4. THE CHOICES
Australia - new horizons
Saturday, March 21, 2009
5. THE CHOICES
Australia - new horizons
China - ancient and contemporary
Saturday, March 21, 2009
6. THE CHOICES
Australia - new horizons
China - ancient and contemporary
Fiji - a traditional village
Saturday, March 21, 2009
7. THE CHOICES
Australia - new horizons
China - ancient and contemporary
Fiji - a traditional village
Laos & Cambodia - a journey of contrasts
Saturday, March 21, 2009
8. THE CHOICES
Australia - new horizons
China - ancient and contemporary
Fiji - a traditional village
Laos & Cambodia - a journey of contrasts
Vietnam - beyond the brochures
Saturday, March 21, 2009
9. THE CHOICES
Australia - new horizons
China - ancient and contemporary
Fiji - a traditional village
Laos & Cambodia - a journey of contrasts
Vietnam - beyond the brochures
17 days from around November 2 to 20
Saturday, March 21, 2009
11. THE LEADERS
Australia - Chris Grummet
Saturday, March 21, 2009
12. THE LEADERS
Australia - Chris Grummet
China - Liz Ware
Saturday, March 21, 2009
13. THE LEADERS
Australia - Chris Grummet
China - Liz Ware
Fiji - Andrew Potter
Saturday, March 21, 2009
14. THE LEADERS
Australia - Chris Grummet
China - Liz Ware
Fiji - Andrew Potter
Laos & Cambodia - Kerry Bolger
Saturday, March 21, 2009
15. THE LEADERS
Australia - Chris Grummet
China - Liz Ware
Fiji - Andrew Potter
Laos & Cambodia - Kerry Bolger
Vietnam - Barry Tudor
Saturday, March 21, 2009
17. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
AIMS TO ...
Take students out of their comfort zone
Saturday, March 21, 2009
18. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
AIMS TO ...
Take students out of their comfort zone
live and work as a group
Saturday, March 21, 2009
19. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
AIMS TO ...
Take students out of their comfort zone
live and work as a group
contribute to another community
Saturday, March 21, 2009
20. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
AIMS TO ...
Take students out of their comfort zone
live and work as a group
contribute to another community
experience another culture and lifestyle
Saturday, March 21, 2009
22. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
AIMS TO ...
be educationally enriching
Saturday, March 21, 2009
23. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
AIMS TO ...
be educationally enriching
further develop students understanding and appreciation of
the environment
Saturday, March 21, 2009
24. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
AIMS TO ...
be educationally enriching
further develop students understanding and appreciation of
the environment
develop independence and life skills
Saturday, March 21, 2009
25. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
AIMS TO ...
be educationally enriching
further develop students understanding and appreciation of
the environment
develop independence and life skills
make new friends from the college and the other campus
Saturday, March 21, 2009
322. VIETNAM
beyond the
brochures
Saturday, March 21, 2009
323. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
Australia - new horizons
China - ancient and contemporary
Fiji - a traditional village
Laos & Cambodia - a journey of contrasts
Vietnam - beyond the brochures
Saturday, March 21, 2009
325. HOUSEKEEPING
Big Experience walk-a-thon - Sunday August 9
Saturday, March 21, 2009
326. HOUSEKEEPING
Big Experience walk-a-thon - Sunday August 9
Travel & safety
Saturday, March 21, 2009
327. HOUSEKEEPING
Big Experience walk-a-thon - Sunday August 9
Travel & safety
Health & immunisations
Saturday, March 21, 2009
328. HOUSEKEEPING
Big Experience walk-a-thon - Sunday August 9
Travel & safety
Health & immunisations
Passports
Saturday, March 21, 2009
329. HOUSEKEEPING
Big Experience walk-a-thon - Sunday August 9
Travel & safety
Health & immunisations
Passports
The Melbourne Cup
Saturday, March 21, 2009
330. HOUSEKEEPING
Big Experience walk-a-thon - Sunday August 9
Travel & safety
Health & immunisations
Passports
The Melbourne Cup
LOTE letter
Saturday, March 21, 2009
332. YOUR CHOICE
Preference forms are due back next Thursday
Saturday, March 21, 2009
333. YOUR CHOICE
Preference forms are due back next Thursday
Choose for YOUR OWN reasons
Saturday, March 21, 2009
334. YOUR CHOICE
Preference forms are due back next Thursday
Choose for YOUR OWN reasons
Your second choice
Saturday, March 21, 2009
335. YOUR CHOICE
Preference forms are due back next Thursday
Choose for YOUR OWN reasons
Your second choice
Easy decision
Saturday, March 21, 2009
336. YOUR CHOICE
Preference forms are due back next Thursday
Choose for YOUR OWN reasons
Your second choice
Easy decision
All choices are truly awesome !!!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
337. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
“It’s hard to describe my Big Experience in words. If you
asked me to describe it in one word I would say
INCREDIBLE or AMAZING! Never in my life have I
experienced anything like this. Never before have I met
such friendly people, seen such a beautiful country or
made such close friends so quickly. The experience
showed me a whole new style of living and was the
experience of a lifetime that I will never forget!”
Year 9 Student 2008
Saturday, March 21, 2009
338. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
“It was the best thing I have ever done and
experienced. Everything was just amazing, eye-
opening and mind blowing. I would stay down
a year just to do it again!”
Year 9 Student 2008
Saturday, March 21, 2009
339. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
“It was the greatest thing I have ever done in
my life!
I think that speaks for itself.”
Year 9 Student 2008
Saturday, March 21, 2009
340. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
“It was the most amazing experience in my life!
We had the best time, and who knew that three
weeks could turn friends and strangers into
family. I loved every minute and would love to
re-live every day again.”
Year 9 Student 2008
Saturday, March 21, 2009
341. THE BIG EXPERIENCE
“The Big Experience was easily the best 17
days of my life! I really enjoyed every
activity during the whole thing. I thought
Mr. Barlow was exaggerating, but he
definitely wasn’t. It was the best thing I
have ever done!”
Year 9 Student 2008
Saturday, March 21, 2009
342. THE LEADERS
Australia - Chris Grummet
China - Liz Ware
Fiji - Andrew Potter
Laos & Cambodia - Kerry Bolger
Vietnam - Barry Tudor
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Editor's Notes
Hi everyone, my name is Tim Barlow, I’m the CUE program coordinator and first of all I’d like to say a very big, welcome to the Big Experience Information evening, and thank you for coming. If you would like a coffee, tea or cordial and a biscuit there is a table full to the brim up the back.
Brochures providing information for each trip were mailed out with your invitation, but if you would like another copy there are some more near the door so please feel free to pick one up as you leave.
Now, the purpose of this evening is to provide you with some more information about each of this year’s trips. This evening also marks the start of a fantastic journey so I hope tonight is both informative and exciting.
Every year the Big Experiences evolve and are continually improved and I can confidently say ...
THESE ARE THE VERY BEST BIG EXPERIENCES WE HAVE EVER OFFERED !!!
They are ...
A, C, F, L and V
Each of these five Big Experiences’ have been specifically designed for St Leonard’s students.
They all run for about 17 days from around Nov 2 to Nov 20.
Each trip is also lead by an extremely experienced educator.
A, C, F, L and V
Each of these five Big Experiences’ have been specifically designed for St Leonard’s students.
They all run for about 17 days from around Nov 2 to Nov 20.
Each trip is also lead by an extremely experienced educator.
A, C, F, L and V
Each of these five Big Experiences’ have been specifically designed for St Leonard’s students.
They all run for about 17 days from around Nov 2 to Nov 20.
Each trip is also lead by an extremely experienced educator.
A, C, F, L and V
Each of these five Big Experiences’ have been specifically designed for St Leonard’s students.
They all run for about 17 days from around Nov 2 to Nov 20.
Each trip is also lead by an extremely experienced educator.
A, C, F, L and V
Each of these five Big Experiences’ have been specifically designed for St Leonard’s students.
They all run for about 17 days from around Nov 2 to Nov 20.
Each trip is also lead by an extremely experienced educator.
A, C, F, L and V
Each of these five Big Experiences’ have been specifically designed for St Leonard’s students.
They all run for about 17 days from around Nov 2 to Nov 20.
Each trip is also lead by an extremely experienced educator.
The Australia trip is lead by Chris Grummet. Mr Grummet has attended four Australian BEs previously, three of them as the trip leader. He is the college’s indigenous studies coordinator and has a wealth of experience traveling through Central Australia.
Liz Ware leads the China trip for the third consecutive year, since the trips inception. The three years prior to that she travelled to and lead the Fiji BE. In fact, every single year since the introduction of the BE, Mrs Ware has lead one of the trips!
Andrew Potter leads the Fiji BE for the fourth time this year and it will be his fifth trip with the college. And I say with the college because Mr Potter is so passionate that he has been know to visit the villages of Fiji in his holidays too. His knowledge and passion for marine studies is also unparalleled!
The Laos & Cambodia trip will be lead by Kerry Bolger this year. Mr Bolger is the Head of the Cornish campus. He attended the first Big Experience to Thailand in 2006 and his independent travels to Cambodia helped to catalyze this years evolution of the trip.
And Barry Tudor leads the Vietnam trip this year. Head of Cullen house this will be his third BE trip to Vietnam having previously lead the trip in 2007. Mr Tudor’s love of Vietnam, the people, the history and the culture are unmatched. He even learns Vietnamese in his spare time.
This is a list of five amazing people! These leaders are extremely experienced and motivated educators and their presence ensures an amazing experience!
The Australia trip is lead by Chris Grummet. Mr Grummet has attended four Australian BEs previously, three of them as the trip leader. He is the college’s indigenous studies coordinator and has a wealth of experience traveling through Central Australia.
Liz Ware leads the China trip for the third consecutive year, since the trips inception. The three years prior to that she travelled to and lead the Fiji BE. In fact, every single year since the introduction of the BE, Mrs Ware has lead one of the trips!
Andrew Potter leads the Fiji BE for the fourth time this year and it will be his fifth trip with the college. And I say with the college because Mr Potter is so passionate that he has been know to visit the villages of Fiji in his holidays too. His knowledge and passion for marine studies is also unparalleled!
The Laos & Cambodia trip will be lead by Kerry Bolger this year. Mr Bolger is the Head of the Cornish campus. He attended the first Big Experience to Thailand in 2006 and his independent travels to Cambodia helped to catalyze this years evolution of the trip.
And Barry Tudor leads the Vietnam trip this year. Head of Cullen house this will be his third BE trip to Vietnam having previously lead the trip in 2007. Mr Tudor’s love of Vietnam, the people, the history and the culture are unmatched. He even learns Vietnamese in his spare time.
This is a list of five amazing people! These leaders are extremely experienced and motivated educators and their presence ensures an amazing experience!
The Australia trip is lead by Chris Grummet. Mr Grummet has attended four Australian BEs previously, three of them as the trip leader. He is the college’s indigenous studies coordinator and has a wealth of experience traveling through Central Australia.
Liz Ware leads the China trip for the third consecutive year, since the trips inception. The three years prior to that she travelled to and lead the Fiji BE. In fact, every single year since the introduction of the BE, Mrs Ware has lead one of the trips!
Andrew Potter leads the Fiji BE for the fourth time this year and it will be his fifth trip with the college. And I say with the college because Mr Potter is so passionate that he has been know to visit the villages of Fiji in his holidays too. His knowledge and passion for marine studies is also unparalleled!
The Laos & Cambodia trip will be lead by Kerry Bolger this year. Mr Bolger is the Head of the Cornish campus. He attended the first Big Experience to Thailand in 2006 and his independent travels to Cambodia helped to catalyze this years evolution of the trip.
And Barry Tudor leads the Vietnam trip this year. Head of Cullen house this will be his third BE trip to Vietnam having previously lead the trip in 2007. Mr Tudor’s love of Vietnam, the people, the history and the culture are unmatched. He even learns Vietnamese in his spare time.
This is a list of five amazing people! These leaders are extremely experienced and motivated educators and their presence ensures an amazing experience!
The Australia trip is lead by Chris Grummet. Mr Grummet has attended four Australian BEs previously, three of them as the trip leader. He is the college’s indigenous studies coordinator and has a wealth of experience traveling through Central Australia.
Liz Ware leads the China trip for the third consecutive year, since the trips inception. The three years prior to that she travelled to and lead the Fiji BE. In fact, every single year since the introduction of the BE, Mrs Ware has lead one of the trips!
Andrew Potter leads the Fiji BE for the fourth time this year and it will be his fifth trip with the college. And I say with the college because Mr Potter is so passionate that he has been know to visit the villages of Fiji in his holidays too. His knowledge and passion for marine studies is also unparalleled!
The Laos & Cambodia trip will be lead by Kerry Bolger this year. Mr Bolger is the Head of the Cornish campus. He attended the first Big Experience to Thailand in 2006 and his independent travels to Cambodia helped to catalyze this years evolution of the trip.
And Barry Tudor leads the Vietnam trip this year. Head of Cullen house this will be his third BE trip to Vietnam having previously lead the trip in 2007. Mr Tudor’s love of Vietnam, the people, the history and the culture are unmatched. He even learns Vietnamese in his spare time.
This is a list of five amazing people! These leaders are extremely experienced and motivated educators and their presence ensures an amazing experience!
The Australia trip is lead by Chris Grummet. Mr Grummet has attended four Australian BEs previously, three of them as the trip leader. He is the college’s indigenous studies coordinator and has a wealth of experience traveling through Central Australia.
Liz Ware leads the China trip for the third consecutive year, since the trips inception. The three years prior to that she travelled to and lead the Fiji BE. In fact, every single year since the introduction of the BE, Mrs Ware has lead one of the trips!
Andrew Potter leads the Fiji BE for the fourth time this year and it will be his fifth trip with the college. And I say with the college because Mr Potter is so passionate that he has been know to visit the villages of Fiji in his holidays too. His knowledge and passion for marine studies is also unparalleled!
The Laos & Cambodia trip will be lead by Kerry Bolger this year. Mr Bolger is the Head of the Cornish campus. He attended the first Big Experience to Thailand in 2006 and his independent travels to Cambodia helped to catalyze this years evolution of the trip.
And Barry Tudor leads the Vietnam trip this year. Head of Cullen house this will be his third BE trip to Vietnam having previously lead the trip in 2007. Mr Tudor’s love of Vietnam, the people, the history and the culture are unmatched. He even learns Vietnamese in his spare time.
This is a list of five amazing people! These leaders are extremely experienced and motivated educators and their presence ensures an amazing experience!
As the BE is the culmination of the CUE program it has a focus on the themes of community service, urban exploration and environmental sustainability.
Each and every Big Experience has common aims and features, regardless of destination, and these unique opportunities have the potential to be life changing.
The BE aims to ... 1) Take students to a very different place
2) Improve their communication and teamwork skills
3) Undertake community service
4) Experience another way of living
As the BE is the culmination of the CUE program it has a focus on the themes of community service, urban exploration and environmental sustainability.
Each and every Big Experience has common aims and features, regardless of destination, and these unique opportunities have the potential to be life changing.
The BE aims to ... 1) Take students to a very different place
2) Improve their communication and teamwork skills
3) Undertake community service
4) Experience another way of living
As the BE is the culmination of the CUE program it has a focus on the themes of community service, urban exploration and environmental sustainability.
Each and every Big Experience has common aims and features, regardless of destination, and these unique opportunities have the potential to be life changing.
The BE aims to ... 1) Take students to a very different place
2) Improve their communication and teamwork skills
3) Undertake community service
4) Experience another way of living
As the BE is the culmination of the CUE program it has a focus on the themes of community service, urban exploration and environmental sustainability.
Each and every Big Experience has common aims and features, regardless of destination, and these unique opportunities have the potential to be life changing.
The BE aims to ... 1) Take students to a very different place
2) Improve their communication and teamwork skills
3) Undertake community service
4) Experience another way of living
5) enhance their education
6) increase their knowledge of our environment
7) foster a variety of important life skills AND
8) Forge new friendships
AND NOW ...
5) enhance their education
6) increase their knowledge of our environment
7) foster a variety of important life skills AND
8) Forge new friendships
AND NOW ...
5) enhance their education
6) increase their knowledge of our environment
7) foster a variety of important life skills AND
8) Forge new friendships
AND NOW ...
5) enhance their education
6) increase their knowledge of our environment
7) foster a variety of important life skills AND
8) Forge new friendships
AND NOW ...
The Trips
All of the trips evolve slightly each year, but Australia - new horizons is a revolutionary new trip this year.
It is just amazing!
The tour company we are using, Desert Tracks, is a company wholly owned by the Anangu-Pitjantjatjara people of Central Australia. It was established to teach non-indigenous Australians the significance of Tjukurpa, which is the Creation or Dreaming law.
On this trip you are totally immersed in the world's oldest living culture. It’s an amazing opportunity to become fully absorbed in the Anangu culture, and to experience a unique, potentially life changing, journey.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
The experience begins with a flight into Coober Pedy in South Australia. We then visit sacred sites up through Mimili and Ernabella, partaking in community service whilst camping at Mount Woodroffe ... the highest mountain in South Australia might I add. From here we travel to Angatja, visit the local school and have a bush food day. Then it’s up through to the Northern Territory to camp at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, places you seriously need to see to believe. Next stop is Kings Creek Station and the amazing Kings Canyon. And the journey ends with an exploration of Alice Springs before we fly home.
Although we fly in and out the majority of travel will be on a custom built 4WD ...
fully air conditioned coach.
Of course there is the odd bit of walking too. All the while being guided by our aboriginal elder hosts.
The night time accommodation will be under the stars in swags! We also carry hoochies or tarps in case it rains.
And in terms of food, the 4WDs carry cold and fresh food in refrigerated trailers. The food is the best and freshest available! Sometimes we’ll eat sitting up at the table ...
But there will also be the opportunity to sample bush tucker.
Try a few Maku’s or as we know them witchetty grubs.
Maybe enjoy a Tjala or honey ant for dessert.
Or even sample Kangaroo tail.
Or even sample Kangaroo tail.
Have an expert chef cook you a meal
But the opportunity to sleep under the stars, once you see them up there, is one you would never pass up.
And, there will also be sessions on how Aboriginal people read the stars and how they form part of their Dreaming stories.
There’s always some time to relax.
Maybe it’s a leisurely stroll around a rock.
You’ll have a chance to swim in some of the most fantastic natural swimming pools on Earth
And, at the end of each day in the remote Pitjantjatjara Lands, sit around the camp fire with your Anangu hosts.
The community service component of the Australian trip will occur at various times during the first 11 days of the trip when you will be in the Anangu-Pitjantjatjara lands. You will visit a range of different sites and communities.
* You will have the privilege of maintaining sacred sites through activities such as clearing vegetation. You’ll also help to maintain the properties of elders in their homelands
* You’ll visit remote Aboriginal primary schools and help students with their studies. Participate in class activities, have lunch with the school and play sport. This is an amazing school, very unique and and very isolated. English is even taught as a second language.
* We are also negotiating the possibility of other activities like building maintenance or painting.
* The community service on this trip is a genuinely interactive experience. Guided by Aboriginal elders you will really be participating in community life.
* You will have the privilege of maintaining sacred sites through activities such as clearing vegetation. You’ll also help to maintain the properties of elders in their homelands
* You’ll visit remote Aboriginal primary schools and help students with their studies. Participate in class activities, have lunch with the school and play sport. This is an amazing school, very unique and and very isolated. English is even taught as a second language.
* We are also negotiating the possibility of other activities like building maintenance or painting.
* The community service on this trip is a genuinely interactive experience. Guided by Aboriginal elders you will really be participating in community life.
At the end of our journey we visit Alice Springs, the second largest city in the Northern Territory.
But of course it starts at Coober Pedy. This town is phenomenal, such a foreign landscape.
We drive past a seemingly infinite number of dirt piles. All left over from opal mining.
And where there are piles of dirt ... there are holes.
PAUSE ...
The environment in the centre of our great nation is not like a different country, it is like ... a different planet. So different, so vast, and so beautiful.
It is an environment where dream time stories are brought to life.
The amazing red earth, the blue sky ...
and it is so very dry but plant life still flourishes.
And .. the wildlife .. is .. awe .. inspiring !!
And .. the wildlife .. is .. awe .. inspiring !!
And .. the wildlife .. is .. awe .. inspiring !!
And .. the wildlife .. is .. awe .. inspiring !!
But you will learn to see more than you ever thought could be there.
You will see a very rich culture ...
A quote from an elder ...
We have no books, our history was not written by people with pen and paper. It is in the land, the footprints of our Creation Ancestors are on the rocks, the hills and creek beds they created as they travelled through this land around us. We learned from our grandmothers and grandfathers as they showed us these sacred sites, told us the stories, sang and danced with us the Tjukurpa. We remember it all; in our minds, our bodies and feet as we dance the stories. We continually recreate the Tjukurpa or, ‘the dreaming’.
A quote from an elder ...
We have no books, our history was not written by people with pen and paper. It is in the land, the footprints of our Creation Ancestors are on the rocks, the hills and creek beds they created as they travelled through this land around us. We learned from our grandmothers and grandfathers as they showed us these sacred sites, told us the stories, sang and danced with us the Tjukurpa. We remember it all; in our minds, our bodies and feet as we dance the stories. We continually recreate the Tjukurpa or, ‘the dreaming’.
Each day, you will gain an insight into the law and culture of the Anangu people as you are immersed in a culture many thousands of years old.
• Follow ancestoral trails and visit sacred sites of significance.• Traverse the “Songline” stories - experience how song and dance are used to teach the Tjukurpa.• See some of the most extensive Aboriginal rock arts in Central Australia which are inaccessible to most people. This art is 22,000 years old too!
Each day, you will gain an insight into the law and culture of the Anangu people as you are immersed in a culture many thousands of years old.
• Follow ancestoral trails and visit sacred sites of significance.• Traverse the “Songline” stories - experience how song and dance are used to teach the Tjukurpa.• See some of the most extensive Aboriginal rock arts in Central Australia which are inaccessible to most people. This art is 22,000 years old too!
Each day, you will gain an insight into the law and culture of the Anangu people as you are immersed in a culture many thousands of years old.
• Follow ancestoral trails and visit sacred sites of significance.• Traverse the “Songline” stories - experience how song and dance are used to teach the Tjukurpa.• See some of the most extensive Aboriginal rock arts in Central Australia which are inaccessible to most people. This art is 22,000 years old too!
* Learn about and participate in ancient ceremonies.
* Learn some of the Anangu-Pitjantjatjara language.
And it is all guided by fantastic Aboriginal elders.
And you will see so much on this trip!
The things you will see are mind blowing
Uluru is really something special.
But at sunset it is unbelievable!
Right before your eyes it changes from a rusty brown ... to bright orange ... to purple. It’s awesome!
But at sunset it is unbelievable!
Right before your eyes it changes from a rusty brown ... to bright orange ... to purple. It’s awesome!
And when you think you’ve seen it all, you visit Kata Tjuta.
But there’s still Standley Chasm ... Simpson's Gap ... the West MacDonnell ranges ... and of course, the magnificent Kings Canyon.
And the time spent in the Pitjantjatjara lands at the start of the trip puts the visits to Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon, these amazing places, into a wonderfully rich and far more meaningful context.
But there’s still Standley Chasm ... Simpson's Gap ... the West MacDonnell ranges ... and of course, the magnificent Kings Canyon.
And the time spent in the Pitjantjatjara lands at the start of the trip puts the visits to Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon, these amazing places, into a wonderfully rich and far more meaningful context.
But there’s still Standley Chasm ... Simpson's Gap ... the West MacDonnell ranges ... and of course, the magnificent Kings Canyon.
And the time spent in the Pitjantjatjara lands at the start of the trip puts the visits to Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon, these amazing places, into a wonderfully rich and far more meaningful context.
Australia - new horizons. Immerse yourself in the world's oldest living culture.
PAUSE !!!
Next up, China - ancient and contemporary
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
The China Big Experience starts in the capital of China, Beijing, here we’ll find the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square. We then catch an overnight train to Xian, one of the four great ancient capitals of China and home of the Terracotta Warriors. From Xian we travel to Baoji and the Xinxing centre for displaced children, our community service activity. Going back through Xian we fly out to the most picturesque place in China, Guilin. And another internal flight takes us to the magnificent and modern Shanghai where our trip ends.
China is a huge country and there is just so very, very much to see.
In Beijing, we visit the Great Wall of China ...
... and it is a GREAT ... BIG ... WALL
we also visit the Summer Palace, the old emperors holiday house.
The Beijing 2008 Olympic stadium or Bird’s Nest as it is known
The Temple of Heaven, where only the emperor went to pray.
Tiannamen Square, the largest square in the world and the symbol of Communism in China.
The Forbidden City, palace of past emperors.
The Temple of Heaven, where only the emperor went to pray.
Tiannamen Square, the largest square in the world and the symbol of Communism in China.
The Forbidden City, palace of past emperors.
The fascinating Reed Flute cave just outside Guilin.
And just outside of Xian - the famous Terracotta Warriors.
There will be a chance for a bit of down time on this trip
And sometimes this is spent experiencing the shopping at places like the Muslim street night market in Xian.
Bargaining in China is a must have skill because you never quite know when a suitcase full of watches will be thrust under your nose.
But there are also the night time shows. Outdoors on the Li River in Guilin.
And the acrobatics show in Shanghai.
But there are also the night time shows. Outdoors on the Li River in Guilin.
And the acrobatics show in Shanghai.
What do we eat on this trip ... well, Chinese food of course, and it’s delicious.
We visit a range of restaurants.
This one even revolves around the top of a building.
In Baoji where we stay for our community service work, the food is simpler but we do visit McDonalds too ...
... and it’s nearly the same as home ... nearly!
Accommodation on this trip is entirely hotel based, normally twin share. Except !! And there’s always and exception. We do spend one night on the train to Xian with four students per cabin.
The community service component of the China Big Experience is, of course Xin xing. This part of the trip takes place in Baoji a small town of 3 million people. Here we will find Marg Ward and the Xin xing centre. Marg is an Australian citizen who founded the centre. She was the subject of an ABC production “Australian Story” for her work with Australian volunteers in Africa and China. She has also been awarded citizen of the year in Baoji and is an amazing, inspirational person, just a joy to meet.
The Xing-Xing centre deals with, in China, what are called “misplaced children”. Because of China’s one child policy and its traditional preference for boys, thousands of children are abandoned each year. Children have no rights in China. And the centre is committed to either reuniting these children with their families or finding them a place in society. You will undertake a variety of activities with the children, pottery ...
climb a mountain, play games.
You will be a shining light for these kids and the joy you bring them will fill your heart.
We also visit a school in Baoji and have lunch with a local family. This is a truly amazing experience, you have to do it to understand.
Even the school itself is a culture shock, 58 students in a class!
- This is a PE lesson, notice the nice neat rows!
In fact you are immersed in the culture at every turn.
Maybe it is an impromptu Tai-Chi lesson in the park with an old master.
Or joining in with the locals for a bit of recreation at the Temple of Heaven.
Joining in with a dancing lesson at the Children’s Palace.
Even the supermarket is an experience in China
Or you might even just have a laugh with the locals.
And there are a lot of locals in China!
Beijing - 19 million people
Shanghai - 22 million
Xian - 8 million
Baoji - 3 million
Where do they all fit?
To tell you the truth, I don’t know but their cities are terrific!
Here’s the modern city of Shanghai at night ...
... and whilst in Shanghai we also ascend the World Financial Centre Observatory which towers above the city.
And we can compare that to a smaller water village we explore.
Because China is such a big place we have to travel around, and the travel is done is a great variety of ways. We travel in air-conditioned Buses in each city.
There are rickshaw rides
... a bike ride atop the city wall in Xian. And there are also two internal flights.
We also go on a few boat rides, through the water village, in Shanghai, and along the Li River in Guilin ...
and we even experience public transport. It’s kind of like Melbourne’s trains but on time.
What does a sky look like that is perpetually grey?
What effect does a billion people have on the animals?
Well of course some of them lose their habitat, like the famous Giant Pandas ...
and with their habitat goes their source of food.
So we go to help them out and ensure their continued survival.
So we go to help them out and ensure their continued survival.
But there are still naturally beautiful places in China.
Guilin is exquisite!
And it gives us a hint at how so very, very much rice is grown.
Guilin is exquisite!
And it gives us a hint at how so very, very much rice is grown.
So that’s China. It is one of the major drivers of global growth and one of Australia’s main trading partners.
But, you have to see it to believe it !!
PAUSE !!!
Fiji - a traditional village
Fiji consists approximately 330 islands of which around 100 are inhabited.
We will be spending our time around the Yasawa Group of Islands.
Fiji consists approximately 330 islands of which around 100 are inhabited.
We will be spending our time around the Yasawa Group of Islands.
Fiji consists approximately 330 islands of which around 100 are inhabited.
We will be spending our time around the Yasawa Group of Islands.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
This experience begins in the city of Nadi and immediately upon arrival we head out to the small island of Mala Mala for a snorkel or dive. We also spend time in Nadi preparing for our time in the village. We stay at Barefoot Island to snorkel in the beautiful water, trek on the island and relax. We then make our way to the village of Nabukeru to experience island life. After the village stay we head to Oarsman’s Bay Lodge for marine studies and a night dive. We also make a day trip to the village of Yang getta and spend time at a school. Finally, our trip ends right where it began, Nadi, for an exploration of Fiji’s flora and fauna and some last minute shopping.
The accommodation varies on the Fiji Big Experience. In Nadi we stay in a hotel.
In the village, each village family will host 2 students.
* You could be staying in a traditional fijian style bure like this or ...
... in a concrete block house like this.
On the other islands we stay in different accommodation, and sometimes ...
... it is literally ... ON THE BEACH !!!
On this trip we will explore the city of Nadi, the third largest city in Fiji.
It is here that we will buy food for our time in the village. We buy items that they would not normally buy, but love nonetheless, things like cheddar cheese and tomato sauce! Being a traditional village, to have a bunch of Australians arrive for a few days is a stretch and so we shop for some basic items to assist them with our stay.
- We’ll also visit the Kula Ecopark during our trip.
- Visit a waterfall and take a dip to cool down.
- And enjoy a mud bath at some hot springs.
- We even go underwater into the caves where the local villages would hide the women and children during inter village conflicts in times long gone.
- We’ll also visit the Kula Ecopark during our trip.
- Visit a waterfall and take a dip to cool down.
- And enjoy a mud bath at some hot springs.
- We even go underwater into the caves where the local villages would hide the women and children during inter village conflicts in times long gone.
- We’ll also visit the Kula Ecopark during our trip.
- Visit a waterfall and take a dip to cool down.
- And enjoy a mud bath at some hot springs.
- We even go underwater into the caves where the local villages would hide the women and children during inter village conflicts in times long gone.
How do we get around Fiji?
Well ...
Travel on the main island will be by local bus.
* Naturally air conditioned of course - no windows
But after that, it’s pretty much boats.
On the first day we travel out to dive or snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Mala Mala Island ...
which, I might add, is exclusively ours for the day!
We set sail on a tall ship to Barefoot Island, just like this.
And the Yasawa Flier takes us back to Nadi after our island stays
We go for a short walk ...
to experience
some fan-tastic views!
We go for a short walk ...
to experience
some fan-tastic views!
Oh, ... and we do swim around a bit too !
And when the swimming tires us out, we relax
Maybe it’s in a hammock on the beach.
Or a dip in the pool.
Or a bit of sport. Maybe netball’s your thing ...
you may also enjoy a game of volleyball or rugby with the local children.
You can go for an early morning walk, learn basket weaving, coconut husking, sea kayaking or sailing. Enjoy some shopping in Nadi ... you can do it all.
But it is the people you will meet and your time in the village that makes this trip so very special.
In the village we will be welcomed with a traditional kava ceremony.
And during the entire trip we will learn a great deal about Fijian people and their culture.
* We learn Fijian singing
And some of us will even dance as well as the locals
We will travel to their local school and compare it to our own.
You will become teachers and learn about their school day. And in Fiji you will practically be qualified teachers, as year 8 is often the limit of Fijian children’s formal education.
In the village you will become one of the family.
* The Fijian children will adore you,
* surround you ...
and
* you will make amazing friendships
In the village you will become one of the family.
* The Fijian children will adore you,
* surround you ...
and
* you will make amazing friendships
In the village you will become one of the family.
* The Fijian children will adore you,
* surround you ...
and
* you will make amazing friendships
They accept you as if you have been a part of their village forever.
They will always welcome you back.
And, there will be tears shed when its time to say good bye.
The villagers will become your second family, and that is why you will get such a sense of joy from helping them.
In 2007 the College completed work on a wellness centre ...
last year we re-painted an orphanage and supplied building materials for a playground.
We are currently negotiating with the village to decide what our project will be this year. Although whatever our major community service activity is, we will also paint the classrooms at a primary school this year.
In 2007 the College completed work on a wellness centre ...
last year we re-painted an orphanage and supplied building materials for a playground.
We are currently negotiating with the village to decide what our project will be this year. Although whatever our major community service activity is, we will also paint the classrooms at a primary school this year.
And of course on this trip we’ll also spend some time under water.
The reef is pristine and will confirm your mental image of what underwater Fiji is like.
It is a different world
inhabited by lots of different creatures.
The reef is pristine and will confirm your mental image of what underwater Fiji is like.
It is a different world
inhabited by lots of different creatures.
We make a contribution by monitoring the reef.
We also offer scuba diving during the trip.
* Training occurs before we go and there are several opportunities to dive while we are away.
* We even indulge in a night snorkel to see the different reef life and compare the day reef to the night reef, we supply underwater torches and glow sticks.
We also offer scuba diving during the trip.
* Training occurs before we go and there are several opportunities to dive while we are away.
* We even indulge in a night snorkel to see the different reef life and compare the day reef to the night reef, we supply underwater torches and glow sticks.
And ... when the sun sets on your last day ... you will look back on a time that you will remember forever.
Fiji, experience a traditional village.
PAUSE !!!
Laos and Cambodia, a journey of contrasts
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
The Laos & Cambodia Big Experience begins in far Northern Thailand in the city of Chiang Mai for some Thai cooking lessons. We then travel to a hill tribe region called Chiang Dao to begin our truly amazing community service building program. Next we explore Chiang Khong before crossing the border into Laos to stay at Pak Beng. Traveling on our own private boat down the Mekong River we visit Luang Prabang to take in the beauty of Laotian culture. We arrive at Siem Reap in Cambodia after a short flight to view the impressive Angkor Temple complex. And our trip ends at the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
Methods of transport are many and varied in Laos & Cambodia.
Cruising down the Mekong river in your own personal boat is one way to get around.
Or you can jump aboard a tuk tuk.
We take a boat trip to see floating fishing villages in Siem Reap.
We travel in air conditioned coaches and there’s even a half day rafting trip up the Mae Taeng River in Chiang Mai.
There is a short flight on this trip and if all that bores you, you can always ...
... jump aboard a passing elephant and go for a ride to explore some of the jungle terrain !!
The community service component of this trip will occur in the hill tribe region of Chiang Dao. Here you will participate in a three day building project.
It is amazing to visit a village full of people that have so little.
It is amazing to visit a village full of people that have so little.
But then to work together as a team
And create something truly meaningful
It is unforgettable ! You will remember back in years to come, what you were able to do and the lives you were able to change.
A visit to the Sunshine House orphanage, operated by the charity “Awareness Cambodia” will also provide students with a true and unique insight into the day to day struggles of children trying to build a future in what remains one of the poorest countries in the world.
The food on this trip is delicious! Restaurants with a variety of dishes, we visit different countries with their own different flavours.
In the village there is also plenty of food, our very own cooks are provided along with village supplies
And if that’s not all, you will come back and be able to cook your own dinner after a Thai cooking lesson with an expert chef.
We spend the majority of our time in hotels, normally two students per room.
But village life is simpler with limited facilities.
We stay in two long houses, one for boys, one for girls.
We will travel to some amazing places on this Big Experience.
This is the Buddhist temple at the Royal Palace in Luang Prabang.
The magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia is magnificent.
We climb Mount Phu Si to reveal panoramic views of the world heritage listed town of Luang Prabang, a Laotian city with a population of a mere 100,000.
Compare this to ...
... Phnom Penh. The capital of Cambodia with a population of 1.5 million.
And of course we fly into Chiang Mai, the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand.
The natural environment is also very, very different to home.
It’s funny to think that we are in 3a water restrictions when you see the magnificence of the mighty Mekong River.
It is just a beautiful part of the world !
You will experience so much of the history and culture of these amazing countries.
You will learn the intricacies of the Buddhist religion, and the meaning of the various Buddha images we encounter, and how this influences the culture.
We will encounter the many monks that live in the local temples.
We will encounter the many monks that live in the local temples.
We will encounter the many monks that live in the local temples.
In Cambodia we’ll learn about the glory of the Angkor period in the middle ages.
And we will also learn about the effects of Cambodia’s tragic Khmer Rouge reign in the late 1970’s.
And of course you will experience the lifestyle of a villager as they open up their hearts and homes to you.
Visiting Laos, Cambodia and Thailand also brings a myriad of memories.
The Pak Ou caves on the banks of the Mekong River.
The amazing architecture
Sometimes amazing because it is still standing!
The magnificent Ta Prohm Temple,
* the jungle temple seen in the movie,
* Lara Croft: Tomb Raider
The magnificent Ta Prohm Temple,
* the jungle temple seen in the movie,
* Lara Croft: Tomb Raider
But it’s not all rafting and riding elephants
We do have some time to relax.
Experience a casual kick boxing class.
or a swim in a waterfall stream ...
... or shopping in the night markets of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai or in the Russian market in Siem Reap.
Laos & Cambodia.
Three amazing countries, one amazing trip!
PAUSE !!!
Vietnam, beyond the brochures.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The itinerary for Vientam. We fly into the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, to begin this Big Experience. We then head out to Mai Chau for the life changing community service building program. Back through Hanoi for a night, then on to the beautiful Ha Long Bay. We then catch the Reunification Express Overnight Train to explore Hue. Through Hoi An with its gorgeous beaches overlooking the South China Sea. A short morning flight to the largest city in Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City including a side visit to Cu Chi and the famous Cu Chi tunnels before we head home.
The trip starts and finishes in the 2 major cities of Vietnam – Hanoi the centre of government and Ho Chi Minh City, previously know as Saigon, the centre of business.
These cities are busy and exciting, you will even need to learn a different way to cross the road!
We visit important sites in both cities – for example, Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum in Hanoi, a memorial to the old prime minister, and the 400 year old Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue.
You will see and experience such vastly different ways of living.
We visit important sites in both cities – for example, Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum in Hanoi, a memorial to the old prime minister, and the 400 year old Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue.
You will see and experience such vastly different ways of living.
The Community Project is a very unique aspect of this trip. We’ll build a huge house or a school to assist a community in this remote region
The village in Mai Chau is a stunning location
- it provides the challenge of living in such a different, simple place, and we experience firsthand the lifestyle of the villagers.
- You experience contact with Vietnamese people on a different, personal level .. working, playing, communicating without language.
- You really get the satisfaction of contribution – in making a real difference to others and you will leave feeling satisfied and very proud of what you contributed.
The village in Mai Chau is a stunning location
- it provides the challenge of living in such a different, simple place, and we experience firsthand the lifestyle of the villagers.
- You experience contact with Vietnamese people on a different, personal level .. working, playing, communicating without language.
- You really get the satisfaction of contribution – in making a real difference to others and you will leave feeling satisfied and very proud of what you contributed.
The village in Mai Chau is a stunning location
- it provides the challenge of living in such a different, simple place, and we experience firsthand the lifestyle of the villagers.
- You experience contact with Vietnamese people on a different, personal level .. working, playing, communicating without language.
- You really get the satisfaction of contribution – in making a real difference to others and you will leave feeling satisfied and very proud of what you contributed.
Vietnam is a visually stunning country!
The views around the hillside tribe are amazing.
We visit the beautiful Halong Bay, one of the highlights of the trip. It is a world heritage area and we enjoy lunch on our own private boat absorbing our surrounds.
The limestone caves dotting the Bay are also spectacular.
You’ll enjoy Hanoi’s famed water puppet show one night.
And of course the different Environment ...
* will be a certain eye opener.
But it is not always the amazing scenery, sometimes it is the things you will see everyday that has the biggest impact on you.
This trip is not all go, go, go. There is some time to relax.
Swimming in the hotel pool in Hoi An.
There will also be the opportunity for a casual cycle in Hue.
Some time to relax
* with a swim in the South China Sea
Have a refreshing drink
Shopping, whether it be in Hanoi’s old quarter, the vast possibilities of Ho Chi Minh City, arranging personalized tailoring in Hoi An like these students. Buying ceramics, silk, fake designer goods or DVD’s, shopping is part of the Vietnam experience.
Bargaining is also a very fun part of the deal, and something everyone will conquer.
And of course, jumping off our own private boat in Ha Long Bay.
Food is always a highlight and Vietnam is no exception. We visit many restaurants and are treated to a variety of dishes, the different regions of Vietnam that we visit also have food of different flavours to experience.
In the village there is also plenty of food, and our very own cooks are provided along with village supplies
There will even be the opportunity
* to “roll your own” lunch!
Accommodation is in hotels for the majority of nights, usually twin share.
Although in the village there is a different basis for accommodation –-> all together in a long house, a separate one for the girls ...
and one for the boys. These have more limited facilities, no phones for example.
And, one night is spent on the overnight train between Hanoi and Hue.
You’ll experience all sorts of transport as we move around the country. Cyclos are a terrific way to see Hanoi and Hue at night.
We travel in air-conditioned Buses in each city.
Of course the overnight train from Hanoi to Hue, called the Reunification Express, is a lot of fun in cabins of four.
We catch boats (on Halong Bay & elsewhere)
There is one internal plane trip from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City
We ride Bicycles in Hue and Hoi An, through laneways, among people going about their daily lives
We occasionally even use our feet to absorb the sights, sounds & smells of Vietnam.
But you will experience another culture everyday in Vietnam.
You will celebrate with the villagers after you build a house for them.
And you will encounter warm and friendly people, keen to open their lives to you.
Part of the richness of this trip is discovering some Vietnam’s turbulent history .... Chinese domination, French colonial impact, the Vietnam war. Visiting the Hanoi Hilton prison and War Remnants Museum gives a real insight to the Vietnamese perspective and experiences. And of course you’ll get an opportunity to go down into the Cu Chi tunnels and really experience the harsh conditions the inhabitants of the tunnels had to endure.
And towards the end of the trip, there will be an opportunity to visit a firing range with the weapons from World War Two.
We’ll also see huge craters from the bombs used in the wars.
Vietnam beyond the brochures ... something you will never, ... ever forget!
PAUSE !!!
So that’s a snapshot of the Big Experience trips for 2009. They are all unbelievable, they are all very different ... BUT ... they are all very similar in their underlying focuses.
They all encourage independence, enable you to make new friends, experience a different culture, travel, try new things, see different cities, experience a different environment, contribute to a community, and, they enable you to reflect on your own lifestyle and realise how very lucky we are. And now for something really exciting ...
Housekeeping.
1. The important Walk-a-thon fundraiser for the community aspect of all trips is held on Sunday August 9, so that’s a date for your calendar.
2. In regards to contingency plans and travel warnings in our destinations, the school and travel agents both closely monitor all destinations and the companies we use have the resources to change the itinerary both before or during a trip. So be very confident that we are not taking your children to dangerous locations, but feel free to check the smart traveller website for more information.
3. For specific health advice and immunisations for all destinations, we recommend you discuss individual issues with your family doctor. And please note that some immunisations need to be taken over a month before departure.
4. Overseas trips require a passport valid for 6 months after the return date. So, if you are thinking about selecting an overseas trip and need a passport it may be worth looking into this sooner rather than later.
5. The Melbourne Cup! Anybody got any hot tips! No, this is to alert you to the fact that the trips depart around Melbourne Cup weekend this year. So keep that in mind if you are planning something.
6. And, if you are considering one of the colleges overseas LOTE trips in 2010 or 2011 please pick up a letter as you leave from Ms Walsh.
Housekeeping.
1. The important Walk-a-thon fundraiser for the community aspect of all trips is held on Sunday August 9, so that’s a date for your calendar.
2. In regards to contingency plans and travel warnings in our destinations, the school and travel agents both closely monitor all destinations and the companies we use have the resources to change the itinerary both before or during a trip. So be very confident that we are not taking your children to dangerous locations, but feel free to check the smart traveller website for more information.
3. For specific health advice and immunisations for all destinations, we recommend you discuss individual issues with your family doctor. And please note that some immunisations need to be taken over a month before departure.
4. Overseas trips require a passport valid for 6 months after the return date. So, if you are thinking about selecting an overseas trip and need a passport it may be worth looking into this sooner rather than later.
5. The Melbourne Cup! Anybody got any hot tips! No, this is to alert you to the fact that the trips depart around Melbourne Cup weekend this year. So keep that in mind if you are planning something.
6. And, if you are considering one of the colleges overseas LOTE trips in 2010 or 2011 please pick up a letter as you leave from Ms Walsh.
Housekeeping.
1. The important Walk-a-thon fundraiser for the community aspect of all trips is held on Sunday August 9, so that’s a date for your calendar.
2. In regards to contingency plans and travel warnings in our destinations, the school and travel agents both closely monitor all destinations and the companies we use have the resources to change the itinerary both before or during a trip. So be very confident that we are not taking your children to dangerous locations, but feel free to check the smart traveller website for more information.
3. For specific health advice and immunisations for all destinations, we recommend you discuss individual issues with your family doctor. And please note that some immunisations need to be taken over a month before departure.
4. Overseas trips require a passport valid for 6 months after the return date. So, if you are thinking about selecting an overseas trip and need a passport it may be worth looking into this sooner rather than later.
5. The Melbourne Cup! Anybody got any hot tips! No, this is to alert you to the fact that the trips depart around Melbourne Cup weekend this year. So keep that in mind if you are planning something.
6. And, if you are considering one of the colleges overseas LOTE trips in 2010 or 2011 please pick up a letter as you leave from Ms Walsh.
Housekeeping.
1. The important Walk-a-thon fundraiser for the community aspect of all trips is held on Sunday August 9, so that’s a date for your calendar.
2. In regards to contingency plans and travel warnings in our destinations, the school and travel agents both closely monitor all destinations and the companies we use have the resources to change the itinerary both before or during a trip. So be very confident that we are not taking your children to dangerous locations, but feel free to check the smart traveller website for more information.
3. For specific health advice and immunisations for all destinations, we recommend you discuss individual issues with your family doctor. And please note that some immunisations need to be taken over a month before departure.
4. Overseas trips require a passport valid for 6 months after the return date. So, if you are thinking about selecting an overseas trip and need a passport it may be worth looking into this sooner rather than later.
5. The Melbourne Cup! Anybody got any hot tips! No, this is to alert you to the fact that the trips depart around Melbourne Cup weekend this year. So keep that in mind if you are planning something.
6. And, if you are considering one of the colleges overseas LOTE trips in 2010 or 2011 please pick up a letter as you leave from Ms Walsh.
Housekeeping.
1. The important Walk-a-thon fundraiser for the community aspect of all trips is held on Sunday August 9, so that’s a date for your calendar.
2. In regards to contingency plans and travel warnings in our destinations, the school and travel agents both closely monitor all destinations and the companies we use have the resources to change the itinerary both before or during a trip. So be very confident that we are not taking your children to dangerous locations, but feel free to check the smart traveller website for more information.
3. For specific health advice and immunisations for all destinations, we recommend you discuss individual issues with your family doctor. And please note that some immunisations need to be taken over a month before departure.
4. Overseas trips require a passport valid for 6 months after the return date. So, if you are thinking about selecting an overseas trip and need a passport it may be worth looking into this sooner rather than later.
5. The Melbourne Cup! Anybody got any hot tips! No, this is to alert you to the fact that the trips depart around Melbourne Cup weekend this year. So keep that in mind if you are planning something.
6. And, if you are considering one of the colleges overseas LOTE trips in 2010 or 2011 please pick up a letter as you leave from Ms Walsh.
Housekeeping.
1. The important Walk-a-thon fundraiser for the community aspect of all trips is held on Sunday August 9, so that’s a date for your calendar.
2. In regards to contingency plans and travel warnings in our destinations, the school and travel agents both closely monitor all destinations and the companies we use have the resources to change the itinerary both before or during a trip. So be very confident that we are not taking your children to dangerous locations, but feel free to check the smart traveller website for more information.
3. For specific health advice and immunisations for all destinations, we recommend you discuss individual issues with your family doctor. And please note that some immunisations need to be taken over a month before departure.
4. Overseas trips require a passport valid for 6 months after the return date. So, if you are thinking about selecting an overseas trip and need a passport it may be worth looking into this sooner rather than later.
5. The Melbourne Cup! Anybody got any hot tips! No, this is to alert you to the fact that the trips depart around Melbourne Cup weekend this year. So keep that in mind if you are planning something.
6. And, if you are considering one of the colleges overseas LOTE trips in 2010 or 2011 please pick up a letter as you leave from Ms Walsh.
READ ALL- But if you’ve already decided, the forms can go in the red box just over here and there are some extra forms here too if you’ve lost yours. Otherwise by March 26 forms go to myself or form teachers, and at Cornish Ms Banks, who will pass them on.
- OWN REASONS – not your friends reasons. If something truly inspires you go for it, you will certainly make new friends on the trip, as you will share a bond with whoever you go with!
- It is also important to consider your second choice as we cannot guarantee that everyone will receive their first choice.
- Fortunately choosing a trip is an EASY DECISION .... Why do I say that. Basically, because you can’t make a wrong or a bad choice because ...
- ALL TRIPS ARE AWESOME
Now, I’d like to end the evening with a few quotes from previous year 9 students.
READ ALL- But if you’ve already decided, the forms can go in the red box just over here and there are some extra forms here too if you’ve lost yours. Otherwise by March 26 forms go to myself or form teachers, and at Cornish Ms Banks, who will pass them on.
- OWN REASONS – not your friends reasons. If something truly inspires you go for it, you will certainly make new friends on the trip, as you will share a bond with whoever you go with!
- It is also important to consider your second choice as we cannot guarantee that everyone will receive their first choice.
- Fortunately choosing a trip is an EASY DECISION .... Why do I say that. Basically, because you can’t make a wrong or a bad choice because ...
- ALL TRIPS ARE AWESOME
Now, I’d like to end the evening with a few quotes from previous year 9 students.
READ ALL- But if you’ve already decided, the forms can go in the red box just over here and there are some extra forms here too if you’ve lost yours. Otherwise by March 26 forms go to myself or form teachers, and at Cornish Ms Banks, who will pass them on.
- OWN REASONS – not your friends reasons. If something truly inspires you go for it, you will certainly make new friends on the trip, as you will share a bond with whoever you go with!
- It is also important to consider your second choice as we cannot guarantee that everyone will receive their first choice.
- Fortunately choosing a trip is an EASY DECISION .... Why do I say that. Basically, because you can’t make a wrong or a bad choice because ...
- ALL TRIPS ARE AWESOME
Now, I’d like to end the evening with a few quotes from previous year 9 students.
READ ALL- But if you’ve already decided, the forms can go in the red box just over here and there are some extra forms here too if you’ve lost yours. Otherwise by March 26 forms go to myself or form teachers, and at Cornish Ms Banks, who will pass them on.
- OWN REASONS – not your friends reasons. If something truly inspires you go for it, you will certainly make new friends on the trip, as you will share a bond with whoever you go with!
- It is also important to consider your second choice as we cannot guarantee that everyone will receive their first choice.
- Fortunately choosing a trip is an EASY DECISION .... Why do I say that. Basically, because you can’t make a wrong or a bad choice because ...
- ALL TRIPS ARE AWESOME
Now, I’d like to end the evening with a few quotes from previous year 9 students.
READ ALL- But if you’ve already decided, the forms can go in the red box just over here and there are some extra forms here too if you’ve lost yours. Otherwise by March 26 forms go to myself or form teachers, and at Cornish Ms Banks, who will pass them on.
- OWN REASONS – not your friends reasons. If something truly inspires you go for it, you will certainly make new friends on the trip, as you will share a bond with whoever you go with!
- It is also important to consider your second choice as we cannot guarantee that everyone will receive their first choice.
- Fortunately choosing a trip is an EASY DECISION .... Why do I say that. Basically, because you can’t make a wrong or a bad choice because ...
- ALL TRIPS ARE AWESOME
Now, I’d like to end the evening with a few quotes from previous year 9 students.
Each year the feedback we receive from both students and parents is overwhelmingly positive.
PAUSE ...
You see, I get literally hundreds of quotes, like these from across the entire year level.
PAUSE ...
And I personally, am very enthusiastic about the enormous opportunity that the Big Experience represents.
PAUSE ...
I couldn’t select just one quote and I also didn’t want my enthusiasm to colour your view.
PAUSE ...
But, in the end the one quote that stood out for me the most was this ...
Read quote....
Thank you once again for coming this evening.
If you have any further questions, please come and speak to one of our trip leaders ...