Expedition Information Packet
Contents: Academic Overview Itinerary Overview Weather and Regions Insurance and Risk Management Costs Fundraising Passports and Visas Immunizations and Health Also attached: Expedition Application and Expedition Funding Worksheet |
We are excited to announce our 2025 international expedition! Over the years, these experiences have proven to be absolutely unforgettable and life-changing for students. Despite the challenges and costs involved, we firmly believe that these trips offer invaluable learning opportunities that are well worth the investment. Our international expeditions serve as a prime example of how an Explorations Academy education prepares students to navigate a diverse and ever-changing world.
This packet provides an overview of our upcoming expedition to Bulgaria, including information about coursework, costs, and a general itinerary. A student application, which also includes a section for parents, is attached. Interested students must submit this application along with the initial deposit by October 7th. We will use the application to assess each student’s readiness and commitment for such an endeavor. Although space is limited, we encourage all interested students to apply. We aim to build a group that can work effectively together through the unique challenges of extended international travel. In the event that space is limited, we may give preference to older and returning students. Admission decisions will be announced on Dec 15th, 2024.
We recognize the significant cost of this trip, despite our best efforts to make it as affordable as possible. However, we are committed to ensuring that this experience is accessible to any student who is eager to participate, regardless of financial capacity. The key to making this trip possible is a strong commitment to both participation and fundraising from all applicants. Fundraising itself offers rich learning experiences, so please see the fundraising section in this packet for more details.
Managing risks is a top priority in group international travel. While no travel is without risk, we are confident in our ability to manage challenges in Bulgaria, even in regions where medical facilities might be less accessible than we’re used to. Additionally, we will be prepared for unexpected situations and will implement all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the group. Students may need specific vaccinations, and they should be aware that, at times, their freedoms may be restricted to minimize risk.
The educational benefits of extended overseas travel go far beyond the academic coursework itself. This expedition offers students the chance to open their minds to new experiences, beliefs, and values; build lasting relationships by working closely with others in a new environment toward common goals; develop self-confidence, independence, and leadership by facing challenges; and, ultimately, deepen their understanding of their individual responsibility within the global community. Students will earn academic credit in four courses: Eastern European History and Culture, Literature of the Balkans, Human Relations Across Cultures, Environmental Sustainability in Bulgaria, and Photography as Cultural Expression.
Eastern European History and Culture .25 cr. Social Studies/World History
This course will explore the history and culture of Bulgaria within the broader context of Eastern Europe. Students will examine the impacts of Ottoman rule, the Bulgarian National Revival, and the transition from communism to modern democracy. Through visits to historical sites, discussions with locals, and analysis of cultural artifacts, students will gain insights into how Bulgaria’s past continues to shape its national identity in the present.
Travel Writing .25 cr. English/Language Arts
This course immerses students in the art of travel writing, with a focus on personal reflection and storytelling. Students will maintain bullet journals to document daily experiences, observations, and cultural encounters in Bulgaria. Through regular writing updates shared with friends, family, and sponsors, students will develop skills in descriptive and personal writing, journalism, and understanding the audience. Assignments will include reflective essays, feature articles, and travel updates, teaching students how to craft narratives that bridge cultures and connect their unique experiences with a broader audience.
Human Relations Across Cultures .25 Social Studies
In the words of Anatole France, “Traveling is changing your opinions and your prejudices.” While this may not always be true, the best travel experiences offer face-to-face contact with different beliefs, customs, and lifestyles, accompanied by enough conscious reflection to learn the lessons that these contacts offer. We will work to build a strong group and then embrace service projects and other interactions that help develop compassion, honor, communication skills, and nonjudgmental learning about others’ lives.
Photography as Cultural Expression .25 Art
This course encourages students to use photography as a tool for storytelling and cultural exploration. They will learn to capture the essence of Bulgarian landscapes, the experience of travel, architecture, and daily life through the lens, while also discussing the ethics and responsibilities of documenting other cultures. Students will create a photo portfolio that reflects both the beauty and complexity of their experiences during the expedition.
Our adventure begins with a flight into Sofia on May 12th, where we will spend a few days getting acclimated to life in Bulgaria. During this time, we’ll explore Sofia’s rich history, visiting key landmarks such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Museum of History, and the ancient Serdica archaeological complex. We’ll also enjoy the city’s vibrant food scene, sampling traditional Bulgarian dishes like banitsa and shopska salad. | |
From Sofia, we’ll head east to the historic city of Veliko Tarnovo, once the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. We’ll spend approximately one week based at the nearby Ecopark Elena, where we will engage in volunteer work. Our tasks will involve supporting sustainability initiatives such as maintaining organic gardens, caring for animals, and helping with local conservation efforts. This week will provide a deep dive into rural Bulgarian life while allowing us to contribute meaningfully to the community. | |
After our time in Elena, we will move on to the Black Sea coast, where we will visit the coastal cities of Varna and Burgas. In Varna, we will explore ancient Roman baths, visit the Varna Archaeological Museum (home to the oldest gold treasure in the world), and relax on the famous beaches. In Burgas, we will experience the natural beauty of the nearby Poda Protected Area, known for its birdwatching opportunities, and take a boat tour of the scenic Burgas Bay. | |
Next, we’ll travel south to Plovdiv, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. Here, we’ll explore the city’s vibrant blend of ancient history and modern culture, visiting sites such as the Roman theater, the Old Town with its beautifully preserved 19th-century houses, and the Kapana creative district, famous for its street art and lively atmosphere. | |
To conclude our journey, we will return to Sofia for a few reflective days, where students will have time to process their experiences. We will also make a day trip to Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the Rila Mountains, before preparing for our return to the US on June 6th. |
As representatives of Explorations Academy and the United States, it’s crucial that students approach this expedition with respect, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn. In Bulgaria, customs, behaviors, and social norms may be different from what we are used to. To truly connect with and understand the local culture, students need to be ready to adapt, avoid quick judgments, and embrace those differences with a gracious attitude.
Our goal is not just to observe a different culture but to engage deeply with it. By exploring the history and reasoning behind practices that may feel unfamiliar, students will gain a richer appreciation not only for Bulgarian culture but also for their own. Approaching this journey with curiosity rather than exoticism is key to fostering genuine understanding.
In Spring, temperatures typically range from 59°F (15°C) to 76°F (24°C), depending on the region. The coastal areas, like Varna and Burgas, tend to be cooler with temperatures around 67°F (19°C), while inland cities like Plovdiv can be warmer, reaching up to 76°F (24°C). Rain is common, especially in the afternoons, but it’s usually light and doesn’t last all day.
Please know that student safety is always our top priority at Explorations Academy. We maintain a strong safety record and take risk management very seriously. While Bulgaria is a NATO and EU member country, does not share a land border with Russia or Ukraine, and remains politically stable, we are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to adjust our plans as needed to ensure the safety of all participants.
Traveling to Eastern Europe and spending time in both urban and rural areas poses unique risks that are different from those in Bellingham. For example, road conditions may be less consistent, and transportation options could lack familiar safety features like seat belts in some cases. We will implement all relevant risk management practices used at Explorations, as well as additional policies tailored to this specific trip, to address any potential risks to student health and safety.
It is important to note that student freedoms will be more restricted during this expedition to maintain safety in a foreign environment. Students will remain in close groups, and there will be a significantly higher level of adult supervision compared to typical local field trips. Our goal is to provide a secure and enriching experience while minimizing risks as much as possible.
The Bulgaria expedition will require an activity fee of $6500. We are very aware that this is a LOT of money. We are making every effort to control costs, and will do everything we can to ensure that Explorations students wishing to participate can do so without finances holding them back. Thus, we will expect all students, even those who are not seeking scholarship support, to assist in fundraising efforts.
Fee Payment Schedule (assuming full pay):
Deposit: October 2nd: $2000
(the deposit is refundable only if the student is not selected to participate)
Payment Dates and Amounts:
November 17th: $1500
December 15th: $1500
January 5th: $1500
Since our largest expense is airfare, and airfare increases dramatically as travel dates approach, we will be buying plane tickets almost immediately after selecting students. Because most of the fees received will go directly into airfare, fees are nonrefundable. If coming up with deposit or payment amounts is prohibitive, please contact us to determine what may be arranged.
The basic fee covers: ground transportation between Bellingham and Seattle, airfare to and from Bulgaria, ground transportation on our trip, entrance fees, basic food and rustic lodging, books, insurance, and specific activity fees.
The cost does not include: personal spending money, vaccinations, passport, medical expenses, or lost or forgotten gear. It also does not include any funds necessary to transport a student home prior to the conclusion of the expedition, whether for health or behavioral reasons. Final decisions on reasons for being sent home are up to instructors.
In the event that we have more applicants than spaces, we will establish a waiting list and will draw from it in case of cancellations. Any applicant not selected to participate will be encouraged to take part in a future Explorations Academy international expedition.
We have always relied upon student-driven fundraisers in the budget for our international trips. All students are expected to participate in fundraising. We explicitly include these activities for three reasons:
As our group size increases, the group fundraising target decreases, as costs are shared by more participants. With eight students participating, for example, our fundraising challenge will be smaller than if we have six and greater than if we had nine or ten. This means that if you are serious about wanting to go and are willing to put serious work into raising the money, we can help provide strategies to come up with the fee! An expedition funding worksheet is included in this packet for you to complete and return to help us understand your situation.
As soon as our final group is identified we will plan dates for fundraisers. We currently have more ideas for fundraisers than time to do them all, but we intend to take input from students to finalize which strategies will get the most of our time and effort. It is our intent to make fundraising fun, educational, and effective – but it will definitely require effort from each participant. Ideas we’ve had in the past are:
Because we encourage students to think globally, and because one of the courses in this cluster addresses ecology, we will be emphasizing environmental stewardship and responsibility for our actions. We are working on setting up a pledge system to help us ensure that this international expedition is as environmentally low-impact and carbon-neutral as possible while also creating a fundraising opportunity for students. Students will acquire pledges and donations reflecting specific actions to offset the greenhouse gas emission created by our air travel. Examples include planting trees, using public transit, and conserving energy in school and at home.
This sponsorship program has been very effective in the past! It works like this: students contact neighbors, relatives, friends, and businesses to seek a sponsorship to raise money for the trip. Each donor receives a postcard sent from Bulgaria with interesting stories from our adventures. Larger donations garner a greater number of postcards. The benefit of this kind of sponsorship is that the sponsor receives a token and reminder of their donation, helping to connect them with the learning and adventures taking place.
Most families are familiar with this active and effective means of fundraising. It is possible for a handful of participants to earn several hundred dollars in one day!
We plan to approach several of our current major donors who are likely to support our international travel program. We encourage suggestions from families as to additional potential donors. In some cases, a single appeal can bring a gift of $1,000 , $5,000, or more.
Often an effective means of generating funds, we may apply for grants but we need volunteers help to write them.
We welcome energy and ideas from you! The key factor to consider is the amount of energy expended relative to funds generated. We also need to be conscious of avoiding competition with our other school wide fundraising efforts.
Passports/Visas
All students traveling to Bulgaria need a valid U.S. passport with at least six months of validity beyond the planned return date (in this case, until at least December 2025). Given the current backlog in passport processing times, it’s essential that any student who does not yet have a passport begins the application process immediately. The cost of a first-time passport is approximately $165, which is NOT included in the overall trip fee. Passport applications must be filed in person, typically at a local post office, such as the main branch of the Bellingham Post Office at 315 Prospect St.
As of now, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short stays in Bulgaria (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) if they are traveling for tourism or educational purposes.
Please visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/bulgaria for the CDC’s recommendations for vaccines and preventative medication.
The above list assumes that your child has had all their standard childhood vaccinations. Your child will also need a travel consultation. You must have an appointment at this clinic at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to allow time for immunizations to take effect! We will carry and use water filters and monitor food consumption to avoid waterborne pathogens as much as possible.
If you have any further questions or concerns contact: Quinn Wilson
quinn@explorationsacademy.org
Due: Dec 1st, 2024 with $2000 deposit (your deposit will not be cashed until your trip attendance is confirmed. Deposits are non-refundable if student is accepted); please also complete the funding worksheet, if needed.
Student Self-reflection
Please type answers to the following questions on a separate piece of paper.
Essays or creative interpretations that still address all the questions below are also accepted.
Questions for Parent(s)
Parents: Please type answers to the following questions on a separate piece of paper.
1. Please identify any concerns you have about your son/daughter’s participation in this expedition.
2. What are the primary ways in which you see your son/daughter growing from this experience?
3. What will be a difficult aspect for you concerning your son/daughter’s participation in this expedition?
4. What kind of help are you willing to offer to help the expedition with fundraising?
5. In what ways have you contributed to fundraising in the past?
6. Are you committed to supporting the fundraising efforts to meet the group’s needs?
This sheet is for use by students and families who are unsure about their ability to pay the full $6500 activity fee required for this expedition. If we do not receive this worksheet we will assume that you are capable of and committed to paying the full fee.
This is a tool to help us help you generate the necessary funds. Please be as complete and candid as you are able. We recognize that you may need more time to contact family members, but please complete this to the best of your ability and return it with the application and deposit by Oct 2nd to help us get started.
Student: Date
Amount your family can reliably contribute:
Student Savings: __________
(include anticipated holiday gifts, etc.)
Student Earnings: __________
(include any and all income you think you can earn by January.)
Parent(s)/ Guardians Contribution*: __________
(include any available savings, expected additional income, etc. )
Subtotal: __________
Full Fee: $6500
Scholarship Requested: __________
(the traveling group commits to fundraising to meet the scholarship requests for the whole group)
Possible businesses or professionals to approach:
Potential friends, associates, etc who may be able to provide sponsorships:
I am willing to commit to put effort into fundraising at this level: (please circle)
1 (unwilling) 2 (minimally) 3 (fairly) 4 (very much) 5 (extremely)
*Regular tuition payments are separate from and must not be affected by international travel fees.