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Hello and Welcome to Rustic Pathways! 2019 has been a critical year in the evolution of Rustic Pathways, which was founded way back in 1983 when we first introduced overland tours across the Australian Outback. We took the important step this year to formally align our company operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. For years we’ve measured and published the results of both the personal growth students experience on our programs as well as the impact they have on the communities they engage with and serve around the world. But we are always looking to improve and we want to do more. The United Nations identified 17 goals to better our world by 2030. That means our existing service work in partner communities will contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals and we’ve built a framework to ensure that all decisions we make as a company will be guided by those core principles. In addition to aligning with the UN SDGs, we have adopted policies to solidify our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. In 2014, we adopted a formal policy that outlines how we support LGBTQ, transgender, and gender non-conforming students. These efforts have also been applied internally through how Rustic Pathways hires, develops, and retains employees. We are also working to re-frame our student learning to resonate with our increasingly diverse student population, finding ways to adapt our programs to different learning styles, connect the value and impact of community projects to the perspectives of all stakeholders, and create more awareness of the impact our actions have on the world. We are working hard to navigate these opportunities and challenges as they relate to our students, staff, and communities, and recognize that this requires continuous evolution. Explore these pages and visit our website at rusticpathways.com to learn more about our community service and adventure travel programs for middle school, high school, and college students. Please let us know if we can help you or your teen identify the perfect program or combination of programs that meets their learning goals, contributes to their academic and personal growth, and produces lifelong friendships and memories. For those looking to travel again with us, welcome back! For first time travelers, we’re excited for you to join the Rustic family!
Chris Stakich CEO, Rustic Pathways
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Rustic Pathways in 2019
The World Youth and Student Educational Travel Confederation awarded Rustic the Best Youth Travel Operator by for the third time in four years.
Go Overseas Recognized Rustic as a top provider of volunteer travel programs.
Outside Magazine named Rustic one of its Best Places to Work for the third consecutive year.
How Students Rate Rustic Pathways Programs
Rustic Pathways holds a 95% favorable rating from previous travelers on GoOverseas, an independent international travel review site. Visit rusticpathways.com and click the Go Overseas logo on our homepage and program pages to read honest student reviews about their experiences traveling with us. rusticpathways.com 3
Our Mission Rustic Pathways empowers students through innovative and responsible travel experiences to positively impact lives and communities around the world.
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What’s Inside Where We Operate
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Why Rustic Pathways?
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- What Students and Parents are Saying about Rustic Pathways 7 - Experience: The Rustic Pathways Story
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- Experience: The Rustic Pathways Global Team
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- Impact: Student Development and Community Support
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- Safety: How We Protect the Health and Safety of Students
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How to Choose a Program
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How to Enroll
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Rustic Pathways Program Types
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Life of a Rustic Traveler
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Connecting Programs
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Mystery Trip
22
Australia
24
Cambodia
30
China
34
Costa Rica
38
Dominican Republic
48
Fiji Islands
54
India
62
Laos
66
Mongolia
70
Morocco
74
Peru
78
Tanzania
84
Thailand
90
United States
98
Vietnam
104
Group Travel
108
Gap Year Programs
109
Frequently Asked Questions
110
Program Index
112
Get In Touch
113
United States Morocco
Dominican Republic Costa Rica
Peru
Where We Operate
Australia
Costa Rica
Operating Since: 1983 Program Count: 5
Operating Since: 2003 Program Count: 12
Cambodia
Dominican Republic
Operating Since: 1999 Program Count: 2
Operating Since: 2012 Program Count: 7
China
Fiji
Operating Since: 2007 Program Count: 2
Operating Since: 1993 Program Count: 9
Mongolia
China
India
Vietnam Laos Cambodia
Nepal
Fiji
Tanzania Thailand Australia
New Zealand
India
Morocco
Peru
United States
Operating Since: 2005 Program Count: 1
Operating Since: 2012 Program Count: 4
Operating Since: 2008 Program Count: 4
Operating Since: 2006 Program Count: 4
Laos
Nepal
Tanzania
Vietnam
Operating Since: 2008 Program Count: 3
Operating Since: 2012 Program Count: (included in India)
Operating Since: 2005 Program Count: 5
Operating Since: 2005 Program Count: 1
Mongolia
New Zealand
Thailand
Operating Since: 2009 Program Count: 1
Operating Since: 1993 Program Count: (included in Fiji)
Operating Since: 1999 Program Count: 8
Base house programs available in country
Why Rustic Pathways?
Experience
Impact
Safety
Founded in 1983, Rustic Pathways was named the Best Youth Travel Operator three of the last four years by The World Youth Student Education & Travel Confederation. More than 95% of students recommend us to friends and family.
All of our community service initiatives contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development goals. Nearly 98% of students demonstrated growth in at least one of our 10 Student Learning Outcomes last year.
More than 10,000 students travel with us every year and return home safely after immersive experiences that include end-to-end student supervision by trained professionals. We maintain a student-to-leader ratio of no more than six-to-one.
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What Students and Parents are Saying about Rustic Pathways
Kiara Royer New York, New York
Off the Map: Peru and Turtle Conservation Project
I loved the intensity of the travel, all the activities we did (my favorite was mountain biking) and how close we got as a group. I believe this trip taught me how to solve problems on my own, in a foreign country, and how to deal with issues when they don’t always go your way.
From the Parents of Rustic Students
Sammy Rosenberg Scarsdale, New York
Tanzania: African Wildlife Conservation, Climbing Kili, and Serengeti to Zanzibar
I left every trip in awe of the amazing people I met and feeling grateful for the opportunities I had. I can confidently say my month spent in Tanzania changed my life for the better. I have grown in my understanding and acceptance of different cultures, I discovered a strength and resilience inside myself, and I developed relationships with wonderful people. Thank you so much Rustic!
Every time my daughter goes on a Rustic Pathways trip it changes her for the better. The experience she gains from these trips is just something you can’t do on a family summer trip.
We are grateful for our experience with Rustic Pathways. Not only have both of my children enjoyed amazing travel experiences, but they are becoming more globally-conscious and inspired to affect positive change whenever possible, thanks in part to your programs.
Craig Cowart, Amber’s dad Dunedin, Florida
Laura Elia, Maya and Noah’s mom Dallas, Texas
Iris Rodriguez San Antonio, Texas
Island Living and Eco-Service
I loved everything about the trip. From the leaders to the fellow students to the places we went and even to the food. Everyday I would wake up excited for what we would do next. I loved working with local community members and not only doing community service but having open discussions about what we were doing and why it was important.
Both of my children have grown in their independence, developed a more inclusive worldview and made lifelong friends through their many adventures with Rustic Pathways. Dr. Cynthia Newman, Jenna and Zack’s mom Lawrenceville, New Jersey
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Experience The Rustic Pathways Story Rustic Pathways has been the leader in community service and adventure student travel programs for 37 years. Through purposeful design, we create culturally-immersive travel programs for students ages 12 to 22, customizable teacher-led trips for school groups, and gap year semesters for recent high school grads. The Beginning | 1983
Rustic Pathways was founded as an overland-touring company in Australia. Back in those early days, the only trip we ran was an eight-week adventure through the Australian Outback. Our organization has changed a lot since then, but our programs still embody that pioneering rustic spirit.
1996 | Community Service Programming
We expanded our programming to New Zealand and the Fiji Islands and started working with communities in Fiji’s Nausori highlands to offer programs specifically designed around community service projects. We soon realized these were incredibly powerful experiences for the communities, our students, and staff.
Expansion to Asia and the Americas | 1999
Over the years, more and more people joined Rustic from different parts of the world who wanted us to expand to their home countries and communities. That’s how we grew our operations across Asia, Central and South America, Africa, and the United States in the late 1990s and 2000s.
2006 | Rustic Pathways Foundation
We created the Rustic Pathways Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, to enhance and sustain the Rustic’s positive impact. Students returned home inspired and wanted to stay involved with the communities they visited with Rustic. Through the Foundation, the Rustic community raised more than $500,000 in 2018 to provide ongoing support to our community partners.
Gap Year and Group Travel | 2007 and 2012
Gap year programs, which we introduced in 2007, allowed us to expose high school graduates to experiences that last up to three months and provide important learning and growth opportunities before they head to college. Creating Group Travel in 2012 gave us the ability to partner with teachers who wanted to provide immersive educational experiences to their students as a supplement to traditional classroom learning.
2016 | Measuring our Impact
Aligning with the United Nations | 2019
To meet the demands of a changing world and push ourselves to be better, Rustic aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Not only will our community service outcomes contribute to the 17 goals the UN is working to address by 2030, but everything we do as an organization will be guided by those core principles.
After running student travel programs for more than three decades, we understood how much culturally-immersive experiences influence the development of our students and impact their overall education. We wanted that development to be more intentional so we created our 10 Student Learning Outcomes and designed programs around them. We publish whether students experience the growth their programs are intended to foster in our annual Impact Report and use the results to update existing and create new programs.
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The Rustic Pathways Global Team Our exceptional staff members are the backbone of our organization. Their incredibly diverse backgrounds provide us with a profound understanding of the destinations we visit and offer our students one-of-a-kind experiences.
International Staff
Exceptional Program Leaders
Rustic Pathways spans the globe! Most of our staff members are based outside the United States. While the cultural traditions of our staff vary from country to country, the shared values that define Rustic Pathways and make them exceptional extend across all borders. We build leadership teams that pair international and local staff, resulting in diverse groups that blend an understanding of students and their needs with deep local knowledge.
Our Program Leaders have backgrounds in teaching, experiential education, service learning, psychology, wilderness training, international development, and other outdoor and educational fields. Each year, we hold in-country training sessions for both new and returning staff to ensure we maintain our standards in safety, student learning, community service, and the overall Rustic Pathways student experience. Program Leaders are incredible role models for students and, most importantly, they’re all dedicated to creating the best possible programs for students.
The Rustic Pathways Team by the Numbers more than
staff members from more than
countries across the globe speaking more than
different languages
Visit rusticpathways.com/team to learn more about our global staff.
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Impact Student Development and Community Support Global impact is at the core of what we do. Rustic Pathways is committed to creating positive impact through transformative student travel experiences that facilitate meaningful engagement with our partners around the world. To create global impact, we focus on two areas: community impact and student impact.
Community Impact
Student Impact
Goal: Create a world where travel is a model of sustainable development by fostering positive impact around the world through community engagement, strong local collaboration, and responsible business practices.
Goal: Inspire a future generation of globally-minded self-aware change makers to create positive impact at a local and global level.
Community Projects • Partnering with community members and organizations at a local level while aligning with global best practices like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. • Working collaboratively with local partners to develop long-term plans that address high-priority community needs, supported by our staff of international development professionals with a deep understanding of community needs. • Creating appropriate roles for students to engage in meaningful community service projects, showing that small efforts add up to create large collective impact. • Supporting high-priority projects year-round through the Rustic Pathways Foundation, our nonprofit. • Inspiring students and staff to stay involved in community impact efforts from anywhere in the world. Sustainable Travel Committing to responsible travel practices through a holistic approach that embodies economic support, sustainability, and responsible traveler conduct.
Economy Stimulating local economies by prioritizing fair market wages for local staff, partnering with local vendors, and frequenting locally-run businesses.
Environment Conducting global operations in ways that minimize negative impact on the environment.
Responsible Conduct Respecting local culture, understanding our role in a community, and teaching students responsible travel practices.
Program Leader Training
Travel Experience
Program Development
Student Learning Experience
Student Impact Cycle Program Design
Intentional Debrief and Reflection
Analysis of Trends Student Impact Survey
Student Impact Evaluation
Student Learning Experience • Creating student travel experiences centered on global issues, where students learn directly from community partners • Facilitating meaningful discussions that challenge students to reflect on the complexities of travel, international development, and the role they play. • Encouraging students to apply lessons learned from the program to lead positive change back home. Student Impact Evaluation • Measuring student growth and non-cognitive development through defined Student Learning Outcomes. Program Development • Designing programs that challenge students to think critically and experience personal growth. • Applying the results of our Student Impact Evaluation to improve our programs and training Program Leaders to facilitate those experiences.
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Aligning our existing community and student impact work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals allows us to take what we’re already doing a step further. Our service programs contribute directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including improving access to education, protecting and preserving the environment, and ensuring access to basic human needs such as water, housing, and food. Not only will our community service outcomes contribute to the 17 goals the UN is working to address by 2030, but everything we do as an organization will be guided by those core principles.
How We Align Project Outcomes with the Sustainable Development Goals Rustic Pathways has partnered with the Sacred Valley Project since 2016 to assist with its efforts to provide educational access to girls from rural Andean communities. Students assist the Sacred Valley Project during Sacred Valley Service and the Rustic Pathways Foundation provides ongoing support through donations. Rustic’s community and student impact outcomes now contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals related to education and gender equality.
Rustic Pathways Global Impact Committee Meet the committee working to monitor Rustic’s community impact work, provide shared accountability, and help lead Rustic’s company-wide alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Andrea Bouch
Rustic Pathways Foundation Executive Director
Erin Murphy
Student Impact Director
Brendan Fields
Dominican Republic Community Impact Manager
Laura Toole
Australia Community Impact Manager
Tusekile Mwakalundwa
Tanzania Community Impact Manager
Daniel Alpizar
Costa Rica Community Impact Manager
Chone Chaowai Thailand Community Impact Manager
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Safety How We Protect the Health and Safety of Students Ensuring the safety of students as they travel with Rustic Pathways is among the most important things we do. For more 37 years, we’ve refined our safety and security protocols to become a leader among providers of student travel programs.
Rustic Pathways Health and Safety Measures We take students to remote destinations, expose them to unfamiliar surroundings, and encourage personal growth through exploration. When conducted responsibly, these experiences transform students in ways that are impossible to replicate inside the classroom, and for this reason, the health and safety measures we take are a fundamental part of our travel programs. Food and Water Rustic chefs and cooks prepare meals and are trained to make necessary adjustments for specific dietary needs and allergies. Some meals will take place at trusted local restaurants. All water is bottled or purified. Program Leaders Many Program Leaders have backgrounds in teaching, experiential education, or international development. All full-time leaders are Wilderness First Responders and seasonal staff are First Aid and CPR certified—at a minimum. All Program Leaders receive additional specialized training annually in country before each summer travel season begins. Vendors and Partners Rustic audits all external vendors and partners regularly to assess whether they’re reputable and safe. We review business infrastructure, hiring and training processes, and emergency management systems. All accommodation, transportation, and activity vendors and partners meet Rustic’s safety standards. Child Protection We work to create a safe environment for children and young adults and to protect them from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation in any form. All staff undergo comprehensive background checks and receive our annual child protection policy training. Rustic students also learn about child protection and how to interact with local children during their programs.
Before Your Program 1. Complete Rustic’s Medical and Emergency form, which includes relevant medical histories, medications, food allergies, and dietary restrictions. Our Participant Screening Team relays that information to Country Teams. 2. Ask your Personal Travel Advisor any additional questions about your upcoming trip. They can also provide pre-trip support before you leave, including instructions for obtaining vaccinations, visas, and passports and offering packing tips. 3. Attend a pre-trip information session either in person or online to ask any last-minute questions about your trip.
During Your Program 1. Fly with your Rustic Pathways Flight Leader to your destination country. 2. Meet your expert Program Leaders, who will be with you around the clock to deliver your program experience, answer any questions, or provide any medical assistance. 3. Students and their parents have 24 / 7 emergency support and access to services from International SOS, the leading provider of international medical, security, and travel assistance.
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Meet the Rustic Pathways Health and Safety Team Rustic’s Health and Safety Team has more than 100 years of combined industry experience. Their focus is safeguarding you and your students, and ensuring our programs are carefully designed and delivered responsibly.
Dave Dennis
Dr. Will Smith
With a master’s degree in risk management and more than 20 years of experience, Dave is the perfect fit to lead Rustic’s Health and Safety Team. Before joining Rustic in 2014, Dave owned a consulting firm that implemented risk management and emergency response programs for global tour operators. He now works with our teams to ensure quality and consistency in all Rustic programs. Dave lives in Colorado with his wife and children.
Dr. Will Smith is a recognized leader in wilderness medicine who joined Rustic Pathways in 2015. He practices emergency medicine in Jackson, Wyoming, is clinical faculty for the University of Washington School of Medicine, and the Medical Director for the National Park Service. Locally, he is Co-Medical Director for Grand Teton National Park, Teton County Search & Rescue, Bridger Teton National Forest, and Jackson Hole Fire / EMS.
Dr. David Baker
Ann Dunphy
David Baker, a psychological consultant in Winter Park, Florida, joined Rustic Pathways in 2013. Dr. Baker has taught psychology and theology at Rollins College, the University of Central Florida, and the Seattle School for Theology and Psychology. He currently teaches at the Tampa Bay Institute for Psychoanalytic Studies. Dr. Baker holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in theology.
Ann has worked in emergency medicine for 35 years and has been an EMT and Wilderness First Responder instructor for decades. She has a bachelor’s degree in education and certifications in specialized emergency medicine. When not screening students before travel, Ann teaches for Wilderness Medical Associates and picks up ambulance shifts to keep her skills sharp. Based in northern Wisconsin, Ann selflessly dedicates herself to helping others.
Safety and Risk Management Director
Mental Health Director
Medical Director
Medical Screening Manager
Additional Safety Information Q: Do students need health insurance to travel? A: Rustic Pathways requires that all students have international medical insurance coverage for the duration of their travels. In the event of injury or illness, we will take care of your student’s well-being; however, the family is responsible for all expenses incurred for medical treatment and services received. Students should carry their insurance information while traveling on Rustic Pathways programs. Q: How does Rustic monitor international safety and security? A: Global security is monitored through government agencies in the United States, UK, and Australia, and the Overseas Security and Advisory Council. Health monitoring is conducted through the WHO and CDC. Q: Does Rustic have an international medical and evacuation provider? A: Yes! Rustic also monitors safety and security with the help of International SOS, a leader in international medical, security, and travel services. All Rustic Pathways travelers also have access to International SOS services. Q: How does Rustic respond to emergencies? A: Country Operations teams and the Safety Director create risk management plans. They include critical incident protocols and natural disaster plans. However, most incidents Rustic responds to involve minor illnesses common during international travel. Program Leaders manage these situations with the support of Country Operations teams. Visit rusticpathways.com/safety for more information.
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How to Choose a Program We understand there’s a lot to choose from, but we’re here to help. If your child is a Rustic Pathways alum or already deep into the program evaluation process, but they’re stuck, that’s OK. Skip to Connect With Us on the next page for more info about how to get your questions answered online, by phone, or in person. If you’re new to Rustic, start here:
3 Things to Consider Destination
Experience Type
Duration
Close to home Community Service
weeks
Adventure Regional Travel
weeks
Across the Globe
Off the Beaten Path
weeks
Need inspiration? Flip through these pages to review Rustic Pathways program photos and highlights. And visit rusticpathways.com for full itineraries and more information about programs, country destinations, and the teams that facilitate program experiences. Follow us on Instagram at instagram.com/rusticpathways. All photos and videos are from Rustic staff and students. There’s no better way to get a look behind the scenes! If you’re a parent, join our Facebook parents group at facebook.com/groups/rusticparents. Ask questions, interact with other parents, and engage with the online Rustic community. 16 rusticpathways.com
Connect With Us If your child needs help choosing a program, you’re not alone. We created a team of travel experts to work with families like yours to help you identify the right Rustic Pathways program. Not only are our Global Program Advisors seasoned travelers who’ve been around the world, they’ve also worked for years in multiple capacities with Rustic from leading programs in most of our country destinations to running on-theground country operations.
Meet the Rustic Pathways Global Program Advisors We’re real people! We’re not bots. Rustic doesn’t have a call center. When you reach out, one of us will respond. We love to talk Rustic and travel. Let us know how we can help!
Emily Harney
Casey Atchley
Home base: Auckland, New Zealand Years at Rustic: 12 Rustic experience: Former Australia Country Manager, led programs in seven countries Fun fact: Visited Australia Zoo 98 times
Home base: Los Angeles, California Years at Rustic: 6 Rustic experience: Former Costa Rica Program Manager, Gap Year Admissions Coordinator, led programs in three countries Fun fact: Led hikes up six of Nicaragua’s 13 volcanoes
Connor Stowe
Jessie Wachter
Home base: Nomadic Years at Rustic: 10 Rustic experience: Former India Country Director and Rustic Manager of Positive Energy, led nearly 60 programs in 15 countries Fun fact: Internationally-ranked pinball athlete
Home base: Denver, Colorado Years at Rustic: 11 Rustic experience: Former Tanzania Country Director, led programs in 14 countries Fun fact: Played semi-professional softball in Greece and competed in two Euro Cups
How to Get in Touch
Online Chat rusticpathways.com
Email rustic@rusticpathways.com
Phone 800.321.4353
More Options to Get in Touch Attend a Webinar We host webinars each month about a variety of topics including choosing a program, programs for first-time travelers, scholarships, Q&As with Rustic alumni, community service, and more.
Meet Us in Person Our team will be visiting schools across the United States this year. Keep in touch to see when we’ll be in your area.
Visit rusticpathways.com/events for more info about webinars and in-person events and to sign up.
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How to Enroll After you’ve identified a program, it’s time to enroll! Enroll online at rusticpathways.com by clicking any of the “Enroll Now” buttons and follow the instructions on the form. If you’re not quite ready or considering multiple programs, you can save your spot for three days. Click “Save Your Spot” and enter your contact info. We’ll be in touch shortly after with enrollment instructions and more info.
Flights When you enroll, you’ll have the option to select a chaperoned group flight arranged by Rustic Pathways or you can book your own airfare. Chaperoned Group Flights Rustic handles all flight details, including booking and troubleshooting ticket changes or flight delays / cancellations. Our staff greet students at the airport, fly with them to their destination country (and on their return flight home), help them navigate customs and immigration and find their baggage, and stay with them for the duration of the program. In addition to peace of mind for parents, our chaperoned group flights are the beginning of the experience for many students who meet and start to develop friendships before the program even starts. Self-Managed Airfare Families also have the option of booking their child’s flights independently for an additional charge. To ensure your child arrives to their program on time, we ask that you book a flight scheduled to land within a six-hour window, which will depend on the destination country and program, that we’ll publish on Feb. 1, 2020. Students who arrive outside of the arrival window will incur additional charges. Please note, because Rustic is not involved in the purchase of selfmanaged airfare, we will not be able to assist with any flight delays, cancellations, or additional costs associated with those changes. Your Personal Travel Advisor will be in touch after you enroll with more info about how and when to book your child’s airfare. Go to rusticpathways.com/flights to learn more about airfare options.
Scholarships If you’re ready to enroll, but want to apply for a scholarship, do that first! Rustic Pathways believes every student should have the opportunity to learn through travel. In 2018, we awarded nearly $285,000 in scholarships to students who demonstrated financial need or merit achievement in four categories: • Service Scholarships – high school students • Gap Year Scholarships – students who are 17 to 21 and have graduated from high school by the time their gap year starts • Teacher Appreciation Program Scholarships – children of educators in middle or high school, or college Students are required to provide proof of family income and answer essay questions about why they deserve a scholarship. Go to rusticpathways.com/scholarships to review deadlines and apply for a scholarship. Click “Apply Now” for the scholarship that is the best fit for you and follow the instructions.
Fundraising All students also are encouraged to review our fundraising resources. Many Rustic Pathways alumni have successfully raised some or all of their program costs through a variety of fundraising methods. 1. Create a crowdfunding page and spread the word on social. 2. Host an event and ask a local business to provide goods or services you can raffle. 3. Make something you can sell and tell your customers why you’re raising money. For more fundraising ideas, tips about how to maximize your efforts, a potential donor checklist and sample letters you can use with friends and family, check out Rustic Pathways’ Fundraising Guide at rusticpathways.com/fundraising-guide.
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What Happens After You Enroll? Immediate Following Enrollment, You’ll Get: • An email confirmation (within minutes). • A welcome letter in the mail from your Personal Travel Advisor, your primary contact for any and all questions (within a week). • Your pre-departure package, which includes some travel swag to get your child started including a Rustic Pathways t-shirt, luggage tags, and stickers (within a month).
Before Your Program, You’ll Review: • Your My Rustic Portal where you can find info about your program, including a packing list and packing tips from students and our staff, details about your destination country, resources to apply for a visa (if necessary), and how to prepare for your program (three to six months before your departure). • Pre-departure emails with specific info about your program and other useful travel info to help get you and your child prepared (from three months until you depart to travel day).
During Your Program, Your Child Will: • Meet Rustic staff at their international departure airport who will answer their questions, help them child check in, get them through security, and fly with them to their destination country (on their travel day). • Arrive in country and meet their Program Leaders and take them to their accommodation for an orientation to their program (later that day or the next day).* • Participate in community service and / or adventure activities, experience new cultures, make new friends, and so much more (for the duration of their program).
After Their Program, Your Child Should: • Keep an eye on their inbox for info about how to stay connected to the Rustic Pathways community (within a week). • Join the Alumni Association and become a Rustic Pathways Foundation Impact Ambassador (within a month). • Enroll in a program and start planning their next adventure with Rustic (within a month or more). * You’ll get an email as soon as your child arrives in country. During their program, you’ll also receive frequent updates about via email. Follow our social media pages for more summer highlights from Rustic programs around the world.
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Rustic Pathways Program Types Rustic Pathways programs span the globe. Choose from options for middle school (Young Explorers), high school, and college students in 17 countries. All Rustic Pathways programs include community service projects or adventure activities, but most include a bit of both. Review program types in this catalog and online at rusticpathways.com to identify the perfect program or combination of programs that are right for you. You can also filter programs online by service type if you have a particular interest in one of the following five areas:
Community Service
Adventure
One- to three-week programs that impact community partners and contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
One- to three-week programs that expose students to new culture and adventure activities around the world.
Featured Programs: 1 week: Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica or Fiji 2 weeks: Summer Camp Leadership in Costa Rica or the Dominican Republic 3 weeks: Off the Map: Cambodia
Featured Programs: 1 week: Caribbean Adrenaline 2 weeks: Climbing Kili 3 weeks: Pacific Adrenaline
Service + Adventure
Service + Culture
One- to three-week programs that combine the right mix of service and adventure programs in most Rustic country destinations.
Two- and three-week programs that combine service with deep cultural immersion in a local community.
• Community Health and Social Services • Education • Economic Development • Environment and Animal Welfare • Infrastructure
Featured Programs: 1 week: Surf and Service in Costa Rica 2 weeks: Aloha Service 3 weeks: Peru by Backpack
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Featured Programs: 2 weeks: Sacred Valley Service or Culture and the Crater 3 weeks: Come With Nothing: The Mekong Expedition
Base House
Rustic Only
Language and Skills
One- and two-week programs designed for first-time travelers at facilities that provide some comforts of home.
Three-week programs unique to Rustic Pathways for students who want to get off the beaten path. Includes Off the Map, Come With Nothing, and Ultimate programs and the Mystery Trip
One- and two-week programs for beginners and advanced learners that include daily lessons and cultural immersion.
Featured Programs: 1 week: Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica, or Fiji 2 weeks: Marine Service and Adventure, Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Conservation
Featured Programs: 3 weeks: Off the Map: Cambodia or Mongolia, Come with Nothing: The Mekong Expedition, Ultimate Africa or Asia
Featured Programs: 1 week: Ramp up Your Spanish 2 weeks: Spanish Immersion and Service, Advanced Photography in Morocco
Homestay
Conservation
Spring Break
One- and two-week cultural immersion experiences that pair students with carefully-vetted local host families.
One- and two-week programs that allow students to engage with organizations working to protect vulnerable species and the environment.
One-week programs offered in March and April for adventurous Spring Break travelers.
Featured Programs: 1 week: Ramp up Your Spanish 2 weeks: Laos Service Adventure, Floating Village Service Expedition
Featured Programs: 1 week: Turtle Conservation Project, Serengeti to Zanizibar 2 weeks: Animal Conservation in Australia, Marine Service and Adventure
Featured Programs: 1 week: Spring to the Dominican Republic, Spring to Fiji, and Spring to Peru’s Sacred Valley
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Life of a Rustic Traveler If you’re considering multi-year travel for your child with Rustic Pathways, we’ve also put together a list of recommended program types by year of travel and year in school. Don’t worry if your child is already a junior or senior in high school; this is just a guide that can be adjusted based on their needs, interests, and academic goals. Year of Travel
School Grade
Program Type
1
Grades 7-8
Young Explorers
2
Grade 9
Base House or Community Service
3
Grade 10
Adventure or Service + Adventure
4
Grade 11
Homestay
5
Grade 12
Service + Culture or Rustic Only
6
Gap Year / College
Gap Year / Verto or College
Connecting Programs Rustic Pathways programs are also designed to seamlessly connect in the same country or geographic region, allowing your child to build their perfect summer experience. Your child can get the most from their Rustic adventure by meeting more students, community members, and staff. And they’ll explore the country or region on a deeper level and really immerse in the travel experience. To simplify the process, we’ve compiled program recommendations that last for four weeks in the same country or six weeks in the same region. We’ve also included a six-week recommendation that combines our three week Ultimate Asia and Ultimate Africa programs, which would allow your child to visit nine countries and one semi-autonomous region (Zanzibar!) during two incredible programs. If your child prefers to connect other programs by combining multiple types of service or simply other options than the examples we’ve provided, great! Programs in the same country generally start and end from the same location, though some countries could require an additional internal flight. And regional programs are usually a short flight apart. Students connecting programs in the same country will be escorted by Rustic staff to their next accommodation to meet their new Program Leaders and group. Students connecting programs in the same region will be escorted by Rustic staff to the airport to catch a flight to their next destination country, where they’ll be met by their new Program Leaders and group. Look for the
icon on program pages throughout the catalog for more connecting programs recommendations.
22 rusticpathways.com
Four-Week Country Specific Recommendations Australia
Costa Rica
Dominican Republic
Surf and Service in Australia
Surf and Service in Costa Rica
Seven Wonders of Australia
Heart of the Jungle
Fiji
Tanzania
Thailand
Marine Life and Coastal Restoration
Sun, Sand, and International Service
Culture and the Crater
Intro to Community Service in Thailand
Life in the Bateyes
Big Fiji Explorer
Climbing Kili
Island Hopping and Diving
Program 1
Program 2
Six-Week Regional Recommendations Americas 1
Americas 2
Asia
South Pacific
World
Peru Andes to Amazon
United States Rebuilding New Orleans
Laos and Thailand Southeast Asian Adventurer
Australia Seven Wonders of Australia
Various Ultimate Asia
Dominican Republic Marine Life and Coastal Restoration
Dominican Republic Life in the Bateyes
Vietnam Hanoi to Ha Long
Fiji Highlands and Islands Service Immersion
Various Ultimate Africa
Costa Rica Heart of the Jungle
Peru La Niùa Andina: Women’s Empowerment in Peru
Cambodia Floating Village Service Expedition
Fiji Marine Service and Adventure
Program 1
Program 2
Program 3
To chat through the logistics of connecting programs or the life of the Rustic traveler, or for additional recommendations not listed on these pages, reach out to our team of expert Global Program Advisors (more info on page 15) who can answer any question you might have. Get in touch through online chat at rusticpathways.com, by email at rustic@rusticpathways.com, or by phone at 800.321.4353.
rusticpathways.com 23
Global Alumni Leadership Academy Build your leadership skills, design a global community development project, and develop the tools to become a Rustic Pathways Program Leader in Fiji, Morocco, or Tanzania
Immerse yourself in global leadership development and see first-hand how Rustic Pathways creates transformational global programs around the world. The Rustic recipe is simple: we build enduring relationships with local communities and create transformational programs for students to support those communities’ development priorities. This program drops you into a front row seat to experience how Rustic Pathways creates leads transformational global experiences. Start the program with a deep field immersion to meet with local community leaders, hear from NGOs and development organizations, and interview individuals impacted by the issue in their own home community. During the second week, learn the Rustic Pathways leadership philosophy and dive into the same training our world-class program leaders receive. You’ll also meet one-on-one with a leadership coach during the second week to develop an individual leadership plan. Collaborate with students in your leadership cohort to design the perfect travel experience to best attract other students to support your community service project. You’ll be in the driver’s seat to make real change, as Rustic Pathways will select at least two of the most impactful programs and actually run them. Students from the selected programs will be invited back as program leaders in training the following year.
ALUMNI ONLY
APPLICATION REQUIRED
Days
18 days
Cost
$5,995 USD plus airfare
Ages
16 and up
Departures July 7 - 22 (Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
How to Join This program is by application only and is highly selective. Rustic Pathways will select students on the basis of their demonstrated leadership ability and interest in impacting local communities. Students may apply to this program in any country but priority will be given to students who apply to a location they previously traveled with Rustic Pathways. Rustic Pathways will begin accepting applications for the Global Alumni Leadership Academy on September 1st, 2019. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through February 15th but priority will be given to early applicants
24 rusticpathways.com
rusticpathways.com 25
The best adventures lie in the unknown. Imagine not knowing where your travels will take you this summer—until arriving at the airport for your flight. When you sign up for Rustic’s Mystery Trip, you’ll get a Patagonia duffel bag in the mail filled with subtle hints about your upcoming adventure and a packing list about a month before you leave. That’s it. Even when you arrive in country, the mystery looms. There’s no itinerary. Instead, you’ll wake to clues each morning that your group must decipher to unravel that day’s adventure. Join Rustic’s fourth Mystery Trip and explore iconic sites, discover the remote villages of some of our most beloved staff members, and blaze a trail for future students by exploring destinations we haven’t visited. Are you willing to take the leap?
26 rusticpathways.com
ADVENTURE
RUSTIC ONLY
Days
18 days
Cost
$5,995 USD plus airfare
Ages
16 and up
Departures June 23, July 7 (Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Visit rusticpathways.com/mystery for more information.
rusticpathways.com 27
Australia
The magical Land Down Under occupies a special place in Rustic Pathways’ history as the location of our program in 1983. As Rustic has expanded across the world, Australia has remained at the heart of our first operations, thanks to the tireless efforts of our energetic and expert Aussie staff. Whether on adventure or service trips, these blokes and sheilas bring with them years of experience, knowledge, and a strong pride in their wild homeland.
majestic Australia is ___________.
Known for its vast outback and pristine coasts, Australia programs feature awesome outdoor activities like surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, skydiving, encountering wildlife, and riding through the Outback in a 4x4 vehicle. No matter which program you choose, you’re bound to have a blast!
Population
25.4 million
Capital City
Canberra – the Australian Capital Territory
Currency
Aussie Dollar (AUD)
Language
English with Aussie slang
Attractions
The Great Barrier Reef – a 1,600-mile reef system visible from space
The Outback – home to Uluru and the world’s largest cattle ranches
Sydney Harbour – famous for its view of the Opera House
Sam Murray | Australia Country Director “Novice and experienced travelers alike will find themselves in awe of Australia. While some come for our beaches, reefs, and wildlife, others seek the dramatic gorges and red dirt of the Outback. In a country that’s nearly the size of the United States, yet with only 25 million people, it’s not hard to escape the crowds and find true adventure.” Sam joined Rustic Pathways in 2008 after working in outdoor education for 10 years. He serves as director for both inbound and outbound operations in Australia. With education degrees from La Trobe and Monash universities, Sam’s passion for travel and love of the outdoors inspires him to provide life-changing programs for students. Sam loves sharing adventures with people and is proud to show off his beautiful country. He lives near Melbourne with his wife and three young girls.
28 australia@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Animal Conservation in Australia Surf and Service in Australia Great Barrier Reef Dive Expedition Island Survival Seven Wonders of Australia
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
•• •• ••• • ••
• •• ••• ••• •••
••• •• •• ••• ••
• •• •• •• •••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
30 hours
16 days
$4,995
25 hours
16 days
$5,495
10 hours
16 days
$9,995
20 hours
16 days
$5,495
15 hours
16 days
$6,495
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/au 29
Glass House Mountains Service Base Nestled amongst eucalyptus trees and rainforest on a 50-acre property on Australia’s Sunshine Coast, the secluded Glass House Mountains Service Base offers spacious communal living space, dormitory-style bedrooms with bunk beds, and modern bathrooms. Get to know this area of southeastern Queensland, which has a unique culture of laid back yet hard-working people. Located about one-hour north of Brisbane in the small town of Peachester, the base has beautiful views of the Glass House Mountains. During your downtime, hike nearby trails, tell stories around the campfire, play soccer on the lawn, or enjoy a game of ping pong indoors.
Service Initiatives Education: Participate in a variety of education activities to assist preschool and primary school teachers with their students during Young Explorers: Land Down Under. Join an art lesson, help with a special needs class, and play cricket with Aussie kids during school breaks. Environment and Animal Welfare: Work in pairs or small groups helping zookeepers maintain animal enclosures, prepare food, and feed animals during Animal Conservation in Australia. Work in a different area of the zoo each day to experience how zookeepers care for different animals. Put your new knowledge to use assisting veterinarians at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
CONSERVATION
BASE HOUSE
Animal Conservation in Australia Conservation at Steve Irwin’s world-famous Australia Zoo 16 days | $4,995 plus airfare Channel your passion for wildlife during this program designed for animal lovers interested in zoology, ecology, conservation, or veterinary science. After orientation, help prepare food and enrichment for amazing wildlife, watch keepers present guest talks, and assist with interactive animal enclosures. Volunteer alongside keepers perform a variety of tasks like gardening, mulching, pond scrubbing, raking, and poop scooping—it’s all part of the experience! Meet some of the majestic creatures that call Australia home and return home knowing what it’s really like to care for wildlife at a zoo. Ages
15 and up
Service
Up to 30 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7, July 21
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Connects well with… Island Survival Base House Program: Glass House Mountain Service Base
30
Australia
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
ADVENTURE
Surf and Service in Australia
21 dives during two live-aboard dive expeditions on this epic aquatic adventure
16 days | $5,495 plus airfare Spend two weeks in the water on this high-adrenaline service adventure. Learn to surf with Aussie instructors and develop your ocean skills at some of Australia’s best surf breaks. Stay at a surf house on the Sunshine Coast, then road trip to Surfers Paradise and Byron Bay. Ride a jet boat, sea kayak with dolphins, and spot humpback whales. Spend two nights at a farm and experience Australia’s ancient Aboriginal culture. Along the way, help special-needs athletes, participate in environmental preservation, and cook meals for the homeless through a series of service projects. 14 and up
Service
Up to 25 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
Connects well with… Seven Wonders of Australia
CONSERVATION
Great Barrier Reef Dive Expedition
An action-packed service adventure on Australia’s east coast
Ages
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
16 days | $9,995 plus airfare Join the ultimate dive adventure on the Great Barrier Reef. Get certified as an open water diver or take an advanced course during your first live-aboard boat trip. Venture into the far reaches of the Coral Sea on a four-day trip to snorkel with dwarf minke whales, a type of baleen whale that visit the reef along their migratory path each year from June to August. When not swimming with whales and other marine animals, join marine biologists to help evaluate the sustainable management of ecotourism. Log up to 21 day and night dives during your trip. When not out at sea, get your blood pumping on the jungle swing or during a bungee jump (add-on activity)! Ages
15 and up
Service
Up to 10 community service hours
Departures
June 16, July 30
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for internal and international airfare costs.
Connects well with… Animal Conservation in Australia
rusticpathways.com/au 31
Australia
ADVENTURE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
ADVENTURE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
Island Survival
Seven Wonders of Australia
The ultimate challenge for body, mind, and soul
A picturesque journey through the landscapes of the Land Down Under
16 days | $5,495 USD plus airfare
16 days | $6,495 USD plus airfare
Fly to Australia and then head to a remote island off the coast with only five survival items of your choice. Think of this unique challenge as Rustic’s version of “Survivor.” For eight days, your group will inhabit Rustic Island, which is surrounded by coral reef and turquoise lagoons. Undertake a series of physical and mental challenges designed and coordinated by Australian Army survival specialists. Develop valuable life skills and build friendships through intense teamwork activities. Watch the sun rise and set over the ocean, snorkel on the reefs, and contribute to environmental projects to restore this island paradise. Are you ready for Island Survival?
Travel from urban cities to the Outback and see more of Australia in two weeks than many do in a lifetime. After a stop in Brisbane, fly to Cairns—the adventure capital of Australia and the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef—where you can snorkel or scuba dive in a revered aquatic landscape. Then visit the Daintree, where the rainforest meets the reef. In the Outback, hike through canyons, swim in natural springs, explore Kata Tjuta, see iconic Uluru, and learn about Aboriginal culture. Bid Australia farewell among the landmarks of Sydney, including the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Ages
14 and up
Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 15 community service hours
Service
Up to 20 community service hours
Departures
Departure
July 14
June 9, June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21
(Tuesday)
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs. This program showed me that when you get out of your comfort zone and really push yourself, you become comfortable pretty much everywhere and really grow and mature. Mehmet Inceoglu | Istanbul, Turkey
Connects well with… Surf and Service in Australia
32 australia@rusticpathways.com
Australia
rusticpathways.com/au 33
Cambodia
Cambodia is a country with a difficult past and a hopeful future. Since 1999, Rustic Pathways has partnered with social enterprises and local community development organizations to help students gain a deep understanding of the exquisite and complex realities of Cambodia. Our staff members are skilled leaders who keep programs fun, and students often leave with a changed perspective of their own lives.
eye opening Cambodia is ______________.
Angkor Wat’s ancient temples are jaw-dropping, the rural countryside is dotted with brilliant emerald green rice paddies, and the incredibly friendly locals are eager to show you around. Amidst the beauty, your program in Cambodia will also expose you to the pressing social and economic issues facing the country. The contrast can be shocking, but it can also be positively transformative.
Population
16.5 million
Capital City
Phnom Penh
Currency
Riel (KHR)
Languages
Khmer, English, and some French
Attractions
Angkor Wat – the largest religious structure in the world
Tonle Sap – the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and a UNESCO biosphere reserve
Mondulkiri Province – home to rolling green hills in northeastern Cambodia
Alexis Simchak | Cambodia Country Director “Through the years, Cambodia has become my second home. The moment I first stepped foot in the country, I felt welcomed and the people I’ve met have sincerely become my family. That’s simply how Cambodia operates.” Lexi has extensive experience in Southeast Asia where she has worked since 2012, leading Rustic programs and managing operations in Cambodia and Vietnam. Having discovered her passion for travel and service learning at a young age, Lexi loves exploring new places and uncovering hidden gems. She is a proud alumna of Penn State and is dedicated to service and cultural exchange in Cambodia and Vietnam.
34 cambodia@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Floating Village Service Expedition Off the Map: Cambodia
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
• •
• ••
•• ••
•• •••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
30 hours
18 days
$3,495
42 hours
25 days
$5,995
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/ca 35
Cambodia
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
HOMESTAY
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
RUSTIC ONLY
Floating Village Service Expedition
Off the Map: Cambodia
Cambodian river life and service in communities on the Tonle Sap
An adventure to discover remote Cambodia’s rich cultural tapestry
18 days | $3,495 USD plus airfare
25 days | $5,995 USD plus airfare
Jump aboard the Rustic Pathways boat and embark on one of our most unique service adventures. Travel through part of the mighty Mekong river system on the region’s most impressive body of water. Visit Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, where thousands of families live and work in floating homes balancing on thick, bamboo trunks. Stay in homestays with trusted host families and experience their day-to-day lives. Work alongside local professionals to repair and build new floating homes for the community. At the end of a hard day’s work, watch the sunset transform the surface of the lake into an infinite golden glaze. After service work is complete, take time to visit Siem Reap and stroll through the breathtaking stone fortresses of Angkor temples.
Venture off the beaten path in small Khmer villages and discover what life is like in rural Cambodia. After a dose of history in Phnom Penh, journey to rural communities to assist with ongoing service initiatives. Head deep into the rugged province of Mondulkiri and visit the Elephant Valley Project to learn about the gentle giants that inhabit this remote landscape. Travel north to the rarely visited Ratanakiri province to explore Cambodia’s untouched natural wonders including remote jungle waterfalls and ancient volcanic lakes. Conclude your adventure with a boat trip to a floating village around Tonle Sap Lake. As you visit the various regions of the country, get to know hospitable people, eat delicious food, and gain a deep appreciation of life in Cambodia.
Ages
14 and up
Ages
15 and up
Service
Up to 30 community service hours
Service
Up to 42 community service hours
Departures
July 7, July 21
Departures
June 16
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Hanoi to Halong
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Southeast Asian Adventurer
36 cambodia@rusticpathways.com
Cambodia
rusticpathways.com/ca 37
China
Rustic’s programs in China expose students to the wonders of this fascinating country. We’ve built partnerships with schools, NGOs, and conservation groups since 2007. Students venture from big cities to rural areas to explore, learn, and participate in service projects. They interact with members of our partner communities and leave with a better understanding of and appreciation for China and its culture.
Population
1.4 billion
Capital City Beijing Currency
Renminbi (CNY)
Languages
Mandarin Chinese and numerous regional dialects
China is __________.
Attractions
From giant pandas to giant cities, everything about China is grand. You’ll be surrounded by the lights and energy of Shanghai and Beijing one day and enveloped in the serene beauty of the rural countryside the next. Visits to iconic attractions and exploration of China’s historic culture will not disappoint.
The Great Wall – built to protect China in the third century A.D.
Terracotta Warriors – a 2,000-yearold emperor’s army
The Forbidden City – the best preserved imperial palace in China
magical
Kevin Wang | China Country Manager “I’m always excited to see my home country though our students’ eyes and amazed by how much they change throughout their programs. They leave saying they’re going to introduce what they learned to their families. These moments make me proud. I feel like our students expand their view of the world in a way that defines Rustic Pathways.” Originally from the village of Minqin, Gansu, China, Kevin joined Rustic as a Program Leader in 2012 before becoming Country Manager. Kevin is a Chinese history expert and loves to share his passion for his country with everyone he meets. He’s also been known to start a conga line during traditional Chinese hot pot feasts.
38 china@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Wonders of China Ultimate Asia
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
•• ••
•• •••
•• ••
•• •••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
14 hours
15 days
$5,495
N/A
23 days
$13,995
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/ch 39
China
ADVENTURE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
Wonders of China China’s top sights and panda conservation 15 days | $5,495 USD plus airfare Join this fast-paced tour of China’s most incredible cultural gems. This two week program takes you from the imperial glory of ancient Beijing, with visits to the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China, to the new-age hustle and bustle of modern Shanghai, one of the world’s largest cities. Experience both the China of new and old while also giving back by volunteering at a world-renowned Panda Conservation Center. During your adventure, you’ll also taste some of China’s most famous culinary delights, including Sichuan hot pot and Shanghai-syle soup dumplings. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 14 community service hours
Departures
June 17, July 8
(Wednesday)
Program Types Conservation Panda Conservation and Wild China is one of several Rustic Pathways programs that allows students to participate in community service related to conservation. If you’re interested in animal or environmental conservation, also consider Animal Conservation in Australia, Turtle Conservation Project in Costa Rica, Marine Life and Coastal Restoration in the Dominican Republic, Marine Service and Adventure in Fiji, African Wildlife Conservation in Tanzania, or Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Conservation in Thailand. Learn more about Rustic Pathways program types by flipping to page 18 or by visiting rusticpathways.com/program-types.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
40 china@rusticpathways.com
China
ADVENTURE
RUSTIC ONLY
Connecting Programs
Ultimate Asia An exploration of five countries in Asia during an unforgettable three-week adventure 25 days | $13,995 USD plus airfare Travel through China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand exploring world-renowned cultural sites. Get to know the communities you visit through engaging service projects far off the beaten path. Walk along the Great Wall in China, explore the 12thcentury ruins of Angkor Wat, meander through the bustling markets of Bangkok, stroll down the quaint side streets in Luang Prabang, visit one of Vietnam’s most picturesque villages, and observe elephants in their natural habitat in Thailand. Most people only dream of experiencing Asia’s most renowned cultural gems, but you’ll get to explore them all during your journey. Ages
15 and up
Departures
July 7
(Tuesday)
All Rustic Pathways programs are designed to connect. To create the ultimate summer experience over six weeks, consider connecting Ultimate Asia and Ultimate Africa (page 88). These two three-week programs expose students to eight countries and one semi-autonomous region (Zanzibar!). Learn more about how to connect programs by flipping to page 20 or by visiting rusticpathways.com/how-programs-connect.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Access to Education: Hill Tribe Support
rusticpathways.com/ch 41
Costa Rica
Rustic has expanded to include the most spectacular regions of this Central American paradise since opening Costa Rica operations in 2003. From the Pacific to the Caribbean, rainforests to rivers, and service to adventure, our programs encompass the breadth of what Costa Rica has to offer. Our team of talented local staff members challenge veteran travelers with new experiences and introduce more novice adventurers to the joys of travel.
lush Costa Rica is ______.
With our large staff of local Ticos, you’ll feel at home in Costa Rica and easily slip into the pura vida lifestyle, a phrase meaning “pure life.” Embrace life to the fullest as you master relaxation, appreciate nature, and experience everything Costa Rica has to offer.
Population
5 million
Capital City
San José
Currency
Colon (CRC)
Language
Spanish
Attractions
Arenal Volcano – the youngest of all the volcanoes in Costa Rica
Corcovado National Park – a showcase of Costa Rica’s biodiversity and commitment to conservation
Pacuare River – known as Costa Rica’s best whitewater river
Ricardo Romero | Costa Rica Country Director “Discover the warmth and laid-back Tico culture in the beaches, towns, and jungles of Costa Rica. Experience for yourself the power of sustainable environmental development programs. Contribute to sea turtle conservation efforts, hone your Spanish skills through unique homestays, explore the jungle, and zip line through the rainforest.” Ricardo joined Rustic Pathways in 2005 after working in Costa Rica’s rafting industry for a decade. Ricardo has worn many hats on our team from community service coordinator to sales representative and just about everything in between. He is an avid outdoorsman and holds a degree in business from the University of Costa Rica.
42 costarica@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica Surf and Service in Costa Rica Summer Camp Leadership in Costa Rica Spanish Language Immersion Ramp Up Your Spanish Youth Empowerment Project Heart of the Jungle Nicoya Turtle Expedition Turtle Conservation Project Costa Rican Adventurer Soccer and Service in Costa Rica Young Explorers: Pura Vida
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
•• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• ••
••• ••• • •• •• •• ••• •• •• ••• •• •••
•• •• ••• ••• ••• ••• • ••• ••• • •• •••
• • • • • • •• • • •• •• •••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
22 hours
9 days
$1,995
12 hours
9 days
$2,995
60 hours
16 days
$4,895
N/A
16 days
$3,995
N/A
9 days
$1,995
24 hours
9 days
$1,695
25 hours
16 days
$4,495
35 hours
16 days
$4,495
30 hours
9 days
$2,495
N/A
16 days
$4,895
25 hours
16 days
$4,295
17 hours
16 days
$4,995
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/cr 43
Costa Rica
Volcano and Rainforest Service Base Situated on the edge of a beautiful rainforest reserve beneath the famous Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, the Rustic Pathways Volcano and Rainforest Service Base is the perfect hub for summer service and adventure. The base is within minutes of incredible service opportunities and plenty of heart-pounding adventure activities such as zip lining and rafting. It features two stone-and-wood houses, a freshwater swimming pool, a soccer field, a volleyball court, several ponds, a small waterfall, and a lush rainforest for a backyard. The houses are equipped with electricity, private bathrooms with hot water showers, flush toilets, and fans. Enjoy delicious meals prepared fresh daily while socializing with your new friends.
Service Initiatives Education: Serve as English language conversation partners with local students and reinforce the lessons they’re learning in their classrooms. Many students in Costa Rica study English in school to develop skills necessary for future employment opportunities. Environment: Costa Rica is world-renowned for its dedication to environmental protection. Rustic Pathways’ partnership with the Arenal Volcano National Park allows students to work alongside park rangers in various conservation projects within the protected areas. Infrastructure: Work on small-scale construction projects to create more effective learning environments for students in local schools, or work with our rural community partners to support infrastructure development projects. In the past, we’ve built classrooms, installed tile floors and windows, and assisted with painting projects. We’ve also collaborated with community leaders with projects such as the construction of a tilapia fish farm and a kitchen at a community center.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
BASE HOUSE
Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica Exciting service and thrilling adventure at the Volcano and Rainforest Service Base 9 days | $1,995 USD plus airfare Spend a week at Rustic’s Volcano and Rainforest Service Base in La Fortuna working on a combination of service project and enjoying Costa Rican adventure. Whether helping out with service initiatives or participating in cross-cultural experiences, you’ll contribute to the community, practice your Spanish, and make new Tico friends. After service, experience some of Costa Rica’s best adventure activities like zip lining and whitewater rafting. Visit hot springs and a traditional Costa Rican farm to learn about the local culture. After action-packed days, relax in a hammock or take a dip in the freshwater pool. This program is great for first-time travelers and students interested in making new friends from across the globe. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 22 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28, August 4
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: Volcano and Rainforest Service Base 44
Costa Rica
Surf and Service Base Located along the north Pacific coast in Playa Grande, our two-story beachfront house is right next to Marino Las Baulas National Park— considered the home of leatherback turtles. The Surf and Service Base is just a short 20-minute drive from our service site, making it the perfect jumping off point for our projects in Guanacaste Province. When not participating in service nearby, students relax at the base, surf, or play soccer or volleyball on the beach. The Surf and Service Base also offers a perfect vantage point for catching the Costa Rican sunset each night during your program.
Service Initiatives Economic Development: Rustic is working to help develop income generation projects to support the Playa Grande community. As the area’s popularity has increased attracting more tourists, so has the cost of living for local residents. Having additional revenue sources would allow community members to supplement their income, especially during the low tourist season.
ADVENTURE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
BASE HOUSE
Surf and Service in Costa Rica
Infrastructure: Rustic supports the community of Matapalo with construction projects, including a new facility for cultural presentations and traditional dances, and a volleyball / basketball court. Finishing these projects will allow the community to host tournaments with surrounding neighborhoods. These tournaments will create a revenue source for the community to support other local initiatives in a sustainable way while providing a safe place for youth to hang out and keep traditional dances and folklore alive.
An introductory experience in a beautiful Pacific beach community 9 days | $2,995 USD plus airfare Experience breathtaking sunsets and blue waters during this week of surf, service, and adventure in Costa Rica. Settle in at the Playa Grande Surf and Service Base house and take in the beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. Participate in service designed to support the local community improve its quality of life. Grab your surfboard and head to the beach for lessons from expert surf instructors. Relax at the base house or play soccer or volleyball on the beach after service. No previous experience is necessary and experienced surfers will not be disappointed. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 12 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28, August 4
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica Youth Empowerment Project Base House Program: Surf and Service Base 45
Costa Rica
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
BASE HOUSE
Summer Camp Leadership in Costa Rica A unnique experience creating a summer camp for rural Costa Rican youth 16 days | $4,895 USD plus airfare Gain valuable leadership and collaboration skills, and help enrich the lives of local community members as you develop a summer camp in La Fortuna. Start your journey with an exhilarating rafting trip followed by the start of your camp planning. Design a six-day summer camp in small teams, then meet the children you’ll lead in sports, arts, and other recreational activities throughout the week. Zip line, kayak, soak in natural hot springs, and boat along the picturesque Costa Rican coastline. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 60 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28
(Tuesday)
Sustainable Development Goals Goal 4 – Quality Education Rustic Pathways’ service work contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, global initiatives the United Nations is working to address by 2030. Summer Camp Leadership in Costa Rica allows Rustic students to participate in a community service project intended to supplement the education of local school children by creating an interactive summer camp. In addition to designing and running the camp, students will participate in group discussions and reflect about actions they can take in their home communities to advocate for inclusive educational opportunities for all. Learn more about Rustic’s contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals by flipping to page 11 or by visiting rustictpathways.com/impact.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Surf and Service in Costa Rica Spanish Language Immersion Youth Empowerment Project 46 costarica@rusticpathways.com
Costa Rica
LANGUAGE + SKILLS
HOMESTAY
LANGUAGE + SKILLS
HOMESTAY
Spanish Language Immersion
Ramp Up Your Spanish
A Spanish program in a traditional Costa Rican environment for two or more weeks
Spanish language in the heart of rural Costa Rica
16 days | $3,995 USD plus airfare ($4,595 USD private instruction)
9 days | $1,995 USD plus airfare
Enhance your Spanish in this program designed for students of all skill levels. Learn from a native speaker in a classroom setting with other students of similar abilities. Classes will focus on conversational skills to prepare you for traveling in Costa Rica. Live with a local family in a carefully-selected homestay to enhance the linguistic and cultural elements of your trip. Continue practicing your skills during adventure activities around Turrialba. Rappel down waterfalls, zip line through the forest, and raft the Pacuare River. This culturallyimmersive two-week program is a great way to improve your Spanish before embarking on any of our other programs in Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, or Peru.
Hone your skills during daily classes and conversational opportunities with native Spanish speakers. While only a 90-minute drive from the capital of San José, Turrialba is a quiet town that provides an idyllic environment for students to practice their Spanish and integrate into traditional Tico culture. Live with a local family for a homestay experience that will enhance your language immersion while providing an inside look at daily life in the community. Outside the classroom, visit the surroundings of this inviting village and enjoy different adventure and cultural activities including mountain biking, hiking among waterfalls, rappelling and zip lining down canyons, and even a Latin dance class.
Ages
14 and up
Ages
14 and up
Language
Up to 40 instruction hours
Language
Up to 20 instruction hours
Departures
June 23, July 7
Departures
June 23, June 30, July 7, july 14
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica Heart of the Jungle
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Summer Camp Leadership in Costa Rica Costa Rican Adventurer rusticpathways.com/cr 47
Costa Rica
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
ADVENTURE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
Youth Empowerment Project
Heart of the Jungle
Expanding access to income-producing jobs for youth with Down Syndrome
High adventure and rewarding service on the pristine Osa Peninsula
9 days | $1,695 USD plus airfare
16 days | $4,495 USD plus airfare
Partner with Fundación el Futuro es de Todos, an organization dedicated to providing access to sustainable income for vulnerable populations through vocational skills development. In Costa Rica, recent graduates with Down Syndrome often struggle to find sustainable employment. Further compounding the challenge, access to vocational education is often limited. Work alongside this organization to build a vocational skills training facility donated by the National Institute of Agrarian Development. After participating in service, explore the ecological diversity of Costa Rica with a hike in Juan Castro Blanco National Park and a heart-racing zip line adventure through the rainforest canopy. Learn about coffee cultivation at a local farm in Naranjo and tour the picturesque town of Zarcero.
Start your journey by heading south to surf the hidden breaks and enjoy the secluded beaches of Dominical. Hike along beautiful trails and canyons to a series of impressive waterfalls where expert guides will teach you how to rappel. Set off on a three-day sea kayaking expedition through the Golfo Dulce in the Osa Peninsula. At night, camp on the beach and enjoy dinner next to a bonfire as you exchange stories about the day’s adventures. Venture into Corcovado National Park, keeping an eye out for monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws. When not exploring the jungle, participate in a variety of infrastructure service projects to support the communities you visit. You might work on infrastructure for low-income communities along with local associations to achieve economic development or environmental conservation projects. Conclude your adventure by rafting the whitewater of the Savegre River.
Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 24 community service hours
Departures
June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Surf and Service in Costa Rica
Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 25 community service hours
Departures
June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
48 costarica@rusticpathways.com
Costa Rica
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
CONSERVATION
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
CONSERVATION
Nicoya Turtle Expedition
Turtle Conservation Project
Two weeks of turtle conservation and adventure on northern Pacific coast beaches
A one-week experience learning about endangered sea turtles
16 days | $4,495 USD plus airfare
9 days | $2,495 USD plus airfare
Spend two weeks contributing to the conservation of endangered sea turtles. Work with park rangers at the Camaronal Wildlife Refuge to protect the fragile natural habitat of the turtles that make the local beaches their home. Walk the shores looking for turtle nests, help clean the beach, or assist with other restoration efforts. Travel to the funky beach towns of Carrillo and Sámara to snorkel and surf, and explore Chora Island in a sea kayak. Although this program runs during turtle nesting season, we can’t guarantee you’ll see a sea turtle. We can ensure, however, that you’ll make a significant contribution to the protection of this endangered species and leave Costa Rica with a new appreciation for local wildlife and Tico culture.
Journey to a secluded beach on the Pacific coast to help protect Costa Rican sea turtles. These majestic creatures face threats to their nesting grounds from hunting, pollution, and development. While we can’t guarantee you’ll see a sea turtle, you’ll be certain to contribute to the conservation of this endangered species. In the mornings, join beach cleanup projects and help construct a hatchery. At night, monitor the beach for turtle nests, record the number of eggs you collect, and carefully transport them to the hatchery or a safer place along the beach. With help provided by expert volunteers, many of these eggs will hatch into healthy baby turtles and contribute in the preservation of sea turtles. In your free time, raft the Savegre River and take trips to the beach town of Jaco to learn how to surf the incredible waves of the Pacific Ocean.
Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 35 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7, July 21
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Heart of the Jungle Spanish Language Immersion
Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 30 community service hours
Departures
June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21, July 21, August 4
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
rusticpathways.com/cr 49
Costa Rica
ADVENTURE
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
HOMESTAY
Costa Rican Adventurer
Soccer and Service in Costa Rica
A high-adrenaline adventure and exploration of Costa Rica’s natural wonderlands
Soccer games, rewarding service, and exciting adventure throughout Costa Rica
16 days | $4,895 USD plus airfare
16 days | $4,295 USD plus airfare
Start on the Pacific coast, hike through the rainforest to a hidden cave, and rappel a 100-foot cliff as waterfalls surge on either side of you. Travel up the coast to spot monkeys and sloths, and enjoy the picturesque Costa Rican landscapes. Sail, snorkel, and surf in the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean on the tropical coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. Zip line through the flourishing rainforest canopy and soak in natural hot springs in La Fortuna. Conclude your journey with a three-day whitewater rafting voyage down the Pacuare River.
Travel as a team and play local soccer clubs in different communities. Start in Turrialba and contribute to an ongoing infrastructure community project before embarking on a whitewater rafting trip on the Pacuare River. Practice your Spanish, join pick-up soccer games, then play some competitive matches. Head into the mountains where you’ll stay with a Costa Rican family for a few days, participate in community development projects, and play several more soccer games. Wrap up your journey on the Pacific coast playing soccer on the beach or just enjoying the landscape.
Ages
14 and up
Departures
June 16, June 30, July 14
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Heart of the Jungle Surf and Service in Costa Rica I loved everything about my trip, especially the small group and fun leaders. I was really lucky to have such a small group because we were all able to get super close. Margaret Ryan | Fair Haven, New Jersey
Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 25 community service hours
Departures
June 9, July 7
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Spanish Language Immersion Ramp Up Your Spanish Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica
50 costarica@rusticpathways.com
Costa Rica
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
Life of a Rustic Traveler
Young Explorers: Pura Vida The ultimate combination of service and adventure for 12 and 13 year olds 16 days | $4,995 USD plus airfare Work on service initiatives, zip line through the rainforest canopy, play beach volleyball and soccer with locals, and learn how to surf. Stroll through the lush La Paz Waterfall Gardens looking for Costa Rica’s amazing wildlife. Head to La Fortuna, near the Arenal Volcano, where you’ll participate in service projects at schools or community organizations. Explore La Fortuna through rainforest hikes, zip lining, and trips to hot springs. Journey to the Sarapiquí region for an unforgettable whitewater rafting trip. Relax on the beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula and enjoy the laid-back Pacific vibe. Ages
12 and 13
Service
Up to 17 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7, July 21
(Tuesday)
As one of two programs for middle school students we’re offering in 2020, Young Explorers: Pura Vida is a perfect introductory experience for the 12- to 13-year-old first-time traveler and a great entrance into Rustic Pathways. After participating in a Young Explorers program, students should consider a Rustic Base House or community service program as the next step in their traveler progression. Learn more about the Life of a Rustic Traveler on page 20 or by visiting rusticpathways.com/life-of-a-rustic-traveler.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs. I loved how my trip combined service, cultural immersion, and fun. It definitely impacted my views on conservation, because of how Ticos care for their energy and land. I made so many great friends on this trip and will value the memories I made forever. Abigail Gardner | Lancaster, Pennsylvania
rusticpathways.com/cr 51
Dominican Republic
Since Rustic Pathways started Dominican Republic programs in 2012, our goal has been to emphasize the people over the places. While our staff and students adore the pristine beaches and idyllic settings, our programs go much deeper than an average tourist’s trip. Each program in the Dominican Republic dives into service opportunities through community development, environmental stewardship, or public health, and allows our students to connect with members of the communities where they travel.
complex The Dominican Republic is ___________.
While you’ll be sure to enjoy the picturesque beaches and tranquil mountains, you’ll also experience what daily life is like for Dominican people. Alongside resorts catering to tourists’ dream vacations lie marginalized, impoverished communities called bateyes. Dominicans face many challenges and they have big hearts, warm personalities, and enjoy sharing their fun-loving culture.
Population
10.3 million
Capital City
Santo Domingo
Currency
Dominican Peso (DOP)
Language Spanish Attractions
Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo – a UNESCO World Heritage site
Los Haitises National Park – famous for limestone caves filled with pictographs from the native Taíno
San Pedro de Macorís – home of MLB’s Dominican Winter League where many players get their start
Harry Alvarez | Dominican Republic and Cuba Country Director “Growing up between the Dominican Republic and New York has given me a unique perspective about what makes this country amazing. Most think of the Dominican Republic as a vacation destination with beautiful beaches, but it’s so much more complex with many layers of history and politics. I hope students leave with an understanding of Dominican life and a different view of this Caribbean paradise.” Born in New York City and raised in the Dominican Republic, Harry graduated from SUNY New Paltz with degrees in psychology and Spanish and completed pre-med coursework at Columbia University. Harry joined Rustic in 2008 and opened operations in the Dominican Republic in 2012 and Cuba in 2015. Harry enjoys cooking and hosting friends at his home in New Orleans.
52 dominican@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Mountain Air and Village Service Public Health in the Caribbean Marine Life and Coastal Restoration Life in the Bateyes Summer Camp Leadership in the Dominican Republic Island Living and Eco-Service
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
•• •• ••• •• •• •••
•• •• ••• ••• ••• •••
•• ••• ••• ••• ••• ••
• •• •• •• ••• •••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
20 hours
9 days
$1,995
30 hours
16 days
$4,695
32 hours
16 days
$4,495
50 hours
16 days
$3,695
60 hours
16 days
$4,495
12 hours
9 days
$2,295
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/dr 53
Dominican Republic
Mountain Air Service Base The Rustic Pathways Mountain Air Service Base is located in the region of the country known as the Dominican Alps. This mountainous countryside boasts picturesque views of the surrounding area. Located at Los Bohíos de Campos Añil, students stay in bohíos, traditional Dominican-style homes made of cinder block with thatch or tin roofs. Each bohío has two bedrooms for up to five students. Students participating in Intro to Community Service in the Dominican Republic will stay at the base and get a feel for the local culture in this community setting common to Dominican life. The surrounding mountain villages offer service opportunities to build aqueducts and construct wastewater treatment systems. In the evenings, students can relax by the pool or explore the vast grounds at the base.
Service Initiatives Environment: Water pollution in the Yaque del Norte River increases as the regional population grows and families are settling nearer to the river. We have partnered with local NGO Plan Yaque since 2015 to complete eight blackwater treatment systems that process wastewater from homes before it enters the river. Infrastructure: In 2012, Rustic began collaborating with local organizations to provide water access to underserved communities in the Jarabacoa region of the mountainous La Vega province. In that time, Rustic students have built aqueducts in more than 20 communities.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
BASE HOUSE
Mountain Air and Village Service A cultural immersion and service experience in the heart of the Cordillera Central 9 days | $1,995 USD plus airfare Make the Rustic Pathways base in the mountains your home away from home in the Dominican Republic. Experience daily life in the heart of the Cordillera Central mountain range, also known as the Dominican Alps for its cool weather, scenic vistas, and high altitude. Many small villages here lack basic necessities and infrastructure such as running water and electricity. Contribute to Rustic’s ongoing efforts to bring water to these communities by helping with the construction of an aqueduct to serve local homes and farms. After service, enjoy a weekend of sun, relaxing on one of the Dominican Republic’s incredible beaches. Take part in activities like hiking the Baiguate Waterfall or visiting the town of Jarabacoa. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 20 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: Mountain Air Service Base
54
Dominican Republic
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
LANGUAGE + SKILLS
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Public Health in the Caribbean Powerful community health service with underrepresented communities 16 days | $4,695 USD plus airfare Work alongside medical professionals on high-impact public health projects. Explore the diverse regions of this vibrant country while experiencing local culture and practicing your Spanish in a health care setting. Meet with public health organizations and visit hospitals in Santo Domingo to witness how the country’s urban health system operates. Travel inland to learn about the public health challenges in more rural areas. Earn your Wilderness First Aid certification and apply your new skills to help communities in need. After your hard work, head to the Samaná Peninsula where you’ll explore turquoise waters and white sand beaches, enjoying the sun and fresh sea air. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 30 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7, July 21
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs. I made so many friends and met people who were just like me— people who wanted to do something amazing, cared about the world, and had a passion to serve and help others. Lila Hathaway | Baltimore, Maryland
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
CONSERVATION
Marine Life and Coastal Restoration A two-week conservation experience about island ecosystems in the Caribbean 16 days | $4,495 USD plus airfare Grab your snorkel gear and dive into a marine adventure to protect the coastlines of the Dominican Republic. Stay in stunning Bayahibe and work with FUNDEMAR, a NGO dedicated to the conservation of marine ecosystems. Learn about threats to local marine and terrestrial life as you gain hands-on experience in scientific conservation methods, including the construction of reef restoration structures, the monitoring of coral growth in a wet lab, and the rehabilitation of mangroves. On remote Saona Island, spend a night helping to protect sea turtles. Share what you’ve learned about marine conservation with local youth during a fun day camp. In your downtime, swim in freshwater caverns, search for sea stars in natural pools, and fall in love with island life. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 32 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
rusticpathways.com/dr 55
Dominican Republic
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
Life in the Bateyes A glimpse inside the lives of sugarcane workers and their families 16 days | $3,695 USD plus airfare Experience two very different sides of the Dominican Republic during this intensive program. Leave the resorts and tourist destinations behind as you travel deep into the heart of the country to the bateyes—underserved communities of predominantly Haitian sugarcane workers. Though resources are in short supply, there is a generous sense of community. Listen to stories from local farmers, mothers, leaders, and youth, and contribute to service projects designed to create lasting improvements. Then travel northeast for a completely different experience and reflect on your time in the bateyes amid the country’s turquoise waters and white sand beaches. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 50 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7, July 21
(Tuesday)
Sustainable Development Goals Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities Rustic Pathways’ service work contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, global initiatives the United Nations is working to address by 2030. Life in the Bateyes allows Rustic students to participate in a community service project that provides dignified housing to families living in bateyes, communities of sugarcane workers in the Dominican Republic. In addition to assisting with the construction of homes, students will participate in group discussions and reflect about actions they can take in their communities to advocate for inclusive and sustainable development. Learn more about Rustic’s contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals by flipping to page 11 or by visiting rustictpathways.com/impact.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs. Rustic Pathways did a great job of showing me what people were living not only through learning the adults’ stories, but also the children’s. I’m not sure if my trip could have been better in any way. Cole Caress | Indianapolis, Indiana
56 dominican@rusticpathways.com
Dominican Republic
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
BASE HOUSE
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Summer Camp Leadership in the Dominican Republic An intensive service experience working with marginalized youth 16 days | $4,495 USD plus airfare Tap into your leadership skills and work as part of a team to design and run a day camp for children during this challenging program. Your trip begins in the outdoor adventure destination of Jarabacoa. Plan your curriculum while you camp in the Dominican Alps and get to know the rest of your group members. Journey into underserved batey communities to meet your excited students and put your week-long day camp plan into action. Lead them in sports, arts, and other recreational activities. When the camp is over, reflect on your success while relaxing on a tranquil beach with your new friends, take a catamaran ride, and go snorkeling. Leave the Dominican Republic knowing you’ve positively impacted local children with an experience they’ll never forget.
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
Island Living and Eco-Service An introductory service experience on this island paradise 9 days | $2,295 USD plus airfare Leave the typical tourist route and explore the Dominican Republic beyond its exterior. Begin your journey in the mountainous region of Jarabacoa. Learn about efforts to foster sustainable tourism and park management as you help maintain protected territories. Head to Samaná Peninsula and partner with the Green Brigade, a group of young environmental activists, to plant red mangroves along the coast to protect the region from storm surges. Take a break from community service to hike to the Baiguate or Jimenoa waterfalls, ride horses to the beaches of Las Galeras, and take a boat ride across Samaná Bay to explore the islands of Los Haitises National Park. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 12 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 23, July 7
Ages
14 and up
(Tuesday)
Service
Up to 60 community service hours
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7, July 21
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
CONSERVATION
Spring Break Program: We also offer a one-week version of this program between March and April for spring break. For more information and dates, please see page 19 or visit our website at rusticpathways.com/spring-break. rusticpathways.com/dr 57
Fiji Islands
Rustic’s community partnerships in Fiji date to 1993. These deep roots mean we have friends in every village we visit and our expert local staff members make students feel at home. Arriving students are welcomed with a traditional sevu sevu ceremony and invited to share a taste of kava. Our Fiji programs visit villages on remote islands and in the mountainous highlands, locations not many tourists ever have the opportunity to visit.
Languages
English, Fijian, and Hindustani
Attractions
Fiji is _________. pristine
More than 300 islands, only 106 of which are inhabited
Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park– famed for its giant dunes and archaeological history
Nausori Highlands – home to rich culture and Rustic’s longest partnerships
Sailing through the islands of Fiji feels like you’re in a postcard brought to life. Whether you’re in the highlands or among the islands, you’ll constantly be surrounded by calming tropical scenery. The warmth of the Fijian people will make you feel at home and you’ll easily adjust to island life.
Population
926,000
Capital City Suva Currency
Fijian Dollar (FJD)
Evan Wells | Fiji Country Director “The South Pacific has always held a romantic allure of adventure and ancient traditions for many people. Everyone loves the clear, warm waters and tropical islands of Fiji, but for me it’s the people that keep me coming back—their loving attachment to the land, to the surrounding ocean, and to each other. Their warmth and exuberant enthusiasm for life are contagious.” Born in New Zealand and living between Australia and Fiji, Evan joined Rustic Pathways in 1993. With a degree in business and a commitment to Fijian communities, Evan proudly manages our South Pacific operations. Outside our Eco-Lodge Base, he enjoys time with his wife Lisa and their young boys, Henry and Sam, and races in long-distance running events.
58 fiji@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Sun, Sand, and International Service Intro to Community Service in Fiji Highlands and Islands Service Immersion Marine Service and Adventure Fiji Diver’s Dream Big Fiji Explorer Escape to the Fiji Islands Pacific Adrenaline
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
•• •• •• •• •• •• •• ••
•• •• ••• ••• ••• ••• ••• •••
•• •• •• •• •• •• • •
• • •• •• • •• •• ••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
60 hours
16 days
$3,995
30 hours
9 days
$1,995
45 hours
16 days
$3,995
26 hours
16 days
$4,295
N/A
9 days
$3,195
6 hours
16 days
$4,895
N/A
9 days
$2,695
N/A
23 days
$8,495
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/fj 59
Fiji
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
BASE HOUSE
Sun, Sand, and International Service Two weeks or more of community service and Fijian fun at the Rustic Pathways Eco-Lodge 16 days | $3,995 USD plus airfare Join us for at least two weeks on this service-focused program at our Eco-Lodge base where you’ll work on environmental and needsbased service projects with local community members. After service, relax and take advantage of island living. This popular program will give you insight into the Fijian way of life and introduce you to the natural beauty of this island nation. The Eco-Lodge sits in the hills south of Nadi and is surrounded by the diverse mix of cultures that make this area unique. Work with a small group of fellow students each day on a variety of education and infrastructure projects designed in partnership with the community. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 60 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28
(Tuesday)
Program Types Base House Sun, Sand, and International Service is one of several Rustic Pathways programs that takes place in a Rustic Pathways owned and / or operated base house. These programs offer some of the comforts of home for first-time travelers during programs that have the right mix of community service and adventure activities. If you’re interested n a base house program in Fiji, also consider Intro to Community Service in Fiji and Escape to the Fiji Islands at the Eco-Lodge, Highlands and Islands Service Immersion at the Highlands Base, and Marine Service and Adventure or Big Fiji Explorer at the Islands Base. Rustic also offers base house programs in Australia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Thailand, and the United States. Learn more about Rustic Pathways program types by flipping to page 18 or by visiting rusticpathways.com/program-types.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: South Pacific Eco-Lodge Service Base
60 fiji@rusticpathways.com
Fiji
South Pacific Eco-Lodge Service Base Established in 2004, the South Pacific Eco-Lodge Service Base is integrated into the surrounding environment and community. The base is located between two villages and surrounded by a number of farms predominantly owned by families of Indian descent. The mixture of Fijian and Indian neighbors creates a vibrant atmosphere for exploration and learning about Fiji and its unique mix of cultures. The main lodge contains a kitchen, dining area, game room with billiards, and features a large deck with a swimming pool. The grounds have extensive gardens and sports fields tucked among fruit trees and swaying palms. Rooms are divided between dormitory-style bedrooms and several authentic bures, or cabins, spread throughout the property. Bathrooms are modern with flushing toilets and solar-powered, hot-water showers.
Weekend Side Trips Students staying at the base for two or more weeks have the option to take a weekend side trip after their first full week of service.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
BASE HOUSE
Intro to Community Service in Fiji A fun and exciting variety of meaningful service and Fijian culture at our Eco-Lodge 9 days | $1,995 USD plus airfare Participate in a variety of service projects and learn about different ways to support the local community while enjoying the relaxed and easy-going South Pacific lifestyle. Fijians have long believed strangers should be welcomed as long-lost friends and given the highest degree of consideration and hospitality. Experience the inviting culture of Fiji while giving back to our hosts through a combination of service initiatives at the Eco-Lodge. Each group’s projects will be different, as we work with different villages and communities. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 30 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28, August 4
(Tuesday)
Highlands Discovery: 3 days, 2 nights | $295 Journey into Fiji’s rural interior and experience local life in a way few visitors ever have. Enjoy swimming beneath a towering waterfall and hiking along ancient trails. Spend the weekend learning from families about the traditional way of life in the Nausori Highlands. Tropical Island Interlude: 3 days, 2 nights | $355 Take a dip in the Pacific as you visit one of Fiji’s glorious island getaways. Enjoy your surroundings while playing beach soccer or volleyball, or napping in the sand. Our Tropical Island Interlude is a chance to recharge between your service projects and escape to a beautiful island. Coral Coast Cruiser: 3 days, 2 nights | $395 Experience Viti Levu’s impressive Coral Coast. Challenge yourself on a high-ropes course, explore a rainforest preserve to learn about Fiji’s native plants, and visit Suva, the country’s capital, for dinner and a movie. Between activities, take a walk on the beach or relax by the pool.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: South Pacific Eco-Lodge Service Base Spring Break Program: We also offer a one-week variation of this program between March and April for spring break. For more information and dates please see page 19 or visit our website at rusticpathways.com/spring-break. 61
Fiji
Highlands Service Base Far from the beaches that make Fiji famous, the mountainous interior of Fiji’s main island is one of the least-developed regions of the country. Rustic Pathways first came to this incredible valley in 1993 and immediately recognized the warm hearts and rich cultural traditions of the highlands villagers. Since then, we’ve formed a close relationship with the villages and continue to support ongoing service initiatives designed to meet their long-term goals. Programs that visit the Highlands region allow students to live alongside local families, follow the rhythm of daily life, and participate in community service. Students on Highlands and Islands Service Immersion become a part of the special relationships we’ve developed since first offering programs in Fiji.
Service Initiatives Economic Development: We’ve joined forces with a local clan (extended family) to support a small-scale agricultural enterprise to empower these families. We’re working closely with villagers to make this project a success by providing basic supplies, guidance, and training, and to getting our hands dirty in the field. Education: In 2011, we started building a new elementary school in the village of Nasivikoso to allow children to attend school closer to home. Since completing that project, we’re continuing to identify new partnerships to improve education facilities in the Nausori Highlands. Infrastructure: We’ve undertaken a wide range of projects to improve basic services in the remote communities of the Highlands. Those include installing simple water systems to improve access to running water, construction of toilets and footpaths to improve sanitation, and renovation of community halls.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
HOMESTAY
BASE HOUSE
Highlands and Islands Service Immersion Our signature service and cultural immersion program in Fiji 16 days | $3,995 USD plus airfare Join a grassroots project designed to support basic needs within a Nausori Highlands community. Live in pairs with a host family, an experience that will open cultural doors and introduce you to the Fijian lifestyle. Contribute to the ongoing development of a school, work on small-scale agriculture and construction projects, and lead after-school enrichment programs for students in the village. Then travel to the Yasawa Island chain where you’ll overnight on the beach, snorkel to tropical coral reefs, swim in turquoise waters, and kayak to pristine beaches. Return home after this rewarding experience with a new perspective about the challenges this community faces. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 45 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: Highlands Service Base 62
Fiji
Islands Service Base Located on a breathtaking stretch of pure, white sand in Somosomo, our Islands Service Base is a slice of heaven. We’ve worked to make this base a sustainable and eco-friendly place for students to live in harmony with the neighboring village and the surrounding environment. By eating freshly-caught seafood, growing our own produce, and developing long-term partnerships with our neighbors, this base truly embraces simple island life. The base consists of large safari-style tents built on platforms where you’ll sleep each night. Meals are eaten in our rustic dining area or on picnic tables overlooking the water. Showers are outdoors and toilets are self-composting to minimize the impact on the environment. Kayak, snorkel, or have a bonfire and guitar jam session on the beach with our local team on this island paradise.
Service Initiatives
COMMUNITY SERVICE
CONSERVATION
BASE HOUSE
Environment and Animal Welfare: Work on projects to help support regrowth of the coral reef system and help offset environmental degradation. Conduct reef checks on five different reefs, remove crown of thorns sea stars, and build and install coral structures. Work with local partners to track fish populations and monitor the overall health of the reef. Students will also contribute to the ongoing efforts to plant mangroves in the area. One mangrove can offset 800 kilograms of carbon dioxide.
Marine Service and Adventure Preserving Fiji’s natural resources and unique ecosystems 16 days | $4,295 USD plus airfare Explore the world’s third-largest coral reef system and thousands of marine species in Fiji. Get a head start on your career in marine or animal conservation by tracking fish populations, monitoring the health of various reef habitats, and observing marine life behavior. Then help with development projects that contribute to the ecological balance of this aquatic wonderland. Your hard work will be rewarded with snorkeling trips alongside manta rays, exotic fish, and sea turtles in this stretch of reef. Visit majestic sand dunes and kayak with your new friends along the coast before parting ways. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 26 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: Islands Service Base It was the best program I’ve ever been on I can’t think of a way to improve it because no improvement is needed. Christian Evans | Covington, Louisiana
63
Fiji
ADVENTURE
LANGUAGE + SKILLS
ADVENTURE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
BASE HOUSE
Fiji Diver’s Dream
Big Fiji Explorer
The South Pacific lifestyle by land and sea
Wonderful waves, waterfalls, and wild wanderings throughout the Fiji Islands
9 days | $3,195 USD plus airfare ($3,295 USD with PADI) Trek to the beautiful Fiji Islands to explore the renowned waters of the South Pacific. The underwater landscapes are vibrant, varied, and teeming with life. If you’re not a certified diver, you can get certified as an open water diver. After classroom lessons and shallow water practice, you’ll be ready to experience the majestic Fijian coast. If you’re already a certified diver, participate in up to eight dives, depending on your group and add-on activities, and have the opportunity to advance your level of certification for an additional fee. When not exploring life under the sea, immerse in traditional Fijian culture, hike sand dunes, or kayak through mangroves. Leave with a far better understanding of life in this fascinating island paradise. Ages
14 and up
Departures
June 16, June 30
(Tuesday)
16 days | $4,895 USD plus airfare Adventure through Fiji during this action-packed program that will keep seasoned explorers’ adrenaline pumping and provide a great introduction for students traveling abroad for the first time. Swim beneath waterfalls hidden deep in the interior of Viti Levu, visit the Yasawa Islands to snorkel with manta rays, and kayak in Fiji’s coastal wilderness. Stay at a variety of locations and live like a local. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 6 community service hours
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: Islands Service Base
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: South Pacific Eco-Lodge Service Base
64 fiji@rusticpathways.com
Viliame “Big Bill” Buadromo Fiji Adventure Program Manager Big Bill joined the Rustic team in 2018 and is originally from Tailevu in Fiji’s eastern division. When Bill isn’t creating a new dish in the kitchen, you can find him on the water fishing.
Fiji
ADVENTURE
BASE HOUSE
ADVENTURE
Escape to the Fiji Islands
Pacific Adrenaline
Mountains, beaches, and spectacular sunsets in the stunning South Pacific
An epic and challenging adventure through beautiful Fiji and New Zealand
9 days | $2,695 USD plus airfare
23 days | $8,495 USD plus airfare
Experience a combination of adventure and exploration, perfect for students looking to get off the beaten path. Live in a remote camp and fall asleep to the uninterrupted flow of the river. Relish the escape from technology and adapt to your heavenly surroundings. Prepare traditional foods, hike to see magnificent views, play games with locals, and enjoy an area of Fiji where few tourists ever venture. Witness spectacular sunsets and swim in tranquil waters just steps from your front door. Swim, kayak, scuba dive (add-on activity), and hike through gorgeous hills overlooking stunning waterfalls. Or just relax with a book on the beach and enjoy this island paradise.
Participate in an exhilarating three-week exploration of Fiji and New Zealand designed for seasoned travelers and created with a small group of adventurers in mind. High adventure awaits in New Zealand, the Land of the Long White Cloud. Whitewater raft down the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, roll down a zig zag track in a slippery Zorb ball, and spend time relaxing in natural hot springs. In Fiji, discover the beautiful Yasawa Islands, the remote Nausori Highlands, and Taveuni—the “Garden Island” of Fiji. Hike through rainforests, swim among waterfalls, scuba dive in pristine waters (add-on activity), and kayak past stunning beaches.
Ages
14 and up
Departures
June 23, July 7, July 14
(Tuesday)
Ages
16 and up
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 30, July 7
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for international airfare costs.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Everything about my trip was amazing: the people, the locals, the places, everything.
Connects well with… Sun, Sand, and International Service
Anne Beckerman | Short Hills, New Jersey
Base House Program: South Pacific Eco-Lodge Service Base
rusticpathways.com/fj 65
India
Rustic Pathways began operations in India in 2004. Our programs here expose students to a wide spectrum of culture and scenery. From the warm southern waters of Kerala to the bustling streets of New Delhi and up into the Himalayas and the mist-shrouded peaks of McLeod Ganj, our local staff members delight in sharing their country with students.
India is __________. vibrant
India is full of life, full of people, and full of stimulation for every sense. Programs here will introduce you to the multitude of sights, sounds, and flavors found within this diverse country. From the bustling city markets to the breathtaking mountains, you’ll never have a dull moment in India.
Population
1.3 million
Capital City
New Delhi
Currency
Rupee (INR)
Languages
22 official languages and hundreds of dialects, 44% of the population speaks Hindi
Attractions
Taj Mahal – an iconic Indian site
The Himalayas – one of the youngest mountain ranges in the world, home to Mt. Everest
Jaipur – the “Pink City” and the capital of India’s Rajasthan state
Sudarshan Singh | India Country Director “India is the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great grandmother of tradition. I love introducing students to these things that make India truly unique.” A native of Rajasthan, Sudarshan joined Rustic in 2007 as a Program Leader with degrees in history and tourism management. Sudarshan is a constant source of energy and excitement for Rustic Pathways students in India and Nepal where he leads our country operations. Sudarshan is a fan of Indian folk music and a star cricket player. If you’re lucky, he may teach you how to swing for sixes!
66 india@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Himalayan Explorer
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
••
•••
••
•••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
N/A
16 days
$5,995
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/in 67
India
ADVENTURE
Himalayan Explorer A unique two-week adventure in India and Nepal 16 days | $5,995 plus international airfare Experience the mighty Himalayas during this two-week trip through India and Nepal. Start in Delhi and learn about Hindu culture in this historic city before exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites in Amer and Agra, including the incredible Taj Mahal. Travel to Kathmandu to experience some of the region’s famous adventure activities. Raft the Trishuli River and camp overnight. Trek from Pokhara, the gateway to the Himalayas’ Annapurna Circuit. Opt to zip line and bungee jump in this mountain before returning to Kathmandu to conclude your epic journey. Ages
15 and up
Departures
June 24, July 8
(Wednesday)
Connecting Programs All Rustic Pathways programs are designed to connect. Consider Connecting Himalayan Adventure with one or two two-week programs in Asia to create an immersive four- or six-week combination of programs to maximize your summer. If students choose to connect other programs like multiple types of service or simply other options than the examples we’ve provided on page 20, that’s OK! Learn more about how to connect programs by flipping to page 20 or by visiting rusticpathways.com/how-programs-connect.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Ultimate Asia Elephants and Amazing Thailand Floating Village Service Expedition
68 india@rusticpathways.com
India
rusticpathways.com/in 69
Laos
Experience breathtaking scenery and engaging service projects in Laos, where Rustic has operated since 2008. Many of our programs visit the villages our local staff call home, taking students off the tourist path. Our leaders help students understand Laos’ complex past, developing present, and hopeful future. Every year students fall in love with this little-known country and leave with a better understanding of its distinct culture.
Laos is __________. stunning
Even the most well-traveled students find themselves entranced by Laos’ landscape. Golden temples gleam against winding dirt roads. Vast, rolling hills spotted with palm trees and rice fields create a backdrop with limitless shades of green. Remnants of the country’s French Colonial past are woven into the fabric of tribal life. Laos will delight you at every turn.
Population
7.2 million
Capital City Vientiane Currency
Kip (LAK)
Languages
Lao is the official language, though many ethnic minorities speak dozens of different languages
Attractions
Luang Prabang – a French colonial UNESCO World Heritage site
Pha That Luang – a golden stupa and national symbol
Khone Falls – the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia
Keegan Kennedy | Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar Senior Country Manager “Take your shoes off, sit back, and watch the brilliant sunset over distant mountains as the Mekong River flows beneath you. Whether you’re in remote villages surrounded by limestone cliffs, zip lining alongside waterfalls, or giving morning offerings to a procession of Buddhist monks, Laos will leave you with a constant grin and new appreciation for life.” Keegan has taught, studied, and researched in Thailand for more than decade and joined Rustic in 2011. From northern California, he completed his master’s thesis on the effects of forest fires on floral and fungal communities. Keegan is fluent written and spoken Thai and Lao, and brings his deep knowledge of Southeast Asia’s history and culture to our Thailand operations.
70 laos@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Southeast Asian Adventurer Laos Service Adventure Come With Nothing: The Mekong Expedition
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
•• •• •
••• •• ••
•• •• ••
••• •• •••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
N/A
18 days
$4,895
35 hours
18 days
$3,995
60 hours
25 days
$4,995
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/laos 71
Laos
ADVENTURE
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
HOMESTAY
Southeast Asian Adventurer
Laos Service Adventure
An action-packed two-week adventure in Laos and Thailand
A two-week experience combining service and the outdoors in Laos
18 days | $4,895 USD plus airfare
18 days | $3,995 USD plus airfare
Adventure through the misty green mountains of northern Thailand and Laos and the beaches of southern Thailand. Trek in the Bolaven Plateau, zip line through jungle canopies, swim in waterfalls, kayak down rivers, and bike through the charming streets of Luang Prabang. Make your way to the spectacular islands and limestone cliffs of southern Thailand and conclude your expedition with rock climbing, snorkeling, and relaxing on some of the world’s most exquisite beaches.
Discover Na Som Village, the epitome of beauty in Laos, with its towering green karsts and bamboo huts sprinkled among rice fields. Experience rural life in this Hmong village, learn about animistic traditions and the role of the village shaman, swim in a cool lagoon, and explore nearby caves. Then head to the town of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Rise early to give alms to monks and swim in the seven-tiered Kuang Si Falls. Work alongside villagers on service projects and experience the traditions of Laos firsthand.
Ages
15 and up
Ages
14 and up
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7, July 21
Service
Up to 35 community service hours awarded
Departures
July 7
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Anou Phetsila Laos Senior Program Manager
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Anou, who joined Rustic Pathways in 2009, hails from the rural western frontier of Xayaboury Province along the border of Laos and Myanmar. As a certified Wilderness First Responder, Anou has traveled extensively with groups throughout Southeast Asia.
72 laos@rusticpathways.com
Long Lee Phixiaxaicher Laos Program Manager Long Lee hails from Na Som Village, outside Vang Vieng in central Laos, where his father is currently the head of the village. Long Lee joined Rustic Pathways in 2017 as Laos Service Adventure Program Leader, hosting Rustic students in his village and sharing Laos’ culture and traditions.
Laos
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
HOMESTAY
RUSTIC ONLY
Come With Nothing: The Mekong Expedition An advanced service program on the Mekong River in Thailand and Laos 25 days | $4,995 USD plus airfare Join a service expedition through remote Thailand and Laos to disconnect. You’ll have one carry-on-sized bag with a change of clothes, toiletries, medicine, and no more than five personal items (we’ll also give you $60 to buy the rest of what you’ll need during your program). Start in Chiang Mai before continuing to Chang Rai in Thailand. Then, take a two-day boat trip on the Mekong River into Laos. For the next two weeks, stay high in the mountains outside of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage town. Visit three villages for about five days each and expect beautifully simple living conditions. Meet with NGOs and local leaders to learn about the needs of the area while engaging in service projects. This demanding program creates lasting memories and gives you different perspectives about the world. Ages
15 and up
Service
Up to 60 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 30, July 7, July 14
(Tuesday)
Program Types Rustic Only Come With Nothing: The Mekong Expedition is one of several programs entirely unique to Rustic Pathways. These two- and three-week programs also include Rustic’s Off the Map and Ultimate series in addition to our Mystery Trip. These programs take students to destinations where tourists rarely go and provide students with opportunities to challenge themselves while truly stepping outside their comfort zones. Learn more about Rustic Only programs by flipping to page 19 or by visiting rusticpathways.com/rustic-only.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
rusticpathways.com/la 73
Mongolia
Since Rustic Pathways began operations in Mongolia in 2009, our programs have worked with nomadic communities in the Tavan Bogd mountain region where villagers still live in traditional gers, circular buildings constructed of a wooden lattice and sheep felt. Mongolia has the lowest population density of any country in the world (about two people per square mile) and about as many horses as humans. Most Mongolians learn to ride horseback at a young age, and some ethnic groups still use trained golden eagles for hunting.
Mongolia is __________. rugged
Travel to Mongolia and reconsider your definition of rustic. You may not shower or have clean clothes, but you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring surroundings. Mongolia’s nomadic culture and expansive, untouched landscapes appeal to the hardiest of travelers and the most determined of adventurers.
Population
3.1 million
Capital City Ulaanbaatar Currency
Tugrik (MNT)
Languages
Mongolian and other ethnic languages
Attractions
Naadam Festival – Mongolia’s national holiday and a celebration of the “three games of men”— archery, wrestling, and horse racing
Steppe – the green rolling hills of central Mongolia
Nomadic lifestyle – 30 percent of Mongolia’s people are nomadic
Anya Buyan-Erdene | Mongolia and China Program Manager “It’s hard to encapsulate Mongolia in a phrase. Is it the vast beauty of the country’s wide open spaces? The mountains that seem to reach the sky? The delicious khorkhog? Sitting around a ger talking and drinking milk tea? Or is it meeting the amazing people and experiencing their fascinating culture? Mongolia is all those things and so much more. You won’t regret your decision to experience it for yourself.” Growing up in the land of nomads, traveling has always been a part of Anya’s life. She has a deep respect for the places she visits—a value she has imparted on Rustic Pathways students since joining us in 2013. After graduating from Ikh Zasag International University, Anya supported relief, income generation, and health projects for an NGO that served people from 21 provinces in Mongolia.
74 mongolia@rusticpathways.com
Program at a Glance Program Name
Off the Map: Mongolia
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
•
•••
••
••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
21 hours
22 days
$5,995
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/mn 75
Mongolia
ADVENTURE
SERVICE + CULTURE
RUSTIC ONLY
HOMESTAY
Off the Map: Mongolia An epic immersion experience into the far reaches of central and western Mongolia 22 days | $5,995 USD plus airfare Journey from the central Mongolian lowlands to the rugged mountains of the country’s wild west. Leave modern devices at home as you explore untamed regions and trek through the countryside. Glimpse an ancient way of life traveling from ger to ger across Mongolia’s arid steppe without the luxuries of electricity, running water, or paved roads. From Kazakh eagle hunting to Tuvan throat singing, the nomadic herders of Mongolia maintain traditions that date to the empire of Chinggis Khaan. In remote western Mongolia, help a local NGO that offers herding families nutritional guidance, educational opportunities, and improved infrastructure. This is a challenging experience—an adventurous spirit, positive attitude, and keen sense of exploration are required. Ages
15 and up
Service
Up to 21 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 17, July 8
(Wednesday)
Program Types Rustic Only Off the Map: Mongolia is one of several programs entirely unique to Rustic Pathways. These two- and three-week programs also include Rustic’s Come with Nothing and Ultimate series in addition to our Mystery Trip. These programs take students to destinations where tourists rarely go and provide students with opportunities to challenge themselves while truly stepping outside their comfort zones. Learn more about Rustic Only programs by flipping to page 19 or by visiting rusticpathways.com/rustic-only.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Ultimate Asia 76 mongolia@rusticpathways.com
Mongolia
rusticpathways.com/mn 77
Morocco
Rustic Pathways’ programs in Morocco have exposed students to the breadth of this gorgeous country since 2012. Visit jaw-dropping sights such as the Cascades d’Ouzoud waterfall and Hassan II Mosque. Travel to the indigenous villages of the Atlas Mountains or explore labyrinthine medinas of Morocco’s historic cities. Students will also engage with fascinating people and participate in community service projects focused on education, agriculture, and cultural preservation.
diverse Morocco is __________.
Iconic images of camels trekking across the desert fall far short of capturing the essence of Morocco. From the red sands of the Sahara to the crashing waves of the coast and the incredible people and culture in between, Morocco is a country you have to see firsthand to truly appreciate.
Population
34 million
Capital City Rabat Currency
Dirham (MAD)
Languages
Standard Arabic and Tamazight, Darija (Moroccan Arabic) and French
Attractions
The Sahara Desert – the largest non-polar desert in the world
Fez – a medieval city that includes the world’s largest car-free urban area
Jamaâ El-Fna – a UNESCO World Heritage marketplace in Marrakech
Chaima Ait El Mekki | Morocco Country Director “Morocco is this flourishing tree with roots in Africa and branches and leaves in Europe. It’s a land of diversity that resembles our national dish, tagine. Just as many different ingredients form the perfect stew, the variation of the mountains and deserts, ancient medinas and modern cities, French and Arab cultures will make you want to savor every bite.” Born and raised in Marrakech, Chaima has been with Rustic since 2012. Fluent in Darija, Arabic, French, and English, she is an invaluable resource to our students. With a degree in actuarial finance, she uses her knowledge of business, languages, and culture to manage transformative programs. Chaima is a strong believer in cross-cultural discussions to better understand one another.
78 morocco@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Atlas Mountains Service Moroccan Wanderer Advanced Photography Workshop
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
••• •• •••
•• ••• •••
•• •• •••
•• ••• •••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
25 hours
16 days
$3,995
10 hours
16 days
$5,495
N/A
16 days
$4,995
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/ma 79
Morocco
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
Atlas Mountains Service Community service and adventure in the mountains of central Morocco 16 days | $3,995 USD plus airfare Travel to the imperial city of Marrakech and enjoy a welcome feast in the middle of Jamaâ El-Fna marketplace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Absorb the energy of the old medina before making your way to the High Atlas Mountains for a week of rewarding service in a Amazigh village. Participate in education, agriculture, and cultural preservation service with Moroccan youth organizations and Amazigh associations. After time in the village, test your bargaining skills while shopping in the labyrinthine markets known as souqs. Visit the blue city of Chefchaouen and hike to Akchour Waterfall before concluding your journey at the vast Hassan II Mosque. Ages
16 and up
Service
Up to 25 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 23, July 21
(Tuesday)
Sustainable Development Goals Goal 4 – Quality Education Rustic Pathways’ service work contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, global initiatives the United Nations is working to address by 2030. High Atlas Mountain Service allows Rustic students to participate in a community service project intended to support the education of local school children. In addition to participating in education service projects, students will participate in group discussions and reflect about actions they can take in their home communities to advocate for inclusive educational opportunities for all. Learn more about Rustic’s contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals by flipping to page 11 or by visiting rustictpathways.com/impact.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs. The program was an incredible, immersive experience that I will never forget. The bonds and memories created are irreplaceable and I will forever be grateful for every moment. Arianna Carpati | New York, New York
80 morocco@rusticpathways.com
Morocco
ADVENTURE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
ADVENTURE
Moroccan Wanderer
LANGUAGE + SKILLS
Advanced Photography Workshop
Across the mighty desert, over the mountains, and to the sea
Instruction from a photojournalist in Morocco’s Sahara desert and Atlas Mountains
16 days | $5,495 USD plus airfare Journey to Casablanca and visit Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, before heading off to begin your service projects. Along the way, stop by the ancient Ait-Ben-Haddou and pass through scenic Dadès Gorges. Set off on a sunset camel caravan to a desert camp, then take part in community service projects. Learn about the indigenous Amazigh culture in a remote valley nestled in the craggy High Atlas Mountains. In Marrakech, visit the buzzing market square Jamaâ El-Fna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Conclude your trip with a visit to the white-walled Medina of Essaouira, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can snack on crepes and take surf lessons.
16 days | $4,995 USD plus airfare Use your camera to document Morocco’s vibrant cultures, landscapes, and traditions under the guidance of a professional photojournalist. From the medieval streets of Fez, the world’s largest car-free urban area, to the tranquil landscapes of the Rif Mountains surrounding Chefchaouen, capture the diversity of life in this colorful nation. Hike to the Bridge of God and the waterfall of Akchour, then make your way toward the gateway of the Sahara. Hop on a camel for a ride into the dunes to meet Berber people and learn about their ancient way of life. After a farewell dinner in Marrakech, head to Casablanca and explore Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest and most impressive.
Ages
16 and up
Service
Up to 10 community service hours awarded
Ages
16 and up
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, June14, July 21
Departures
July 7
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
College Program: For students 18 and older, we offer a special version of this program starting in country on May 26, 2019. For more information, please visit rusticpathways.com/college.
(Tuesday)
Connects well with… Moroccan Wanderer
rusticpathways.com/ma 81
Peru
Students looking for adventure are drawn to Peru to experience the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu, marvel at glaciated Andean peaks, experience life in rural communities, or venture into the awe-inspiring Amazon rainforest. Since starting operations in 2008, Rustic’s Peru programs offer the opportunity to partner with local organizations to understand some of the area’s most significant challenges, which include access to clean water and education for girls. Outside of service, Peru offers students a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, zip lining, and mountain biking.
Peru is __________. inspiring
Whether it’s the mountains, the beach, the rainforest, or valley towns, every view in Peru is breathtaking. Meet hardworking people in remote villages, contribute to service projects that make a tangible difference, and leave the country feeling refreshed and inspired. You’ll want to return as soon as you leave.
Population
31 million
Capital City Lima Currency
Nuevo Sol (PEN)
Languages
Spanish and Quechua
Attractions
Machu Picchu – the “Lost City of the Incas”
Aguas Calientes – located in the Urubamamba River Valley and known for its hot springs and as the gateway to Machu Pichhu
The Amazon – the largest tropical rainforest in the world
Arequipa – the “white city” was once Peru’s capital and is the country’s second-largest city
Kelly Moynihan | Peru Country Director “For me, Peru is much more than a stamp in my passport. It’s being welcomed like family into Quechua communities. It’s being overwhelmed by incredible vistas in the Sacred Valley. And it’s trekking deep into the Amazon and truly learning about the power of nature. Tourists will come to see Machu Picchu, but travelers fall in love with the raw beauty, rich culture, and endless adventures Peru has to offer.” With more than a decade of Program Leader experience, fluency in Spanish, and commitment to community service, Kelly is a natural fit to lead Rustic’s Peru operations. Kelly previously worked in Costa Rica when she joined Rustic in 2008. Originally from New Jersey, Kelly earned a degree in journalism from American University in Washington, D.C.
82 peru@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Sacred Valley Service Andes to Amazon Peru by Backpack La Niña Andina: Women’s Empowerment in Peru
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
• •• •• ••
••• ••• ••• ••
•• •• •• •••
•• •• ••• ••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
40 hours
15 days
$3,995
20 hours
15 days
$3,995
10 hours
22 days
$5,995
10 hours
15 days
$4,995
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/pe 83
Peru
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
HOMESTAY
Sacred Valley Service Community service, cultural immersion, and adventure near Machu Picchu 15 days | $3,995 USD plus airfare Explore hidden valleys, stunning scenery, and rural villages on our most popular program in Peru. Rooted in service, this program pairs students with local communities on sustainable projects designed to address economic development, public health, and educational needs. Alongside the physical service work, play fútbol with new friends and practice Spanish with locals. Experience adventure while whitewater rafting and biking through the valley. Hike to the ruins of Machu Picchu for an awe-inspiring end to your incredible journey. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 40 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 9, June 16, June 23, July 7, July 14, July 21
(Tuesday)
Sustainable Development Goals Goal 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation Rustic Pathways’ service work contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, global initiatives the United Nations is working to address by 2030. Sacred Valley Service in Peru allows Rustic students to participate in a community service project that provides clean drinking water to communities in Peru’s rural Sacred Valley. In addition to assisting with the project, students will participate in group discussions and reflect about actions they can take in their home communities to advocate for clean water access for all people. Learn more about Rustic’s contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals by flipping to page 11 or by visiting rustictpathways.com/impact.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Spring Break Program: We also offer a one-week version of this program between March and April for spring break. For more information and dates, please see page 19 or visit our website at rusticpathways.com/spring-break.
84 peru@rusticpathways.com
Peru
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
Andes to Amazon
Peru by Backpack
A unique service adventure across Peru’s most famous destinations
This alumni-only program allows you to curate your own Peruvian adventure
15 days | $3,995 USD plus airfare
22 days | $5,995 USD plus airfare
Traverse southern Peru from the high Andes mountains to the depths of the Amazon rain forest on this extraordinary service adventure. Get to know your group through community service, mountain treks, and an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu. Say goodbye to the mountains as you travel deep into the Amazon rainforest and truly experience nature. See wildlife up close as you volunteer at an animal rehabilitation center, then journey to an ecolodge and work alongside the jungle community on conservation projects to help protect this treasure. The perfect trip for adventurers looking to experience parts of Peru on—and off—the map.
Become a savvy, adventurous backpacker on this life-changing trek through Peru’s many natural wonders. This is a unique Rustic experience designed for experienced travelers that puts the journey in your hands. Living out of your pack, manage your budget, negotiate with locals, and learn to travel like a pro. Camp under the stars in the magnificent Andes, trek to stunning turquoise lagoons and glaciated peaks, and explore one of the greatest archaeological landmarks on the globe—Machu Picchu. After an intense yet rewarding three weeks, return home knowing how to find hidden spots off the tourist track, meet fascinating people, and truly interact with local culture.
Ages
14 and up
Ages
16 and up
Service
Up to 20 community service hours awarded
Service
Up to 10 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7, July 21
Departures
June 16, July 7
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Sacred Valley Service
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs. This program changed me as a person and my view on the world. It taught me how to be far more independent than I thought I could be. Allison Rosenoff | Quebec City, Canada
rusticpathways.com/pe 85
Peru
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
HOMESTAY
La Niña Andina: Women’s Empowerment in Peru A exploration of access to education and opportunities for women 15 days | $4,995 USD plus airfare Explore the current issues facing girls and women in Peru during a two-week service adventure in the Andean highlands. Learn how local nonprofits tackle daily challenges and visit a girls’ secondaryeducation dormitory, a vocational-training center and home for young mothers, and a women’s textile weaving cooperative. Immerse in traditional Quechua culture during a homestay in the Sacred Valley. Find adventure as you zip line down a 400-meter rock face and spend a day exploring the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 10 community service hours awarded
Departures
July 7
(Tuesday)
Sustainable Development Goals Goal 5 – Gender Equality Rustic Pathways’ service work contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, global initiatives the United Nations is working to address by 2030. La Nina Andina: Women’s Empowerment in Peru allows Rustic students to participate in a community service project that benefits girls and women in rural Peru who struggle with access to education and limited opportunities in the region. In addition to assisting with the construction of a girls dormitory and interacting with local girls and women during homestays, students will participate in group discussions and reflect about actions they can take in their home communities to advocate for inclusion and gender equality. Learn more about Rustic’s contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals by flipping to page 11 or by visiting rustictpathways.com/impact.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs. La Niña Andina: Women’s Empowerment in Peru was an amazing program that educated me about so much more than women’s rights and protection of cultural heritage. It was a life-changing experience that I never want to forget. Anna Christina Maukner | Vienna, Austria
86 peru@rusticpathways.com
Peru
rusticpathways.com/pe 87
Tanzania
Rustic Pathways began introducing students to the people and cultures of Tanzania in 2005. Between safari trips and Mt. Kilimanjaro climbs, students are exposed to indigenous tribal groups, such as the Maasai of the Great Rift Valley and the nomadic Hadzabe, who still maintain traditional lifestyles. Students also work alongside villagers on collaboratively-designed service projects, enabling them to integrate with the community and develop a local perspective.
welcoming Tanzania is ____________.
What you will remember most from your time in Tanzania is the people. Tanzanians welcome you with big smiles and genuine excitement to share their culture and customs. Become part of the community as you sip tea and listen to stories from your host families, community members, and other locals.
Population
55.5 million
Capital City Dodoma Currency
Shilling (TZS)
Languages
Swahili and English
Attractions
Serengeti National Park – home to Africa’s big five game animals
Zanzibar – the vibrant spice island off the coast of Tanzania with brilliant white sand beaches
Mt. Kilimanjaro – the highest point in Africa and the world’s tallest freestanding volcano
Natalya Morgan | Tanzania Country Director “In Tanzania, cultures from more than 120 tribes, each with their own food, language, and beliefs, live alongside one another in harmony to create the modern definition of community, which I think makes Tanzania all the more special.” After graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in wildlife ecology, Natalya’s penchant for travel, community service, and pad thai guided her straight to Rustic Pathways Thailand in 2014. After leading programs in Southeast Asia and India, and helping to manage our Tanzania operations, Natalya became our Tanzania Country Director in 2019.
88 tanzania@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
African Wildlife Conservation Culture and the Crater Serengeti to Zanzibar Climbing Kili Ultimate Africa
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
• • •• • ••
•• ••• •• ••• •••
••• •• • •• •
•• • •• • •••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
25 hours
16 days
$5,495
50 hours
16 days
$3,995
N/A
16 days
$5,695
N/A
16 days
$6,895
N/A
23 days
$13,995
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/tz 89
Tanzania
COMMUNITY SERVICE
CONSERVATION
African Environmental Conservation Hands-on training with environmental conservation initiatives 16 days | $5,495 USD plus airfare Travel through Tanzania to aid both marine and mountain habitat restoration efforts, while working alongside community members on projects that support development and conservation. Snorkel the reef to see what you’re protecting and witness the rehabilitative effects of reef balls. Learn about sustainable agriculture during a tour of a local coffee plantation. Spot iconic Tanzanian wildlife on a safari in one of the country’s most notable national parks. Return home an active global citizen inspired to bring positive change in your community. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 25 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 23, July 21
(Tuesday)
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
Culture and the Crater Village community service on the edge of the immense Ngorongoro Crater 16 days | $3,995 USD plus airfare Experience rural Tanzania as you work with village leaders on service projects to improve living conditions and infrastructure. Partner with students for educational exchange activities to foster communication and teamwork, and forge friendships in the classroom and on the soccer pitch. Take a break from service to hunt for small game with the nomadic Hadzabe, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes, visit local blacksmiths to learn how to make tools from recycled scrap metal, and embark on a safari in the Ngorongoro Crater. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 50 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7, July 21
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Culture and the Crater
90 tanzania@rusticpathways.com
Tusajigwe Mwambipile Tanzania Program Manager Originally from Dar es Salaam, Tusa attended primary and high school in Kampala, Uganda. She has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Dar es Salaam, and now lives in Arusha. Tusa joined Rustic in 2016 seeking new challenges, experiences, and friends!
Tanzania
ADVENTURE
ADVENTURE
Serengeti to Zanzibar
Climbing Kili
Incredible wildlife and breathtaking beaches
A challenging and exhilarating expedition to the top of Africa
16 days | $5,695 USD plus airfare
16 days | $6,895 USD plus airfare
Explore Tanzania’s vibrant tribal cultures, captivating landscapes, and iconic wildlife. Start on the foothills of Kilimanjaro, exploring waterfalls, tribal caves, and the cultures of those who call the mountain home. Set out on safari and learn about wildlife ecology in Tanzania as you try to glimpse Africa’s big five game animals. Head to the island of Zanzibar for the final part of your adventure, which boasts its own unique history and culture. Visit nearby islands by boat and snorkel Zanzibar’s tropical waters. Visit a fragrant spice farm and wander the lively marketplaces of historic Stone Town.
Adventure to the ”Roof of Africa” on this seven-day trek to Africa’s highest peak and the world’s tallest freestanding volcano. Start with an introduction to the unique culture of the region as you engage in community activities, learn tribal history, and acclimate to prepare for your expedition. Considered a non-technical climb, the route up Mt. Kilimanjaro is highly challenging but conquerable by anyone with good physical and mental fitness. Hike along scenic trails each day and spend your nights sleeping in tents under the stars. After several days of climbing, wake before dawn for your final ascent to the summit where you’ll stand above the clouds and look down on some of the finest views in Africa. End in Arusha where you’ll explore the local markets and enjoy a farewell feast with your hiking companions.
Ages
14 and up
Departures
June 23, July 7
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Culture and the Crater
Ages
15 and up
Departures
June 9, July 7
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Serengeti to Zanzibar
rusticpathways.com/tz 91
Tanzania
ADVENTURE
RUSTIC ONLY
Ultimate Africa An epic journey to Africa’s most sought after destinations 23 days | $13,995 USD plus airfare Embark on the ultimate African adventure in four incredible countries and one semi-autonomous region (Zanzibar). Hop into safari vehicles and spot iconic African wildlife on the plains of the Maasai Mara in Kenya and the magnificent Serengeti in Tanzania. Sail Zanzibar’s azure waters and explore the island’s reefs, beaches, and vibrant culture. Get your adrenaline fix while bungee jumping over Victoria Falls and whitewater rafting the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe and Zambia. Return home after experiencing some of Africa’s most iconic places. Ages
15 and up
Departures
June 16
(Tuesday)
Connecting Programs All Rustic Pathways programs are designed to connect. To create the ultimate summer experience over six weeks, consider connecting Ultimate Africa and Ultimate Asia (page 37). These two three-week programs expose students to nine countries and one semi-autonomous region (Zanzibar!). Learn more about how to connect programs by flipping to page 20 or by visiting rusticpathways.com/how-programs-connect.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Ultimate Asia
92 tanzania@rusticpathways.com
Tanzania
rusticpathways.com/tz 93
Thailand
Thailand has been the hub of Rustic Pathways’ Southeast Asia operations since we first offered programs in the country in 1999. We have an incredible team of local staff who are experts at ensuring students have transformative experiences. Thailand offers the widest range of Rustic programs, from gritty service trips and animal conservation programs to outdoor adventures and immersive cultural experiences.
enchanting Thailand is _____________.
Known as the Land of Smiles, Thailand will immediately welcome and captivate you. The local people are incredibly friendly and deeply enjoy sharing their Buddhist culture, spicy food, and love for laughter. There is a peacefulness about the country, and the scenery is always enchanting.
Population
68.6 million
Capital City
Bangkok
Currency
Baht (THB)
Languages
Thai is the official language, although dozens of other languages and dialects are spoken
Attractions
The Grand Palace – former residence for the kings of Thailand
The Golden Triangle – tri-point of Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar
Bryan Haggerty | Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar Country Director Bryan studied philosophy at Saint Michael’s College before moving to Southeast Asia, where he has lived and worked for more than a decade. Prior to joining Rustic Pathways, he spent several years teaching at Chiang Mai University and volunteering for an NGO that advocates for ethnic minority groups in the region. Bryan speaks fluent Thai and Lao and has managed our Thailand operations since 2008. Bryan splits his year between the mountains of Vermont and Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Nuttapong Gulsatit | Thailand General Manager Originally from Bangkok and a graduate of Assumption University of Thailand, Nuttapong comes to Rustic Pathways after over a decade of working for various multi-national companies. Having spent two years hosting a travel program across Thailand, Nuttapong now brings his passion for responsible travel and education through travel to Rustic Pathways. He manages our Thailand operation from our Chiang Mai office, the city he has called home for over six years.
94 thailand@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Intro to Community Service in Thailand Community Health and Wilderness First Aid Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Sanctuary Marine and Rainforest Conservation in Thailand Amazing Thailand Elephants and Amazing Thailand Wonders and Riches of Southeast Asia Island Hopping and Diving
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
•• •• •• •• •• •• ••• ••
• •• •• ••• • • • •••
•• ••• •• ••• •• •• • ••
• •• •• •• ••• •• ••• ••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
39 hours
18 days
$3,895
18 hours
11 days
$2,995
23 hours
18 days
$4,495
26 hours
18 days
$4,495
N/A
11 days
$2,495
4 hours
18 days
$4,995
N/A
18 days
$7,995
N/A
18 days
$4,995
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
rusticpathways.com/th 95
Thailand
Rural Isan Service Base Located in northern Thailand, the Rural Thailand Service Base is a modern oasis amid traditional Thai life. Surrounded by terraced rice fields and village homes, students have the opportunity to witness traditional, rural Thai life. Due to our long-standing relationship with the local communities, we’re able to offer students an all-encompassing experience. Home to some of our most popular programs, including Intro to Community Service and Community Health and Wilderness First Aid, this base house provides a comfortable setting to introduce students to international travel.
Weekend Side Trips Students on Intro to Community Service in Thailand have the option to add a weekend side trip after their first full week of service. Laos Weekend Escape: 4 days, 3 nights | $495 Head north and hop across the Mekong River in the Land of a Million Elephants. Photograph incredible landscapes, swim in a turquoise jungle lagoon, hike to a mystical cave, and learn about traditional Hmong culture. Buddhist Retreat: 3 days, 2 nights | $395 Spend three days living like a Buddhist monk or nun learning how meditation and mindfulness are a part of daily life in Thailand. Get acquainted with the basic tenets of Buddhism and leave the temple refreshed and grounded. Escape to Paradise: 3 days, 2 nights | $695 Relax on some of Thailand’s most pristine and stunning beaches in Krabi. Snorkel amid coral and colorful fish in aquamarine waters and climb jungle-covered rock formations.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
BASE HOUSE
Intro to Community Service in Thailand Six rewarding service projects at the Rural Thailand Service Base 18 days | $3,895 USD plus airfare Engage in rural Thai life during an exciting blend of service and culture at our hub in Southeast Asia. This program offers six service projects to choose from each week: Welcome Homes, Meals on Flip Flops, Bobbing and Floating, English Exchange, Teaching and Tutoring, and Hands in the Dirt. Developed over many years with our partners in the region, these service projects produce lifechanging experiences for our students and long-term outcomes for the communities. Choose from several exciting side-trip options during your stay to elevate your experience and maximize your summer in Southeast Asia. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 39 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 16, June 30, July 14
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: Rural Isan Service Base
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Thailand
COMMUNITY SERVICE
LANGUAGE + SKILLS
Program Types Language and Skills
Community Health and Wilderness First Aid Medical certifications and exposure to health care in northeast Thailand 11 days | $2,995 USD plus airfare Enjoy the beauty of Thailand while earning Wilderness First Aid and CPR certifications at our Rural Thailand Service Base. Learn how to triage injuries, manage life-threatening medical emergencies, and recognize early warning signs of critical problems. Practice providing basic life support and airway management, and learn to determine when a patient needs to be evacuated from a wilderness or rural location. Apply your new knowledge about health care with focused service projects in nearby villages and schools. Help screen for diabetes and high blood pressure and participate in an infrastructure project that provides safe and sanitary living conditions to community members in need. Ages
16 and up
Service
Up to 18 community service hours awarded
Departures
July 7
(Tuesday)
Community Health and Wilderness First Aid is one of several Rustic Pathways programs intended to provide students with classroom or field instruction in different skill areas. Students can hone their language skills, practice their photography, or earn certain certifications. Students interested in Community Health and Wilderness First Aid should also consider Public Health in the Caribbean where they can earn wilderness medicine or CPR certifications. Learn more about language and skills programs by flipping to page 19 or by visiting rusticpathways.com/language-and-skills.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: Rural Thailand Service Base
rusticpathways.com/th 97
Thailand
Lanna Highlands Service Base Nestled in the mountains outside of Chiang Mai, the Lanna Highlands Base is the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The property showcases traditional Northern-style architecture against a backdrop of lush gardens and trees. The surrounding mountains and forests help preserve crisp and cool air, a haven from Thailand’s summer heat. When you are not working on a service project or exploring nearby Chiang Mai, find a quiet place to take in the view or enjoy free time with friends in one of the picturesque waterfalls just a short drive from the base.
Service Initiatives Education: Spend the first half of Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Conservation assisting with English language enrichment activities for local students. Serve as a conversation partner and help with other classroom activities. Environment and Animal Welfare: During the program’s second week, learn about the Sappraiwan Elephant Sanctuary’s work to protect this vulnerable species. Partner with a mahout to help care for the elephants.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
CONSERVATION
BASE HOUSE
Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Conservation A unique service experience combining education and animal conservation 18 days | $4,495 USD plus airfare Become a part of our extended family at the Northern Thailand Service Base where your journey begins. Design and implement English language enrichment activities with help from trained educators, help out on nearby infrastructure projects, and gain critical perspective about how people live in this part of the world. For your second week, head to a progressive elephant sanctuary. Spend several days completing elephant-related service projects while learning about these majestic creatures. In between sessions with the elephants, engage in discussions about the experiences you’ve shared with the rest of your group. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 23 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 16, June 30, July 14, July 28
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: Lanna Highlands Service Base
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Thailand
COMMUNITY SERVICE
HOMESTAY
CONSERVATION
Sustainable Development Goals Goal 14 – Life Below Water
Marine and Rainforest Conservation in Thailand An exploration of Thailand’s rich yet fragile ecosystems and local cultural immersion 18 days | $4,495 USD plus airfare Explore challenges facing southern Thailand’s unique ecosystems on this dynamic voyage through a picturesque landscape. Immerse yourself at a homestay experience set in a unique seaside subculture of Thailand, learning about their dependence on the natural resources that surround them and their efforts to conserve the marine life that supports their livelihood. Next, discover one of the world’s oldest rainforests and gain insight into the rich biodiversity from experienced conservationists working to preserve and restore the region’s forests. Snorkel at some of Thailand’s best preserved reefs as you gain valuable perspective about vulnerable underwater ecosystems. Return home with a greater understanding of the complex issues facing the region and with an appreciation for the majestic landscapes of southern Thailand. Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 26 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7
(Tuesday)
Rustic Pathways’ service work contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, global initiatives the United Nations is working to address by 2030. Marine and Rainforest Conservation in Thailand allows Rustic students to participate in a community service project that contributes to mangrove restoration in southern Thailand. In addition to helping replant mangrove seedlings designed to protect fragile coastlines and assisting their host family with daily crab harvests, students will participate in group discussions and reflect about actions they can take in their communities to advocate for life below water. Learn more about Rustic’s contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals by flipping to page 11 or by visiting rustictpathways.com/impact.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
rusticpathways.com/th 99
Thailand
ADVENTURE
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
CONSERVATION
Amazing Thailand
Elephants and Amazing Thailand
A classic journey from the mountains of Chiang Mai to the beaches of Phuket
A fantastic adventure combining elephants with the best sights in the Land of Smiles
11 days | $2,495 USD plus airfare
18 days | $4,995 USD plus airfare
Wander around ancient stupas, browse eclectic markets, and check out the mountain temple of Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai. Head for the hills, where the road snakes through lush mountains and terraced rice fields. Explore a waterfall and a holy cave, learn about local cultures, and enjoy the view of the mighty Doi Chiang Dao peak. Then, catch the quick flight down to Phuket for couple of days at one of Thailand’s most famous tropical beach destinations. The final stop is Bangkok, where you’ll visit the Grand Palace, see a championship Muay Thai match, and hop on a chartered long-tail boat ride. Ages
14 and up
Enjoy elements from two of our most popular programs—Thai Elephant Conservation Project and Amazing Thailand—packed into one incredible experience. Spend your first week at an elephant conservation center attending classes, gaining hands-on experience with Asian elephants and their mahouts, and earning a formal certificate of participation. Starting the second week, visit ancient temples, swim under waterfalls, and experience village life in the mountains. Then, hop down to Phuket to get a taste of Thailand’s world famous beaches and turquoise waters. Finish your journey in Bangkok by visiting the Grand Palace, attending a championship Muay Thai match, and experiencing a nighttime dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River.
Departures
June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28
Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 4 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 9, June 23, July 7, July 21
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Surasak “Koko” Kengla Thailand Senior Program Manager Born near Chiang Dao, Koko is an avid outdoorsman, teaches jungle survival, and leads biking and trekking excursions in the region. Since joining Rustic in 2007, Koko’s positive spirit has made a lasting impression on everyone he meets.
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Intro to Community Service in Thailand
100 thailand@rusticpathways.com
Thailand
ADVENTURE
ADVENTURE
Wonders and Riches of Southeast Asia
Island Hopping and Diving Tropical wonders and exotic islands of beautiful southern Thailand
The best attractions across four incredible countries
18 days | $4,995 USD plus airfare
18 days | $7,995 USD plus airfare Travel in style through Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, staying at luxury resorts and enjoying the finest cuisine in the region. Take an overnight chartered boat through Ha Long Bay, cheer ringside at a championship Muay Thai match, witness Hanoi’s Old Town from the back of a rickshaw, and explore the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat. Learn the complexities of Southeast Asian cultures from monks, villagers, and our team of local all-stars in each location. Hone your bargaining skills while shopping for funky artwork, teak wood carvings, and just about anything you could imagine. Ages
16 and up
Departures
June 16
(Tuesday)
Ages
16 and up
Departures
July 7
(Tuesday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
The Rustic leaders were amazing and in general I had the most amazing time. One of the best choices I’ve ever made was to travel to Asia for the first time with Rustic. It was extraordinary. Rebeca Montano | Key Biscayne, Florida
Experience some of the best destinations in southern Thailand— from the quaint fishing villages and coconut farms of Ko Yao Noi to popular destinations like world-renowned Phuket and Railay Beach. Spend time on the beach, in the jungles, and atop the striking limestone cliffs that define this extraordinary landscape. Earn an open water or advanced diver certification as you snorkel and scuba dive among spectacular coral reefs. Climb the world-famous cliffs at Railay Beach, and finish your experience on the relaxing beaches of Phuket. Learn about traditional culture and local industries, and throughout your journey, consider how the people in this region have adapted to the influx of international tourism.
Connects well with… Intro to Community Service in Thailand Amazing Thailand
rusticpathways.com/th 101
United States
The theme that connects each of our United States programs is home. Some students develop a sense of home in remote and unfamiliar locations, some help the residents of New Orleans rebuild their homes, and some learn to feel at home amid the vast natural beauty of the country’s national parks. International students gain a new perspective on the United States and American students often feel as though they are rediscovering their home country.
Population
329.3 million
Capital City
Washington, D.C.
Currency
U.S. Dollar (USD)
Languages
English, some Spanish
Attractions
The Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Park – two of the country’s most incredible natural wonders
The French Quarter – home to historic Jackson Square and jazz
Mauna Kea – the tallest peak in the world when measured from it’s base at the ocean floors
surprising The United States is ____________.
Even if the United States is your home country, you’re bound to encounter something unexpected on one of these programs. The United States is diverse in every sense, boasting a wide range of sights, activities, people, food, and cultures. You’ll be surprised by the issues you’re exposed to and amazed at how much you will discover.
Kate Lubina | United States Country Director “The cultural, environmental, and social diversity in the United States provides an incredible opportunity for students to learn and grow. From remote mountains to vibrant cities, and everything in between, our United States programs give students an opportunity to challenge themselves and to understand more of the world around them.” A native of southern California, Kate is at home near the ocean with her feet in the water. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and a master’s in global medicine. Kate developed a passion for community health and Latin American culture during a semester in Nicaragua, which she channeled when joining Rustic in 2014. She now leads our operations in the United States.
102 usa@rusticpathways.com
Programs at a Glance Program Name
Rebuilding New Orleans Young Explorers: New Orleans Aloha Service California Rush
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
•• •• •• ••
•• ••• ••• •••
•• •• •• ••
• • •• ••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
40 hours
14 days
$3,995
20 hours
7 days
$2,495
30 hours
14 days
$5,895
10 hours
14 days
$4,795
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
+ airfare
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United States
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
BASE HOUSE
Rebuilding New Orleans Hurricane recovery and cultural exploration in New Orleans 14 days | $3,995 USD plus airfare Assist in the ongoing hurricane relief efforts in New Orleans. Neighborhoods in New Orleans experienced unprecedented damage following Hurricane Katrina. Help residents and local organizations working to rebuild neighborhood infrastructure. Soak up New Orleans’ famous atmosphere as you enjoy live music, fresh jambalaya, and the true meaning of Southern hospitality. Learn more about New Orleans history, culture and people, and laissez le bon temps rouler! Ages
15 and up
Service
Up to 40 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 13, June 27, July 11
(Saturday)
Sustainable Development Goals Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities Rustic Pathways’ service work contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, global initiatives the United Nations is working to address by 2030. Rebuilding New Orleans allows Rustic students to participate in a community service project that aids the ongoing Hurricane Recovery relief effort. In addition to assisting local nonprofits rebuilding community infrastructure, students will participate in group discussions and reflect about actions they can take in their communities to advocate for inclusive and sustainable development. Learn more about Rustic’s contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals by flipping to page 11 or by visiting rustictpathways.com/impact.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… California Rush Base House Program: New Orleans Service Base
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United States
New Orleans Service Base Located just a short drive from the heart of the city, the New Orleans Service Base provides a comfortable retreat after a long day of service. The base boasts communal spaces, dorm-style bunk rooms, and modern bathrooms. Spend downtime relaxing by the nearby lake, listening to live music, exploring New Orleans’ vibrant neighborhoods, and trying local cuisine like crawfish, gumbo, or beignets from Café du Monde.
Service Initiatives Infrastructure: Rustic Pathways has partnered with SBP to assist with the ongoing Hurricane Katrina recovery effort since 2010. Since that time, Rustic students have contributed to the construction of at least one new home each year. With the recovery entering its 14th year since the hurricane devastated the city in 2006, our work in New Orleans has expanded to include assisting with other community infrastructure projects and partnerships with other area nonprofits.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + CULTURE
BASE HOUSE
Young Explorers: New Orleans An introductory service adventure for middle school students in the Big Easy 7 days | $2,495 USD plus airfare Join local residents and community organizations in the ongoing disaster relief effort to rebuild and preserve the physical, ecological, and social structure of New Orleans. Assist with community projects throughout New Orleans as you help rebuild a historic American city. After service, explore the area’s unique culture. Listen to live jazz in the French Quarter and spot alligators on an airboat tour in the bayou. Ages
12 and 13
Service
Up to 20 community service hours awarded
Departures
July 25
(Saturday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Base House Program: New Orleans Service Base
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United States
ADVENTURE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
ADVENTURE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
CONSERVATION
Aloha Service
California Rush
Service and exploration in the lush tropical paradise of Hawaii
Hike, surf, and camp on this epic California road trip
14 days | $5,895 USD plus airfare
14 days | $4,795 USD plus airfare
Work alongside local organizations in their mission to safeguard Hawaii’s unique ecosystem. After completing service, get a taste of what makes Hawaii an island paradise. Relax at the beach, camp, learn to surf, hike through diverse landscapes, and take in millions of stars atop Mauna Kea. Learn about the unique and rich history of Kanaka Maoli, Hawaii’s native people, and Hawaiian culture. Glimpse the powerful forces that created this chain of islands during a visit to Volcanoes National Park.
Explore the incredibly-diverse landscape of California and visit locations that are among the most beautiful in the United States. From stunning mountains to delightful beaches, the Golden State is home to limitless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visit impressive tufa towers at Mono Lake. Camp in the world-renowned Sierra Nevada mountains and Yosemite National Park—ending each evening by sharing meals and stories around the campfire. Participate in restoration and conservation in these beloved areas. Then head west and up the coast along historic U.S. Highway 1 through Big Sur, Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Francisco. Explore the incredible natural wonders found across California and leave with an experience you’ll dream about forever.
Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 30 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 13, June 27, July 11
(Saturday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… California Rush
Ages
14 and up
Service
Up to 10 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 20, July 4
(Saturday)
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Rebuilding New Orleans 106 usa@rusticpathways.com
United States
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Vietnam
Vietnam possesses a unique mix of cultures, languages, and history. Rustic has partnered with local communities and development organizations across Vietnam since 2010 to help our students gain a profound understanding and appreciation for the astonishing story of this Southeast Asian country. Students leave Vietnam having meaningful experiences, returning home with changed perspectives and a desire to contribute to their own communities in positive and impactful ways.
timeless Vietnam is __________.
Wander the quaint streets of 1,000-year-old Hanoi, sampling exquisite flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Cruise the waters across Ha Long Bay, marveling at the cliffs overhead, and wander through lush rice fields. Shop in bustling local markets and learn about Vietnam’s culture and history throughout the ages.
Population
97 million
Capital City Hanoi Currency
Dong (VND)
Languages
Vietnamese, English, some French and Chinese
Attractions
Hanoi – Vietnam’s capital, where the ancient meets the modern
Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO World Heritage site with more than 1,000 islands and islets
Ninh Binh – famous for its Karst scenery near the village of Tam Coc
Viet Nguyen | Vietnam Program Manager “Vietnam is my home and I’m proud to expose students to this marvelous country’s rich history, charming culture, and tasty delicacies. Students who travel to Vietnam can expect to see eye-opening historical landmarks and assist communities on impactful service initiatives. Rustic Pathways Vietnam is not simply a 9 to 5 job. It is my passion—my life!” Originally from Hanoi, Viet joined Rustic Pathways in 2015. Viet developed a passion for creating life-changing experiential education experiences as a volunteer tour guide in college, making him the perfect fit to lead our Vietnam operations. Outside of work, you’ll find Viet jamming along with The Beatles and Queen, or trying to hit the highest note from A-ha’s “Take on Me.”
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Program at a Glance Program Name
Hanoi to Ha Long
Accommodation Amenities
Adventure / Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program Travel
••
••
•
••
Service
Trip Length
Cost
24 hours
18 days
$4,995
+ airfare
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COMMUNITY SERVICE
SERVICE + ADVENTURE
HOMESTAY
Hanoi to Ha Long A two-week adventure uncovering the hidden gems of northern Vietnam 18 days | $4,995 USD plus airfare Explore the action-packed and charming streets of Hanoi, sampling delicious Vietnamese dishes on every corner. Journey to beautiful Hill Tribe communities in the mountains among the rice paddies of Hoa Binh. Work alongside community members and local professionals to contribute to ongoing service initiatives. Row through the intricate waterway system of Trang An grottoes in Ninh Binh and learn about the deep history of Vietnam’s ancient capital city. Bike through green rice fields and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Overnight aboard a private junk boat in magnificent Ha Long Bay, stopping to explore caves, karsts, and islands as you go. Ages
15 and up
Service
Up to 24 community service hours awarded
Departures
June 23, July 7
(Tuesday)
Connecting Programs All Rustic Pathways programs are designed to connect. Consider connecting Hanoi to Ha Long with Southeast Asian Adventurer in Laos and Thailand and Floating Village Service Expedition in Cambodia to create an immersive six-week adventure in Southeast Asia. If students choose to connect other programs like multiple types of service or simply other options than the examples we’ve provided on page 20, that’s OK! Learn more about how to connect programs by flipping to page 20 or by visiting rusticpathways.com/how-programs-connect.
See rusticpathways.com/flights for airfare costs.
Connects well with… Floating Village Service Expedition Southeast Asian Adventurer
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Rustic Pathways Group Travel We’re more than a travel company. We’re also educators who understand the value of providing a learning experience outside the classroom. Because every school and class is different, we customize our Group Travel programs specifically for educators and their students. To keep it easy for busy educators, we’ll even do all the work!
Our programs are designed to align with: • The mission and values of your school • Your vision and purpose for traveling with students • Your school’s curriculum, including International Baccalaureate Middle Years and Diploma programs incorporating meaningful and impactful CAS experiences
• Coursework or a specific content area, including Advanced Placement or Honors programs • Your school’s service-learning goals or external programs like Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Program
How to Design the Perfect Travel Program Step 1: Partner with your Rustic Program Coordinator • Connect to discuss program options and customization. • Receive custom program proposals within a few days. • Work with your PC to adjust the itinerary to meet your needs. • Get classroom activities and other lessons to help prepare students for their program. Step 2: Recruit students to join your program (but we’ll do most of the work!) • Receive a custom program webpage, posters, flyers, email templates, and other materials to distribute to students and their families. • Encourage students and their parents to attend an information night in your school community, hosted by Rustic—we’ll provide recruitment resources. • Get full support from our administrative team for student enrollment, flight booking, and payment assistance. Step 3: Travel on the adventure of a lifetime! • Arrive in country, meet your Program Leaders, immerse in local culture, participate in meaningful service, make new friends, and create lasting memories. • Process experiences during and after your trip through guided discussions and reflection activities facilitated by trained Program Leaders. • Apply those lessons to the classroom with educational resources to support student projects and classroom activities. When you return, get involved with the Rustic Pathways Foundation to continue supporting the communities where your students traveled. And start planning your next program! Call 800.321.4353 (United States) or +1 440.975.9691 (international), email groups@rusticpathways.com or visit groups. rusticpathways.com to customize the perfect trip for your students.
Tim Reilly | Head of School International School of Texas, Austin, Texas Peru (2017), China (2018), and Tanzania (2019) It was quite a powerful experience for our students to work alongside students within the community that were their same age. Rustic helped our students step outside of their comfort zone and take a humble approach to service and culture. As an IB World School, taking action is a quality we try to instill within our students every day. To have them do this on a global scale was monumental. We look forward to planning our next trip!
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Rustic Pathways Gap Year A gap year is anything but a year off. Deciding to defer college for a semester or a year is often the most important educational decision a student makes. Gap years are also supported by top colleges and universities. Gap years are formative experiences that encourage personal growth while helping students determine how they want to spend the next four years and beyond. Rustic Pathways is a member of the Gap Year Association. Our programs include structured three-month semesters designed to provide different opportunities for travel, cultural immersion, service, and non-cognitive skills development. In addition to our traditional gap semesters, we’ve recently partnered with Verto Education to offer students the opportunity to earn college credit during immersive international travel experiences. Verto’s programs are affordable, accredited academic programs that include acceptance to one of its partner colleges.
What does a gap year with Rustic look like? 3-Month Semester Programs
Accredited Semesters with Verto Education
South Pacific Service and Ocean Skills Participate in community service projects while immersing in the culture of the South Pacific. Surf, sail, scuba dive, and earn a Bronze Medallion lifesaving certificate on this program with the highest level of supervision and mentorship by our local and international staff in Fiji, Australia, and New Zealand.
Latin America: Costa Rica Spanish Immersion | 16 credits Engage with the relevant issues in environmental studies, sustainability, and ecology in Costa Rica. Students spend a total of 12 weeks in the country immersed in a Spanish language course.
Spanish Immersion: From Havana to Machu Picchu Stay with local families and interact in Spanish during unique homestay experiences. Improve language skills, dive into indigenous culture, participate in meaningful community service projects and explore the best landscapes in three regions: Central America, the Andes, and the Caribbean. Golden Lands and World Heritage Explore ancient ruins; travel by tuk tuk, train, and riverboat; compare religious values and customs; and get to know local staff members as they share undiscovered gems across Southeast Asia on this program with the highest level of supervision and mentorship by our local and international staff. Visit gap.rusticpathways.com for more information about taking a gap year with Rustic Pathways.
Latin America: The Dominican Republic and Costa Rica | 16 credits Explore the work of international development and systems of public health in Central America. Students spend 13 weeks abroad, including seven weeks in the Dominican Republic and six weeks in Costa Rica. South Pacific: Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia | 16 credits Learn about the relationship between humans, ecosystems, and societies. During this semester, students spend thirteen weeks abroad, including seven weeks in Fiji, two weeks in New Zealand, and four weeks in Australia. Southeast Asia: China and Thailand | 16 credits Develop an understanding of issues in international business, global corporate ethics, international financial systems, and international development. Students spend thirteen weeks abroad, four weeks in China and nine weeks in Thailand. Learn more at vertoeducation.org.
Naima Labidi | Toronto, Canada Golden Lands and World Heritage, 2018 The best part of the trip for me was meeting so many amazing people! From fellow students to Rustic staff and all of the local people, I got to make lifelong friends and incredible connections to so many different types of people from around the world! Overall it was an incredible experience that I would do again if I could, and I cannot recommend it enough! The trip also impacted me in ways I didn’t expect. More than anything, I learned to go with the flow and enjoy everything in life, especially the little things. I learned how much you can do with a day, if you spend it with the right people and the right attitude. I also realized how much travel can affect your life and your entire perspective on life.
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Frequently Asked Questions Below you’ll find some of the most frequently asked questions at Rustic Pathways. After enrolling, each family is assigned a Personal Travel Advisor to help them prepare for their trip. Having a single point person helps simplify the process and provides a personalized touch. If any of your questions aren’t addressed below, please visit rusticpathways.com/faq or call 800.321.4353.
General Questions Is Rustic Pathways right for me? Our programs are designed for positive and level-headed students with interests in experiential learning and travel. Our programs aren’t suitable for students with conduct disorders, chemical dependencies, an inability to work constructively in team environments or follow instructions, or an unwillingness to behave in a culturally-sensitive manner. Where do Rustic Pathways students come from? Rustic Pathways students come from all over the world. Approximately 80% of our students are from the United States, and we’re thrilled to welcome more and more international students each year. How old are most Rustic Pathways students? What about gender? We have programs for middle school, high school, and college students, so ages range from 12 to 22. Most of our programs are designed for high school students and in that 14 to 18 range, it ends up looking a bit like a bell curve with the majority of students right in the middle. Though it varies year to year, our company typically has a 60 / 40 or 70 / 30 female / male ratio. That being said, each session of each program will vary as well and some will have more boys while others more girls. Do most people travel with a friend? No. Most Rustic Pathways students do not know anyone when they arrive for their international flight or in country. However, some students do choose to go with friends and we accommodate for this. Are Rustic Pathways staff members certified in first aid? Every program includes staff members who are certified in first aid and CPR at a minimum. Many of our programs include staff members with Wilderness First Responder (WFR), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), ocean lifeguard, and other certifications. Learn more at rusticpathways.com/safety.
Travel Arrangements
Listed below are some common questions and answers regarding traveling with Rustic Pathways and how our international and internal flight processes work. For more information specific to each travel destination, please visit rusticpathways.com/flights. Can I connect between countries and programs? Yes! Many Rustic Pathways students choose the exciting option of combining multiple programs. While many of our programs are designed to easily connect, others take a bit of coordinating. Contact us if you have any specific questions about connecting programs or countries. Learn more at rusticpathways.com/ how-programs-connect. How does air travel work? When you enroll, you’ll have the option to select a chaperoned group flight arranged by Rustic Pathways (if traveling from the United States) or you can book your own airfare. With chaperoned group flights, Rustic handles all flight details, including booking and trouble-shooting ticket changes or flight delays / cancellations. Our staff greet students at the airport, fly with them to their destination country (and on their return flight home), help them navigate customs and immigration and find their baggage, and stay with them for the duration of the program. With self-managed airfare, families can book their child’s flight for an additional charge of $175. To ensure your child arrives to their program on time, we ask that you book a flight scheduled to land within a six-hour window, which will depend on the destination country and program, that we’ll publish on Feb. 1, 2020. Students who arrive outside of the arrival window will incur additional charges. Your Personal Travel Advisor will be in touch after you enroll with more info about how and when to book your child’s airfare. International airfare costs and more information can be found at rusticpathways.com/flights.
What are Rustic Pathways’ Rules? At Rustic Pathways, we value community. We cherish diversity and inclusivity and we actively strive to create a culture of acceptance, tolerance, and respect. Students are expected to be respectful of their peers and the communities in which they visit and work. They are also required to follow their Program Leaders’ instructions at all times.
Are your flights escorted? How will I know my child has arrived? Yes! Our chaperoned group flights provide student supervision from the time they arrive at one of our gateway airports to their destination country and when they return. Once your child arrives safely at their final destination, you’ll receive a safe arrival email from us. You’ll also receive emails throughout the trip with short updates about your child’s group.
In addition to respectful behavior, Rustic Pathways has a few zero-tolerance rules. Any student involved in bullying, drugs or alcohol, or sexual activity during their program may be removed immediately. By no means is this an exhaustive list of rules. Please refer to our website rusticpathways.com/rules for more information.
Why does Rustic Pathways arrange international flights? After more than 35 years, we’ve found this is the most reliable way to operate. We can control ticketing, changes, and have a chaperone on board. There have been times in the past when parents ticketed their children to San Jose, California, instead of San José, Costa Rica, by mistake, and our group tickets minimize some of these wrinkles. Group flights are part of the Rustic experience, where students first meet and start to develop lifelong friendships.
Can you cater to my needs? Rustic Pathways Global Program Advisors are always available to work with you to meet your specific needs. Whether you have special dietary needs, wish to combine programs, or want more details about a program, we’re here to help you.
Do I need a visa to visit another country? Visas depend on both your nationality and the country you’ll be visiting. It’s ultimately your responsibility to make sure you meet the entry and exit requirements for each country. However, Rustic Pathways partners with G3 Visas and Passports, a well-known visa service provider to ease the process. We’ll provide you with more information once you’ve enrolled.
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Should I get vaccines before traveling? We’re here to help but legally can’t provide direct medical advice on vaccinations and inoculations. However, we suggest you visit rusticpathways.com/vaccines for up-to-date information. Discuss your travel plans with your physician or travel doctor before you depart. Be aware that some vaccinations involve a series of shots or medications, so don’t put this off until the last minute. Will you help me get a passport? Students traveling internationally from the United States will need a passport and many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months from your return date. Renewing or obtaining a new passport can take six to eight weeks, but can be done in less than two weeks if necessary. Contact us for more information about how to get an expedited passport.
Information About Your Trip What medical information do I need to know? Consult your physician or travel doctor before you depart. All participants will also have access to services from International SOS, a world-renowned medical and travel security company. Visit rusticpathways.com/international-sos to learn more about this service and let us know if you have any specific medical needs. Do I need travel insurance? Students must have international medical insurance coverage for the duration of their travels. Rustic Pathways partners with Trip Mate to provide clients with the option of enrolling in travel insurance (including primary medical coverage). In the event of injury or illness, we’ll take care of your child, however, families are ultimately responsible for any expenses. Visit rusticpathways.com/trip-mate to learn more. Will I hear from my child or Rustic Pathways during the trip? Once your child arrives safely at their final destination, you’ll receive a safe arrival email from us within 24 hours. Most programs will also send regular email updates. We encourage students to stay off their phones to fully immerse in the travel experience but there may be limited opportunities for contact. We suggest working out these expectations with your child before their program starts. Is there a packing list? What should I send with my child? Each of our programs has a packing list online at rusticpathways.com. To make packing for your program easy, you may also purchase some of our favorite travel essentials on our gear site at rusticgear.com.
Administrative Details Is there an enrollment deadline? No, but many popular programs begin to sell out in the late winter. You can still enroll up to eight days prior to departure for most programs, as long as we can make appropriate travel arrangements. We recommend enrolling as soon as you can to save your spot on the program and one of our chaperoned group flights. What does the program cost cover? The program cost covers all essential elements of your program from the time you arrive in country until the program is over. This includes meals, lodging, and most activities. This does not include spending money or activities listed as “addon” activities. What is your cancellation or revision policy? To make a change to your itinerary after you’ve enrolled, you may fill out a revision request form at rusticpathways.com/revision. Revisions incur a $100 fee plus any cost difference—as long as they’re not made within 30 days of your program start date. If you enrolled through our Star Alumni, Friends and Family, or Early Enrollment discount programs, please see your specific program details or Welcome Letter for more information. Refunds for program cancellations are issued on a sliding scale based on how soon the start date is. We highly recommend you purchase the Optional Cancellation Waiver which provides you with the security of a full refund of your program costs (airfare costs are dependent upon each carrier) up to 72 hours before departure. Should you choose to cancel your program, you can receive your refund according to which cancellation waiver your purchased or escrow those funds for up to two years to use at a later date. See rusticpathways.com/cancellation for more information. What about international exchange rates and fees? Rustic Pathways pays for most of its international programs in local currencies. Should currencies fluctuate and thereby increase our operating costs, we reserve the right to increase our program fees proportionally and invoice participants for the increase in costs. For a full list, please visit rusticpathways.com/fees. What forms does Rustic Pathways require? Once you enroll in a program, you’ll be assigned a Personal Travel Advisor, your primary contact at Rustic Pathways. Your Personal Travel Advisor will help you with all the required forms and make sure your questions are answered. I still have questions. Check out rusticpathways.com for detailed information, maps, itineraries, and updates about programs that interest you. You’ll also find answers to more frequently asked questions at rusticpathways.com/faq. Speak to a Global Program Advisor by calling 800.321.4353 (United States) or +1 440.975.9691 (international), emailing rustic@rusticpathways.com or via online chat at rusticpathways.com. Visit rusticpathways.com/events for list of locations where you can meet us in person.
Important Information This catalog provides a brief summary of some of the 2020 travel programs (“the programs”) offered by Rustic Pathways Australia (U.S.A.), Inc. (“Rustic Pathways”), a tour promoter based in the state of Ohio. All program participants and their parents and/or legal guardians (collectively “the participants”) are required to read, sign, comply with, and abide by a comprehensive Statement of Terms and Conditions and various waivers and liability limitations that govern and regulate participation in the programs. Rustic Pathways will furnish these various materials to all qualified participants. All travel can be dangerous, and adventure travel to the more remote areas of the world poses unique risks. Rustic Pathways insists that all participants and potential participants seriously consider the dangers of any program undertaken. Participants should not apply for or participate in any Rustic Pathways program if they are unwilling to accept any and all of the potential risks and dangers such a program could pose.
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Our 2020 Programs Review and compare all programs online at rusticpathways.com. denotes Base House program
Costa Rica Australia Animal Conservation in Australia
16 days | 30 service hours | $4,995 USD + airfare
Surf and Service in Australia
16 days | 25 service hours | $5,495 USD + airfare
Great Barrier Reef Dive Expedition 16 days | 10 service hours | $9,995 USD + airfare
Island Survival
16 days | 20 service hours | $5,495 USD + airfare
Seven Wonders of Australia
16 days | 15 service hours | $6,495 USD + airfare
Intro to Community Service in Costa Rica
page 40
page 26
Surf and Service in Costa Rica
page 41
page 27
Summer Camp Leadership in Costa Rica
page 42
page 27
Spanish Language Immersion
page 43
page 28
Ramp Up Your Spanish
page 43
page 28
Youth Empowerment Project
page 44
Heart of the Jungle
page 44
Nicoya Turtle Expedition
page 45
Turtle Conservation Project
page 45
Costa Rican Adventurer
page 46
Soccer and Service in Costa Rica
page 46
Young Explorers: Pura Vida
page 47
9 days | 22 service hours | $1,995 USD + airfare 9 days | 12 service hours | $2,995 USD + airfare 16 days | 60 service hours | $4,895 USD + airfare 16 days | $3,995+ USD + airfare 9 days | $1,995 USD + airfare
9 days | 24 service hours | $1,695 USD + airfare 16 days | 25 service hours | $4,495 USD + airfare 16 days | 35 service hours | $4,495 USD + airfare 9 days | 30 service hours | $2,495 USD + airfare 16 days | $4,895 USD + airfare
16 days | 25 service hours | $4,295 USD + airfare 16 days | 17 service hours | $4,995 USD + airfare
Dominican Republic Cambodia Floating Village Service Expedition 18 days | 30 service hours | $3,495 USD + airfare
Off the Map: Cambodia
25 days | 42 service hours | $5,995 USD + airfare
Mountain Air and Village Service
9 days | 20 service hours | $1,995 USD + airfare page 32
Public Health in the Caribbean
page 51
Marine Life and Coastal Restoration
page 51
Life in the Bateyes
page 52
16 days | 30 service hours | $4,695 USD + airfare page 32
16 days | 32 service hours | $4,495 USD + airfare
China
page 50
16 days | 50 service hours | $3,695 USD + airfare
Wonders of China
page 36
Summer Camp Leadership in the Dominican Republic
page 53
Ultimate Asia
page 37
Island Living and Eco-Service
page 53
15 days | 14 service hours | $5,495 USD + airfare 23 days | $13,995 USD + airfare
16 days | 60 service hours | $4,495 USD + airfare 9 days | 12 service hours | $2,295 USD + airfare
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Fiji Islands
Mongolia
Sun, Sand, and International Service
page 56
Intro to Community Service in Fiji
page 57
Highlands and Islands Service Immersion
page 58
16 days | 60 service hours | $3,995 USD + airfare 9 days | 30 service hours | $1,995 USD + airfare
16 days | 45 service hours | $3,995 USD + airfare
Marine Service and Adventure
16 days | 26 service hours | $4,295 USD + airfare
Fiji Diver’s Dream
9 days | $3,195+ USD + airfare
page 59 page 60
page 61
Pacific Adrenaline
23 days | $8,495 USD + airfare
Atlas Mountains Service
page 76
Moroccan Wanderer
page 77
Advanced Photography Workshop
page 77
16 days | $4,995 USD + airfare
Escape to the Fiji Islands
page 72
Morocco
16 days | 10 service hours | $5,495 USD + airfare
page 60
9 days | $2,695 USD + airfare
22 days | 21 service hours | $5,995 USD + airfare
16 days | 25 service hours | $3,995 USD + airfare
Big Fiji Explorer
16 days | 6 service hours | $4,895 USD + airfare
Off the Map: Mongolia
page 61
India Himalayan Adventure 16 days | $5,995 USD + airfare
page 64
Laos Southeast Asian Adventurer
page 68
Laos Service Adventure
page 68
Peru
Come With Nothing: The Mekong Expedition
page 69
Sacred Valley Service
page 80
Andes to Amazon
page 81
Peru by Backpack
page 81
La Niña Andina: Women’s Empowerment in Peru
page 82
18 days | $4,895 USD + airfare
18 days | 35 service hours | $3,995 USD + airfare 25 days | 60 service hours | $4,995 USD + airfare
15 days | 40 service hours | $3,995 USD + airfare 15 days | 20 service hours | $3,995 USD + airfare 22 days | 10 service hours | $5,995 USD + airfare 15 days | 10 service hours | $4,995 USD + airfare
Tanzania African Environmental Conservation
page 86
Culture and the Crater
page 86
Serengeti to Zanzibar
page 87
Climbing Kili
page 87
Ultimate Africa
page 88
16 days | 25 service hours | $5,495 USD + airfare 16 days | 50 service hours | $3,995 USD + airfare 16 days | $5,695 USD + airfare 16 days | $6,895 USD + airfare 23 days | $13,995 USD + airfare
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Thailand Intro to Community Service in Thailand
page 92
Community Health and Wilderness First Aid
page 93
Hill Tribe Service and Elephant Sanctuary
page 94
18 days | 39 service hours | $3,895 USD + airfare 11 days | 18 service hours | $2,995 USD + airfare 18 days | 23 service hours | $4,495 USD + airfare
Marine and Rainforest Conservation in Thailand
page 95
Amazing Thailand
page 96
Elephants and Amazing Thailand
page 96
Wonders and Riches of Southeast Asia
page 97
Island Hopping and Diving
page 97
18 days | 26 service hours | $4,495 USD + airfare 11 days | $2,495 USD + airfare 18 days | 4 service hours | $4,995 USD + airfare 18 days | $7,995 USD + airfare 18 days | $4,995 USD + airfare
16 days | $5,995 USD + airfare
learn more on page 28
United States Rebuilding New Orleans
page 100
Young Explorers: New Orleans
page 101
14 days | 40 service hours | $3,995 USD + airfare 7 days | 20 service hours | $2,495 USD + airfare
Aloha Service
page 102
California Rush
page 102
14 days | 30 service hours | $5,895 USD + airfare 14 days | 10 service hours | $4,795 USD + airfare
Vietnam Hanoi to Ha Long
18 days | 24 service hours | $4,995 USD + airfare
Spring Break Programs Spring to the Dominican Republic 8 days | 12 service hours | $2,295 USD + airfare
Spring to Fiji
9 days | 15 service hours | $2,195 USD + airfare
Spring to Peru’s Sacred Valley
8 days | 12 service hours | $2,295 USD + airfare
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Moroccan Wanderer
16 days | 10 service hours | $5,495 USD + airfare
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Get in Touch Enroll Online Enroll online by visiting rusticpathways.com/enroll. If you still can’t decide between programs, contact one of our Global Program Advisors. Our GPAs are here to answer your questions, discuss our various program options, and find the perfect fit for each and every student. They can also walk you through the enrollment process and connect you with both parent and student references from programs that interest you. This experienced team has collectively worked in just about every role at Rustic Pathways, from leading programs to running our in-country operations. After you’ve enrolled, a member of our team of Personal Travel Advisors will be assigned to you. They’ll assist and support you before, during, and after your amazing Rustic adventure with everything—invoices, medical forms, flights, packing lists, etc. You can even have the same PTA year after year!
Online Chat rusticpathways.com
Email rustic@rusticpathways.com
Phone 800.321.4353
More Options to Get in Touch Attend a Webinar We host webinars each month about a variety of topics including choosing a program, programs for first-time travelers, scholarships, Q&As with Rustic alumni students and parents, community service, and more.
Meet Us in Person Our team of Outreach Coordinators will be visiting schools across the United States. Keep an eye out and say hi if you see us at your school. Or attend a Rustic on the Road event in cities across the United States. Visit rusticpathways.com/events for more info about webinars and in-person events and to sign up.
Follow Us Join the larger Rustic Pathways community. Follow us on social media: @rusticpathways @rusticpathways /rusticpathways /rusticpathways
Visit rusticpathways.com/events for more info about webinars and in-person events and to sign up.
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PO Box 429 | Chardon, OH 44024 800.321.4353 | rustic@rusticpathways.com rusticpathways.com