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Fieldtrips Chatboard Topics

Field Trip Idea - TV Station

by field tripper

Mar 28, 2010

We just came from a field trip to our local television news station. It was one of the best field trips ever! The kids got to watch a live taping of the 11am news, they got to sit in the studio and see the anchors and broadcasters do their work. They also got to sit in the control room, where the director and technicians control the whole boardcast...See More

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Madrid, Paris.. Student Tour

by Charles Worthen

Apr 5, 2010

There were 15 persons in our group, 5 Adults and 10 Students...After Flying all Night, We spent the first day of tour waiting and laying around in Londons, Hethrow Airport (91/2 hours) 7:30am to 4:55pm.. Tired , Sleepy and Hungry plus no Bath, We missed the first day of our tour because EXPLORICA was too Cheap to get us out on an EARLIER... on anot...See More

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Don't use Explorica

by Kim

Apr 17, 2010

My daughter's school used Explorica for a spring break foreign language trip to Spain and France in March 2010. The positives - my daughter describes the trip as 'awesome' and loved the tour guide. However, working with Explorica was a nightmare. We were initially going to use another company but the teacher planning the trip thought this company w...See MoreMy daughter's school used Explorica for a spring break foreign language trip to Spain and France in March 2010. The positives - my daughter describes the trip as 'awesome' and loved the tour guide. However, working with Explorica was a nightmare. We were initially going to use another company but the teacher planning the trip thought this company would provide better customer service. Far from it. Explorica has NO CUSTOMER SERVICE. First, less that 2 months after signing up, they 'strongly encouraged' us to change our requested tour because we hadn't registered for a guaranteed tour. When we changed to a tour with an itinerary that wasn't best for our group but was guaranteed to run , the public price of the new tour was less than the cost they were charging us. However, they said we weren't new customers so wouldn't give us the lower price. There were MANY issues with this company but the biggest was that they sold an itinerary with activities on day 2 but booked flights with a 6 hour layover that got our group to our destination at the end of day 2, meaning we missed the day 2 activities in Madrid (including the Prado museum). No cost adjustment or even an acknowledgement that they effectively charged us for a day of touring that we didn't receive. They said the tour guides were good at fitting in missed activities but, of course, that didn't happen. I know there were better flight options (I was checking) that should have been within their budget but they booked the cheapest possible flights. I e-mailed and then wrote letters of concern to our rep plus VPs and the President of Explorica and no one responded. Unless you're lucky enough to get a good tour guide (ours was changed 3 times - the last 2 wks before the trip), don't expect anything from this company. They do not value customer service at all. If you're already working with the company, book your own flights. Per their website, the flights are approx 35% of the tour fee. If you combine that with the airfare taxes & fees that they separately charge and the weekend surcharges, the amount available to buy your own flights should be more than enough for good flights with minimal connections plus transfers.

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canada On 5/04/17, canada wrote: > On 5/04/17, canada wrote: >> On 5/04/17, Jason Jason wrote: >>> On 5/04/17, Jason wrote: >>>> On 4/23/10, Sarah V wrote: >>>>> Hi Kim, >>>>> >>>>> We value all of our customers' feedback and strive to >>>>> make changes to enhance o...See MoreOn 5/04/17, canada wrote: > On 5/04/17, canada wrote: >> On 5/04/17, Jason Jason wrote: >>> On 5/04/17, Jason wrote: >>>> On 4/23/10, Sarah V wrote: >>>>> Hi Kim, >>>>> >>>>> We value all of our customers' feedback and strive to >>>>> make changes to enhance our educational travel >>>>> services as much as possible. Please feel free to >>>>> contact me to discuss your experience and how we can >>>>> help improve your relationship with Explorica. >>>>> >>>>> Thanks, >>>>> >>>>> Sarah V. >>>>> >>>>> 888.310.7120 >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> On 4/17/10, Kim wrote: >>>>>> My daughter's school used Explorica for a spring >>>>>> break foreign language trip to Spain and France in >>>>>> March 2010. The positives - my daughter describes the >>>>>> trip as 'awesome' and loved the tour guide. However, >>>>>> working with Explorica was a nightmare. We were >>>>>> initially going to use another company but the >>>>>> teacher planning the trip thought this company would >>>>>> provide better customer service. Far from it. >>>>>> Explorica has NO CUSTOMER SERVICE. First, less that 2 >>>>>> months after signing up, they 'strongly encouraged' >>>>>> us to change our requested tour because we hadn't >>>>>> registered for a guaranteed tour. When we changed to >>>>>> a tour with an itinerary that wasn't best for our >>>>>> group but was guaranteed to run , the public price of >>>>>> the new tour was less than the cost they were >>>>>> charging us. However, they said we weren't new >>>>>> customers so wouldn't give us the lower price. There >>>>>> were MANY issues with this company but the biggest >>>>>> was that they sold an itinerary with activities on >>>>>> day 2 but booked flights with a 6 hour layover that >>>>>> got our group to our destination at the end of day 2, >>>>>> meaning we missed the day 2 activities in Madrid >>>>>> (including the Prado museum). No cost adjustment or >>>>>> even an acknowledgement that they effectively charged >>>>>> us for a day of touring that we didn't receive. They >>>>>> said the tour guides were good at fitting in missed >>>>>> activities but, of course, that didn't happen. I know >>>>>> there were better flight options (I was checking) >>>>>> that should have been within their budget but they >>>>>> booked the cheapest possible flights. I e-mailed and >>>>>> then wrote letters of concern to our rep plus VPs and >>>>>> the President of Explorica and no one responded. >>>>>> Unless you're lucky enough to get a good tour guide >>>>>> (ours was changed 3 times - the last 2 wks before the >>>>>> trip), don't expect anything from this company. They >>>>>> do not value customer service at all. If you're >>>>>> already working with the company, book your own >>>>>> flights. Per their website, the flights are approx >>>>>> 35&37; of the tour fee. If you combine that with the >>>>>> airfare taxes & fees that they separately charge and >>>>>> the weekend surcharges, the amount available to buy >>>>>> your own flights should be more than enough for good >>>>>> flights with minimal connections plus transfers.

May 4, 2017

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Sammer Explorica Tours seems like a ponsi Scheme! My kids School, planned a trip to one of our Provinces. The trip was paid for in full many months ago. Then out of the blue Explorica says we owe them 20&37; more! Then they call twice and don't leave a message. I ended up calling the school- they have not heard anything about this. My wife, ends up c...See More Explorica Tours seems like a ponsi Scheme! My kids School, planned a trip to one of our Provinces. The trip was paid for in full many months ago. Then out of the blue Explorica says we owe them 20&37; more! Then they call twice and don't leave a message. I ended up calling the school- they have not heard anything about this. My wife, ends up calling the company and they said it was for a "private tour". I ended up calling the School again and they still never heard anything about this. No private tour or no request for extra money. Despite the email from Explorica requesting money. Who runs a business like this??!!! Only scam artists in my mind. We are very worried about this trip now.

On 5/04/17, Jason Jason wrote: > On 5/04/17, Jason wrote: >> On 4/23/10, Sarah V wrote: >>> Hi Kim, >>> >>> We value all of our customers' feedback and strive to make >>> changes to enhance our educational travel services as much as >>> possible. Please feel free to contact me to discuss your >>> experience and how we can help improve your relationship with >>> Explorica. >>> >>> Thanks, >>> >>> Sarah V. >>> >>> 888.310.7120 >>> >>> >>> On 4/17/10, Kim wrote: >>>> My daughter's school used Explorica for a spring break >>>> foreign language trip to Spain and France in March 2010. >>>> The positives - my daughter describes the trip as 'awesome' >>>> and loved the tour guide. However, working with Explorica >>>> was a nightmare. We were initially going to use another >>>> company but the teacher planning the trip thought this >>>> company would provide better customer service. Far from >>>> it. Explorica has NO CUSTOMER SERVICE. First, less that 2 >>>> months after signing up, they 'strongly encouraged' us to >>>> change our requested tour because we hadn't registered for >>>> a guaranteed tour. When we changed to a tour with an >>>> itinerary that wasn't best for our group but was guaranteed >>>> to run , the public price of the new tour was less than the >>>> cost they were charging us. However, they said we weren't >>>> new customers so wouldn't give us the lower price. There >>>> were MANY issues with this company but the biggest was that >>>> they sold an itinerary with activities on day 2 but booked >>>> flights with a 6 hour layover that got our group to our >>>> destination at the end of day 2, meaning we missed the day >>>> 2 activities in Madrid (including the Prado museum). No >>>> cost adjustment or even an acknowledgement that they >>>> effectively charged us for a day of touring that we didn't >>>> receive. They said the tour guides were good at fitting in >>>> missed activities but, of course, that didn't happen. I >>>> know there were better flight options (I was checking) >>>> that should have been within their budget but they booked >>>> the cheapest possible flights. I e-mailed and then wrote >>>> letters of concern to our rep plus VPs and the President of >>>> Explorica and no one responded. Unless you're lucky enough >>>> to get a good tour guide (ours was changed 3 times - the >>>> last 2 wks before the trip), don't expect anything from >>>> this company. They do not value customer service at all. >>>> If you're already working with the company, book your own >>>> flights. Per their website, the flights are approx 35&37; of >>>> the tour fee. If you combine that with the airfare taxes & >>>> fees that they separately charge and the weekend >>>> surcharges, the amount available to buy your own flights >>>> should be more than enough for good flights with minimal >>>> connections plus transfers.

May 4, 2017

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EF, Explorica, Passports and the Dishonest Teachers

by Lorna Mail

Apr 18, 2010

I've travelled with all of those companies for 20 years. More and more I hear of many colleague teachers who do not tip the Tour Directors for the wonderful job they do! The most terrible cases are those teachers who collect the money from the students and they pocket most of it. This information is going around the world more and more among Tour D...See More

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gail On 10/06/10, Debbie Fremming wrote: > On 4/28/10, Verity wrote: >> Adam has made a good point about my ability to pick and choose. I >> have been in the business a long time and so I have a lot of repeat >> business. The company I started out with did not allow tipping at >> all and paid us well, so I was spoiled. I can a...See MoreOn 10/06/10, Debbie Fremming wrote: > On 4/28/10, Verity wrote: >> Adam has made a good point about my ability to pick and choose. I >> have been in the business a long time and so I have a lot of repeat >> business. The company I started out with did not allow tipping at >> all and paid us well, so I was spoiled. I can also negotiate my >> contracts with many tour operators, especially if I am requested by >> a group. New tour guides are not in the same position and >> unfortunately, many good ones leave because they do not make enough >> money. The tour companies should have the gratuities > automatically >> added into the trip and if the guide or bus driver does not > do a >> good job, they should be let go. One of my companies sends me > a >> separate check for the gratuity after the trip is completed and >> they have received a good report. I've been reading a lot about >> teachers complaining about their pay. Most of them are > members of >> unions which try to negotiate better contracts for them. We're >> mostly independent contractors and working seasonally, but are >> entirely at the mercy of the companies and the teachers. The >> companies are not interested in protecting their guides. They >> should imagine what it is like to be a professional guide on > duty >> 24 hours with the responsibility of a group of students and get >> paid less than minimum wage. Waiters and waitresses are treated >> better. >> >> On 4/24/10, Adam wrote: >>> Its nice that Verity can pick and choose the tour company he (or >>> she) works for, and settles only for those who pay a "decent daily >>> fee." Unfortunately, in these troubles times, most of us cannot >>> pick and choose companies and we have to go with the work that is >>> offered. I agree with what both Verity and Lorna have to say. We >>> work long hours, and as with any service industry, are at the >>> mercy of the teachers for our tips. I believe that dishonest >>> teachers are few and far between, but they are out there. I wish >>> there was a way of letting the kids (and their parents) know that >>> a tip was not received, especially when one was collected from >>> them. I've been lucky to have worked with wonderful teachers who >>> have been extremely generous with the tip and hopefully forums >>> like this will educate and reinforce the need for gratuities to be >>> given to reward hard work. >>> >>> >>> On 4/20/10, Verity wrote: >>>> I am a tour guide who has been 'stiffed' by many of my groups >>>> and it is not due to the quality of my guiding. The tour >>>> companies that tell the teachers to tip are paying us poorly >>>> to begin with and our income is really based on the tips and >>>> the number of people on the bus. Spending one to two weeks >>>> 24/7 with a group, giving them the best service possible, and >>>> then not getting anything, is disgusting. And you can't >>>> complain to the companies because they don't care. The bus >>>> drivers want us to bring groups to more souvenir stops to >>>> make up some of the slack with commissions. I take pride in >>>> my work so I now only work for companies that pay me a decent >>>> daily fee, regardless of the number of people on the bus. But >>>> believe me, it is not only with North American teachers >>>> because this system was started by European companies for >>>> European teachers. I was even fired by an Australian company >>>> when I confronted an Aussie teacher, after a three week trip, >>>> who gave no tip to either me or my bus driver and the teacher >>>> said that she thought the tip was included, when it clearly >>>> wasn't. >>>> >>>> On 4/18/10, Lorna Mail wrote: >>>>> I've travelled with all of those companies for 20 years. >>>>> More and more I hear of many colleague teachers who do not >>>>> tip the Tour Directors for the wonderful job they do! The >>>>> most terrible cases are those teachers who collect the >>>>> money from the students and they pocket most of it. This >>>>> information is going around the world more and more among >>>>> Tour Directors and Travel Companies with evidences. If some >>>>> teachers are doing this, we should not be surprised that >>>>> the reputation of Northamerican teachers is becoming what >>>>> it is now!! This is mostly embarassing especially >>>>> considering that we, teachers get so many benefits and >>>>> stipends and advantages, that I will not mention here! So >>>>> those teachers are destroying the reputation of many others >>>>> who do this with passion. They steal the money of their >>>>> students and the tip of their Tour Director. And this is a >>>>> crime!! >>>>> Lorna

There is a travel company that will add the school and the teacher to their liability insurance so you are covered and so is the school. The travel programs are really educational. They will also pay the teacher a 500.00 bonus at time of travel for spring deposits and bill the parents individually on payment plan through the summer. If you would like more information please email me. [email removed].

Jan 2, 2011

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alberto casanova On 4/18/10, Lorna Mail wrote: > I've travelled with all of those companies for 20 years. > More and more I hear of many colleague teachers who do not > tip the Tour Directors for the wonderful job they do! The > most terrible cases are those teachers who collect the > money from the students and they pocket most of it. This > info...See More

Mar 17, 2011

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NECT Travel Voucher

by Laurie

Apr 20, 2010

I have a $200.00 voucher that has to be used in the final payment before 10/15/10. I will take $150.00 for it. If anyone has any suggestions on how to sell this please let me know.

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NETC Travel Vouchers

by Marylena

May 13, 2010

Seven $900 NETC travel vouchers available as our Natick, MA High School Mexico trip was cancelled. Valid for NETC program departing by 12/31/2011. Willing to discount. Please let me know if you have any questions.

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Travel with Smithsonian Student Travel

by Trace

May 15, 2010

Has anyone traveled recently with Smithsonian Student Travel? We are scheduled to travel to Boston next spring and I would like to know about any experiences you may have had, not just the bad ones either.

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Jen B. Trace,

I used to travel to DC and other destinations with EF/SmithsonianStudentTravel and I have found better experiences with another company. Just like many people mention they promise a price that doesn't include much. I was told a price that was to be an all inclusive price for my kids, however, once I receive the itinerary the only me...See More

Aug 5, 2010

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Susan Trace, I have have traveled many times with Smithsonian/Go Ahead/EF Tours from Washington DC to New York, and Ireland/Scotland with adults and students. I agree with "obsserver" that it is the sourpuss that does the most complaining. After multiple trips and another one scheduled for March, the only problem I have ever had was with parents who want...See MoreTrace, I have have traveled many times with Smithsonian/Go Ahead/EF Tours from Washington DC to New York, and Ireland/Scotland with adults and students. I agree with "obsserver" that it is the sourpuss that does the most complaining. After multiple trips and another one scheduled for March, the only problem I have ever had was with parents who want a high end tour for low end prices and don't have the math skills to figure out why it would cost more to have 2 people in the room than it does for 4 people! Travel in confidence and ask for Emily!

GET the Insurance, I had a student break his ankle 4 days before we left one year and the MOM had a FIT!!! because they wouldn't refund her money. She made the choice not to buy the insurance even though I encouraged it. She would have gotten a full refund. Then she wanted me to push him in a wheelchair and threatened to file a handicapped discrimination suit against me! He wasn't handicapped, he was injured and the Dr. wouldn't release him to travel.

On 5/21/10, observer wrote: > Hi Trace, > > I really would not be concerned about it. The student travel > industry is so complicated trying to understand it all is not worth > your time. If you research any company online you will typically > find only negative responses. However, in comparison to the people > who are having great tours the percentage is miniscule. You can > have a really good tour, like the majority of people, and never > post anything about it. The people who are really pissed off tend > to write on boards like these. Although there are definitely some > legitimate complaints most of the time it is parents/teachers who > have no clue about travel. In the end, understand the general > guidelines of the company and have a great time! > > > > On 5/18/10, Trace wrote: >> Can you give me examples of what is not included? Has anyone had >> a good experience with EF/Smithsonian Student Travel? I am >> really concerned from all the negative I hear ...This did seem >> like the right choice. >> >> >> >> On 5/18/10, Molly wrote: >>> Trace, >>> >>> Be weary of these guys as they are really EF who has >>> rebranded themselves under the Smithsonian name. They >>> typically tell you it's going to be this amazing trip for >>> this low price but once you get on the trip you find out >>> almost nothing is included! I would check out other >>> companies if your letters have not been sent out yet! >>> >>> On 5/15/10, Trace wrote: >>>> Has anyone traveled recently with Smithsonian Student >>>> Travel? We are scheduled to travel to Boston next spring >>>> and I would like to know about any experiences you may have >>>> had, not just the bad ones either.

Jul 28, 2012

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What is the best student travel group?

by Trace

May 18, 2010

What is your favorite student travel group and why?

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Class Act Tours On 10/05/10, Porsche wrote: > They are similar in mission, but People to People Ambassadors are > focused on academic achievement. They only bring specific students on > their program and if I’m not mistaken by invitation only. Close Up > provides civic education and is geared to all schools as well as > individuals that are from a...See MoreOn 10/05/10, Porsche wrote: > They are similar in mission, but People to People Ambassadors are > focused on academic achievement. They only bring specific students on > their program and if I’m not mistaken by invitation only. Close Up > provides civic education and is geared to all schools as well as > individuals that are from all academic backgrounds. They try to give > all students the opportunity to come on program. They provide grants > and fellowships and will even help give you ideas for fundraising and > donations. Each year Close Up reps, staff and even officers build > relationships with teachers/administrators and districts. Majority of > their groups are through schools. Close Up’s major programs center in > DC, yes, but you can create your own program as well to include NY, > Williamsburg, Philly, Gettysburg and few others. You have the option > to persaonalize it to fit your needs. They have teachers that build > their classroom curriculum around these programs/current issues. They > have programs throughout the year and are less expensive. > > On 10/04/10, mslutheran wrote: >> Isn't Close Up like People to People Ambassadors in that they focus >> more on leadership seminars? It seems to me that most of their >> programs are not geared to whole school groups, but individual >> students that come from all over the country and world. I'm not >> knocking the programs, in fact, some of our students have been on >> both, and have benefited, but they're not really 'tours' and they're >> centered mostly in DC. >>

Hi! Of course I'm extremely biased because I've worked with Class Act Tours for over 25 years, but I truly feel you won't find an easier and more personable company to work with! When you call, we immediately connect you with a Personal Tour Coordinator whom you can contact 24/7 for any questions you may have during the trip planning process. We work with ALL kinds of budgets, keeping in mind that this is an EDUCATIONAL trip, geared towards student groups and it shows in our prices without compromising on quality. Our guides are AWESOME and I wouldn't work anywhere else~ [link removed]:)

Oct 8, 2010

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Debbie Bell On 5/18/10, Trace wrote: > What is your favorite student travel group and why?

I appreciate the hard work and superb service of TSA Tours, located in Tempe, Arizona. I have been leading student tours since 1986 and have had the opportunity to travel with CHA, Travel Selections, EF, People-To-People, International Grand Tours and finally...See More

Sep 2, 2011

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tour spain 2010

by joseph

May 20, 2010

If you are planning to see flamenco show in spain and stay overnight in Granada, then I recommend you to contact with [email removed].

regards joseph

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My advice to Teachers: from a Tour Company owner

by terreeteau

May 21, 2010

I haven't been on this board in awhile but as I read the newer entries I still see the same theme repeated; people are dissatisfied with their educational travel experience. As a company owner, this concerns me. I sincerely believe in the amazing value of these experiences and want to do my part to ensure that teachers and group leaders share this ...See MoreI haven't been on this board in awhile but as I read the newer entries I still see the same theme repeated; people are dissatisfied with their educational travel experience. As a company owner, this concerns me. I sincerely believe in the amazing value of these experiences and want to do my part to ensure that teachers and group leaders share this feeling.

Please read my original post below and let me know what you think. THANKS DAVE

Hey,

I stumbled accross this by accident and thought I could perhaps add some insight. I've worked in the student tour industry for some time and have -full disclosure- recently started my own company here in Canada.

Part of my motivation in starting my own company is reflected by the numerous negative experiences recounted on the board.

I agree with the notion that you're always rolling the dice with these types of visits; there are so many variables that can add or detract from the overall enjoyment of the experience. A bad hotel, guide, meal or bus driver might be enough to have you question repeating the process.

This whole EF vs. Explorica debate can really be boiled down to a question of giant companies. When everything goes well, the customer is happy. As soon as you have a problem, their true colours come through. Now you're dealing with 'fine print' and an endless procession of people that can't (or won't) help you.

Really, the best analogy is that EF and Explorica are fast food: you get a tremendous infrastructure, great prices, incentives and prizes. These companies deal in volume; to the degree that they expect to lose a certain percentage of their clients each year due to negligence.

A smaller student travel provider can offer a more humane approach. For them, client loyalty is paramount. The intent is to forge a long term, mutually-beneficial relationship. For that reason any problems (there will be some!), can be dealt with in a constructive manner and -without an oppressive hierarchy in place- a direct way. For example, my client had some students drop out and made some changes to the original itinerary that increased the price by $20 per person. Rather than go back to the parents for the difference, we met in the middle at a $10 increase. Simple and fair.

The only advice I would give to teachers is to look for a company that specializes in your destination of choice rather than a monolith that tries to be all things to all people. The process is long, challenging and expensive; you deserve a visit that is tailored to your needs.

Any comments are welcome Thanks! DT

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Dick Sorry Mr or Mrs Lutheran, but I am not wrong. I have shopped around. There is one company out there, and I wont name names, but all I have to do is send a quote by any other company and they will match it and beat it by $50 per student. I am not here to dis the mom and pop tour operators of the world. May they have lots of success. I am out for the...See MoreSorry Mr or Mrs Lutheran, but I am not wrong. I have shopped around. There is one company out there, and I wont name names, but all I have to do is send a quote by any other company and they will match it and beat it by $50 per student. I am not here to dis the mom and pop tour operators of the world. May they have lots of success. I am out for the BEST and LOWEST price for my students, and that is what I achieve yearly, and we have mighty fine tours. No offense.

On 6/14/10, mslutheran wrote: > You are quite wrong on this. The 'mom and pop' companies do not > have the huge overhead and expenses that the big companies do. > > We found that out when we 'shopped' the same itinerary to a number > of companies and the large ones could not touch the price we were > getting for our trip through our current company. We get better > value for our money through the smaller companies. > > We have also compared our trip against the ones that the local > middle and high schools are doing with the large companies and ours > is cheaper, has better hotels and restaurants, and more educational > activities. > > On 6/11/10, Dick wrote: >> Ok anyone reading this, here is the scoop: >> >> The big tour companies are like Walmart. Yes, there are many >> disadvantageous to using them, but they have the lowest prices >> (regardless of teacher kick-backs, etc.). The little mom and pop >> tour companies are more ideal but much more expensive. This aint >> rocket science folks. If the students can afford the mom and pop >> companies (Georgia Hardy in Canada is a perfect example) then by >> all means use them. Who wouldn't choose a specialty store over >> Walmart? If the students can barely afford the tours the large >> companies offer, then the small tour operators are not an option. >> Do people not see this? It is pretty simple to figure out. You >> cant have your cake and eat it too. >> >> >> >> >> >> On 5/25/10, Instructours wrote: >>> I agree completely with Dave. >>> >>> While I am not a tour operator, I design student tours >>> professionally and work with a number of tour operators. All >>> my school clients have been totally dissatisfied with the >>> quality of services from large tour operators- which is why >>> they want someone else to design their educational tours. >>> >>> I see, firsthand, how student tour groups are dumped and >>> herded by large companies. I cannot tell you how often I am >>> stopped by teachers and parents, in Washington, DC and New >>> York, and asked for directions, where they can eat, or how to >>> get into places. Hordes of clueless students run wild through >>> the Smithsonian museums without any guidance or focus. These >>> situations are not indicative of trips sponsored through >>> good companies. >>> >>> As with Dave, I've been following many of the discussions on >>> this board with interest. >>> >>> I don't agree with the poster who calls himself/herself, >>> 'Observer' that there is only a small percentage of complaints >>> with these large companies. The fact is, good people seldom >>> complain online, so that the number of complaints on these >>> sites reflects a much larger number of dissatisfied customers. >>> After a while, patterns emerge that should not be ignored. >>> (Most of my clients simply dropped the offending company and >>> didn't register with the BBB or online complaint sites so they >>> wouldn't be hassled by the respective companies.) >>> >>> Many teachers don't realize that there are alternative ways to >>> run a trip because just a few big companies dominate the >>> industry and, as a result, there is not much choice of >>> destination, itinerary, or vendors. In fact, the same, exact, >>> itineraries are utilized by most of the large companies. >>> >>> Teachers need to be a bit more thoughtful about the choice of >>> the tour company and not rely on glitzy advertising and >>> 'stipends'. These extravagant marketing tools should send up >>> a red flag that more goes into advertising than the tour. >>> >>> Bigger is not better. I only work through small and mid-sized >>> companies since many, like Dave's company (which I have not >>> worked with), have more practical expertise in the areas, or >>> regions, they are operating because they are owned and run by >>> tour professionals rather than sales people; have lower >>> overhead and less profit margins since they are not supporting >>> a large infrastructure; have better vendors and vendor >>> relationships (hotels, restaurants, motorcoaches, and guides; >>> and care more about the comfort and safety of their groups. >>> >>> The subject of contracts has also come up in some older posts >>> by teachers. This is one of the most important parts of the >>> process. >>> >>> Good companies are able to give you a solid quote upfront with >>> nothing additional down the line unless the number of >>> travelers drops (as in the case Dave put forth). Good >>> companies listen to what you want and try to accommodate your >>> needs, especially with securing appointments. Good companies >>> don't have membership fees. Good companies give cash refunds. >>> Good companies are flexible where payments are concerned and >>> don't summarily cancel students 60 days or less before as >>> trip. Good companies put all their promises in writing, and >>> then deliver what they promise. Good companies pay their >>> bills on time (check this out with Dun and Bradstreet. Good >>> companies have excellent company liability insurance and >>> offer travel/medical/cancellation insurance underwritten by a >>> bona fide insurance company which is rated by A.M. >>> Best.(Accept nothing less than a 'A' rating. If it's not >>> rated by A.M. Best, it's not real insurance.) >>> >>> My advice to any teacher is to surf the internet by putting in >>> search terms that would describe the perfect trip and >>> destination. You'll be surprised at how many smaller companies >>> surface. Check them out against the BBB, contact teachers >>> that have traveled with them, and have a professional go over >>> their contract and insurance. >>> >>> Good luck! >>> >>> >>> >>> On 5/21/10, terreeteau wrote: >>>> I haven't been on this board in awhile but as I read the >>>> newer entries I still see the same theme repeated; people >>>> are dissatisfied with their educational travel experience. >>>> As a company owner, this concerns me. I sincerely believe >>>> in the amazing value of these experiences and want to do my >>>> part to ensure that teachers and group leaders share this >>>> feeling. >>>> >>>> Please read my original post below and let me know what you >>>> think. >>>> THANKS >>>> DAVE >>>> >>>> Hey, >>>> >>>> I stumbled accross this by accident and thought I could >>>> perhaps add some insight. >>>> I've worked in the student tour industry for some time and >>>> have -full disclosure- >>>> recently started my own company here in Canada. >>>> >>>> Part of my motivation in starting my own company is >>>> reflected by the numerous >>>> negative experiences recounted on the board. >>>> >>>> I agree with the notion that you're always rolling the dice >>>> with these types of >>>> visits; there are so many variables that can add or detract >>>> from the overall >>>> enjoyment of the experience. A bad hotel, guide, meal or >>>> bus driver might be enough >>>> to have you question repeating the process. >>>> >>>> This whole EF vs. Explorica debate can really be boiled >>>> down to a question of giant >>>> companies. When everything goes well, the customer is >>>> happy. As soon as you have a >>>> problem, their true colours come through. Now you're >>>> dealing with 'fine print' and >>>> an endless procession of people that can't (or won't) help >>>> you. >>>> >>>> Really, the best analogy is that EF and Explorica are fast >>>> food: you get a >>>> tremendous infrastructure, great prices, incentives and >>>> prizes. These companies deal >>>> in volume; to the degree that they expect to lose a certain >>>> percentage of their >>>> clients each year due to negligence. >>>> >>>> A smaller student travel provider can offer a more humane >>>> approach. For them, client >>>> loyalty is paramount. The intent is to forge a long term, >>>> mutually-beneficial >>>> relationship. For that reason any problems (there will be >>>> some!), can be dealt with >>>> in a constructive manner and -without an oppressive >>>> hierarchy in place- a direct >>>> way. For example, my client had some students drop out and >>>> made some changes to the >>>> original itinerary that increased the price by $20 per >>>> person. Rather than go back >>>> to the parents for the difference, we met in the middle at >>>> a $10 increase. Simple >>>> and fair. >>>> >>>> The only advice I would give to teachers is to look for a >>>> company that specializes >>>> in your destination of choice rather than a monolith that >>>> tries to be all things to >>>> all people. The process is long, challenging and expensive; >>>> you deserve a visit that >>>> is tailored to your needs. >>>> >>>> Any comments are welcome >>>> Thanks! >>>> DT >>>> >>>> >>>>

Jun 24, 2010

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Cari I wish there was a perfect recipe for a perfect student tour every time. It seems each company has its own way of doing things, and it takes a seasoned veteran teacher to cut through all the marketing tactics in order to do the best job for one's students. That said...teachers with little travel experience MUST do their homework. Teachers must do t...See MoreI wish there was a perfect recipe for a perfect student tour every time. It seems each company has its own way of doing things, and it takes a seasoned veteran teacher to cut through all the marketing tactics in order to do the best job for one's students. That said...teachers with little travel experience MUST do their homework. Teachers must do the heavy lifting and commit to a structured, educational, positive trip. Every trip has its disappointments: rain, cold, heat, crowds, long lines, delays, so-so guides, public transportation, lots of stairs and walking. So, you heard it here, teachers....prepare for the disappointments with a positive attitude. Make the best of it. Travel is not as glamorous as you might think...however, it still can be very rewarding if done with a positive attitude. I am not a tour company owner, however, I have been traveling with my French students for over thirty years with these companies: ALSG, EF, ACIS, NETC, Passports, Mariden, and Explorica. As a high schooler, I even remember traveling with Foreign Study League in 1969....anyone old enough to remember that company? All I can say is that it takes more than a good company for a great trip. It takes a patient, mature teacher who is willing to go the extra mile for his/her students.....make sure that students behave, learn the language, get plenty of sleep, act responsibly as teen ambassadors of the U.S.A., and are respectful to the citizens of the host countries. After all, isn't that why we want our studednts to travel?.....so that students learn to understand/appreciate different cultures of the world.

These trips are NOT teacher vacations...they must be looked at as educational, student tours. Successful European trips REQUIRE careful preparation for students, parents, and the chaperones. I start preparing my participants nearly a year in advance in order to ensure a memorable, positive, and fulfilling experience for all. My reputation is on the line, so I am obligated to watch every move a company makes....especially pre-trip. So whichever company you choose to travel with, make sure that you compare, research, and ask LOTS of questions. People are spending a LOT of money for these student tours, and the success of your trip lies with a reputable company, pre-trip preparation, a solid itinerary, and a positive, mature teacher/chaperone. FYI...I carefully screen my students, so that only the best of the best travel with me. Lazy students in the classroom will be lazy abroad...whiners will continue to whine. If they want Disneyworld, then let them go to Epcot. And, remember, experience is the best teacher...so keep traveling--it's a learning process.

On 6/24/10, Dick wrote: > Sorry Mr or Mrs Lutheran, but I am not wrong. I have shopped around. > There is one company out there, and I wont name names, but all I have to > do is send a quote by any other company and they will match it and beat > it by $50 per student. I am not here to dis the mom and pop tour > operators of the world. May they have lots of success. I am out for the > BEST and LOWEST price for my students, and that is what I achieve > yearly, and we have mighty fine tours. No offense. > > > On 6/14/10, mslutheran wrote: >> You are quite wrong on this. The 'mom and pop' companies do not >> have the huge overhead and expenses that the big companies do. >> >> We found that out when we 'shopped' the same itinerary to a number >> of companies and the large ones could not touch the price we were >> getting for our trip through our current company. We get better >> value for our money through the smaller companies. >> >> We have also compared our trip against the ones that the local >> middle and high schools are doing with the large companies and ours >> is cheaper, has better hotels and restaurants, and more educational >> activities. >> >> On 6/11/10, Dick wrote: >>> Ok anyone reading this, here is the scoop: >>> >>> The big tour companies are like Walmart. Yes, there are many >>> disadvantageous to using them, but they have the lowest prices >>> (regardless of teacher kick-backs, etc.). The little mom and pop >>> tour companies are more ideal but much more expensive. This aint >>> rocket science folks. If the students can afford the mom and pop >>> companies (Georgia Hardy in Canada is a perfect example) then by >>> all means use them. Who wouldn't choose a specialty store over >>> Walmart? If the students can barely afford the tours the large >>> companies offer, then the small tour operators are not an option. >>> Do people not see this? It is pretty simple to figure out. You >>> cant have your cake and eat it too. >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> On 5/25/10, Instructours wrote: >>>> I agree completely with Dave. >>>> >>>> While I am not a tour operator, I design student tours >>>> professionally and work with a number of tour operators. All >>>> my school clients have been totally dissatisfied with the >>>> quality of services from large tour operators- which is why >>>> they want someone else to design their educational tours. >>>> >>>> I see, firsthand, how student tour groups are dumped and >>>> herded by large companies. I cannot tell you how often I am >>>> stopped by teachers and parents, in Washington, DC and New >>>> York, and asked for directions, where they can eat, or how to >>>> get into places. Hordes of clueless students run wild through >>>> the Smithsonian museums without any guidance or focus. These >>>> situations are not indicative of trips sponsored through >>>> good companies. >>>> >>>> As with Dave, I've been following many of the discussions on >>>> this board with interest. >>>> >>>> I don't agree with the poster who calls himself/herself, >>>> 'Observer' that there is only a small percentage of complaints >>>> with these large companies. The fact is, good people seldom >>>> complain online, so that the number of complaints on these >>>> sites reflects a much larger number of dissatisfied customers. >>>> After a while, patterns emerge that should not be ignored. >>>> (Most of my clients simply dropped the offending company and >>>> didn't register with the BBB or online complaint sites so they >>>> wouldn't be hassled by the respective companies.) >>>> >>>> Many teachers don't realize that there are alternative ways to >>>> run a trip because just a few big companies dominate the >>>> industry and, as a result, there is not much choice of >>>> destination, itinerary, or vendors. In fact, the same, exact, >>>> itineraries are utilized by most of the large companies. >>>> >>>> Teachers need to be a bit more thoughtful about the choice of >>>> the tour company and not rely on glitzy advertising and >>>> 'stipends'. These extravagant marketing tools should send up >>>> a red flag that more goes into advertising than the tour. >>>> >>>> Bigger is not better. I only work through small and mid-sized >>>> companies since many, like Dave's company (which I have not >>>> worked with), have more practical expertise in the areas, or >>>> regions, they are operating because they are owned and run by >>>> tour professionals rather than sales people; have lower >>>> overhead and less profit margins since they are not supporting >>>> a large infrastructure; have better vendors and vendor >>>> relationships (hotels, restaurants, motorcoaches, and guides; >>>> and care more about the comfort and safety of their groups. >>>> >>>> The subject of contracts has also come up in some older posts >>>> by teachers. This is one of the most important parts of the >>>> process. >>>> >>>> Good companies are able to give you a solid quote upfront with >>>> nothing additional down the line unless the number of >>>> travelers drops (as in the case Dave put forth). Good >>>> companies listen to what you want and try to accommodate your >>>> needs, especially with securing appointments. Good companies >>>> don't have membership fees. Good companies give cash refunds. >>>> Good companies are flexible where payments are concerned and >>>> don't summarily cancel students 60 days or less before as >>>> trip. Good companies put all their promises in writing, and >>>> then deliver what they promise. Good companies pay their >>>> bills on time (check this out with Dun and Bradstreet. Good >>>> companies have excellent company liability insurance and >>>> offer travel/medical/cancellation insurance underwritten by a >>>> bona fide insurance company which is rated by A.M. >>>> Best.(Accept nothing less than a 'A' rating. If it's not >>>> rated by A.M. Best, it's not real insurance.) >>>> >>>> My advice to any teacher is to surf the internet by putting in >>>> search terms that would describe the perfect trip and >>>> destination. You'll be surprised at how many smaller companies >>>> surface. Check them out against the BBB, contact teachers >>>> that have traveled with them, and have a professional go over >>>> their contract and insurance. >>>> >>>> Good luck! >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> On 5/21/10, terreeteau wrote: >>>>> I haven't been on this board in awhile but as I read the >>>>> newer entries I still see the same theme repeated; people >>>>> are dissatisfied with their educational travel experience. >>>>> As a company owner, this concerns me. I sincerely believe >>>>> in the amazing value of these experiences and want to do my >>>>> part to ensure that teachers and group leaders share this >>>>> feeling. >>>>> >>>>> Please read my original post below and let me know what you >>>>> think. >>>>> THANKS >>>>> DAVE >>>>> >>>>> Hey, >>>>> >>>>> I stumbled accross this by accident and thought I could >>>>> perhaps add some insight. >>>>> I've worked in the student tour industry for some time and >>>>> have -full disclosure- >>>>> recently started my own company here in Canada. >>>>> >>>>> Part of my motivation in starting my own company is >>>>> reflected by the numerous >>>>> negative experiences recounted on the board. >>>>> >>>>> I agree with the notion that you're always rolling the dice >>>>> with these types of >>>>> visits; there are so many variables that can add or detract >>>>> from the overall >>>>> enjoyment of the experience. A bad hotel, guide, meal or >>>>> bus driver might be enough >>>>> to have you question repeating the process. >>>>> >>>>> This whole EF vs. Explorica debate can really be boiled >>>>> down to a question of giant >>>>> companies. When everything goes well, the customer is >>>>> happy. As soon as you have a >>>>> problem, their true colours come through. Now you're >>>>> dealing with 'fine print' and >>>>> an endless procession of people that can't (or won't) help >>>>> you. >>>>> >>>>> Really, the best analogy is that EF and Explorica are fast >>>>> food: you get a >>>>> tremendous infrastructure, great prices, incentives and >>>>> prizes. These companies deal >>>>> in volume; to the degree that they expect to lose a certain >>>>> percentage of their >>>>> clients each year due to negligence. >>>>> >>>>> A smaller student travel provider can offer a more humane >>>>> approach. For them, client >>>>> loyalty is paramount. The intent is to forge a long term, >>>>> mutually-beneficial >>>>> relationship. For that reason any problems (there will be >>>>> some!), can be dealt with >>>>> in a constructive manner and -without an oppressive >>>>> hierarchy in place- a direct >>>>> way. For example, my client had some students drop out and >>>>> made some changes to the >>>>> original itinerary that increased the price by $20 per >>>>> person. Rather than go back >>>>> to the parents for the difference, we met in the middle at >>>>> a $10 increase. Simple >>>>> and fair. >>>>> >>>>> The only advice I would give to teachers is to look for a >>>>> company that specializes >>>>> in your destination of choice rather than a monolith that >>>>> tries to be all things to >>>>> all people. The process is long, challenging and expensive; >>>>> you deserve a visit that >>>>> is tailored to your needs. >>>>> >>>>> Any comments are welcome >>>>> Thanks! >>>>> DT >>>>> >>>>> >>>>>

Oct 26, 2010

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