Travel Confederation
Travel enthusiast and Lonely Planet blogger Jason Malinowski tells us how one family (his) is using technology to learn a language. Spanish Skypers
Our family has been searching
they were bored. The final straw was
returning but quickly lost everything
for ways to have our kids fluent in
when we realised that our kids could
once we were back with no way to
Spanish for years. With the state of
not even make chit-chat with our
use what they had learned. In 2009
California’s budget troubles, Spanish
gardeners who are native Spanish
we took another sabbatical, this
in public school classrooms doesn’t
speakers.
start until the 7th grade. Combine
Spanish Skypers
time spending much of our time in one place – in Cusco, Peru – and
this fact with the knowledge that the
One solution was to travel to
having the kids take 5 hours a day
very best time to learn a language
Latin American countries to learn
of Spanish for 6 months. We hired
is well before then and you have the
Spanish, reasoning that by being
a teacher to come to our apart-
makings of an educational quan-
immersed in the language, the
ment every morning on Mondays
dary. With private lessons between
kids would learn much faster. In
through Fridays and drill our kids on
$45-60 per hour we sought reason-
2005 we took a 6-month sabbatical
everything from personal pronouns
able alternatives: we arranged local
through Central America and Spain
to conjugations in the subjunctive
group classes, we considered buying
and in each of the 7 countries we
tense. When they returned they
the popular Rosetta Stone software
visited, we took at least a week of
spoke much better yet we still had
and we made the kids watch some
classes at local Spanish language
the problem of how to retain what
Spanish language cartoons until
schools. The kids spoke a bit upon
they’d learned.
WYSE Travel Confederation
youth travel international 19
With the webcam, comprehension was enhanced. A grin signalled a joke, a raised eyebrow expressed skepticism and a shaking of the head meant disagreement.
Spanish Skypers
Back home and in school, our kids – ages 15 and
enhanced. A grin signalled a joke, a raised eyebrow
14 – were now taking classes in school but they
Skypersand a shaking of the head expressed skepticism
were not learning much and, if anything, were quickly
meant disagreement. The kids had writing assign-
losing their ability to speak. Determined to not let
ments and would email them to their teacher prior to
this happen again, we turned to technology for the
the lesson and she sent them back with corrections.
Spanish
answer. We decided to combine our relationship with
In order to pay her, we’d settle up monthly and send
the Peruvian teacher who taught our kids in Cusco
her money via Western Union, where she could pick it
with ever-popular Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
up at a local office for a very small fee.
technology. In other words, we planned to Skype with our Spanish teacher from Peru.
There were, however, occasional hiccups. As the Peru tourist season kicked in, our teacher who
Skype is a software application that allows users to
moonlighted as a tour guide, would occasionally
make voice calls and chats over the Internet. Calls to
have to cancel and take some tourists to Machu
other users within the Skype service are free, while
Picchu for the weekend. As the weather got worse
calls to landlines and cell phones are made for a fee.
near Cusco and it started to rain more, we noticed a
Skype had 663 million registered users as of 2010.
decline in the call quality as well. When this hap-
Additional Skype features include instant messag-
pened, her voice sounded like it was being stretched
ing, file transfer and video conferencing. Unlike other
past unrecognisable limits. Occasionally we’d have
VoIP services which are client-server based, Skype is
to cancel or postpone a call because of this, but in
a peer-to-peer system, and its name is a shortened
general it worked well.
version of the original name: Sky peer-to-peer. Despite the scheduling and technical issues, when We talked to our Spanish teacher about the idea of
we had lessons they worked well and we’ve been
having lessons on Skype and she was very enthusias-
happy with our arrangement. I have to think that as
tic. I did some research and we arrived at an hourly
technology improves within Peru’s wireless infrastruc-
rate that we thought was fair for both of us. Needless
ture that our call quality will only get better. We are
to say, this amount was much less than the $45-60
not the only ones that enjoy online Spanish lessons:
per hour going rate. We even looked into an applica-
a Google search for online Spanish lessons turns
tion called Talk and Write Tool that worked with Skype
up quite a few language companies so we know
and could be used as a virtual blackboard. We agreed
that there are many others doing it. As technology
on a weekly schedule and we were ready to go.
improves around the world, learning languages over the Internet will only become more popular.
For the first couple lessons the experience was great and each kid was actually speaking conversationally for an hour and a half, twice a week. I could hear them making jokes, telling the teacher about their
Jason Malinowski
day and trying to explain how we celebrated v arious
Jason Malinowski is a Lonely Planet blogger
holidays. With the webcam, comprehension was
www.alpaca-suitcase.blogspot.com
WYSE Travel Confederation
youth travel international 21
WYSTC Barcelona breaks new ground in September 2011. Jacqueline Kassteen tells us what to expect from the exciting conference and its new programme focused entirely on the global youth travel industry.
Think you have enough energy to keep up
youth travel around the world. International
with the young travellers you service? If so,
youth travel is going through major techno-
then you might just have enough firepower
logical, demographic and geo-political shifts.
to attend this year’s World Youth & Student
To prosper, organisations need to learn
Travel Conference (WYSTC). With a brand
and adapt to those changes. WYSTC is all
new team of young professionals behind
about providing access to that information.
WYSTC, this September’s event will keep
With what’s going on in the world today, this
attendees hopping from one business op-
may very well be one of the most important
portunity to another whilst being caught up
youth travel industry events in years”.
in a whirlwind of fun. And what better place to host the event than the vibrant, bustling
Upgrade to WYSTC 2.011
city of Barcelona?
For those of you who have been to WYSTC before, get ready for some surprises. The
Preparations for the event are in full swing,
daily programme has been put through a
under the leadership of new Conference
virtual blender – mixing up practical work-
Director Michael Palmer. “We’ve taken all
ing sessions with pre-scheduled business
the things our delegates love about WYSTC
appointments and educational luncheons. In
and super-sized them. We are creating a
the past, one day was reserved for seminars
new and improved conference experience
and workshops, and two days were dedicated
by adding additional networking formats,
to business meetings. But it can be ex-
the latest in youth travel marketing informa-
hausting for delegates to have back-to-back
tion and a renewed dedication to promoting
meetings for two day’s straight; therefore,
WYSE Travel Confederation
youth travel international 25
Some of the new items on the 2011 programme include ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤
Connections Sessions Geographic and Demographic Targeted Workshops Showcase of Online Travel Companies An “App Yap” session highlighting mobile applications used by young travellers 2012 Youth Travel Market Forecast Unique Luncheons on trends, promotions and industry awards Welcome Lunch for Spanish Speaking Delegates (in Spanish) Exclusive Networking Receptions View the full Conference Programme on our website www.wystc.org
spreading them out across the duration of
at Wednesday night’s Networking Recep-
effective marketing as well as enhanced
the event enables attendees to increase
tion gives attendees direct access to
products and services. Two more new
the quality of their meetings, without sacri-
some of today’s hottest online travel
arrivals are Trends Luncheons, giving
ficing the quantity of appointments.
firms. In addition, the innovative App
delegates the chance to keep their
Yap Session provides the opportunity
brains moving while they’re munching,
The schedule has also been enhanced
for youth travel organisations to share
and geo- and demographic targetted
with several new items such as Con-
mobile applications. A selected num-
workshops. During these interactive
nections Sessions. These sessions are
ber of mobile apps will be featured at
sessions, delegates will split up into
designed to allow delegates to meet as
the conference - to allow companies to
groups based on countries or regions
many people as possible in a concentrat-
promote their applications and give at-
and discuss how to attract more young
ed amount of time – think of it as speed
tendees the ability to learn from others.
travellers to their destinations – whether
dating for the business world! There will
We encourage companies to submit their
that be individuals, backpackers, school
be two types of Connection Sessions:
application for demonstration at WYSTC;
groups or young couples. These break-
one for first-time attendees to mingle with
any organisation may apply. One appli-
out sessions will encourage delegates
WYSE Travel Confederation Board Mem-
cation submitted will be chosen as the
to share best practices, learn from one
bers and other industry powerhouses,
“Youth Travel Industry App of the Year”
another on what influences buying deci-
and another that is open to all delegates,
which will be presented at yet another
sions, brainstorm creative, innovative
thereby allowing every single person to
new item on the schedule - the WYSTC
campaigns and strategise on approach-
Awards Luncheon on Friday, 23 Septem-
ing local governments for support.
network to the max.
ber. Contact us via mail.box@wystc.org “The number of young travellers around
for more information.
Giving Back In cooperation with WYSE Work Abroad,
the world continues to grow,” states Mr.
this year we will once again offer dele-
about the trends they set, network with
Leverage Your Learning Opportunities
international partners and find out about
The unique set-up of this year’s educa-
community. Following on the success of
the newest technology that is driving the
tional presentations will furnish attend-
last year’s volunteer project at a school
youth travel market.”
ees with the knowledge and techniques
in Beijing, we are recommending a
they need to stay on the cutting edge
different project for this September
of today’s trends by developing more
which will allow attendees to experience
Palmer. “WYSTC is the place to learn
The new online travel company showcase
26 youth travel international
gates the chance to give back to the local
WYSE Travel Confederation
volunteering first-hand. Not only does
Energetic Atmosphere
this give people the chance to make a
Perhaps the biggest differentiator this
small difference, they can also benefit
year will be the energetic vibe in the air.
from informal networking opportunities.
WYSTC has always been known for its warm and friendly atmosphere, and that
Delegates are advised to arrive early
intimacy will be further enhanced through
so that they can join the visit to a
the infusion of various games and
food bank, the Banc dels Aliments, on
contests. Designed to inspire and excite
Tuesday morning, 20 September. It will
attendees, they’ll also showcase how to
be all hands on deck as the group helps
use today’s latest technology trends to
to sort food into boxes for the poor, the
engage and interact with one another.
young and the disadvantaged. The Banc dels Aliments (www.bancdelsaliments.
Speaking of trends, one of the hottest
org) is a large nonprofit organisation in
items on the agenda is the 2012 Youth
Barcelona with a distribution system in
Travel Market Forecast, taking place on
place to help fight hunger. Each year, they
the last day of the event, just before del-
collect nearly 4 million kilograms a year
egates join the farewell party – poolside,
of food for over 90,000 people.
under the stars, with new friends and new business partners.
“Participants in youth travel tend to be passionate about helping youth travel-
Catch the WYSTC spirit and join us in
lers learn about other people, places
September!
and cultures. Helping accomplish that mission is what WYSTC is all about, and getting involved in the local community through a volunteer project like this is
Jacqueline Kassteen
yet another way we can play an active
Jacqueline Kassteen is the Senior
role in reaching out to others,” explains
Marketing Executive at WYSE Travel
Mr. Palmer.
Confederation (www.wysetc.org)
WYSE Travel Confederation
20-23 SEPTEMBER PALAU DE CONGRESSOS DE CATALUNYA
Support from Spanish organisations and WYSE Travel Confederation members around the globe has been pouring in, opening doors to new possibilities and laying a solid foundation for future WYSTCs to come.
youth travel international 27
not so
fast
In the summer of 1973, Bobby, Steve, Dave and I hit
Forty years changes things
the road. We flew on Icelandic Airlines (youth fare $269
Flash forward almost forty years. Life is different now
round trip) from New York to Amsterdam. We stayed at
and we all embrace new technology. The Internet is
the NBBS owned Hans Brinker Hostel for a few days
great for bringing the world together; we see videos
to get our bearings. We had no itinerary for our trip –
on YouTube, make international friends on Facebook,
just a two month student rail pass, a copy of “Europe
and speak to our friends around the world on Skype.
on $10 a day”, a backpack full of T-shirts & jeans, an
But are we missing something? What have we given
ISIC card, a leather-bound journal, a bunch of language
up in the name of instant communication and instant
phrase books, and some traveller’s cheques.
gratification? Is the sense of adventure gone?
We wandered around Europe for three months
More young people than ever before are travelling
sleeping in Amsterdam’s Vondelpark, on ferries and
on organised, “packaged” programmes from student
in student hostels, taking long train rides and jump-
tours to au pair and work programs to semester study
ing off when we saw an interesting town, meeting
abroad opportunities (up 400% in a few decades). I
people, having amazing late night conversations about
question the motivation of studying abroad, volunteer-
America (this was the time of Watergate and Vietnam),
ing abroad and working abroad if it is just done to
and stopping at American Express to pick up a letter
“add to your CV”. As an employer, I like hiring people
or two.
that have travelled, but I am much more interested in how they think rather than what they have seen or
I learned so much more during this trip than I did
done. Lately, every resume looks the same as inter-
in my four years (well, five) of college. But more
national experiences become routine and seemingly
importantly, I found myself. I grew up that summer.
interchangeable.
I decided that I wanted to make travel a career (although I never called it that). I also learned to be
In Europe, you certainly don’t need phrase books
alone, to be independent, to be away from creature
as (almost) everyone speaks English in major travel
comforts, family, TV and familiar foods and locations.
destinations. Also, flights are often cheaper than rail
28 youth travel international
WYSE Travel Confederation
but most people agree that flying is a mis-
we be better served pioneering these
emergency. An ATM saves you money and
erable way to travel. Removing your shoes
adventures on our own without someone
is a lot more convenient than cashing trav-
and going through security is not a quality
else’s bias? Our experiences should be
eller’s cheques. It’s quicker to book flights
cultural experience. It’s a tiring, crowded
fresh and organic – the way travelling
and hotels online and you can prepare
few hours that we want over with as soon
was meant to be. I also have serious
yourself for your journey much easier
as possible.
reservations about the value of Skype,
than ever before due to the proliferation
texting, Facebook posts and all the things
of web sites containing videos on history
Have youth travellers today lost the meaning of travel?
that take you away from your travels and
and culture. We can even learn to speak
bring you back to the world you have left.
new languages online on Rosetta Stone –
Travel has, in some ways, become another
We need to temporarily cut ourselves
never needing to tote a phrase book.
status symbol for young people. When
off from our “regular life” and open
one of our students says “I’m going to
our minds to the world of opportunity –
Sound advice
do Paris”, I shiver. When students are
disconnecting from family and friends
But for me, if I was twenty, I’d be riding
abroad hanging out at McDonalds or
for a brief period. The idea of travel is to
the train from Lisbon to Nice with some
Starbucks, I have to smile and think of
meet new people with varying viewpoints
wine and cheese in a compartment with
the joy I received figuring out how to put
rather than keeping in constant contact
people (and not just young people) from
three guilders in one of those food vending
with those we know well.
around the world, sharing some good food and talking about life for endless
machines near Dam Square in Amsterdam. And if the food was bad, at least it was
You also need to think for yourself and
hours. I don’t think I would miss a daily
something new. It was an experience and
make decisions on your own. Discovery
Facebook horoscope posting, A CNN
one I couldn’t find at home. Students now
is a big part of travel; forget the songs on
alert, Pandora’s consistently bad songs,
check off cities like notches on a belt –
your iPod – there’s a lot of great music out
or an email about a party on campus that
Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, etc. They put
there that you’ve never even heard before.
I’m missing. But I guess each genera-
a pin on a map and see who can go to the
Forget the recommendations from friends
tion must chart its own course. I’m just
most places in less time. What’s the rush?
on what to see. Become an “accidental”
glad to have grown up during a time when
traveller and find out for yourself what
travel was an adventure, not an itinerary.
Want to experience real discovery? Unplug for a while
makes this world such an amazing place.
One of the newest trends is to “rate”
videos or YouTube clips of fighting cats –
everything online – from hotels on Trip
in short, unplug.
Survive without downloading movies,
Advisor to study abroad programmes on
William L. Gertz is the President and CEO
Abroad 101. Why would anyone care how
Of course, there is a bright side to new
of the American Institute For Foreign Study
a stranger rates an experience? Wouldn’t
technology. A cell phone is a must in an
(AIFS) (www.aifs.com)
WYSE Travel Confederation
youth travel international 29
16-18 March 2011 brussels, belgium
ts
even
Event Highlights
Work Experience Travel Market and IAPA Annual Conference – Event Highlights The annual Work Experience Travel Market (WETM) and IAPA Annual Conference (IAC) concluded a very successful three days in Brussels in March of this year.
pair, work & travel, cultural exchange, internship & volunteering industries. “WETM has been one of the most successful events for us to visit in order to meet quality partners in the work experience and cultural exchange travel field. Despite the fact that India is a relatively new destination for such programmes, we have gained tremendous benefit from attending the event continuously for many years, and we intend to participate regularly in future events also,” according to Ninad Sharma, IDEX – Indian Network for Development Exchange.
WETM-IAC, now in its 14th year, is an annual B2B event held by the International Au Pair
Some key numbers from the event:
Association (IAPA) and WYSE Work Abroad, two
• 270 delegates (10% increase from 2010)
of the World Youth Student and Educational Travel
• 182 organisations
Confederation’s sector associations. It has long
• 2076 business appointments
been regarded as the must-attend event for the au
• 44 different countries represented
30 youth travel international
WYSE Travel Confederation
“This year’s WETM-IAC in Brussels showcased a highly positive vibe in an outstanding, wellorganised conference format. Business appointments were professional and productive, while the social moments reflected the collegial and familiar atmosphere of our community. For many years in a row WETM-IAC has proven to be a unique conference for youth travel organisations active in the field of au pair, cultural exchange, volunteer and many other programmes. We are excited to carry this momentum into Budapest in 2012,” said Jack Hompes, Chairman of the International Au Pair Association. For more information and to stay in the loop regarding the Budapest event, please visit www.wetm-iac.org.
Albania ê ANDE-LM Agency Ltd ê Argentina ê Au Pair Exchange Argentina • ECELA • Hostelling International Argentina • Milhouse Hostel • Pasantias Argentinas • PAX Hostel • TIJE Argentina ê Armenia ê Interservice ê Australia ê ACCESS Language Centre • Adventure Tours Australia Group Pty Ltd • American Institute for Foreign Study (Australia) • Australian Internships Industry Association • Australian Internships Pty Ltd • Australian Tourism Export Council • Backpacking Hostel Australia P/L • Base Backpackers • Conservation Volunteers Australia & New Zealand • GET Educational Tours Pty Ltd • Global Gossip • Greyhound Australia Pty Ltd • Intrepid Travel Pty Ltd • Perth Au Pair - Demi Pair • Smart Au Pairs • STB Student Travel Bureau Australia • Student Placement Australia New Zealand Pty Ltd. • Sydney English Language Centre • Tourism Australia • Tourism Tropical North Queensland • Tourism Victoria • UNSW Global Pty Limited • VIP Backpackers • Visitoz • Wake Up! • Work & Travel Company Australia • WorldNomads.com Pty Ltd ê Austria ê AuPair Agenturen Osterreichs • AuPair Austria • Cultural Care GmbH • Good Hope Studies • Osterreichischer Jugendherbergsverband • PDM Schuler u Studentenreisen ê Belarus ê Information Advice Service “Unvers” ê Belgium ê AEP - Centre of coordination and Services • Bureau International du Tourisme Social • Hostels in Brussels • NV Connections • Toerisme Vlaanderen • World Education Program ê Bolivia ê Au Pair Bolivia S.R.L. • Ciudad Mundo ê Brazil ê ARTHA - Agencia de Viagens e Turismo Ltda • Brazilian Educational & Language Travel Association • Central de Intercambio Viagens Ltda • Central Internacional do Estudante • Cultural Care Au Pair (Brazil) • Experimento de Convivencia Internacional do Brasil • Student Travel Bureau • True Experience • World Study Brazil ê Bulgaria ê Association for Support of the Academic Society • IBC Student Exchange Ltd • Sofia Tours EOOD ê Cambodia ê Rosy Guesthouse ê Canada ê Canadian Federation of Students • Canadian International Student Services • EF International Language Schools • Explorica • GAP Adventures Inc. • Global Lifestyles Canada Inc. • Global Village Backpackers Inc • Global Village English Centres • Hostelling International - ASL • Hostelling International - Canada • International Language School of the YMCA of Quebec • International Nannies & Homecare Ltd. • King George International College • Languages Canada Association • Le Jazz St-Denis • LSC Language Studies Canada • Omnicom School of Languages • Scotia Personnel Ltd • SWAP Working Holidays • Tamwood International • Travel CUTS • University of Victoria English Language Centre • Vancouver English Centre ê Channel Islands ê Contiki Holidays for 18 - 35s ê Chile ê Hostelling International Chile ê China ê Au Pair ABC Service Center • Au Pair Beijing • Beijing Biztour • Beijing New Oriental Vision Overseas Consulting Co • China Au Pair Association • Chinese Au Pair Centre • E&P Education Service (Shanghai) Co. Ltd • GWM Cultural Exchange • HHS(Beijing)International Cultural Exchange Center • IES Global China (HK) Ltd • iMandarin Chinese Language Institute • International House Xi’an • KCICE • Luke International Group Limited • Scope Consulting • Shanghai CIIC International Business Development C • Shenyang EANNA Education Training Center • Sichuan Overseas Affairs & Exit-Entry Service Cent • Xu Bo Art and Culture Exchange • Youth Education Services ê Colombia ê Asociacion Colombiana de Agencias de Au Pair • Au Pair and Travels • Au Pair Exchange Colombia • Au-Pair Colombia Ltda • Aviatur SA • Cultural Travel • Fundacion Mundo Colombia • Global Connection • Intercambios y Turismo Ltds • International Options, Inc. • Vedi Travel ê Costa Rica ê Intercultura de Centro America • OTEC Viajes Internacional • VIAJES COLON ê Croatia ê Croatian Youth Hostel Association ê Cuba ê Cubamar Viajes SA ê Czech Republic ê GTS Alive s.r.o. • Student Agency Ltd ê Denmark ê Adventure Heart by Intersprog • ALOTT • EF Education A/S • Gouda International • KILROY • STS Au Pair Denmark ê Dominican Republic ê ODTE ê Ecuador ê AuPair to the World • Fundacion Cultural APEX • Idiomas SA • ORDEX Cultural Exchange • SLI Ecuador • Xplorer Ecuador ê Egypt ê Egyptian Student Travel Services ê Estonia ê FESU (EUL) ê Finland ê Allianssi Youth Exchanges • Finntourist/Koulumatkailutotoimisto Oy ê France ê Accueil International Services • APITU Good Morning Europe • Aquarius • Association Familles Jeunesse • Au Pair Fly • Au Pairs by Pebbles • Au-Pair Azur • AVI International • Coaching Solutions trading as Solution Au Pair • Douce France • Envol Espace • Ethic Etapes • Europair Services • Experiment France • Federation Unie des Auberges de Jeunesse • Fee revee • FIAP “Jean Monnet” • France for young people! • Global Student Community • Institut Parisien • Jeunesse et Nations au pair • La Ligue de L’enseignement • New LSF • Oliver Twist Work & Study • STS Au Pair • Union Francaise des Agences Au Pair • Union Nationale des Associations de Tourisme ê Germany ê AbroadConnection • active abroad & Au Pair Agentur Maria-Theresia • Alemania Latin Au Pair • American Institute for Foreign Study (Deutschland) • ASTA Reisen Stuttgart GmbH • ASTUR - Agentur fur Sprach- und Studienreisen GmbH • Atmosfair GmbH • Au-Pair Agentur Alemania • Au-Pair Agentur Cefelin • Au-Pair Service Dr Uwe Krenz • Au-Pair Society e.V. • CAMPS International GmbH • CareMed • carpe diem / TravelWorks • Das Reisenetz e.V. • Deutsches Jugendherbergswerk • did deutsch-institut • Dr Frank Sprachen & Reisen • Dr Steinfels Sprachreisen GmbH • Dr. Walter GmbH • EF Education (Deutschland) GmbH • Experiment e.V. • FDSV • FERIENBOERSE • German Red Cross Volunta GmbH • Gloria Au Pair Agentur • GLS Sprachenzentrum • ICEF • International House Berlin PROLOG • INTO Schuleraustausch • Kulturist GmbH UG (haftungsbeschrankt) • Martin Peters Sprachentraining GmbH • Messe Berlin GmbH • Multikultur International Exchange Services • munichaupair Patricia Brunner e.Kfr. • OIK • PME Familienservice GmbH • PractiGo GmbH • Praktikawelten • Reisedienst Deutscher Studentenschaften GmbH • RUF-Jugendreisen, Trend Touristik GmbH • SANDEMANs New Europe GmbH • Sprachcaffe - Languages Plus • Sprachdirekt GmbH • Stepin GmbH • TANDEM International e.V. • Tourismus Agentur Schleswig-Holstein • Tourismusverband Mecklenburg-Vorpommern • Ueberland Reisegesellschaft GmbH ê Ghana ê Pink Hostel • SYTO Ghana ê Greece ê L’Oceane • ROBISSA S.A. - ISIChellas ê Hong Kong ê Hong Kong Student Travel Ltd ê Hungary ê AU-PAIR KFT • Diakigazolvany Kft. ê India ê Indian Network for Development Exchange • Sehdev Travel & Educational Services • Small World Travels (India) • STIC Travels • Volunteering India • Volunteering Solutions ê Ireland ê Au Pair Study Centre • Cara International • Celtic Budget Accommodation Centres • Cork English College • Dublin School of English • EIL Intercultural Learning • Emerald Cultural Institute • Equipeople Ltd. • Galway Cultural Institute Limited • High Schools International • Horner School of English Ltd, The • Hostelworld • Hostelworld.com • Irish Education Partners Ltd • Irish National Au Pair Association • Shamrock Au Pair Agency • SK Dublin Au Pairs • Swan Training Institute • USIT Ireland ê Israel ê ICEC • ISSTA Lines ê Italy ê Accademia Europea di Firenze • Associazione Lingue e Culture Europee • Celtic Childcare • Country Club Castelfusano • CTS Associazione • CTS VIAGGI Srl • Euroma • FBItaly • Intermediate srl • International Au Pair Italy • Interstudioviaggi SRL • Italian in Italy • Scuola Leonardo da Vinci • Scuola Lorenzo De’ Medici 2 • Study Abroad Educational Travels ê Japan ê Council of International Education & Language Trav • University Co-op Tourism ê Jordan ê Farah Hotel • Institute of International Cultural Jibek Joly Company Limited ê Kenya ê Bermuda Garden Exchange ê Kazakhstan ê Bakhytty Hostel Kazakhstan • Hotel ê Kyrgyzstan ê Alia Study Travel ê Latvia ê Cultural Exchange Foundation • ISIC.LV ê Libyan Arab ê Luxembourg ê Azure Property Investments ê Jamahirya ê Hormuz ê Lithuania ê Zig Zag Travel Macedonia ê Kontext Au Pair and Student Ltd • Kouzon i Ko ê Malaysia ê MSL Travel Sdn Bhd ê Malta ê Berlitz Language Center • Chamber College • Clubclass Ltd • European School of English • Linguatime School of English • Link School of English • National Student Travel Foundation ê Mexico ê Au Pair Mexico • Edu Travel World • Estudiantes Embajadores de Mexico • Hostelling International Mexico • I.M.A.C. Instituto Mexico Americano de Cultura • Mundo Joven Group • SETEJ MEXICO A. C. • VAS! Mexico • Zeltzin Aupair Agency ê Moldova ê Center of International Programs “REJANS-PRIM” ê Mongolia ê Naturschutz Mongol • Open World ê Nepal ê Ideal Friendship Nepal • Zen Nepal ê New Zealand ê Au Pair Link Limited • Awesome Adventures Fiji & Oz • EF International School of English • Kiwi and Feejee Experience • Nannies on Demand Ltd • New Zealand Au Pair Association • New Zealand Management Academies Ltd • STB Student Travel Bureau New Zealand ê Nigeria ê Glory Educational Services Ltd ê Norway ê Atlantis Exchange ê Peru ê Andean Tours Ltd • Asociacion Peruana de Agnecias Au Pair • AuPair International EIRL • Eurointec • INTEJ • Milla Tourismo • Quality Au Pair • Smiling Faces Au Pair SAC • Students Partners ê Philippines ê First Place Inc. • YES Philippines ê Poland ê Almatur (jsc) • Cultural Care Poland sp. z o.o. ê Portugal ê Abreu Jovem • Agencia de Viagens Tagus • Novas Ideias • Unreal Hostel ê Romania ê Asociatia Pentru Sprijinirea Tinerilor Studentilor • MS Wranghel ê Russia ê Consult-unity • Ekaterinburg Center “Education Abroad” • Inter-Air Ltd • Interbusiness • International Travel & Education Co • InterStudents.RU • InterSTUDY Center • Joint Stock Company “Spectrum Travel” • Magister • Millennium Ltd • Open World Education Ltd. • OST Ltd • Phoenix-nT Ltd • Rospersonal LTD • Sindbad Travel International • Sputnik ISIC Ltd • STAR Travel • YA Language School ê Senegal ê SYTO Senegal ê Serbia ê Iuvia NGO • Karavan Travel & Trade ê Singapore ê International Paradise Connexions Tours & Travel • Singapore Tourism Board • Speedwing Training (Asia) Pte Ltd • Transinex PTE Ltd ê Slovenia ê STA Ljubljana ê South Africa ê African Impact • American Institute for Foreign Study (South Africa) • Au Pair Travel • Bianca’s Au Pairs • Chilli Adventures • Coffee Shack Backpackers Lodge • Edu SA • ISIC South Africa (Pty) Ltd • SaltyCrax Adventures • SASTS Working Adventures • SAYTC / Backpacking South Africa • South African Au Pair Regulatory Association • The Department of Trade and Industry • Umzingisi Foundation • Vol SA • Worldwide Adventure Travel • You2Africa • Youth Discovery Programmes ê South Korea ê iAE Edu Net, Eduhouse Inc. • KISES • Uhak.com ê Spain ê Agora BCN • Alcalingua Universidad de Alcala • Asociacion Espanola del Programa Aupair • Barcelona Academic Services • CEAE - FALGAS • CETT, Tourism & Hospitality, Education/Research • Club de Relaciones Culturales Internacionales • Colegio Maravillas • Equity Point Youth Hostels • Feet Up Hostels • GLOBUS-Idiomas, Formacion Y Ocio • INFORT Instituto para la Formacion • Instituto de la Juventud • International Au-Pair & Language Abroad Group • Internet Advantage • Interway S.A. • Juventud Y Cultura • Kingsbrook Language Services • Language School Worldwide S.L. • MelonDistrict • ONECO - the training agency • Rosa dels Vents trading as RV Youth Hostels • Sabatica Consultores • Serlac Experience • SHE Travelling Consultants - Spanish Heritage • Spanish Teachers S.L. • StudyGlobal • UAB Idiomes Barcelona • Viajes Sanabria SA / Linguatur ê Sri Lanka ê United Holidays ê Swaziland ê All Out Africa/Lidwala Backpacker Lodge ê Sweden ê Cultural Care Au Pair (SE) • STS Au Pair • STS Student Travel Schools ê Switzerland ê Backpackers Villa Sonnenhof • Computer & Ferien Camps AG • EF International Language Centres • ESL - Ecole Suisse de Langues • Eurocentres • Hostelling International Marketing GmbH • Swiss Youth Hostel Association • Village Camps SA • Weltweitblick ê Taiwan ê Federal Vacation Co. • Kang Wen Culture & Education Foundation • Ministry of Education, Taiwan • National Youth Commission • SEN Travel • Taiwan Youth Hostel Association • Tourism Bureau, Min. of Transport & Comm ê Thailand ê Educational Travel Center Company Limited • Key Education • Pacific Asia Travel Association • Thai International Education Consultants Associati • Tourism Authority of Thailand • Trans World Education Ltd ê The Netherlands ê Activity International •Africa Calling • Au Pair Exclusive • Au Pair Interactive • CJP • de Reisweg • Diogenes Reizen B.V. • Hans Brinker Hotel • House o Orange Au Pairs • Mission Hollandaise • Netherlands Au Pair Organization • S-abroad • S-au pair intermediate • Smiling Faces • StudyTravel BV • Super Nanny Au Pair Services • Travel Active • Woonstichting De Key • World Wide Au Pair & Nanny • YES Au Pair ê Tunisia ê SYTravel Tunisia ê Turkey ê Association of International Education Counselors • English & More International Learning Center • Genctur • ITEBS • OPER Educational Consultancy Tourism • Truva International Education Service • WESTEDU International Education Consultancy ê Ukraine ê Aspect Ltd • AUpairUA Agency • Coliseum Ltd. • Domar Travel Education ê United Kingdom ê A2Z Au Pairs • ABC Au Pairs for London and the South East • Acacia Adventure Holidays Ltd • American Institute for Foreign Study Ltd (UK) • Ardmore Group, The • ASB Internship Solutions Ltd. • Astor Hostels London • Au Pair Ecosse • Au Pair Network International • BMI • Britannia Learning & Leisure Ltd (Kingswood) • Britannia Student Services Ltd • British Au Pair Agencies Association • British Educational Travel Association • BUNAC • BusyBee Au Pairs Ltd • Childcare International Ltd • Clearing House Service • Clink261 • Cultural Homestay in Europe Ltd • Educational Cultural Exchanges International Ltd • EF International School of English • Embassy CES • English UK • Euroculture Linguistic Visits • Experience Language Limited • Generator Hostels Ltd • Global Vision International • Hatters Hostel Ltd • HILSAM GROUP OF AU PAIR AGENCIES • HostelBookers • Hostelling International • International Quest • International Students House • InterStudies Ltd • ISIS Education & Travel Group • Joseph Allnatt Centres Ltd • Kaplan International Colleges • KEY Educational Travel Ltd • Language Courses Abroad/Spanish Study Holidays • Language Network LTD • Madventurer Limited • MM Oxford Study Services • Nannies and Childcare • NUS Services Limited • Oxford Royale Academy • Piccadilly Backpackers • PLUS Ltd • Project International • Quick Aupair & Nanny Agency • Sarah Isaacs Au Pairs Direct • Smaller Earth Ltd • Smart Au Pairs • Smart City Hostels Edinburgh • Smart Space (UK) Limited • STA Travel Group • Sunny Smiles Au-Pair Agency • The Childcare Company • The Training Partnership Ltd • Top Deck Tours Limited • Ukinbound • UMI Hotels & Access Apartments • University of Bath • WST Charters • YHA (England & Wales) Ltd ê United States of America ê 92Y Residence • Academic Adventures in America • Academic Study Associates • Alliance Abroad Group, Inc. • American Institute for Foreign Study Inc (USA) • ASSE International • Au Pair in America • Au Pair International • AuPairCare Inc. • Berlitz Languages, Inc. • Brooklyn Tourism • Camp Counselors USA, Inc. • Center for Cultural Interchange, The • Choice Students International • COINED International • Compass Benefits Group • Computer Professional Learning Center (CPLC) • Council for Educational Travel USA • Council on International Educational Exchange • Council on Standards for International Educational • Cultural Care Au Pair • Cultural Embrace • Cultural Exchange Network • Cultural Homestay International • Disney Youth Group Programs • EF International School of English • EurAupair Intercultural Child Care Programs • Federation EIL • Global Resources for Education & Travel, Inc. • Global Secutive, LLC • GoAbroad.com • goAUPAIR Operations LLC • Hostelling InternationalUSA • Hostelrescard.com Inc • InterExchange • International Council of Tourism Partners • International Cultural Exchange Organization Inc. • International Student Volunteers, Inc • International Trainee Network, LLC • Intrax Cultural Exchange • Janus International Hospitality Student Exchange • Jazz Hostels • National 4-H Youth Conference Center • New York Language Center • NorthWest Student Exchange trading as CICD • Pacific Intercultural Exchange • People to People Ambassador Programs • Rennert Bilingual • RT Tax • Sara’s New York Homestay LLC • Spanish Abroad, Inc. • Spirit Cultural Exchange • Spring International Language Center • Student & Youth Travel Association • StudentUniverse • TAXBACK.COM (USA) • The Language Academy, Inc. • Travel CUTS USA • WISE • World Wide Cultural Exchange, Inc. • YMCA of Greater New York ê Venezuela ê Proyectos IVI Venezuela C.A.
Our Members.
Serving the Global Youth Travel Industry.
WYSE Travel Confederation Keizersgracht 174 • 1016DW Amsterdam • The Netherlands • Tel. +31 (0)20 421 2800 • Fax. +31 (0)20 421 2810 • info@wysetc.org • www.wysetc.org