Global Travel

Trip information for Spring 2025 Global Travel are now available.

The Global Travel Program in Upper School affords Abington Friends School students the opportunity to travel to locations far and wide to form deep connections with people, places and ideas. Our chaperoned trips focus on experiential learning and cultural immersion, and every exploration is followed by deliberate reflections, discussions and activities designed to help students engage in deeper thinking around their experiences. Through each year’s diverse selection of trips, we aim to cultivate inquisitive learners who understand their personal obligation to the global community and are prepared to engage with the world. Trips are generally 6 to 10 days long, and all trips are phone free for student travelers.

Spring 2025

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve (WV) (Grades 9 through 12)

Estimated cost = $1,000 – $1,500

Travel will take place during ExTerm 2025 (Late May, Early June 2025).

This trip will offer students the opportunity to explore the wild side of one of the country’s youngest National Parks. Participants will learn about the ecology of the region through outdoor activities such as hiking, a zip line tour and rock climbing. Often considered one of the best white water rafting destinations in the world, this trip will culminate with an exhilarating 2-day ride down the New River which is characterized by class III-V rapids which will elevate this adventure to another level. Additional STEM learning opportunities to explore the hydrology of dams in the area will round out this trip. Cabins, transportation and all meals will be provided.  

Yucatán Península, México: Ecology and Culture (Grades 9-12)

Estimated cost = $2,500 – $3,000

Travel will take place during ExTerm 2025 (Late May, Early June 2025).

The Yucatan Peninsula, one of the most diverse regions of Mexico, presents a fascinating landscape for experiential travelers. Historically, this region has been the site of significant events, ranging from the cataclysmic impact of the Chicxulub meteorite, which caused the extinction of dinosaurs, to the ancient Maya civilization’s remarkable advancements. Students will experience its paradisaical beaches, colonial architecture, major archaeological zones, amazing natural landscapes and flavorful gastronomy.  Exploring mangroves and cenotes will provide students with a window into the region’s ecology while visits to Mayan ruins such as Chichén Itza or Ek-Balam will transport students back in time to the pre-Columbian era.  Hotel accommodations, airfare and all meals will be provided.

Fringe Festival & Edinburgh, Scotland (Grades 9-11)

Estimated cost = $3,000 – $4,000

NOTE: This trip will have an on-campus ExTerm component, and travel will take place in August 2025. Students are strongly encouraged to work in the Spring theatre production to prepare.

Every August, 25,000 artists from roughly 180 countries converge on the Medieval capital of Scotland for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, transforming it into the third largest ticketed event in the world (right behind the Olympics and the World Cup!).

Students on this trip will produce and perform in an adaptation of our student created Spring production. We aren’t just visiting the Fringe, we will be a part of it: Students on this trip will work as performers, promoters and producers of their own show. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the energy and creativity of the largest performance experience on earth. When not making our show happen, students will see dozens of other fringe shows. All of this in the Unesco World Heritage Site of Edinburgh itself: home to Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and countless other wonders. Airfare, Housing, Food and event tickets will be provided.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which grades are eligible to apply for the programs?

Trips are open to all Upper School students who are in good academic and behavioral standing.

What do the programs cost?

Program estimates are listed above. These costs most likely represent the maximum cost of each trip. In some cases, the cost will be a bit less. A non-refundable deposit will be required to confirm participation on trips and will be due approximately one week after notification of selection.

We try to make these trips as accessible as possible to all families. We have some limited resources for trip fee assistance, though families should plan ahead to manage their financial contribution.

Is the application process competitive?

Yes. A committee of teachers will review the applications, conduct follow up interviews if necessary and make the final decisions. The selection committee strives to build a team of students who will bring out the best in each other. The applications are designed to let us know more about you and hear what your motivation is for going on your selected trip. Each trip will have a maximum number of students and it varies by trip. 

What is the process of applying for financial assistance?

There are two avenues for financial assistance which will be clearly articulated in the trip application. Once we have determined the entire pool of students who will be attending the trips, we will be also making small needs-based awards. In most cases, financial awards will be communicated along with trip acceptance notifications.

Additionally, families can set up a flexible payment plan by contacting Martha Scache in the Business Office.

Is there an opportunity to help support travel programs at AFS and make trips accessible for more students?

Yes. If you can make an additional contribution to the travel programs at AFS please indicate that on your application. You can make contributions by check, made out to AFS and dropped off in the Business Office. Your money will go directly to helping another student attend one of the trips.

Who do I contact with questions about the trips?

Please contact Brian Cassady.

Memories: Spring 2024

Memories: Spring 2023