Student Adventure Tours
Field trips enable teachers to expand children’s learning beyond the walls of the classroom into the vast community outside. They provide children with experiences that cannot be duplicated in the school but are nonetheless an integral part of school instruction. Perhaps a field trip can best be described as a living laboratory in which learning is acquired through active hands-on experience with the rich resources of the local community.
Research has shown that field trips are important for many reasons; they increase student knowledge and understanding of a subject, they add realism to the topic of study, and they provide an opportunity to develop and enhance a student’s socialization and citizenship skills.
Planning for Field Trips
In light of their valuable contribution to a child’s education, field trips should be preceded by good planning. Careful attention should be given to trip selection, previsit preparation, the trip itself, appropriate follow up, and evaluation. Such efforts should ensure that students will have a successful educational experience.
Below you will find: Field Trip General Questions, Reservation and Travel Documentation, Travel Information Before my Tour Departs, Items Teachers might tell students to bring, On a Field Trip Tour and General Trip Includes.
Will I be traveling with a reliable company?
Most certainly. With 30 years of combined experience in the travel industry, there is a difference! We take our job of being the trip coordinator very seriously. Attention is paid to all the details of a trip, and every effort is made to ensure the satisfaction of our customers – the students! Every year, over 98% of our passengers have traveled with us once before and many return to travel with us again.
Will I be traveling with people from other groups?
We sells tours that are customized to suite your tour program. However, you can travel as a group if you order a tour from our “Share A Tour Program” Call 1-800-241-1728 for more information.
How many people are on tour with me?
There will be a maximum of 55 people per bus.
Will I have time on my own?
That depends on how you planned your tour. We customize itinerary based on your request, you can have as much or little time on your own.
Will the coach be modern and comfortable?
Rest assured that you will ride in comfort, as We have the finest fleet of air-conditioned motor coaches, all with reclining seats, bathrooms, DVD players and more.
Are the hotels air-conditioned?
The majority of hotels have air conditioning but not all. Fewer hotels north of the Alps in Europe have air conditioning as a matter of course.
What are the Tour Directors like?
Our Tour Directors come from a variety of backgrounds and include former teachers, sales managers and lecturers who all share the passion for travel. They have a minimum of five years experience as Tour Directors behind them, and have all been thoroughly trained, making them the best of the world’s elite travel professionals.
Reservations & Travel Documentation
How do I make a reservation?
Click here for full details on how to make a reservation.
What is your cancellation policy?
You must complete a Passenger Cancellation Form. Ask your Tour Leader for a copy. The completed form must reach the Tour Company no later than 60 days prior to the tour departure date.
How do I receive my refund?
After the first deposit is received, the refund amount is dependent upon how far in advance the space is canceled.
60 days or more prior to departure
Passenger will be subject to a penalty equal to 50% of the per person tour price or the total amount of the deposit paid to date, whichever is greater. Penalty can be reduced by substituting another passenger in your place. In this case, the refund amount will depend upon additional expenses incurred as a result of airline name changes, etc.
59-37 days before departure
Passenger will be subject to a penalty equal to 75% of the per person tour price or the total whichever is greater. Penalty can be reduced by substituting another passenger in your place. In this case, the refund amount will depend upon additional expenses incurred as a result of airline name changes, etc.
30 days or less prior to departure
There is a 100% cancellation penalty. Passenger will not receive any refund, however, another passenger can be substituted. The new passenger must pay a registration fee but can assume your payments. On tours that include an airline flight, change-of-name is subject to the airline’s policies and an additional penalty fee may apply.
Are there any student field trip forms I need to complete before my trip can take place?
Yes. You can find them here or you could contact one of our travel specialists at 1-800-241-1728 for more details.
Are there any discounts or money savings offers to take advantage of?
We have many discounts available that would help you make your tour possible, we give you ideas on fund raising also we have an reward program. For our specials click here or call 1-800-241-1728 for more details.
Can we Add Passengers?
When your application is approved/confirmed, we will indicate the maximum number of passengers allowed on the tour. You can add passengers up to this level, until 60 days prior to the tour, by sending us a Tour Participant Registration Form with the total payment due to date. After receipt of this registration form, the tour company will confirm all necessary services. The tour company will evaluate the group size and determine whether the additional passenger application can be accommodated. Adding passengers 59-31 days prior to departure is subject to a charge of $50 pp.
Are prices based on quadruple occupancy?
All prices quoted on the website and in the brochures are based on quadruple, sharing a room (unless stated otherwise).
Are airport transfers included?
Transfers are dependent on the tour you choose.
Do I need Travel Insurance?
We highly recommends that you protect your investment by purchasing the Access America Travel Insurance Plan. This valuable protection includes: Trip Cancellation, Interruption, Travel & Baggage Delay, Emergency Medical Expense, Transportation, Travel Accident Coverage. Kids free if accompanied by a parent.
Why isn’t my existing medical insurance enough coverage?
Check with your primary care insurer but most insurance companies will not cover accidents overseas or out of the area and usually claims will only be met up to a stated limit. Travel insurance will cover balances up to a much higher amount. In addition you will receive cover for travel costs, accommodations and assistance.
Does our company offer travel insurance?
Yes, you can purchase travel insurance through us. Enjoy comprehensive coverage during your trip with our Travel Protection plan, designed exclusively for you to ensure your protection in the event that an unforeseen incident occurs, or your plans need to change, for any reason.
Will I need a passport?
Passports are needed when traveling outside your home country. Your passport should be valid for 6 months beyond the conclusion of your trip.
Will I need a visa?
You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your tour. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your tour. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks prior to your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult your travel agent, and local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting, well in advance to determine which visas you require and how to obtain them. Click here for more information.
What other forms of identification are useful when traveling overseas along with my Passport?
When traveling overseas, depending on your age, you might want to carry your Driver’s License or you can get an International Driver’s License… even if you’re not planning to drive. Should you need to communicate with foreign authorities, these recognizable forms of identification can help you get on your way more quickly.
Can I select my airline seats before departure?
All carriers have different policies when it comes to seating assignments. Special seating can be requested in advance through your travel agent, whilst some carriers only do seating assignments at time of check-in.
Travel Information Before My Tour Departs
How much luggage can I bring?
Due to limited space on the motor coach, you are requested to bring one suitcase per person with the dimensions of 30 in. x 18 in. x 10 in. and weight not exceeding 23kg / 50 lbs.
Is baggage handling provided?
Baggage handling is provided. One suitcase per person will be brought to your hotel room.
How do I change my currency?
Currency can be exchanged at airports or banks throughout Europe, and traveller’s cheques are easy to obtain. Whilst small amounts of cash are necessary, it is advisable to carry mainly traveller’s cheques as they can be replaced if lost or stolen. Also, most bank machines (ATM’s) throughout Europe accept debit cards. Currency packs are also available.
Are tips are included?
We have pre-paid certain tips and gratuities for you such as all baggage handling at hotels and ports. Tips to restaurant staff for meals are also included in the price of your tour. Tips are customarily given to your Tour Director, Driver and Local Guides at your discretion. The recommended amounts are: Tour Directors US$4 per day, Drivers US$2.50 per day and Local Guides US$1 per day.
What type of outfits do I pack and will I need formal attire?
This will depend on your personal preferences, where you are traveling, and on the time of year. It is advisable to bring at least one “smart” outfit for special evenings or highlight dinners. Please note that some churches/places of worship require covered shoulders and in some cases, knee length shorts/skirts. Always pack enough clothes and wear pieces that you feel comfortable in. Items that are casual and lightweight, requiring little or no ironing are recommended.
What type of weather can I expect?
Weather varies in different parts of the world, therefore always check the weather forecast before travel. This will also help you determine what to bring with you. For local weather conditions go to www.weather.com
Do I need any vaccinations?
Please see your travel agent or doctor to find out which vaccinations are required, and/or visit www.who.int. If you are taking medication or suffer from any form of illness, be sure to have an adequate supply of medicines before departing on your tour.
Items That Teachers Might Tell Students to Bring
Can I use my electrical appliances?
Electrical currents vary in Britain, on the continent of Europe and also in different countries throughout the world. Some newer appliances have dual voltage, but if not, we suggest you carry a converter for your electric shaver, traveling iron and other small appliances to prevent damage. Additionally, plugs/outlets differ everywhere, so you’ll need a universal electrical travel adaptor before you go in order to use your appliance.
Must I know the native languages of the countries I am visiting?
Whilst it is a nice gesture to great local people in their native language, it is not essential as your Tour Director will normally be able to assist you.
Can I have laundry done?
Most hotels do offer laundry service, and in some cities Laundromats are also available. However, it is a good idea to try and pack enough clothing without having to do laundry, as it can sometimes be costly and/or inconvenient.
How can I keep in touch with family and friends?
Almost all hotels will add a service charge to the cost of any phone calls you make from your room. This charge can be high, especially for international calls. It is always cheaper to use public telephones (pay phones) or an international calling service. Calling cards are great for a set amount of phone time – no change required and no big bills.
What if I become ill on tour and am unable to continue?
Your Group Leader and our Staff will provide you with assistance in times of emergencies.
What if I arrive late and miss a feature on the tour?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including but not limited to, missed meals or sightseeing.
Can I drink the water in the countries I will visit on my tour?
In Britain, Western Europe and Scandinavia, the answer is “yes”. For other countries visited you will be guided by your Tour Director.
Is smoking allowed on the coach?
There is a no smoking policy whilst on board the coach. However, we make plenty of comfort stops, allowing you ample opportunity to smoke if you wish, stretch your legs, take a scenic snapshot or just time to enjoy a cup of coffee.
Call 1-800-241-1728 for more details
Note: Trip includes may vary depending on destinations.
