How To: Keep Travelers Engaged

Taking students on an educational tour abroad is an incredible opportunity to expose them to new cultures, languages, and ways of life. However, keeping them engaged and excited about the trip can be a challenge, especially in the months leading up to departure and during the tour itself. In this blog post, we'll share some tips and ideas on how to keep your students engaged and excited throughout the entire experience.

Before the Trip

1. Hold pre-trip meetings and discussions: Schedule regular meetings with your students to discuss the itinerary, activities, and cultural aspects of the places you'll be visiting. Encourage them to ask questions and share their thoughts and feelings about the trip. This can help build anticipation and excitement, as well as prepare them for what to expect.

2. Share relevant materials: Provide your students with relevant materials such as books, movies, and articles about the destinations you'll be visiting. This can help them get a better understanding of the history, culture, and customs of the places they'll be visiting.

3. Incorporate language learning: Encourage your students to learn some basic phrases in the local language. This can help them feel more confident and comfortable while abroad and also make the trip more enjoyable.

4. Involve parents: Encourage parents to get involved in the trip planning process by attending meetings and supporting their children's learning. This can help build excitement and create a sense of community among the students and their families.

During the Trip

1. Mix up activities: Plan a mix of activities that appeal to different interests and learning styles. This can include guided tours, hands-on activities, and free time to explore. This variety can help keep students engaged and excited about what's coming next.

2. Encourage interaction with locals: Encourage your students to interact with locals and try new things. This can help them learn about different cultures and customs and also build their confidence and independence.

3. Keep them connected: Help your students stay connected with their families and friends back home through regular communication, such as emails, blog posts, or social media updates. This can help them feel supported and connected to home while also sharing their experiences with others.

4. Encourage reflection: Encourage your students to reflect on their experiences and share their thoughts and feelings with others. This can help them deepen their understanding of the places they've visited and also create a sense of shared experience and community among the group.

Keeping students engaged and excited during an educational tour abroad requires careful planning, creative thinking, and a willingness to adapt and change plans as needed. By incorporating a mix of activities, encouraging interaction with locals, and providing opportunities for reflection and sharing, you can help your students have a truly transformative experience that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Come join us on a trip of a lifetime!