Saturday, August 31, 2013

Good Day from Atlanta,

Student Educational Tours of Atlanta would like the opportunity to be your schools travel company of choice. Please visit us at http://www.studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.com/ or call us 888-320-1115 and lets build long lasting memories together.

Ask About our: "Teachers Travel Free Program"
"$500.00 Gift Card"

Student Educational Tours of Atlanta
888-320-1115
Leonard Frank G.
Learning Through Travel
http://www.studenteducationaltoursoftlanta.com
Twitter: @studentedutours
Blog: Studentedutours.blogspot.com

Things to Do in New York This Week End

by: Student Educational Tours of Atlanta

Things to Do Labor Day Weekend 2013 with NYC Kids: Richmond County Fair, Unicycle Festival, Tug Boats and Carnivalhttp://www.studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.com

Things to do with kids: Things to Do Labor Day Weekend 2013 with NYC Kids: Richmond County Fair, Unicycle Festival, Tug Boats and Carnival

Labor Day weekend can be a little bittersweet—it's the last weekend before the kids head back to school—so we want to make sure we pack in some super summery fun to make the most of these warm, carefree days. Perhaps one last trip to NYC’s great beaches, water playgrounds or outdoor pools is in order before they all officially close for the season on Monday. But there’s too much fun stuff to do to mope over the end of summer.
In fact, to tip the balance from bitter to sweet, we've launched our super-sweet Back-to-School Swagapalooza—a giveaway that includes prizes from Target, Disney, Schwinn, Motorola, Sears Optical, Famous Footwear and more. So many chances to win so much swag!
Looking for a great day or weekend getaway? We just shared some of our favorite Labor Day weekend family excursions or check out our NYC Day Trips Guide for lots of other ideas, like nearby water and amusement parks. Personally, nothing says Labor Day weekend to me like the Columbia County Fair, but there are a bunch of other end-of-summer fairs, too.
But you don’t have to leave NYC to feel like you are getting away. Try a visit to Historic Richmond Town, which is hosting its annual Richmond County Fair or the NYC Unicycle Festival on Governors Island. Labor Day weekend in NYC also brings the annual Great North River Tugboat Race and Competition and the West Indian American Day Carnival and Children’s Parade.
All of our best bets for the holiday weekend are below. You can find additional suggestions in our Event Calendar and Summer Fun Guide.

Some Tips From: Student Educational Tours of Atlanta

1. limit luggage Try to limit luggage to one suitcase and a small carry on. If you are flying, luggage limits are two suitcases and one carry-on. However, we still recommend that you use the one suitcase rule as it will be much easier to manage.

2. Eating and drinking is allowed on most buses that we charter, but at the bus driver’s discretion it may be discontinued. Please keep your buses clean!

3. Our trips can be packaged so that there is no need for a lot of less cash. cash to be brought on the trip. If you decide to do lunches on your own, may we suggest $10 per day per student for lunches and $50-75 (total) for souvenirs?

4. While in the city of your destination, please try to stay in groups of four or more and of course we strongly recommend that chaperones always stay with their students.

5. The hotel phone number is on your itinerary. Please be sure that all the parents have a copy so they can reach their child if they need to do so.

6. Long distance phone calls and pay T.V. are turned off. Phones in the rooms will Hotelalso have the long distance dialing capabilities turned off. At the discretion of the group sponsor, the telephones for certain rooms can be turned on. However, a credit card will need to be provided in order to do so. Parents may want to consider sending a phone card along with their child for calls home.

7. Hotel curfews are set by the teachers. We recommend 11:00pm as curfew since we try to get an early start in the mornings. Most hotels will insist on 11:00pm curfew and quiet in order to ensure the comfort and well being of their other guests.

8. If we have provided security for your group, the guard will meet the group sponsor to find out what rules are set for the group and how they are to be enforced.

9. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!

Friday, August 30, 2013

Utah's High Desert by: Student Educational Tour of Atlanta During the summer, southeastern Utah's high desert is like a furnace where the wind whips hot air over a seemingly endless expanse of arid terrain. Particles of sand erode and are re-deposited in new areas, collapsing old formations and slowly building sedimentary rock that will hold up new ones. The flora and fauna that live amidst those gusts are some of Mother Nature's toughest and most resourceful creations, enduring months without a drop of rain and withstanding desert heat and sub-freezing temperatures. Arches National Park is home to this wildlife as well as the world's highest concentration of natural sandstone arches. From the largest, Landscape Arch, to the tallest, Double Arch South, the park's 119 square miles are one of the most unique places on earth. Park stats: The visitor count at Arches has steadily increased since 2004. The park drew more than one million guests last year and has averaged that many since 2008. The location: Arches National Park is located in southeast Utah, about five miles north of Moab. There are airports in Moab, Salt Lake City, about four hours away and Grand Junction, Colorado, about two hours away. If you go: Park admission is $10 per vehicle. Individual admission is $5. Admission is valid for seven days. Park passports are $25 and provide entry to Arches, Canyonlands National Park, Hovenweep National Monument and Natural Bridges National Monument. They are valid for one year. The visitor center is open every day except Christmas, but be sure to check the website as hours change according to the season. Meet our ranger: Kait Thomas, an interpretive ranger at Arches National Park, grew up in Monrovia, Indiana. When she was 11, her dad started taking her on annual vacations to national parks in the western United States. The experience had a profound effect on her, she says. "I knew I wanted to move west," says Thomas, 25. "I wanted to be a part of the beauty that you find in national parks." But Thomas, 25, became a pre-law student when she moved to Salt Lake City for college. On the way back to school after a 2008 summer internship working for a political campaign, she had her "Aha!" moment, realizing she completed the dream to move west, but not the one to work for the national park service. "I just waltzed in to Arches National Park visitor center and asked if they needed help," she says. At first, the answer was "No, thanks." But Thomas says a combination of her stubbornness and a supervisor's willingness to listen during a 45-minute impromptu meeting led to her volunteering for six weeks in 2008. In 2009, the supervisor invited her to become a seasonal ranger. In 2010 Thomas became a full-time ranger. "It really is the first part of the country that I fell in love with," she says. "There is something about the desert and how hostile, dramatic and colorful it is. You have this contrast of something that is incredibly harsh yet unbelievably delicate." For a day trip don't miss: The Windows trail hike. Thomas says the area has the highest concentration of arches in the park, including five that range from 60 to 100 feet high. "It's a nice summary of the park," she says. "It's the most bang for the buck, if you will." Favorite less-traveled spot: Hiking to Tower Arch from Klondike Bluff. Thomas says reaching Klondike Bluff requires driving on a dirt road that will not support RVs or buses. It's about 3.5 miles from Klondike Bluff to tower Arch, she says. "It's a great place to escape all the hustle and bustle you find everywhere else in the park," she says. Favorite spot to view wildlife: Courthouse Wash. Thomas says hot summer temperatures make seeing wildlife difficult. But you can see mule deer, coyotes and bobcats at Courthouse Wash as well as big horn sheep near the visitor center from October through December. Most magical moment in the park: Having lunch in the shade of Wall Arch the day before it collapsed in August of 2008. Thomas said she was patrolling Devil's Garden Trail when the temperature hit 105, and she stopped at Wall Arch to rest and eat. The next day a group of tourists came into the visitor center and wanted to know why the trail was blocked. Thomas and other rangers went to investigate and discovered the arch had collapsed. "I realized geology is always happening," she says. "One sand of grain could have fallen and the whole thing pops and collapses. We don't have any answers as to when (the arches will fall) but that is why it is so special to be here now." Funniest moment in the park: Discovering that five members of a Norteño band, dressed in full concert costume, had lugged their instruments three miles to Delicate Arch and began belting out tunes under its shade. (Norteño music generally comes from northern Mexico and Texas. It features an accordion that produces musical rhythms similar to polkas.) "We informed them they needed a permit (to play inside the park)," she says. Oddest moment at the park: An excited family asking her to identify 10 species of lizards they captured, put in a black box and had planned to take home. "I identified all their lizards and promptly made them put them back," she says. It's illegal to remove wildlife from national parks. A ranger's request: Stay on the trails and off the arches. The land off the trails is home to biological earth crust which protects against erosion and takes decades to rejuvenate after being stepped on. The arches are all made of red sandstone, a mixture of quartz, feldspar and iron oxide. While they may look sturdy, they could collapse if you climb on them. Carry more water than you think you need. Thomas says heat-related illnesses are the No.1 medical issue at the park. She recommends you drink a minimum of one gallon of water per day and carry salty snacks to maintain electrolyte levels. Also, be sure to shake out your shoes before putting them on. That's because scorpions gravitate toward dark, cool spaces. If you see a rattlesnake on the trail, do not chase it. Thomas says the majority of rattlesnake bites that happen in the park are on peoples' hands. Another park she'd like to visit: Denali National Park in Alaska. "I've never been to Alaska and I want to see really raw, big mountains," Thomas says. "I'm always into the biggest and the best. I want to see something that is more primitive than anything else we have (here)." What national park would you like to visit? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Thursday, August 29, 2013

Student Travel Company Tour of Washington, D.C. a Unique Learning Experience

by Student Educational Tours of Atlanta

Students pose in front of the FDR Memorial.

Jim Roche, Assistant Principal at St. Eugene Catholic School in Point Fox, WI, recently took his students on a student tour of Washington, DC. The student trip was designed to encompass a wealth of cultural and spiritual landmarks, from the Smithsonian to the famous National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Specifically, Roche wanted to give the students a broader picture of American history. He also wanted to encourage classroom spirit and camaraderie.
As it turned out, the expedition was an enlightening and enriching experience for the students, and a great success. The backdrop of Washington D.C., with its exciting city landscape, added to the students’ overall enjoyment, and helped to generate curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. When I had the chance to interview Jim, he went over some notable details of the trip. He also talked about how he felt student travel in general had been beneficial to his classes.
Q. What is your position at St. Eugene School?
A. I am the Assistant Principal
Q. When you put this trip together, what was your vision?
A. We offered the expedition as an official 8^th grade class trip. We’ve been going to Washington D.C. for at least 7 or 8 years, and I think the last 5 or so have been with the travel group we’re using now. Our purpose is twofold: to build unity in the class and to experience the history of our nation.
Q. Your group visited many of the major sites, such as the U.S. Capitol, the MLK Memorial, the White House, and the National Archives. How do these sites tie in with your studies?
A. The 8^th grader studies U.S. History, so the tie-in is perfect. Prior to the trip, the students are asked to research a specific monument or venue and share it with the class. The visit becomes an integral part of their study of U.S. government, as well.
Q. You chose to bring your group to the Holocaust Museum. What were students’ reactions to visiting this site?
A. Each student has a different reaction. For some, it is a very intense experience, almost overwhelming. For others, it opens their eyes to the Holocaust in ways they’ve never contemplated before. It’s a must-see for us.

Students have a pizza party when they stop for a break while touring Washington D.C.

Q. Which Smithsonian museums did you visit, and why?
A. Each year we go to the Air & Space Museum. The 8^th grade studies Astronomy in the spring, so it helps bring to life their study of the Space Program in particular. We also visit the Natural History Museum, and one other museum that the students get to choose.
Q. As a Catholic school group, it was probably very important to you to bring the children to a mass in Washington D.C. Why did you choose Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception? Can you describe the mass and students’ reaction to having a mass there, as opposed to in their own hometown?
A. In prior years, we’d always gone to the Basilica. It’s obviously much different than our own parish. The students attend Mass in the lower level chapel, which provides a unique liturgical experience for them. The whole atmosphere is reverent and rewarding.
Q. Describe your visit to the Bureau of Engraving. How did it tie in with educational objectives? What were some of the students’ reactions?

A. The Bureau of Engraving has become a student favorite. It doesn’t really tie in to our curriculum directly. It has more to do with their fascination with the U.S. Mint, and seeing all that money in front of them. I think it’s more about the fun than our curriculum, which is fine with me.
Q. Your student group used the subway as a form of transportation. How did this impact your trip’s cost?
A. We used the Metro because our class size was so small. Normally, we use a chartered bus and stay 20 or so miles outside the city. It worked out fine this year and allowed us an affordable option. If our travel group had not offered the Metro option, we probably could not have afforded the trip, so I’m grateful they were willing to work with us to find a solution.
Q. Once they returned to WI and St. Eugene School, were students required to do any post-trip writing or oral presentations?
A. Yes, they prepare scrapbooks and presentations, and write about their experiences. But I think the most important aspect is the memories they have of the trip when they go off to high school, and on their separate ways.
Q. Overall, how would you describe your tour guide and the experience of traveling?
A. They were wonderful to work with. The tour guides have been knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating to our students’ needs. They’re a big reason why we return each year.
Student travel Offers Opportunities to Grow
The great thing about student travel expeditions is that they can be tailored to fit the interests and focuses of any curriculum. Catholic schools, liberal arts schools, and more traditional schools are all able to work with groups to find or create programs that are right for them. There are no limits to the creative educational possibilities the right trip can provide. Student travel packages have something for everyone, and reflect the diversity and value classroom travel can bring to the school experience.
Request a quote for a student trip to Washington D.C. today.

A Class Trip to Atlanta that Includes a day in Chattanooga, TN

by Student Educational Tours of Atlanta http://www.studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.com

Student tours headed to Atlanta may want to consider adding a day trip to nearby Chattanooga, TN. Chattanooga is rich in history and unique geological formations that include: Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls and Rock City.
A class trip to Chattanooga is only a two to three hour bus ride from Atlanta, and complements any type of history, social studies, or science tour nicely. While visiting Atlanta, students can see: CNN Studios, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, Zoo Atlanta, World of Coca Cola, and more.
This sample itinerary is designed for teachers, group leaders and others interested in an enhanced tour of Atlanta. An overview of destinations gives insights and ideas about how each destination ties into learning objectives.
Ruby Falls (Lookout Mountain)
The cave system underneath Lookout Mountain has been used throughout history by cave explorers, Native Americans, soldiers and outlaws. Ruby Falls is a spectacular natural wonder — an underground waterfall that sits 1120 feet below the surface. The original cave opening providing access to the falls was discovered in 1928 while a crew was excavating the elevator shaft, and was five feet wide and 18” high. Tours of the cavern include many different views of geological formations en route to Ruby Falls.

Rock City
Located high atop Lookout Mountain is a unique rock formation where onlookers can take in magnificent views of the valley and Chattanooga, which is only six miles distance. See seven states, take a trip down the enchanted trail, and learn about over 400 native plant species on Lookout Mountain. Fairyland Caverns, Mother Goose Village, gift shops and a grill give provide student travel groups complementary activities after a trip up to Rock City.
Georgia Aquarium
Students can learn more about aquatic life right in the state of Georgia. Near the Georgia coast are whales, sharks and even sea turtles. The Georgia Aquarium captures the life of marine mammals, shellfish, and fish in the Georgia Explorer and Planet Shark exhibits. River Scout offers insight into reptiles, fish and other inhabitants of the rivers in Africa, South America, Asia and Georgia. Student groups can take a break in the 4D theater and watch Deepo’s Undersea 3D Wondershow, a frolicking journey underneath the sea with a make believe character as a guide.

World of Coca-Cola
The Coca-Cola museum has interactive exhibits that span Coke’s history. Jean-Louis Foucqueteau of Lausanne, Switzerland’s collection is on display “For the love of Coca-Cola.” It features16 different works by 13 different artists and shows Coca-Cola’s impact on pop culture and the world of art for over 30 years. Students can sample Coca-Cola’s best sodas with Freestyle, a new sleek self-serve fountain drink machine.

Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta has plenty to offer student travel groups. It is best known for housing the Giant Pandas Lun Lun and Yang Yang from China. Lun Lun gave birth to a cub in November 2010, the only Giant Panda cub born in the U.S. that year. Zoo Atlanta’s birdhouse is home to over 50 bird species. Mammals include monkeys, elephants, giraffes, and more. Highlights of the plant world include a tropical garden and seasonal, native plants.
Martin Luther King, Jr.(MLK) Memorial
This National Historic Site gives student travelers a comprehensive look at MLK’s origins. Tours may include a visit to the birth home of Martin Luther King, Jr., a tour of Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King, his father and grandfather preached, a trip to the visitor center, and a tour of The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. Groups may opt to visit the “I Have a Dream” World Peace Rose Garden if there is time.
CNN Studios Tour
Ted Turner Started CNN, an all-news 24-hour per day network. Student tours begin inside the 50-foot globe where they can search 25 years of CNN footage using kiosks to access the information. On tour, students see the control room, black box studio where live footage is shot, and the CNN Overlook that gives a panoramic view of the newsroom at its busiest. Groups learn about other networks CNN owns, and listen to stories from news anchors about the challenges and excitement of their jobs.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History with Imax Movie
Students can learn about the geological history of Georgia, beginning with the piedmont and ending on the coastal barrier islands. A visit to the museum includes a look at Conveyed in Clay, an exhibit of 5,000 year old Native American pottery found on St. Catherines Island in Georgia — the oldest pottery found in North America. Giants of the Mesozoic features a close up view of pre-historic life in Patagonia, Argentina, where the largest dinosaur skeletons in the world were found. If there is time, groups may take in a movie at the Imax while visiting the Fernbank Museum.
The Atlanta tour, coupled with a visit to Chattanooga, can offer student travel groups a diverse learning experience. The Chattanooga portion of the trip includes a look at geological features and the opportunity to explore outdoor sites. A few days in nearby Atlanta gives student groups insight into the cultural, scientific, and technological savvy of a large city. Students also learn about Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement he led.
Learn more about scheduling and pricing a student tour of Atlanta and Chattanooga by visiting

http://www.studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.com

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

College Tours in North & South Carolina

by Student Educational Tours o Atlanta http://www.studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.com

Many parents who want to send their children to college consider sending them to a university in their region or state. This decision helps cut down on travel and tuition costs while young adults are in college. Taking advantage of educational opportunities in your region or state is a smart idea.
In my opinion, the schools I have selected are some of the most well known schools in the Carolinas.
Clemson University
Clemson is a large private University located in Clemson, S.C. near the North Carolina border. There are almost 15,000 undergraduate and 2,500 graduate students enrolled at Clemson University. Physical Sciences, Business and Engineering are the most popular majors. The Clemson Tigers are notorious on the college football circuit for their orange colors and fierce competitiveness in the sport, as well as a devoted fan base. The college campus dates to 1893 and was once Fort Hill plantation, the home of Thomas Clemson, the school’s founder and benefactor. Clemson is rich in scenery, located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Clemson University even has its own lake and forest.
University of South Carolina (USC)
USC is a large state university with a long tradition dating back to 1805. The main campus is in Columbia, SC. Other locations include Beaufort, Aiken, and the Upstate (Spartantaburg-Greenville). Four additional two-year campuses are located around the state. USC is becoming distinguished in nanotechnology, health sciences, Future Fuels™, and environment and information technologies. The main campus in Columbia is well worth a visit. The campus has a horseshoe design with 11 historic buildings overlooking a lush lawn. USC has approximately 28,000 students enrolled. Nearly 20,000 of these are undergraduates.
North Carolina State University (NC State)
NC State is located in the heart of Raleigh, N.C. and has the attributes of an urban university. Raleigh is the 2^nd largest city in North Carolina, with over 400,000 residents. It has a solid reputation for industry and is a leading ‘tech hub’ in the U.S. NC State has over 31,000 students and close to 2,000 faculty members and serves a diverse student population. The University offers students especially strong programs in agriculture, engineering, forestry, wood and paper science, textiles, veterinary medicine and design. The Small Business and Technology Development Center has been housed at NC State since 1984 and provides assistance to business owners and entrepreneurs.

Wake Forest University
Located in Winston-Salem, N.C., Wake Forest University is a liberal arts university that is also known for research. Wake Forest’s undergraduate school gives students a choice of 37 different majors covering business, divinity, law, medicine and other areas. With approximately 7,000 students, Wake Forest University offers the opportunities of a large university along with focused attention to academics and co-curricular activities.

Duke University
Duke is a well-respected school with world-class sports teams. There are 13,000 undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled at Duke University. Duke is in the heart of Durham, N.C. a city of approximately 200,000 people. With Duke University Hospital and research there, Duke attracts medical professionals and biotechnology industry leaders. The Duke Chapel is seen in Gothic West Campus and is an icon for the University. Business, Divinity, Law and Medicine are some of the academic disciplines Duke is known for. Duke’s Blue Devil men’s basketball team is usually a top competitor in College Basketball. Duke and University of North Carolina are within a short distance of each other and can easily be visited in the same day.
University of North Carolina (UNC)
There are 16 schools within the UNC system in North Carolina. This tour visits the main campus at UNC Chapel Hill. UNC has a rich colonial history. It was established in 1789, and was the first public university in a new country. U.S. News and World Report named it 5^th best public university in the Best Colleges guidebook for 10 years in a row. Student enrollment is 18,500 undergraduate and 11,000 graduate students. UNC has competitive admissions and most of their new enrollment is in the top 10% of their high school class. UNC is known for its medical program, Kenan-Flagler Business School, and has distinguished faculty in the arts, humanities, social sciences, global affairs and diversity and multicultural affairs. A visit in the spring or fall is the perfect time to take in the campus and see it operating at full capacity.
It is evident there are some excellent universities in the Carolinas. Many of these universities, both public and private, are steeped in the Colonial tradition. European influences emphasized the intellect, higher education, and training in the professions. Students in their junior or senior year of high school will benefit from this tour of colleges in the Carolinas.

Call us today 888-320-1115 or http://www.studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.com

Good Day from Atlanta,

Student Educational Tours of Atlanta would like the opportunity to be your schools travel company of choice. Please visit us at http://www.studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.com/ or call us 888-320-1115 and lets build long lasting memories together.

Ask About our: "Teachers Travel Free Program"
"$500.00 Gift Card"

Student Educational Tours of Atlanta
Leonard Frank G.
Learning Through Travel
http://www.studenteducationaltoursoftlanta.com
Twitter: @studentedutours

Student Educational Tours of Atlanta

Good Day from Atlanta,

Student Educational Tours of Atlanta would like the opportunity to be your schools travel company of choice. Please visit us at http://www.studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.com/ or call us 888-320-1115 and lets build long lasting memories together.

Ask About our: "Teachers Travel Free Program"
"$500.00 Gift Card"

Student Educational Tours of Atlanta
Leonard Frank G.
Learning Through Travel
http://www.studenteducationaltoursoftlanta.com
Twitter: @studentedutours

Eastern U.S. Explorer Tour the Ultimate Student Travel Experience for Chinese http://www.studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.comStudents

by Student Educational Tours of Atlanta http://www.studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.com

The Eastern US Explorer tour is a great opportunity for Chinese students to tour the Eastern Seaboard of the United States. This tour is longer than most student tours, spanning a 10-12 day period, rather than just a four to seven days. The student tour was specifically designed for Chinese students to experience college tours of select U.S. universities, see cultural and historic sites in the Eastern United States and shop at some of the most desirable locations in New York City, Washington D.C. and other destination cities. Encompassing everything from camping and outdoor activities to visits to Harvard and Yale to the glamour of NYC and Broadway, this is a fully integrated cultural immersion tour students are guaranteed never to forget.
Fully guided tours of NYC and Boston provide firsthand look at American history
The adventure starts in Boston, with a day scheduled at Thompson Island Outward Bound. There, students will learn about the environment and experience the fun of the outdoors with the Trust and Self-Reliance program, which includes a ‘high ropes challenge’ and a ferry ride. Students will also take a guided tour of Boston’s Freedom Trail, which includes Boston Common, the State House, and the USS Constitution, famously known as ‘Old Ironsides.’ While in the Boston area, Chinese students will visit Walden Pond, made famous by Henry David Thoreau, and spend an afternoon at Plymouth Plantation on a reproduction of the world famous Mayflower ship, on which the pilgrims crossed. These activities will expose them to unique aspects of American history.
From Boston and surrounding areas, students will travel to New York City. The guided tour of the Big Apple includes trips to Madison Square Garden, Chinatown, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, NBC Studios, Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange, the Empire State Building, and many other notable sites. Students will also experience the thrill of a night on Broadway, which includes dinner and a musical.
College Tours of Ivy League Universities and Top Name Schools
During the course of the trip, students will tour Harvard, Yale, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), New York University (NYU), Columbia University, and others. All tours include lunch and/or opportunities to sit in on classes. A full portrait of the academic landscape is presented, including an opportunity to see what typical day-to-day life at various campuses is like. At Harvard, students will lunch with others in the freshman residence hall. At NYU, they will request to sit in on a business or women’s studies class. At Columbia University, they’ll attend a journalism or marketing class. And at Yale, they’ll have the opportunity to meet with the Yale-China Association and the SOM Program for Social Enterprise.
Exploring Humanitarian, Social, and Environmental Causes
Exposure to different aspects of existence is essential to education. So, students will have the opportunity to volunteer at a NYC soup kitchen or homeless shelter. They will also volunteer at a retirement center or senior home. Interacting with others in these environments will provide students with a chance to see sides of American life that is not immediately visible to a traveler, and to develop a deeper appreciation for the value of service to others. Students will also visit Honey Brook Organic Farm in New Jersey, where they will have the opportunity to learn about sustainable living.
The final leg of the tour will be in Washington, D.C.—a visit that will include a full tour of the US Capitol. Student tour leaders will also be given the opportunity to schedule a visit with a U.S. Senator or Congressman, up close and in person. And they’ll enjoy an Illuminated tour of Memorials and Monuments, which includes the Lincoln, Jefferson, Vietnam, World War II, and Korean memorials, among others. They will also visit the Supreme Court and the Smithsonian Museums, and may tour the White House, depending upon availability.
Chinese Student Travel in the U.S.
The U.S. Explorer Tour has been consistently described by students and educators as the ‘ultimate’ tour for students wanting to be introduced to America’s educational system, history, and culture. By being fully comprehensive and interactive, it has served to help students acclimate to U.S. culture more easily, and provided a vivid and unforgettable portrait of what academic and cultural life in the U.S. is like.

Tagged as: chinese student tours, chinese student travel, Chinese students travel, chinese students visit nyc, student travel nyc, travel to U.S. from China

New York Tours

Statue of Liberty Reopening, Updates on Observation Tower for 911 Memorial

by Student Educational Tours of Atlanta http://studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.com

Good news for student travel groups planning trips to New York City: the Statue of Liberty will be reopening this July—right in time for 2013’s July 4^th celebration, says the National Park Service. This event, eagerly awaited since last fall, represents an important time in the history of both New York City and the nation at large.
The statue has been closed since Hurricane Sandy made landfall (a day after the statue’s 126^th birthday) in late October of 2012. This means that student travel groups traveling to NYC this autumn will be able to experience an historic and exciting reopening.
Reservations for Statue’s Crown to Open in September 2013

The Statue of Liberty has been one of the world’s premiere student travel destinations for generations. Though nearby Ellis Island is not yet scheduled to reopen, the Statue, which welcomed 3.7 million visitors in 2011, is expected to become one of this fall’s most popular destinations. Student travel groups will once again be able to visit the famous observation area inside the Statue’s crown. Ask your student travel company to make reservations now for a visit to the Statue of Liberty in the fall of 2013. More information, including updates on the Ellis Island reopening, can be found by visiting the National Park Service’s website. Reservations will be facilitated by the Statue’s official ferry provider, Statue Cruises.

Student Trips to NYC can include a visit to the Statue of Liberty with Other Historic Sites

Student travel groups who will be visiting during the statue’s historic reopening will benefit from combining their trip with visits to other important NYC sites. The Empire State Building, the Museum of Modern Art, the Guggenheim Museum, Times Square, and Governor’s Island are only a few of the limitless options available to groups. Coney Island is also a famous landmark that’s an easy subway ride from Manhattan. Student travel group leaders may choose to visit any of New York’s many famous and thriving neighborhoods, like Chinatown, Little Italy, Greenwich Village, and the art district of SoHo. Student groups can visit Central Park and Madison Square Garden, or tour the United Nations. The NYC “Sky Ride”, which departs from the second floor of the Empire State Building, is a simulated way for students to experience the city from the air via a “specially designed platform which moves in sync to an 18 foot high-definition screen,” according to the attraction’s website.
Preview of 911 Memorial Observation Deck promises historic opportunity to-come for students

This month, select guests and media were given a preview of the observation deck for the 911 Memorial. According to an article in the Tampa Bay Times, the observation deck tours will be “packaged like a theme park ride,” and visitors to the deck will watch a narrated video before “the actual panoramic view is revealed.” The deck is slated to be completed in 2014 and is expected to be “The Yankee Stadium of observation decks.” So student travel groups will have an exciting and historic visit to look forward to once the panorama opens to the public, most likely in 2015. The 911 Museum itself will also be opening in 2014, which will provide student travel groups with an even more valuable experience.
The Statue of Liberty is one of NYC’s most famous landmarks, and students will be able to be a part of its legacy by visiting it when it is once again unveiled. This year will provide great and unprecedented opportunities for groups to see this symbol of freedom in a brand new light.
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Eastern U.S. Explorer Tour the Ultimate Student Travel Experience for Chinese Students

by Student Educational Tours of Atlanta http://www.studenteducationaltoursofatlanta.com

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Student Educational Tours

War of 1812 Bicentennial Events Offer Diverse Interactive Experiences for Student Travel Groups

by Student Educational Tours of Atlanta, 2013

Many celebrations for the War of 1812 Bicentennial are planned for this year, providing a-once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for student travel groups to participate in festivities, lectures, and interactive events that honor this pivotal event in American and British history. Events are planned throughout the year, all over the United States, so there are many options for student travel groups to choose from.
Some student tour groups may want to travel to Baltimore and Washington D.C., where many events are planned to celebrate pivotal battles. Other groups may travel to New Orleans. Some student trips may focus on a trip to Fort Niagara, not far from Niagara Falls, and couple this with a tour of New York City – taking the opportunity to see historical sites there.
Here is a sampling of some of the War of 1812 activities that will appeal to educational travel groups. For the most up-to-date information, consult appropriate websites, because events will be announced throughout this year and into 2015.
War of 1812 Events to Offer Historical Reenactments, On-site Tours, and More

New Orleans Commemorates the War of 1812
The world famous City of New Orleans hosts one of the most epic bicentennial celebrations of all: one that spans four years. Beginning in 2012 and ending in 2015, the celebration features a dazzling array of visiting ships, air shows, and other festivities, including touring ships that will be making their way to ports from New Orleans to Virginia to Baltimore to Boston.
Battle of Baltimore and Composition of the Star Spangled Banner Celebrated in September
Further up the coast, the Fort McHenry Star-Spangled Banner Celebration will occur September 13-15, 2013. This celebration pays homage to Defender’s Day, also known as Baltimore’s oldest holiday. The festivities, which take place in Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Md., commemorate Francis Scott Key’s writing of the “Star Spangled Banner” as well as the Battle of Baltimore and the bombardment of Fort McHenry. Festivities will include historical reenactments and cannon demonstrations, as well as parades and a lineup of educational and historical presentations.
Boston, Massachusetts Commemorates the War of 1812
The USS Constitution Museum in Boston will also be holding many special events throughout the year. Though the majority of major events and dignitary speakers are slated for the summer, there are still plenty of commemorative programs going on through the spring and fall. Students can also visit the Old Ironsides War of 1812 Discovery Center, which is open throughout the year and features games and interactive exhibits.

Many Notable Bicentennial Events to Take Place in Proximity to Niagara Falls

Many of the War of 1812 battles occurred around Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, so several bicentennial festivities will be taking place in that area. On December 19, 2013, the Anniversary of the Capture of Fort Niagara, billed as a “once in a lifetime bicentennial event” will be observed at Fort Niagara in Youngstown, NY, a magnificent location not far from Niagara Falls. Fort Niagara, a National Historic Landmark, has more than 100,000 visitors a year, including many student travel groups. The Fort has an extensive collection of 18^th and 19^th Century military materials, as well as many living history reenactments, educational programs, and archaeological and historical exhibits. Fort Niagara’s ready proximity to Niagara Falls makes it easy for student groups to take a day trip there, too. Many student tour leaders choose to combine a trip to Niagara Falls with a visit to New York City.
September 1-10 ushers in the 200th Anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie, one of the War of 1812’s largest naval battles, which established the United States’ control over Lake Erie and led to the winning of the Battle of the Thames. This historic celebration will take place in Put-on-Bay, Ohio, and feature a “Tall Ships festival” with historical reenactments, fireworks, cannon firings, and other festivities. Students will have the option of taking a day tour of many of the ships, and guided tours are available. Speakers will include representatives from British, Canadian, and Native American Indian groups, as well as other dignitaries, to be announced. Visit the Battle of Lake Eerie Bicentennial website for more information.
The War of 1812 is a major milestone in history, and students lucky enough to travel to any of these destinations during its bicentennial will be rewarded by participating in its many commemorative educational events and festivities. While some events and the attendance of dignitaries are not yet announced, more information can be found by visiting the Official War of 1812 Bicentennial Website or the National Park Service’s website.