All posts by Howard Clemens

Student tour company providing trips to thousands of students over the past 33 years.
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Educational Tours: Tips for Packing Light on Student Trips

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These days, when student travel groups set out for any destination by air, it is both practical and economical to travel light. Many airlines have begun applying new lower minimum weight requirements that average 75 pounds per bag for transported baggage. If bags exceed this limit, additional fees may apply.

The trick for many student travel groups is to pack light when planning the initial trip and when making a return, avoid carrying an excessive amount of souvenirs. If heavier souvenirs are purchased, then the student or chaperone may want to consider shipping items instead of bringing these items on board the return flight.

The practice of carrying one bag only works especially well on 3-5 day student trips. Some airlines are even beginning to add extra charges for the first bag and additional bags; some only charge for extra luggage.

Encourage students to limit their possessions to one piece of luggage for the trip and a carry-on item such as a backpack, handbag, or laptop bag for items they may need easier access to on board.

Following are several other packing tips I would like to share with those taking student trips this year and next.

Select a good piece of luggage: Do NOT select a suitcase that’s overly large. Instead, opt for something medium sized that has wheels and a handle for easy transfer. A lightweight bag would be canvas or nylon. Leather bags are going to be heavy. If the class trip is three days or less, students may be able to get by with just a carry on bag and a bag to stow under the seat. Check with airlines for regulation sizes for carry on baggage to eliminate a potential luggage charge.

Tag Luggage: In the event that a piece of luggage could be lost, place a name and an address inside each checked-in and carry on bag. Make sure to carry at least one change of clothes and a toothbrush in the carry on bag.

Make lists: A packing list is always helpful. It can help the student traveler to focus on what is needed, instead of adding extra items that will not be used. Make sure only necessary items make it to the list.

Select Clothing Appropriate for Climate: When packing, be aware of the climate or potential weather conditions at the destination. Pack essential clothing (and coats) accordingly. Wear bulkier items such as coats on the plane, to save space and weight in luggage. Roll underwear and place inside shoes to save space.

Limit shoes to two pair: One pair of shoes is worn on the plane. Pack another pairs of shoes and that’s all. Make sure both pairs of shoes are comfortable walking shoes.

Pack Trial Size Body Care Items: Try to shop ahead and obtain trial size toothpaste, mouthwash, soap, shampoo and hair care items. This saves space in baggage and makes bags lighter. Put all liquids in zip lock bags and take an extra zip lock bag for a wet bathing suit or towel.

Prescription Drugs: Prescription drugs, especially diabetes medications with syringes, should be in pharmacy prescription bottles.

Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses: Make sure to bring protective eyeglass cases, as well as spray and cloth for care. Bring just enough disposable contacts (with maybe one extra) for short trips to save space, or smaller amounts of contact lens cleaner to save space and weight in baggage.

These packing tips are designed for the student traveler who may be new to the idea of traveling afar. Yet these advance planning ideas for trips are essential for saving money and making transfer of baggage easier.

In the interest of economy, security, and ease of travel remember to go light on class trips. For information on booking class trips email info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or Request a Quote via the online form.

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Finding Money for Class Trips: Tips for Fundraising from an Educational Travel Professional

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Just because budgets are tight in business, government, and school districts it is no reason to cancel a class trip. Instead of cutting trips out altogether, many school groups are enacting creative ways to raise funds so that students can still take educational trips to places like Washington D.C., New York City, Boston, and Chicago. A student trip is a fun and educational way to learn about history, art, culture, science, and more.

The nice thing about fundraising for student trips is that contributors need only make $5, $10, or $20 contributions to make a difference. The best fundraising occurs when the whole community gets involved.

Fundraising efforts can include several different methods executed throughout the school year. There are some tried and true methods of raising funds for class trips and there are some new ideas making their way into the mainstream that have proven to be effective as well.

I will offer a brief overview of effective fundraising techniques for student trips that students, teachers and parents have shared with me over the years.

– Chocolate Candy Bars: Seeing a child or parent with a box of candy bars is a sign that a fundraiser of some sort is taking place. In the workplace, or even at school, people are willing to satisfy that sweet tooth or chocolate craving in order to help school children by purchasing candy to fund a class trip. Buying a candy bar is easy and relatively inexpensive. The person purchasing the candy feels better about buying the candy from someone they know — instead of heading to the vending machine or leaving the office to visit a store. There are many vendors available who will sell candy in bulk at wholesale prices so students can sell them for retail value and reap the profits for their class trip.

– Citrus Fruit Sales: Another way to make money for class trips is to sell oranges and grapefruits. The idea is to purchase the citrus fruits in bulk during the harvest season in areas where fruit crops are abundant. Students take orders from family, friends, and neighbors and collect the money. When the time arrives, boxes of fresh fruits are delivered to the purchaser, along with a thank you from the school group.

– Selling Roses and Carnations on Valentine’s Day: Student group leaders and administrators simply locate a flower wholesaler in their town and arrange to purchase roses and/or carnations in bulk for a decent price. Then individual students either take orders ahead of time and distribute the flowers on the holiday or volunteers set up a table at a school, dance, or other public event and sell them on Valentine’s Day.

– FREE Car Wash: The car wash-a-thon can be a labor intensive but fun day for school children that want to raise money for their trip. Just identify and reserve a public location with easy access to water spigots such as a church or bank parking lot on a main thoroughfare. Have students advertise with signs visible to drivers. The charge is often $5-8 for each car wash. Some groups even offer FREE car washes and make more money. Offer a FREE car wash and then ask for donations. Often the donations will exceed the $5-8 mark and make the fundraiser more profitable. Try this fundraiser as a FREE car wash with voluntary donations and see what happens.

– Sell Scratch Off Cards: This new popular way to raise money for student trips is a great idea. Student trip organizers purchase scratch off cards similar to lottery cards but much different. The school name and logo can even be placed on a lot of cards for an extra charge as a way of identifying the fundraiser. The purchaser is not gambling, they are merely donating money towards the class trip. The student gives the card to a donor, and he or she scratches one, two, or three of the hidden numbers and donates the amount indicated on the card to the fundraising campaign. Scratch off cards are worth up to $100 per card and are quite profitable. The recipient of the card receives discounted coupons for area businesses as a thank you for participation in the fundraising campaign.

– CD or DVD Fundraisers: This type of fundraiser can occur one of two different ways. The first is to partner with a CD or DVD catalogue company that offers A-list Hollywood movies and/or music CDs with the work of popular artists. Students sell these titles and are given a portion of the profits for each sale. The second way is to actually record a high school band, ensemble or orchestra on CD and sell this product to the community. Other choices include recording school group events or recitals, homecoming or prom videos, or the actual school trip as a way to retain memories of the event and selling these professionally produced audios or videos at a profitable rate.

With so many excellent fundraising strategies available, there is no reason to cut back on class trips. Just make sure to start fundraising efforts early in the school year. For maximum funds, try two or three different methods throughout the school year. Your group will be pleasantly surprised at the outcome! Community members love to help school children on their way to an educational trip. School children will be most enthusiastic about the fundraiser when it works. Whether the class is headed to Orlando, Florida or Washington D.C. the school group will be even more solidified if the children work together to raise funds beforehand.

For more information, simply Request a Quote via the online form, or email info@educationaltravelconsultants.com.

Articles, Atlanta, Washington D.C.

Senior Class Trip Ideas for Washington D.C., New York City and Atlanta

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Class trips are usually focused around educational experiences. There is a different sort of trip that still has a learning purpose behind it: the senior class trip. The senior trip focuses on fun, togetherness, and creating memories that will last. After the trip and graduation, many seniors are off to college, the military, or beginning careers. For many high school seniors the class trip is one last chance to be together with their peer group for an adventure, and to celebrate the time they spent in high school.

When planning a senior class trip with any school, I always keep these objectives in mind. Together with class trip planners I strive to incorporate plenty of fun and memorable things to do which appeal to the high school senior. This article will outline three major destination cities: Washington D.C., New York City, and Atlanta, and suggest senior class trip itineraries that work well with this particular age group.

Washington D.C.: A Favorite Destination for Class Trips
When planning a senior class trip to Washington D.C. I still include the major destinations in D.C. such as a trip to the White House and Capitol and an illuminated tour of Washington D.C. To add excitement and fun, I usually suggest a trip to Six Flags America in Maryland, a short bus ride from Washington D.C. Evening activities may include a dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe, as most seniors enjoy music and the ambiance at the Hard Rock. Another evening activity that is sure to please high school seniors is a Potomac River dinner and dance cruise. This is a delightful way to spend an evening in the springtime, when most class trips occur, and it also adds romance to the trip. Another evening outing that is popular among high school seniors is a trip to a Medieval Times dinner theater. Period costuming, jousting matches, and medieval decor make this type of dinner a memorable event.

New York City: The Big Apple Delights High School Seniors
A sightseeing tour of Manhattan is a great way to begin a senior class trip to New York City. For those who want to include a theme park visit, Six Flags Great Adventure and Wild Safari in New Jersey is close, and is a popular choice. Seniors may also want to attend a Broadway show while visiting New York City. High School Musical is coming to Broadway and for obvious reasons it is a good choice for this age group. Another idea for evening entertainment is a theme dinner at Planet Hollywood. Dining among snapshots and film clips of Bruce Willis and Sylvester Stallone and other Hollywood greats is a thrilling way for high school seniors to spend the evening.

Atlanta: A Marvelous City for Fun in the Senior Year
Sometimes overshadowed by larger metropolitan areas such as New York City and Washington D.C., Atlanta, Georgia is an excellent choice for any senior class trip. Atlanta has a great deal to offer high school seniors. The theme park nearby, Six Flags Over Georgia has Batman: The Ride a roller coaster that recreates Gotham City and Batman’s underground dwelling. There is also a Medieval Times dinner theater near Atlanta for evening entertainment and dining. Students interested in Civil Rights and black history may want to take the Martin Luther King tour. Another exciting activity for senior class trips to Atlanta is a visit to the ESPN Zone. Students can eat supper here and play virtual basketball, skiing, race car driving, or select from other activities.

When I assist any student travel group in planning a trip to any major destination, I always like to present options. Educational Travel Consultants is committed to working within budget guidelines while still creating the highest quality student trip possible. If your student travel group is planning a senior class trip this year, remember to keep it lighthearted and fun and incorporate tours and other activities that make that particular destination a unique learning experience, too. Request a quote for a senior class trip or email info@educationaltravelconsultants.com.

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ETC Special: As Low as $399 to Boston, MA

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With the new school year beginning, it’s time to start planning student trips to destinations across the United States. Educational Travel Consultants would like to suggest ways to keep student travel within budgets. This is why the company is offering a special price on popular destinations this fall. Consider taking your student travel group to Boston, MA for a price as low as $399 per student. This price includes a motor coach for travel throughout the Boston, MA area.

Part of the mission of Educational Travel Consultants is to continue to provide economical trips for educational purposes to major destinations. At ETC, our professionally trained staff plans trips that include points of interest that provide learning about history, art and culture, architecture as well as fun and interesting choices for entertainment, shopping, and dining.

Following is a List of Potential Points of Interest for a Student Trip to Boston, MA:

– Concord Attractions (including: Old North Bridge, Minute Man Statue, Old Manse and Walden Pond)
– Lexington
– House of Seven Gables (a book written by Nathaniel Hawthorne)
– Salem Witch Museum
– Optional Boston Red Sox baseball game or an evening performance of “Shear Madness”
– Guided tour of Boston (Freedom Trail): including: Boston Common, State House, Faneuil Hall, Old North Church and the U.S.S. Constitution (also known as “Old Ironsides”)
– Dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe
– Optional Whale Watching Cruise to begin in mid-April
– Museum of Science (including Omnimax movie)
– Plymouth Rock
– Mayflower II
– Plymouth Plantation

A student trip to Boston MA would include at least two nights of hotel accommodations in quads with nightly security, two breakfasts and two dinners, all admissions and entrance fees, all taxes and tips, a professional tour escort (that is a local guide) and coverage under ETC’s $2 million Liability Insurance policy. As an extra bonus, one totally free teacher or chaperone is included for every 10 paying student passengers (with double occupancy in hotel rooms).

For the student group that is comprised of a high school band, orchestra, or ensemble, performance trips are available to Boston MA upon request and the itinerary is adapted for this purpose. An ETC student travel specialist will set-up a performance venue in Boston, Plymouth or Salem, MA for the group. If the performance group requires and adjudicated performance, they will be accommodated with an appropriate venue. For the adjudicated music festivals, a surcharge of $40-70 per person will be added. The music festival season runs from April 10-June 4, 2010.

Educational Travel Consultants has been serving schools across the United States for 25 years and provides the highest quality student tours of many areas of the United States. To get started booking a tour, simply Request a Quote using the ETC online form and an educational travel professional will contact you upon receipt of the form. To contact a student travel professional directly, just email info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or call 1-800-247-7969.

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Luggage Fees for Air Travel Increases: For Student Travel Go Light or Pay Extra Fees

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For student travel groups headed to any destination by air this year, the overriding theme is: go light or pay the extra fees for luggage that weighs over 50 pounds. Due to the high cost of fuel in the fall of 2008, airlines were hard pressed to save costs and decided to lighten up in order to do so. In the past, heavy luggage limits were bags that weighed over 70 pounds. Most airlines have reduced the heavy luggage weight limit to 50 pounds. Since fuel is less expensive for lighter loads, it made sense to most airlines to charge extra fees for overweight luggage.

Nowadays air travel for student passengers is more expensive if bags are heavy. Student groups are encouraged to go light or pay extra. Many student groups traveling in 2009 chose to lighten their luggage rather than paying the overweight luggage fee.

If airline passengers do have luggage that exceeds 50 pounds, they may expect to be delayed at airport check-in because there is no pre-payment permitted for extra luggage charges. Since the luggage fee is applied at check-in, student travelers need to be conscientious of the weight in their bags or be prepared to get out the checkbook, ATM, or credit card. Student groups with luggage within weight limits are assured speedier check-in and less hassle when trying to board a flight.

Extra costs while on a student trip can be avoided with preparation and planning. There is a rule of thumb that many student travel groups can use as a guideline for luggage. If a piece of luggage is more than 50 pounds, the student traveler will pay extra for each piece. This could mean an additional $25 – $50 (or more) for each piece of luggage that exceeds the 50-pound weight limit.

Following is an overview of some major airlines and their current policies (as of August 2009) regarding luggage fees.

Southwest Airlines: Southwest Air distinguishes itself from other airlines by not charging extra fees for luggage. Management at Southwest Air has decided not to charge luggage fees if the air passenger checks two pieces of luggage and each bag weighs under 50 pounds.

US Air: For those student trips traveling on US Air, there is a fee for any piece of luggage that is not carried on board. The first piece of checked luggage is $20 for each way. The second checked bag is $30 each way. Luggage charged these standard fees must measure no more than 45″ or 14 x 9 x 22, and weigh up to 50 pounds. If luggage exceeds the 50-pound limit or dimensions, additional charges will apply. These can be as much as $50 to $100. For example, one piece of 50-70 pound luggage incurs a surcharge of $50 or more each way; 71-100 pound luggage incurs a surcharge of $100 each way.

American Airlines: American Airlines baggage fees are consistent with the US Air fees. American Airlines is charging $20 each way for the first piece of checked luggage and $30 each way for the second piece of checked luggage. Again, the 50-pound limit on each bag is enforced and bags over limit will be charged additional fees.

Delta: For those flying Delta, the first checked bag is $20 each way and the second bag is $30 each way. Similar to US Air and American Airlines, the 50-pound weight limit applies. Extra fees for overweight bags are applied. For example, a piece of luggage weighing 51-70 pounds is $90 for each bag, each way.

United: In keeping with the other major US Airlines, United has also instituted a similar fee for all checked baggage. The first piece of luggage incurs a $20 fee each way and the second piece is $30 each way. The 50-pound weight rule applies to most flyers. If any bags weigh more than 50 lbs or exceed 62 inches in length and/or any checked bags are considered special items a fee of $125 will be charged each way. United will not accept luggage that weighs over 100 pounds.

In conclusion, it is best to travel light to save both money and time. If student travelers must pack heavy, they need to be prepared to pay the extra fees at check-in. Remember, luggage fees for overweight bags and in most cases — for any checked bags –are collected each way. For information about arranging a student trip to any U.S. Destination, email info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or visit the Request a Quote page. An Educational Travel Consultant will answer your inquiry as quickly as possible.

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Early Bird Special Price of $359 per Student for Travel to Orlando, FL

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Educational Travel Consultants (ETC) is pleased to offer a special for student travel to Orlando Florida for a price as low as $359 per student. This price includes transportation. The student travel professionals at ETC challenge you to find a better rate for student travel to Orlando, Florida! Educators, parents and administrators who want to save money and still provide a high quality educational and fun trip to Walt Disney World — DO NOT miss this opportunity.

Planning a student trip to Orlando Florida is easier when coordinators know exactly what the budget is going to be and do not deviate from it. At Educational Travel Consultants, our philosophy is to inform school groups if the price will change. Price changes only happen when additional items are added to the itinerary or if upgrades are requested. Many student travel companies promise a low price per student, then add hidden costs that increase the final price. Educational Travel Consultants does not do business like this. This is the reason why ETC has been able to sustain a thriving business for nearly 25 years ? scheduling and executing annual trips from the same schools across the United States year after year.

The student trip to Orlando, FL Includes the Following:
– Deluxe Motor coach from a School Group’s Hometown
– Two Totally Free Teachers or Chaperones for Every 20 Students on Tour (double occupancy)
– Hotels (free upgrade to an all suite hotel if available)
– Admission and Entrance Fees to Three Walt Disney World Parks*
– Two Breakfasts and Two Dinners
– Coverage Under Educational Travel Consultants Liability Insurance Policy
– Taxes and Tips

*Student travel group coordinators may select three parks from four different Walt Disney World theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom.

Performance Groups Headed to Orlando Florida
Musical groups such as high school bands, orchestras or ensembles who want to visit Walt Disney World at the $359.00 special price, need to indicate that their group is interested in performing. Besides a superior public performance venue at a Walt Disney World theme park, performance groups will also attend a backstage educational musical workshop taught by Disney’s own musical professionals. Students in high school bands, orchestras or ensembles love to participate in these additional programs because they gain insight into the performance profession and have a chance to showcase their musical abilities.

Social Studies, Language Arts, Science and Art Classes: Participate in a Disney Y.E.S. Program
Walt Disney World Theme Parks are an excellent place to learn about a wide variety of academic topics. Included in the $359 price for a student trip to Orlando is an educational Y.E.S. program. Learn more about the Y.E.S. programs by visiting Educational Travel Company’s website page on this topic. These programs are hands-on, interactive learning experiences that help students understand how Walt Disney World works behind the scenes. The Y.E.S. programs are specifically tailored to different areas of academic study.

Coordinators Planning a Senior Class Trip: Do it on Disney Grad Night
Senior class trips can celebrate their last year of school by visiting Orlando Florida anytime of year and ETC will honor the $359 special. Senior Class Trip coordinators may want to consider visiting Walt Disney World in April for Grad Night, where student groups can celebrate with their peers from all over the world. This is an exciting time to visit Walt Disney World, because the theme parks stay open later to accommodate the high school grads and special performances are given in their honor.

ETC’s student travel professionals are prepared to plan a fun, educational trip to Orlando, FL for a school group no matter what the area of academic interest or purpose of the student trip. Email info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or Request a Quote via ETC’s online form. See you in Walt Disney World!

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Educational Travel Consultants Offers a Special Price of $299 per Student (with transportation) for Travel to Washington D.C.

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Educational Travel Consultants is in touch with the times. Most Americans are facing economic challenges and the company wants to assist our valued partners and new school groups to continue to travel for educational purposes. We believe student trips can still travel well and learn a great deal, while keeping a close eye on budget and making the right decisions when planning the trip to Washington D.C.

As part of our early bird specials this summer, Educational Travel Consultants is offering a price as low as $299 per student for group travel to Washington D.C.

This Washington D.C. student trip includes the following:

– A Tour Escort/Licensed Washington D.C. Tour Guide
– Deluxe Motor coach from a School Group’s Hometown
– Two Totally Free Teachers or Chaperones for every 20 students on tour (double occupancy)
– Hotels
– Admission and Entrance Fees
– Two Breakfasts and Two Dinners
– Coverage Under Educational Travel Consultants Liability Insurance Policy
– Taxes and Tips

Many student travel companies quote low prices and add hidden costs. This is not how Educational Travel Consultants does business. We are clear about our pricing, and what is included in the student trip from the outset. If student travel group coordinators, chaperones, teachers or administrators wish to add extra items to the itinerary, then they deserve a clear and concise answer about additional costs up front. The professional staff at Educational Travel Consultants delivers this information to clients upon request for additional itinerary items.

Educational Travel consultants has been escorting student trips to Washington D.C. for nearly 25 years. Thanks to our experience in this market, we know which educational experiences student trips tend to want when they visit the city, and which destinations they derive the most learning from.

An Educational Travel Consultants’ trip to Washington D.C. includes attractions such as the US Supreme Court, US Capitol, Smithsonian Museums, Arlington Cemetery, an illuminated tour of Washington D.C’s Memorials and Monuments plus other attractions as time permits.

For groups that are interested in more specific tours such as an Art Tour, Black History Tour, or Performance Tour of Washington D.C., an Educational Travel Consultant professional will assist in creating the perfect itinerary. These focused trips provide a wonderful learning experience to students who are studying art or African American history, or student in the high school band, orchestra, theater, or ensembles that wish to have a public performance or adjudicated music festival wound into their trip. Some of these specialty tours that Educational Travel Consultants custom designed are also priced staring at $299 per student.

For anyone planning a student trip to Washington D.C., please heed this advice: plan early! With post 911 security regulations in place at highly visited areas such as the White House and Capitol, it is imperative that reservations are made a minimum of six months to one year in advance. Read up on special requirements for booking a large group at these sites, on the Educational Travel Consultants blog.

For more information about booking a student trip to Washington D.C. email info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or Request a Quote.

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Unforgettable Senior Class Trips: Universal Studios and Walt Disney World Orlando Florida

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Senior Year-A Time to Remember

Most high school students consider senior year the most important year of high school. It is a time when teens get to reap the benefits of hard work, celebrate the beginning of adulthood and spend time with friends they will always remember. Senior class trips are just one of the events students most look forward to before graduation. It is important that a senior class trip be memorable, fun and special. Orlando, Florida offers a variety of destinations perfect for teens including Universal Studios Park and Walt Disney World.

Grad Nights-Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Events Created Specifically for Senior Class Trips

The best way to plan a senior class trip to Orlando, Florida is to organize around Grad Nights. Grad Nights are held at both Walt Disney World Orlando Florida and Universal Studios Orlando. Each year for two nights in April Walt Disney World Orlando FL opens up only to high school seniors from 10 PM to 4 AM. Major park rides and attractions make the evening unforgettable. Universal Studios Orlando also features a one night of Grad Bash at the Universal Studios’ Islands of Adventure. In the past performances by Brandy, Brittney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Goo Goo Dolls and more have rocked teen audiences, as well as dance parties and thrilling rides.

Universal Studios Theme Park and Islands of Adventure

Beyond just the annual Grad Bash the Universal Studios Theme Park and Islands of Adventure offer thrilling adventures for students and chaperones alike. According to UniversalOrlando.com, “the world’s most cutting edge rides, shows and attractions challenge all your senses.” Enjoy the breathtaking 3-D ride, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, Incredible Hulk Coaster, Jurassic Park River Adventure and much more.

Great Ideas for Student Trips to Walt Disney World Orlando Florida Theme Parks

Walt Disney World Orlando Florida has four theme parks to explore, all of which provide superb entertainment, food, rides and educational experiences.

—Epcot: The 300-acre Epcot Theme Park is home to Future World and the World Showcase. Future World offers inspiring attractions and entertainment focused on technological advancement and scientific innovation. The World Showcase contains multiple pavilions and a lagoon where 11 countries are represented: Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, United States, Japan, Morocco, France, United Kingdom and Canada. Live performances and interactive activities can be found throughout Epcot.

—Animal Kingdom: The Animal Kingdom Theme Park houses more than 1,700 animals from 250 species on 500 acres. Animal Kingdom is divided into 7 areas where visitors encounter wildlife firsthand: Oasis, Discovery Island, Camp Minnie-Mickey, Africa, Rafiki’s Planet Watch, Asia and Dinoland, U.S.A.

—Hollywood Studios: Hollywood Studios provides students with the chance to see behind-the-scenes glimpses of Hollywood life. Created to appear like a busy movie set, Hollywood Studios celebrates the glamour of the 1930s and 40s. Students can also enjoy new attractions like the American Idol Experience. Discover the magic of stardom at Hollywood Studios.

—Magic Kingdom: Magic Kingdom was created to capture fairy tale enchantment. Magic Kingdom has 7 distinct sections students and adults will love: Main Street, U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, Fantasyland, Mickey’s Toontown Fair and Tomorrowland. Let fantasy become reality at Magic Kingdom.

Walt Disney World Orlando FL Water Parks

Walt Disney World Orlando Florida has two water parks students can visit during a senior class trip.

—Typhoon Lagoon Water Park: According to legend the Typhon Lagoon Water Park was created accidentally by a storm. Now waterslides of all shapes and sizes, Mount Mayday, the surf pool and snorkeling in Shark Reef are the main attractions.

—Blizzard Beach Water Park: Blizzard Beach is home to one of the world’s fastest, tallest waterslides. Supposedly created when an unexpected snowstorm hit Florida, Blizzard Beach is one of the only water parks in the country with a ski theme. Blizzard Beach is the perfect place to cool off in the hot Florida weather.

Exciting Evening Entertainment for a Senior Class Trip

While on a senior class trip students can enjoy once in a lifetime dining and entertainment experiences at some of Florida’s most popular theme restaurants. The Medieval Times, Pirates and Arabian Nights Dinner Theaters offer the exhilaration of authentic, live reenactments. The Hard Rock Cafe and Planet Hollywood provide a more metropolitan style of dining and students can enjoy learning more about the music and Hollywood icons they adore.

Student and senior class trips to Orlando, Florida are an excellent way to give students a chance to learn about the world around them and have wonderful experiences with friends. So don’t wait, start planning a student travel tour or senior class trip to Walt Disney World Orlando Florida or Universal Studios Parks today. Email info@educationaltravelconsultants.com for more information, or Request a Quote today.

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Celebrate Graduating Seniors in Style: Plan the Ultimate Senior Class Trip to New York City

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Educational Student Tours to NYC Designed for Senior Class Enjoyment

A senior class trip can be one of a student’s most memorable high school experiences and is often the first time many teens have been on their own with their friends. It is a taste of adulthood most seniors savor. Unlike other educational field trips and student travel tours, a senior class trip is really about bonding and celebration. New York City is a popular senior class trip destination because of the city’s history, size and limitless options for entertainment, arts and culture. The metropolitan areas around NYC are rich with museums, sports events, concerts, theaters, festivals, parks, shopping and history. These places are perfect for day trips while on a senior class adventure.

Recommended Destinations to Explore on a Senior Class Trip to NYC

Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey
Six Flags Great Adventure is a popular destination for senior class trips. A quick ride from New York City to Jackson, New Jersey, students will enjoy a variety of educational presentations, as well as the thrill of the area’s best amusement park rides. Students can book guided, educational Safari tours of a 350-acre wildlife preserve, home to over 1,200 exotic animals from 6 continents. Brown bears, giraffes, elephants, rhinoceros, lions and kangaroos are just a few of the animals currently living there. Physics, Math and Science days are also organized each year. Concerts featuring performers such as Raven Symone, Lee Ann Rimes and Flo Rida are planned for the summer. Seniors will have great fun on Great Adventure’s most popular amusement park rides including the Dark Knight Coaster, Superman: Ultimate Flight and Batman the Ride.

The Medieval Times Dinner Show in Lyndhurst, New Jersey

The Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament first started in Majorca, Spain in 1973 and since then has delighted audiences across North America. Medieval Times is dedicated to serving delicious food and providing exceptional entertainment. Special attention is paid to the accuracy of all weapons, costumes, equestrian skills and storylines. Medieval Times has castles in New Jersey, Florida, California, Illinois, Texas, Toronto (Ontario), South Carolina, Maryland and Georgia. Diners are seated in areas named after the regions of medieval Spain and encouraged to cheer for the knight representing their region during the tournaments. This is an unforgettable experience, perfect for any senior class trip.

Dinner at Mars 2112: Make Your Senior Class Trip Out of this World!

If you want to have a dinner on your senior class trip that is out of this world Mars 2112 Restaurant is an excellent choice. Mars 2112 is a space themed restaurant sci-fi fans will love. It is located in the heart of Times Square and combines the fantasy and reality of space to spark the imagination. A truly unique dining experience, the 35,000 square foot space includes a view of the Martian sky and a 300 square foot window looking out onto the Martian landscape

Sports Events: Plan to See the New York Yankees, Mets, Knicks, Jets or Rangers on a NYC Senior Class Trip

In New York City student tours and field trips have the opportunity to see a variety of well-known sports teams. This kind of event can be the perfect outing for a high school senior trip. Visit the incredible Yankees Stadium or go to the Citi Field to see the NY Mets. If major league baseball isn’t a favorite then plan to see the New York Knicks play basketball, the NY Rangers play hockey or the New York Jets play football. The Knicks offer basketball clinics and camps for youth that are a great addition to any senior class trip. The NY Jets have plans in 2010 to open a new Jets Stadium, a permanent home for the football team. The NY Rangers also run the Junior Rangers Program and youth hockey camps for students.

See New York City in a Different Light on a Spirit Dinner & Dance Cruise

You are only a high school senior once; that is why senior class trips are so important to students across the country. For many students it is the last trip they will take with high school friends before college begins. One way to make a high school senior trip spectacular is to plan a Cruise around Manhattan. Dinner is provided and dancing encouraged. Cruises can be booked during the day or in the evening, but sunset cruises are the most popular. As you circle Manhattan you will also have an amazing vantage point from which to see historic landmarks of New York City such as: the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, the World Trade Center site, South Street Seaport, Governor’s Island, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Senior class trips should be an extraordinary moment in time, a rite of passage, an acknowledgement of all the students have accomplished and what they will go on to achieve in the future. Make the experience unforgettable when you plan a high school senior trip to New York City. Email info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or Request a Quote today.

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Take a Science Focused Student Trip to Orlando, FL

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Educators who have not yet sampled Disney’s Youth Education Series (Y.E.S.) need to take note. Teachers, administrators and parents will find the programs appealing on many levels. Student travel groups participate in interactive learning experiences aligned with National Standards in education. Many of Disney’s Y.E.S. programs appeal to the 6-12 grade levels. Some Y.E.S. programs are geared for audiences beginning in third grade. Consider building a science-focused itinerary to Orlando, FL with trips to Disney Theme Parks such as Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom on the itinerary and learning as a top priority.

Student travel leaders can chose to immerse groups in Natural Science, Physical Science, or select Y.E.S. programs from each category. For the student travel organizer who is looking for resources and justification for a trip to Disney World, these Y.E.S. Programs are structured to meet educational objectives as well as creating a fun environment for active learning.


Epcot Center Offers a World of Discovery for Student Groups

Disney’s Ocean Discoveries is a program facilitated by Epcot Living Sea Educators who are trained and knowledgeable about Marine Science. Students will learn about challenges to the marine environments of: dolphins, sharks, sea turtles and manatees. They will also take an active role in a town hall meeting about a conservation issue and swap places with the animals from the deep to understand how they are trained and cared for.

Animal Kingdom Offers Exceptional Active Learning Experiences

Disney’s Team Up for Wildlife is a program that takes student groups through Animal Kingdom while encouraging them to think about engagement with the world of nature as an experience informed by ethical conservation. Student travel groups will learn how humans impact the eco-system of animals, alternative energy sources in nature, Native American beliefs about animals and the natural world, and ecotourism. Or, student groups may want to experience Disney’s Wild by Nature, where participants will collect data on animal behaviors. Student travelers will also learn how animals adapt and survive in the wild. The issue of conservation is posed in this program as well. Students learn how humans may help or hinder animal survival by paying attention to consumption of resources. These programs are appropriate for grades 3-9.

Magic Kingdom’s Energy in Waves for Student Groups Offers Exceptional Learning Experiences

If student experiences are geared more towards the physical sciences, Disney’s Y.E.S. programs have a great deal to offer. Synergy in Science is an educational program for 1st -5th graders and taught by Disney Y.E.S. Cast Members. Students will learn to use tinker toys to collaborate and communicate, watch a 3D film and learn about light polarization, and engage with and examine the imaginative process with Figment. Disney’s World of Physics: Energies and Waves is designed for 3rd to 12th graders and is a great active learning experience that helps student investigate the nature of light and sound waves, and understand how both can be manipulated. Student groups will learn many scientific facts about sound. Compression waves, mediums, frequencies, and speed of sound are some of the topics covered. Student groups will also learn about light by viewing the electromagnetic spectrum. Groups will see how light is reflected and refracted and absorbed. As a final component to the lesson on light, presenters will give an overview of how the illusion of the Haunted Mansion is created by manipulation of light.

World of Physics: Properties in Motion

Appropriate for grade levels 3-12, Disney’s World of Physics: Properties of Motion is another active learning experience that is taught in Magic Kingdom. This Y.E.S program is an up-close examination of roller coasters and how they exhibit certain laws of motion such as speed, velocity, acceleration, kinetic energy, centripetal force, and positive g-force and lateral g-force. The Walt Disney World Resort Monorail Transportation System and Disney’s Space Mountain are two of the rides used as examples.

As any educator can plainly see, Disney has done a wonderful job of creating high quality interactive educational experiences in the parks that will engage and fascinate students while they learn. If students are headed for Orlando, schedule the group for a Y.E.S. program to deepen the educational experience. Email info@educationaltravelconsultants.com or Request a Quote for a Science Focused trip to Orlando.