Best Orlando, FL Group Tours For Students
Orlando, Florida, is one of the most exciting destinations for group tours for students in the United States. Beyond its iconic attractions and sunny weather, it offers a wealth of educational tours for students Orlando and music performance opportunities for student groups. Whether you’re a teacher planning a class trip or a music director looking for your choir or band’s next big stage music performances for students, Orlando promises an unforgettable experience that blends learning, creativity, and fun. Let’s explore why Orlando is a top choice for student travel and how this dynamic city can provide enriching opportunities for your students. Why Orlando is a Great Option for Group Tours For Students Orlando stands out as a top-tier destination thanks to its versatility, warm climate, endless activities and its incredible range of attractions. The city is home to world-renowned theme parks, offering both excitement and one-of-a-kind educational experiences. Students can explore the science of roller coasters at Disney World ™ or learn about marine life at SeaWorld ™ while enjoying themselves. These interactive opportunities go far beyond classroom learning, leaving students inspired and energized. Another factor to consider is the value Orlando provides. With a variety of options for group travel packages, schools can balance affordability with a memorable experience. Teachers and music directors can customize itineraries to match their group’s interests, keeping students engaged throughout. With its balance of entertainment, education, and accessibility, Orlando truly delivers for both students and their educators. Music Performances For Students in Orlando For music teachers, choir, and band directors, Orlando offers incredible opportunities for students to showcase their talents. Students will experience the excitement of sharing their music with an international audience, whether at a theme park or a prestigious festival. Disney Performing Arts Program ™ is one of the most sought-after opportunities for music performances for students. Choirs, bands, and orchestras can apply to perform in the heart of Walt Disney World, where they’ll entertain park guests while representing their school. This program also includes workshops led by Disney professionals, giving students the chance to refine their skills with expert guidance. From mastering stage presence to honing their technical abilities, these sessions are designed to inspire and challenge young performers. Festival Disney ™ is a Disney-produced competitive music festival held at Walt Disney World Resort, offering ensembles from middle school to college levels the chance to compete and create lasting memories. Participants include choirs, orchestras, and bands, with options for competitive or non-competitive adjudication. Performances are evaluated by two nationally recognized collegiate music educators and one Disney teaching artist, who provide detailed written and recorded feedback. Each ensemble also receives an in-person feedback clinic after their performance. The festival is proudly endorsed by the National Association for Music Education. At Universal Studios STARS ™ Program, student groups can also take center stage as part of its music performances for students program. Groups can apply to perform in the park, bringing their sound to an enthusiastic audience. Universal’s modern venues create an unforgettable backdrop for jazz bands, concert bands, marching bands, and show choirs, benefiting both students and directors. In addition to performance opportunities, students can participate in workshops where they’ll learn tips and tricks from industry professionals to improve their musical skills. For those looking to take part in competitive or non-competitive music festivals, OrlandoFest ™ is an excellent option. This annual event brings together student ensembles from across the country for a weekend of music, camaraderie, and expert adjudication. Groups can display their talents, get feedback from professional judges, and network with other young musicians in a supportive setting. The festival is open to a variety of ensembles, including choirs, concert bands, orchestras, and even smaller chamber groups. In addition to performance opportunities, Orlando offers a wide range of workshops and clinics tailored to student musicians. Many of these sessions are hosted by professionals with extensive experience in performance, composition, or music education. Students can improve their skills, discover new genres, and gain insights to enhance their school programs. Orlando boasts a variety of local venues that welcome student music groups. From performing at the Orlando Science Center to singing at a community event, students have plenty of options to shine. Performing in Orlando not only enhances students’ musical abilities but also builds their confidence and teamwork skills. The memories made on stage in this vibrant city will last a lifetime. Educational Tours For Students Orlando Orlando’s attractions are bursting with educational opportunities that make learning exciting and interactive for group tours for students. Here’s a closer look at some of the most engaging options: Disney’s Educational Adventures – Walt Disney World ™ isn’t just about rides and characters—it’s also home to a variety of educational programs through Disney Imagination Campus ™. These experiences allow students to explore STEM, the arts, leadership, and even environmental conservation. For example, STEM workshops explore real-world physics concepts through theme park attractions. These programs provide students with hands-on learning in an unforgettable setting. Imagine your students working together to solve a physics challenge involving roller coasters or learning the intricate details of how Disney animators bring characters to life. These hands-on workshops are led by industry professionals, providing students with rare insights and inspiring new ways of thinking. Universal Studios’ Learning Opportunities – Universal Studios is another top-tier destination for interactive education. The theme park offers behind-the-scenes tours for students to learn about production techniques in blockbuster movies. Groups can learn about set design, special effects, and storytelling while enjoying iconic franchises like Harry Potter and Jurassic Park. For teachers, these experiences bring classroom lessons in media, art, and engineering to life. Universal Studios also provides a range of educational programs designed to engage students in unique ways. Their STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) workshops, such as the “Ride Design” program, teach students about engineering and innovation through Universal’s iconic attractions. Students also have the chance to explore careers in film production and design, all while being immersed in the thrilling atmosphere
How to Boost Excitement for Student Tours and Travel
The Benefits of Student Travel Student tours and travel are an invaluable learning experience for all ages. Research shows that travel enriches education by broadening understanding of global cultures and fostering an appreciation for diversity, extending learning well beyond traditional academic boundaries. Travel can also foster independence, critical thinking, and other important life skills. Student travel programs provide youth with a chance to explore diverse cultures and better understand the world. It exposes them to historical landmarks, local food, and cultural sites, broadening their perspectives beyond the classroom. In addition to increasing knowledge and understanding, student tours and travel can also be a lot of fun! They can try new foods, explore new places, make new friends, and develop a greater sense of adventure. Plus, they get to engage in activities they can’t experience in their hometowns. Statistics indicate that student travel programs improve grades, social skills, college acceptance rates, and career success. A recent survey by the American Council on Education found that 92% of employers believe international experiences enhance job applicants’ resumes. Not only do student tours and travel offer numerous educational benefits, but there are economic advantages as well. According to the U.S. Travel Association, the student travel industry contributes over $1 billion in annual spending and supports more than 160,000 jobs in the U.S. Travel offers significant benefits, allowing students to have unforgettable experiences and acquire lifelong knowledge with the right support and guidance. If bringing learning to life sounds exciting, why not become a part of Interactive Studies exclusive Teacher Travel Insider? You’ll be the first to know about awesome group travel package deals, along with some great tips, ideas, and insights for your adventures beyond the classroom. Tips for Getting More Students Excited for Student Tours and Travel When it comes to engaging students in student group travel, getting them excited and enthusiastic is key. Here are some ideas and tips for creating a successful school trip or travel program for youth: Travel provides great benefits; 92% of students involved in school trips feel more independent and engaged in their studies afterward. Tours can open up new horizons and help young people build confidence and explore their interests. It’s a fun way to learn about the world, gain valuable life experience, and make lasting memories. Ideas For Ensuring Student Group Travel Is Possible Organizing student trips can seem daunting, but with a few key tips, it’s easy to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here are some strategies for making sure student travel programs are possible: With these tips, you can ensure student group travel is possible. With some extra effort, you too can create a memorable and safe experience. Why Teachers Should Participate In Student Travel Programs Travel has numerous benefits that make it an invaluable experience for both students and their teachers. From educational opportunities to cultural enrichment, teachers can also benefit from joining their students on tours. Here are just a few of the reasons why teachers should participate: Traveling with your students can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Tours provide educational opportunities, broaden perspectives, enhance social skills, and offer advantages that can’t be found in the classroom. With school trips becoming increasingly popular, it’s clear why teachers should consider participating. Inspiring Stories from Students Who Have Traveled Tours can be a rewarding experience, with many inspiring stories from those who have participated in educational or music programs. A group took part in unforgettable Chicago tours focused on both performance and education. Students visited the Chicago Symphony Center and the Auditorium Theatre, participated in workshops led by local musicians, and immersed themselves in Chicago’s vibrant music culture. Building on their passion for music, New York City student music travel performance tours emphasized performance and hands-on learning for a student group. They explore iconic sites like Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, participated in workshops with professional musicians, and immerse themselves in New York City’s lively music scene. This New York trip improved their musical skills and deepened their understanding of the city’s unique sound. They returned home motivated and with a stronger connection to their craft and the power of music in community building. Student travel programs also provide valuable opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. A student described her trip to Europe as an “eye-opening experience” that helped her understand various cultures and languages. She called it the “best decision” she ever made, as it boosted her confidence like never before. Many students also share their experiences traveling with youth groups. These trips often provide life-changing experiences that help build important skills like problem-solving, communication, and leadership. A student shared her experiences from educational student tours and trips to Washington, D.C., where she visited the Smithsonian and the National Gallery of Art. She found inspiration in the exhibits that showcased the strength and resilience of people in American history. The experience deepened her appreciation for the culture and determination that shaped the nation. Another inspiring story comes from a student who went on an educational trip to New York City. The student wrote that they had a “fantastic time” exploring the city and learning about its culture. They explored famous landmarks, appreciated the art scene, and learned about the city’s diverse cultures and history. The student described the trip as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” that provided valuable education. These are just a few of the many inspiring stories that come from student travel. Each year, students travel create unforgettable experiences and memories. With the right support and resources, your students can also experience amazing adventures and opportunities for personal growth. Final Thoughts Travel allows students to learn about the world and grow in unique ways that classroom experiences cannot match. It helps them to become citizens of the world and gain a perspective that is different from the one they have at home. For teachers, travel can provide an invaluable opportunity for their students to learn and grow, both educationally and personally. Taking students out into the world can unite a class
10 Ways to Gain Parent Support for Student Group Travel
Define your purpose When organizing educational student group travel experiences, it is important to take the time to clearly define the purpose of the school trip. This will help you gain support from parents and ensure that it meets the educational goals of your students. When defining your purpose, be sure to consider the specific educational tour that your students need, the location, duration, and how it will benefit your students academically. For example, if you are planning educational student tours and trips to Washington DC to visit the museums, explain to parents how the students will gain a greater understanding through this additional hands-on experience. If considering traveling to another state, provide statistics on how the experiences can impact learning, success in college and future careers. Incorporating fun facts about the location or offering opportunities for students to earn extra credit for the trip can also be an effective way to get parents’ support. With a clear purpose and value proposition for your educational field trips, you can begin to build momentum and enthusiasm with parents. Start early When it comes to gaining parent support for educational student group travel experiences, timing is key. The earlier you start talking about the school trip and presenting your plan, the better. This allows parents more time to process the information and make an informed decision on whether they will be able to support their student’s involvement. Many schools start planning as early as one year in advance so that there is enough time to properly coordinate with parents and ensure that all students can participate. Statistics show that when parents are engaged with their student’s educational experiences, they are more likely to financially support them. According to a survey conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics, 75% of parents who attended parent-teacher conferences reported feeling more connected to their student’s school, which may led to increased parent support. Overall, starting early is essential when it comes to gaining parent support. By giving parents enough time to consider the option, presenting the value of the trip, and allowing them to be involved in the process, you can create a much smoother experience and increase the chances of successfully obtaining parent approval. Incorporating effective student trip planning at this stage ensures all aspects are covered and parents feel confident in the process. Keep your educational student group travel experiences simple When approaching parents, it’s important to keep your message concise and clear. Focus on the key points, such as its benefits to the student, and make sure the parent understands the purpose of the trip. Keeping your language simple will help parents better understand your request. It may be helpful to include examples of previous destinations and how they benefited students. You can also share stories from past tours that were positive experiences for students. Sharing these stories can help parents visualize the experience and make them more likely to sign off on the tour. Providing statistics can be an effective way to make a case. Showing parents how travel aligns with state and national education standards, or any other beneficial facts can help convince them of the value of the experience. Including fun facts about the location or potential activities can also go a long way in gaining parent support. It could be anything from famous landmarks to cool activities that students could participate. When it comes to gaining parent support, having a plan is essential. Outline the details, such as what students will do, who will be in charge, and any safety measures that have been put into place. Make sure all questions and concerns are answered so parents feel comfortable giving their approval. Show the value It’s important to show the value of the experience. One way to do this is by sharing statistics and facts on the impact of school trips. Studies have shown that students who go on educational field trips score higher on tests, are more motivated in the classroom, and have improved social skills. The opportunity to get out of the classroom and gain hands-on experiences can also help to improve attendance and engagement. In addition to the academic benefits, there are many other reasons why parents should be enthusiastic about the experience. For example, educational field trips provide a great opportunity for students to learn important life lessons such as problem-solving, collaboration, and resilience. It’s also a chance for students to explore different cultures and make new friends. Plus, they can gain valuable insight into potential career paths and develop meaningful connections with professionals in their field. Finally, educational student group travel experiences can be a lot of fun! From going to a museum or exploring a new city to enjoying an outdoor adventure or taking part in team building activities, students are sure to come away with memories they will treasure forever. Explaining all these positives can help to convince even the most skeptical parent that their student should be allowed to go. Make a good case for educational field trips Having a strong and compelling argument is important. Start by providing concrete examples of how educational tours student travel will benefit the students, such as increased knowledge of a particular topic, improved understanding of history, or even enhanced language skills. Be sure to include any relevant details, such as the number of students in the class, the cost of the trip, and the estimated return on investment for the students. You can also use fun facts and stories to illustrate your point. For example, if you’re visiting a historic site, tell parents about the historical importance of the location and the experiences their student will have there. Showing educational value is essential in gaining parent support. Finally, be sure to provide a solution for any concerns or objections that parents may have. If cost is an issue, suggest fundraising ideas or alternative sources of funding. If safety is a concern, highlight any safety protocols or precautions that are being taken during the trip. By making a good
Why Your Music Tour Performance Can Be Rejected
The Purpose of Student Travel A music tour performance is a crucial part of any education initiative. Students get the opportunity to experience the performing arts outside of their own home environment, often by travelling to different parts of the country or even different countries around the world. A student music travel performance has proven to be advantageous for both the individual student and the school’s program as a whole. Studies indicate that travel positively influences student motivation, boosts involvement in school activities, and fosters a sense of community among peers. It also offers students exposure to diverse cultural experiences, which can be especially beneficial for those who haven’t traveled much before. Moreover, these trips can enhance the learning experience, as performing in various venues with different acoustics helps students develop their skills in a fresh setting. School boards may hesitate to approve a student music travel performance due to budget constraints, time constraints, safety concerns and other factors. Nonetheless, there are several solutions that can make these trips more feasible. Budget Limitations for Music Tour Performances A frequent reason for school boards turning down field trips is financial limitations. Although the benefits of music programs for students plays a significant role in their growth, school boards must take their entire budget into account when making choices. If the expenses are excessive or do not align with the school’s spending priorities, the board may opt to decline the trip. For instance, a recent report from the Education Commission of the States indicates that funding for K-12 education at the state and local levels in the United States decreased by $25 billion in 2020. Consequently, school boards have been forced to face tough decisions on how to distribute their constrained resources, frequently leading to more economical spending practices. Lack of Preparation When organizing performance or student educational tours, proper preparation is crucial. Sadly, numerous school boards are denying applications because of insufficient readiness. Some instances of poor preparation include incomplete documentation, not thoroughly researching the destination or event, and insufficient communication with parents or staff. Insufficient planning can result in logistical problems that pose safety hazards, lead to budget overruns, and leave participants dissatisfied. A survey conducted by the National Association of Music Educators revealed that 72% of band and choir directors believed their trips were poorly organized. Furthermore, more than 60% of those surveyed experienced financial challenges due to inadequate preparation. Effective trips require careful planning. Dedicating time to prepare beforehand can help you sidestep expensive errors and guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. When organizing, be sure to verify all documentation, research the destination as well as any required permits, keep parents and faculty informed about what to anticipate, and allow yourself ample time to organize and finalize all details. By putting effort into your planning, you can ensure that your trip receives approval and goes smoothly! Incomplete Itinerary A frequent reason for school boards to decline a music tour performance is the absence of a comprehensive itinerary. It is crucial for any field trip or school event to have a detailed plan prepared and submitted to the board for their approval. This plan should encompass information such as times, dates, locations, and the activities that will be conducted. Regrettably, numerous trips lack a well-defined plan and consequently get turned down. In the absence of an itinerary, the board cannot verify that the trip will be safe, suitable for the students’ age, and advantageous for their learning. Instances of this include incomplete details regarding transportation, accommodation, student supervision, and locations for activities and performances. Data indicate that in 2019, 42% of all travel requests were denied because of incomplete or inaccurate itineraries. This percentage is anticipated to rise as boards tighten their criteria. To avoid this situation, teachers and administrators must make sure they are completely prepared before sending in their request. The itinerary should contain all relevant information, including precise times, dates, locations, costs, transportation, and so on. It is also important to list all adults involved in the trip on the itinerary. Furthermore, a comprehensive emergency plan should be provided to address any unforeseen events. By taking the essential measures to create a detailed and precise itinerary, school boards can successfully approve travel plans. Time Constraints Time limitations frequently pose a significant challenge in obtaining approval from school boards for music tour performances. When evaluating trips, school boards have to take into account their current obligations, as well as the time required for planning and executing these events. Data indicate that the typical school trip lasts about seven days, during which most students participate in activities for three or four days. Consequently, schools must consider the time required to plan and execute the itinerary, which can accumulate rapidly. Moreover, if the trip takes place during busy vacation periods, like summer or winter breaks, it can be even more difficult to allocate sufficient time to complete all essential tasks. One way to address this issue is to begin the trip planning well in advance, allowing ample time to organize all the details. It’s essential to inform the school board about any travel or accommodation expenses that will be involved, as well as any time limitations that could influence their decisions. Furthermore, creating a practical and attainable itinerary is crucial, considering all the essential elements of the trip. Safety Concerns School excursions require moving a significant number of students, raising safety concerns. Parents and school board members are keen to guarantee the safety of the students during their time away from school. There are multiple strategies to tackle this issue. It’s important to implement measures that guarantee safety for the trip. Ensure that chaperones receive proper training and are well-informed about safety protocols, and make certain that all students are aware of the rules and procedures for each destination. Furthermore, it would be wise to establish contingency plans for any potential problems that might occur during the trip. By proactively tackling safety issues and offering
7 Issues To Avoid With Music Performance Travel and Tours
Planning music trips for students can be an exciting yet challenging endeavor. While these trips offer invaluable experiences that enrich students’ education and foster their passion for music, there are several issues that can arise during the planning process. From last-minute sign-ups to understanding financial commitments, being aware of potential pitfalls can help educators create a smooth and successful tour experience. In this post, we will explore seven key issues to avoid, along with practical solutions to ensure a memorable and enriching journey for all participants. Sign Ups At The Last Minute For Student Music Performance Travel and Tours Organizing travel for a trip is a daunting task for any school music educator. One of the biggest headaches can be the students who sign up last minute. According to one survey, an average of 15 percent sign up for tours within two weeks of the departure date, leading to chaos for the school music educator. Not only do last minute sign ups put a strain on the budget, but they can also lead to logistical headaches as well. Last minute sign ups mean less time for parents and guardians to collect all the necessary paperwork and make financial commitments to the trip. It also leaves little time to coordinate transportation, lodging, meals, and other activities. Luckily, there are ways for school music educators to better manage last minute sign ups. One solution is for teachers to incentivize early sign-ups by offering rewards such as preferential seating on the bus or in hotel rooms. Educators can also require deposits at the time of signing up, and remind parents that they need to fill out paperwork with plenty of time before the departure date. Students who sign up and then back out at the last minute This can be an issue when organizing student music performance travel and tours, especially when the trip is on a tight budget. When someone signs up for a trip and then decides not to go, it can affect the other students who signed up because it could potentially increase the cost of the trip. According to research by the Student and Youth Travel Association (SYTA), “17% of school trips were canceled in 2019 due to dropouts”. This problem could lead to financial issues with the school and ruin the overall experience of the trip. It’s important to make sure that those who sign up for trips are aware of the commitment they are making. This can be done by establishing deadlines and holding meetings to make sure everyone understand their obligations. Fun fact One solution to this problem is to have parents and participants sign a contract before signing up for the trip. This will help ensure that both parties are aware of the expectations and will be held accountable if they back out at the last minute. Additionally, making a deposit at the time of signup can help reduce any losses from participants backing out. By implementing these solutions, school music educators can ensure their trips are successful! Parents who don’t understand the financial commitment Travel can be an expensive undertaking for many school programs. Unfortunately, there are some parents who don’t understand the financial commitment that comes with these trips. According to the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), over 50 percent of schools in the United States don’t provide enough funding to cover travel costs for trips. This leaves it up to families to foot the bill, which can be a shock for some. Surprisingly, about 30% of parents incorrectly assume that trips are fully funded by the school or district, leading to confusion and financial frustration when they learn of additional costs associated with these educational tours. It’s not just about airfare either. Trips also include lodging, transportation costs, meals, and tickets to events or venues. Fun fact One solution is to offer payment plans or fundraisers for participants who may need additional financial assistance. The school’s band or choir director could also reach out to local businesses or alumni for donations or sponsorships. Finally, teachers can look into crowd-funding sites like GoFundMe to help offset the costs of the trip. By providing families with more options and information, they will be better equipped to make informed decisions about whether or not to send their child on a student trip. Students not turning in their travel paperwork on time One of the biggest headaches for school music educators organizing a trip is dealing with participants who don’t turn in their travel paperwork on time. This can be a major problem, as forms like passports, visa applications, or insurance documents need to be filed months in advance of a trip. According to a survey conducted by the American Choral Directors Association, nearly 25% of all choir directors report difficulty getting paperwork turned in on time. Unfortunately, turning in paperwork late can mean serious consequences for both participants and the school. For example, if a participant doesn’t turn in their passport application in time, they may not be allowed to board their flight! To help alleviate this issue, music educators have come up with several solutions. One popular strategy is for teachers to create a simple checklist for each student, with all the necessary forms clearly laid out. Additionally, teachers can assign due dates for each document and regularly remind students to complete their paperwork. By creating an organized system and consistently following up with students, teachers can ensure that all documents are submitted on time. Additionally, many teachers have begun to leverage technology to make the process more efficient. A great way to streamline the paperwork process is to use online sign-up sheets and forms, which are easy to fill out and can be accessed from any device. This way, teachers have a single place where all student information can be tracked and organized. By using these simple strategies, music educators can make sure that all student travel paperwork is completed before their trip begins. Parents who are constantly calling and asking questions It’s
Why Should I Go On Student Educational Tours?
Participating in tours might appear to be just another educational outing, but the advantages extend well beyond merely seeing the sights.
These jour…
Top New York City Student Music Travel Performance Tours
As a school choir, band, or ensemble director, you have the tools to make a significant impact on your students. But with the right ideas and o…
Is Educational Tours Student Travel Worth Your Time?
We’re all familiar with the increasingly challenging job of the modern school teacher, who is tasked with shaping the future of young minds. A lot…
Best Practices For Planning An Educational Trip
A student trip is an experiential learning opportunity that occurs beyond the traditional classroom setting. Participants engage in educational progra…
Six travel tips for leading your student group on an educational or music performance trip.
Educational and performance student group trips are a great way to experience new destinations. Not only does student travel offer a great opportunity for students to learn but it is also a lot of fun. If you have traveled before, you may identify with the following tips. 1. DO NOT OVER PACK It is important to only take the things you will need according to the number of days on your trip. And if you are flying, this tip is even more important to avoid excess baggage fees. Roll up your shirts and sweaters instead of folding them. Place belts and socks inside your shoes. This will save you some space and avoid having to carry a piece of second luggage. 2. KEEP CALM Yes, student group travel is worth every effort you put in. But it’s no easy task. Getting from point A to point B will take a little longer. You may have to wait for those that get distracted or needs to use the restroom. Such distractions can be avoided, or at least reduced, by letting the group know in advance there will be time to shop and go to the restroom. A student group trip is definitively different than traveling by yourself or with your family. So keep calm and do not let the behavior of anyone ruin your trip. 3. BE OPEN TO NEW THINGS AND EXPERIENCES You are visiting a new place. So why not try something different. Step outside your comfort zone. Try things you have never done before. 4. BE OPEN TO CHANGES Your student group trip has been pre-planned and every detail has been scheduled. But sometimes last-minute things show up that are out of the hands of your tour director. That could be bad weather or an attraction that breaks down. It is important to be flexible and let your tour director give you some alternatives. Don’t let unexpected situations ruin your trip. 5. DELEGATE RESPONSIBILITIES Some members of your student group trip will be better at certain things such as making sure the group does not stay behind or counting students to make sure everyone has not stayed behind. When you delegate responsibilities, everyone will feel like they are an important part of the group. 6. BE SAFE Do not leave your thing unattended. Try to walk with a friend when not in one of your tours or events. Also, leave your valuables at home. Use common sense and be aware of your surroundings. Got questions? A student group travel counselor can help. Good luck. Hope it helps.