Preparing to go on tour is an exciting time, the world awaits you!
Below is important information to help you prepare before you go on tour, and ensures you understand what is expected of you and your responsibility as either an adult traveler, a student traveler, or the parents of a student traveler.
Please take a moment and read through it all and get in touch with your Group Leader if you have questions.
Passport and Visa
It is entirely up to you, the traveler, to ensure that your travel documents are valid and in good order. Verify again that your passport is still valid for travel to the location. Normally, you need at least six months after your travel term has ended before your passport expires. If you need to renew your passport, start the procedure at least 4-6 months before your trip. Although we advise you to renew it, if your passport expires within 4-6 months of your vacation dates, you should double check and verify with the appropriate authorities.
You should familiarize yourself with the visa requirements of the country to which you are traveling. Visas are typically required of US residents traveling to West African countries,
Before you travel
• Make sure you understand the local currency of your destination, it will prevent you from making mistakes when handling the new currency while on tour.
• You may want to create a quick conversion chart to be better prepared when making small impulse purchases on tour.
• We advise you to make a packing checklist. Make sure you do not forget any important items. You can also use your packing checklist when on tour, to ensure you do not leave anything behind at the hotels.
• It is always a good idea to learn some of the basic language for the destinations on tour.
• Polite phrases such as “excuse me,” “please,” and “thank you” will make a big difference in the way the locals will react to you.
• Minimize your luggage. Never bring more than you can carry yourself. Do not bring items unless you really need them on tour.
• Avoid bringing electrical devices (hair dryer, toothbrush etc.) as the voltage is different in West Africa (V220) compared to the USA. Modern electronics such as tablets, smartphones and similar are chargeable on all voltage levels, but you will need an adapter for your plug.
• If you are not using your smartphone as an alarm clock, make sure you bring an alarm clock.
While on TOur
• On the day of arrival, try to stay awake until at least 10 p.m. to minimize jet lag.
• Be on time for all appointments and departures to show respect for the group. In addition to disrespecting other people, arriving late can result in you missing your departure.
• Be mindful to protect your valuables. Always keep your money secure, especially in crowded areas like elevators or public transportation. When in public places where there are many tourists, keep your phone in your pocket and cover any valuables.
• Carry only minimal quantities of cash that are sufficient for the day.
• Make sure to keep an eye on your bags at all times. You are responsible for making sure it is being loaded onto the tour bus.
• Never leave the group without your group leader’s permission. When traveling with the group, be sure to let the tour guide and group leader know where you are if you need to use the restroom or something similar. Make sure the leaders know when you return.
• You represent your school, city, and nation when you are abroad. Behave responsibly. If you are unsure of the customs in the area, watch the natives.
• At night, keep quiet in hotels. There are other guests at the hotel besides your group, and some of them may be going to bed early. Do not yell in the hallways or bang doors.
• Respect others by keeping your hotel room tidy and clean.