A Journey of transformation around the “Island of the Gods” with Energy Healer Marianna Jacobs, focusing on culture and adventure; including temple visits, spiritual blessings, Yoga, cooking, snorkeling, biking, massage, and more…

The island of Bali in Indonesia is an axis of spirituality and creativity. Renowned energy healer and jewelry designer Marianna Jacobs first lived in Bali in 1987 through 1988 and has been visiting most years since.  She has planned unique experiences with the Balinese for each day of our journey. The edge of Ubud is where our adventure into the cultural heart of Bali begins. The bustling town is filled with temples, art galleries, boutiques, cafes, and yoga studios. We may come across a temple ceremony with a Balinese procession of women dressed in their finest attire, carrying towering offerings on their heads. In the evenings various dance and Gamelan music groups perform, allowing visitors to experience ancient traditions. We will offer a range of cultural workshops throughout our travels.

With Marianna’s guidance, this will be a spiritual and cultural experience traveling to several villages and appreciating the natural diversity, farming, Balinese dances, majestic volcanoes, waterfalls, temples, and beaches. We will absorb how the Balinese people experience life, but also awaken our own bodies with optional morning Yoga, and adventures in the mountains, or swimming and snorkeling in the sea. We will awaken our souls with traditional ceremonies and meditation as we make offerings alongside the Balinese… and we will awaken our hearts with the people we stay with and meet along our journey. We will stay in beautiful places seeking authentic experiences that show the true essence of Bali.

We will start our journey in Ubud and then travel up North and be immersed in the culture, land and receive many blessings. We are only taking 9 participates and expect to sell out quickly. This trip is off the beaten path and provides time to rejuvenate, find joy within yourself and return home with a new energy. Email Liz for the amazing itinerary and to save your spot.

MARIANNA JACOBS / Gogi guide

As a Pacqo/Energy healer, Marianna will be connecting us to the spiritual Balinese practices. She will hold ceremonies and share insights into the culture, land, and its people. She will also be offering daily Yoga and will be available for private Transformative Energy Sessions.

For over four decades Marianna has explored the world of indigenous healing beliefs.  During years of travels, she has collaborated with healers in many cultures learning their ancient techniques. Marianna also has had a long career as a jewelry designer on home shopping networks. The Balinese have produced thousands of her designs since the 1980s and during this time she has learned a lot about the island and its culture. 

With her passion for travel, Marianna followed her calling to Peru and Chile to become a fourth level  Pacqo and certified Shamanic Energy Practitioner.  With her full time practice she shares her unique practice combining her knowledge from the Pacqos/Shamans of the Q’ero lineage of Peru with indigenous techniques she has learned during extensive time in Bali and India.   She also draws from her studies as an Energy Medicine Yoga instructor, Reiki and Pranic healing, for her own evolving healing practice. 

SESSION with MARIANNA: This is the perfect time to have energy work done, before and during the trip as well.  https://www.lightnstone.com/about-1

What’s Included: 

● All accommodations in Bali. We will be staying at small beautiful boutique hotels to avoid mass tourism.

● We provide group breakfasts, and most lunches and dinners. You will have the option to venture out for a few meals which gives you the choice to eat where you wish and have some individual time if you want. 

● Gogi guides to help translate and support you throughout the trip.

● All Transportation in Bali.

● All activities; snorkeling, hiking, biking (optional), boat rides, temple tours, cooking classes, yoga, meditation, and one 90-minute massage.

What’s Not Included: 

● Airfare to/from Bali ($1,200-$1,700 RT); charges; airport taxes; all airport costs, including meals and drinks while traveling to and from Bali. Also your taxi back to airport when you depart. ($20) We will help arrange your taxi. This gives you freedom to stay longer or explore more if desired.

● All alcoholic beverages and drinks.

● Travel insurance of any kind (emergency medical and evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip and can be purchased for $75-$150 through Travel Guard or World Nomads; details will be provided with the confirmation of your deposit). 

● You are responsible for a few lunches and your snacks throughout the trip. It should total around $200 more or less depending on where you wish to eat. This gives you the option of downtime if you wish. 

● Extra massages you wish to get on the trip ($15-50) 

● Tips for Gogi guides and anyone on the trip you wish to tip, such as drivers, or hotels, etc. 

ISLAND OF THE GODS… day to day…

AN EXAMPLE OF A DAY….

Enjoy breakfast and optional yoga early, before visiting UNESCO world heritage site, GUNUNG KAWI, an 11th-century temple set in a gorge. Take a short hike down to a small temple and decide if you’d like to take a dip in a waterfall.

We will enjoy lunch in Kintamani with a view of a volcano, before visiting TIRTA EMPUL, a still active Hindu Balinese water temple from the 10th-century. We’ll end the day with dinner overlooking mountain views at INDUS RESTAURANT.

This summer, immerse yourself in the Spanish language and culture of Cádiz, the oldest city in Europe, and experience the magic of Morocco on a day trip to Tangier. Taking a boat ride from Spain to the exotic North African country of Morocco feels like a world away!

This trip is open to students in high school. We will begin our trip with a homestay before we travel to the typical villages of Andalucia and Morocco. Students learn Spanish naturally as they are immersed in the culture and a homestay. You also take a ferry to Morocco and find yourself going to the Medina (Oldest Town) through one of the gates that divide the Kasbah from the Medina. You will discover and explore the bustling alleyways while appreciating the cultural diversity & the unique lifestyle that has been passed on from one generation to another.

“When I traveled to Cadiz this summer I was excited and nervous at the same time. When I got to Spain I met my host family, who turned out to be incredibly friendly, caring, and outgoing. We had amazing meals, incredible adventures, and great Spanish classes. Everyone got along and had a great time. We had lots of fun traveling all around the Cadiz area, and we all wish we could’ve stayed longer. My favorite place that we visited was a beach just outside of Cadiz; the water was a beautiful color and crystal clear! We climbed a sand dune on the beach and laid on the cold sand in the shade of the trees at the top. Spain was absolutely beautiful and everyone there was so welcoming and friendly. This experience was amazing and I hope to go back soon!” - Gracie, student

Cádiz is an open port city with a thriving Spanish culture. Flamenco began in Cádiz, and the city also has many of the cleanest beaches in Spain. Its small size is perfect for students in this age group! It truly is a hidden jewel.

You will experience the vibrant culture that Cádiz is known for as we visit the many beautiful beaches and historical sites of the city and region. Each day will be filled with fun activities for teens, such as sea kayaking, flamenco dancing lessons, music classes, and tons of time exploring the cobblestone streets and white sand beaches.

Improve your Spanish skills through conversations with locals, your host family, and new friends. There are only a few American students here but many students from Europe. At K2 Internacional School, you will not be just another student. Small class sizes (around 10 students) mean you will receive personal attention from friendly teachers who lead interesting, interactive classes. You will have three hours of classroom Spanish as well as opportunities to practice your new skills in real-life situations.

SIGN UP BEFORE JANUARY 15TH & SAVE $200

Includes:

All accommodations in Spain are included and each student will live with a welcoming host family. Two students will share a room and a bathroom. Students are provided with three traditional and delicious meals each day

All transportation within Spain and Northern Africa; craft activities; guided tours of Roman ruins on the beaches; and an archaeological site in Cadiz; one week of Spanish classes at K2 Internacional School, four days of surfing lessons, kayaking, and a GOGI and K2 teacher to guide, support, educate and help translate throughout the trip.

Does not include: Airfare to/from Spain ($800-$1,000); mandatory international travel insurance (emergency medical and evacuation insurance can be purchased for  $75 – $150 through Travel Guard or Nomad Travel. Details will be provided with confirmation of deposit). Covid tests, and airport snacks.

Learn Spanish at K2 Internacional: In the mornings from 9:00-1:00 during the week, students will improve their language proficiency as they settle in with their host family and open up more and more in class. By living in Cadiz students have the opportunity to improve language skills, meet new friends, and learn about this historic European city in an engaging and meaningful way.

Surfing:  Students love to surf in Cadiz! The instructors are fun, engaging and the waves are perfect for learning and riding waves. There are endless beaches of fine white sand and in the afternoons it is common to see a local riding on his Andalusian horse on the beach.

Flamenco, music, and dance:  Students will have the opportunity to experience hands-on learning from flamenco to satirical “chirigota” tunes and drumming. Andalucía has always been a very musical land! This is a place of music and dancing! We will watch the amazing guitar strings being played with the snapping of fingers and clicking castanets!  Experience the stamping of feet and the crowd yelling “ole, ole”, all of which mold together to create this wonderful culture we know as flamenco.

Morocco Day: On our Tangier, you’ll be treated to a sightseeing tour accompanied at all times by an expert guide who will give you all the important details about the various places and tell you the most interesting stories. After exploring you’ll enjoy an exquisite lunch at a traditional Moroccan restaurant and enjoy the region’s finest cuisine. Let the blend of flavors, textures, and the typical Moroccan setting take you away.

Beach excursions: Cadiz is full of sandy beaches and beautiful spots not to be missed. Students will spend many afternoons exploring the city beaches as well as a day at Bolonia. We will visit the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia. The beaches of Andalucia are filled with brilliant mixes of local color. Students and families will have an evening together on the beach that was featured in the James Bond movie Die Another Day, starring Pierce Brosnan and Halle Berry.

Spanish food and a cooking class:  Spaniards love to cook and they love their food! The food of Spain is packed with flavor and character. Students will learn about the local dishes, from tasty tapas to superb seafood and traditional roasts. Students will have the opportunity to purchase ingredients (in Spanish) at the local market and as a group learn how to cook a large paella for our fiesta!

Living with a host family: This is the best way to really understand more about the culture and learn Spanish! By being immersed in the culture each student will gain a new perspective of themselves and the world with empathy and compassion. Gogi Abroad and K2 have been working with these host families for over 10 years and the host families welcome everyone with open arms!

Service learning with the MAASAI & being immersed in the CULTURE

Sustainability skills and climate change: On this trip, students will see firsthand how the Maasai are adapting to climate change and diversifying their livelihoods. We will learn about the water issues in this area and how the Maasai manage their resources during a drought. While living in the village, we will become aware of the challenges facing many Maasai as they attempt to continue a pastoral way of life in an increasingly harsh and dry environment.

Service Learning: By working with others and fully engaging in a service-learning project, students gain an understanding of the Maasai culture and language. And hearing the sounds of an unfamiliar language exposes us to another way of expression, opening up a new world. Cultural immersion is always a part of Gogi Abroad programs! We have found that this is the best way to feel fully connected to a place.  

We will be immersed for a few nights at a Community Center that was created by Mama Charlotte Hill O’Neal, known as “Mama C,” and her husband Peter O’Neal. They are members of the Kanas City Chapter of The Black Panther Party, and founders of the United African Alliance Community Center based near Arusha. Mama C is a Poet, Author, and Musician. 

By working with others and fully engaging in a service-learning project at Mama C’s, students will gain an understanding of the Maasai and Chaga cultures. Hearing the sounds of an unfamiliar language exposes us to another way of expression, opening up a new world. Cultural immersion is always a part of Gogi Abroad programs! We have found that this is the best way to feel fully connected to a place. On this trip, we will be working with the UNITED AFRICAN ALLIANCE COMMUNITY CENTER. 

Sea Adventures: We will disembark after an hour-long plane ride to Lamu Kenya and feel transported not only through space, but time. This is one of the world's great cultural crossroads, it is where Africa meets Arabia meets the Indian Ocean. We will take in the heady aromas of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, chilis, vanilla, saffron, and curry and observe the island-cultivated pineapples, jackfruits, lemons, limes, oranges, pomelos, durians, and coconuts. We will eat at the bustling open-air night market where our engagement with the island’s food and culture meet. After our culinary experience, we will head out for a day of sailing with our guides. We will sail to a sandbank and have time to swim, snorkel with the marine life, and have lunch on a little island nearby. 

Tuition includes all expenses related to the trip (including GOGI Abroad guides), except for airfare, which will be arranged by Gogi Abroad. We are open to installments or you can pay in full.

 Trip includes: 

• All in-country travel, including bus, taxi, safari, sailboats, and airfare to Lamu Kenya

• All accommodations, and a variety of activities, including tours of cities and towns. 

• As a group, we will be staying together. Participants will be sharing a room and bathroom here. 

• We provide all breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. All food is safe and delicious.

• A weekend of exploring the famous Ngorongoro Crater plus a weekend safari at the 10-mile-wide Ngorongoro Crater.  

• We will sail in Zanzibar and soak up the sun and culture and learn about the history, and food of the island. Planned activities include sailing and snorkeling, and will be both engaging and relaxing.

Does not include: 

• Airfare (approx. $1,000 - $1,800) - We fly as a group from JFK or Boston. Gogi Abroad will book tickets for the group and you will be billed for airfare separately from tuition. 

• Visa for Tanzania fo US citizens is $100 and $50 for Europeans. This can be done online now

• Visa for Kenya ($45) This can be done online now

• Mandatory international travel insurance. You can also get a “cancel for any reason” insurance policy and this is optional.

• Personal expenses and souvenirs

• Soda or any drinks at restaurants. We provide water all day/night for reusable water bottles. 

SERVICE LEARNING AND ACTIVITIES IN TANZANIA INCLUDE:

Language lessons:  Language is the bridge for connecting to a culture, so each day Gogi Abroad students will have mini language lessons to learn how to communicate with our new friends from the village. The oral history of a tribe is handed down through generations, but just like the Maasai on the Tanzanian plains, oral tradition is becoming endangered. It is said that when a tribal leader dies so does a volume of history, so tribe members must pass down this knowledge to preserve it. With this in mind, our language study does not focus on academic language but rather on the spoken language. The daily classes learning Kimaasai and Kiswahili will provide a unique connection and help students engage more thoroughly with the people of Tanzania.

Beading at the women's cooperative: Gogi Abroad students will observe the ways different cultures create art that as a means of self-expression. As we work alongside Maasai women at a beading cooperative, students will soon realize that the experience reaches beyond the basic beading of an ankle bracelet. There is a sense of sisterhood, cooperation, and meditation that weaves into the experience as well as the art forms.

Learning sustainability skills: We will have the opportunity to observe sustainable models of managing essential resources such as water, food, and animals among tribes in Tanzania. Students learn firsthand about how the Maasai adapt to the climate change and how they are diversifying their livelihoods. During our stay with a Maasai tribe in Longido, we will have the option to eat roasted goat in a tent at their weekly cattle market – a culinary experience that will take many of us far out of our comfort zones.

Hand dyeing with Mama Ola: Clothing and adornment represent a sense of pride in tradition and cultural heritage. Despite growing Western influence, many people in Tanzania continue to dress in traditional styles of clothing. The cloth is often made of hand-dyed materials. Gogi Abroad students will learn how to tie-dye cloth with famous Mama Ola of Longido.

Traditional cooking: Culinary arts are an enriching part of the Gogi Abroad adventure. Students will get to know a lot about the local diet and learn to cook with a wide variety of ingredients. Meal preparation is a time for joyous connection with our new Tanzanian friends. We will learn to prepare all sorts of wonderful dishes and local specialties. Our time spent on the local culinary arts also provides an enriching opportunity to connect with people using our new language skills! Students will cook with Leyeyo’s foster grandmother and share their food with the children at school. Students will also learn basic cooking and tribal cooking techniques unique to this area of Tanzania. Through hands-on learning, students will explore the cultural uniqueness of food and learn about sustainability.

The Maasai are a shepherding people, and their animals are an incredibly rich part of their heritage as well as the cuisine. As such we will spend time learning about the goats, including how to prepare one for a meal. Most people never have the opportunity to get this close to their food or understand the sacred relationships that can exist between a tribe and its food.

This is far from a traditional tourism trip. We want to create a hands-on learning experience. Through our interaction with Galápagos locals, working on an established farm from one of the pioneering families we will learn about the human history of the Islands. Through beautiful sightseeing, special places and the good company of a naturalist guide and Nahual´s Galápagos specialist, we´ll understand the intrinsic and fragile life balance of the Enchanted Galápagos and the many initiatives and programs in place to maintain this delicate ecosystem.

MORE INFORMATION COMING…

Liz and Marianna invite you to join them on a pilgrimage to the Sacred Valley and Lake Titicaca in Peru. This is an opportunity for those seeking spiritual exploration and transformation. This is no standard tour. We will build a small Ayllu (group/community), for a fifteen-day life-changing expedition into the heart of the Andes with Gogi’s founder, a renowned spiritual guide, and two revered local Paqos (Shamans/healers). 

We will follow an itinerary choreographed to embrace ancient wisdom and a new way of being. We will explore the culture and spirituality of the sacred Apus/Andes mountains, and reclaim the path to becoming more whole as we travel to the most profound regions of Peru. We will enjoy some of the finest lodging and food from Cusco to Machu Picchu, and from Puno to the islands of Lake Titicaca. 

In the transformational Sacred Valley, we will work with local Paqos (shamans) to release extraneous energies from our bodies and spirits, reclaiming our light and honoring our energetic interconnectedness. This trip is designed for those who wish to be immersed in local communities and contribute globally within a paradigm of love, integrity, and balance. Our journey will be at high altitude and there will be optional daily yoga and hikes.

Important spiritual ceremonies will be held at powerful sacred sites in the Andes with local shamans. Each has specific energies, geometry, and elements to enhance our awareness. It is important to understand that the places we visit are not just ancient and beautiful, but alive and healing. These mountains and lakes hold tremendous energies to help guide our way. Vilma, Francisco, and Marianna will guide us and teach us about the Andean cosmology and belief system at each location. We will be learning about the Q’ero and their healing traditions through different ceremonies. We will not ingest any medicinal herbs, but embrace "Ayni", the practice of sacred reciprocity and ultimate balance… a beautiful state of love and being. (Private Healing sessions will also be available for an extra fee).

Not only will you explore the culture and spirituality of the sacred Apus/Andes mountains, but you’ll reclaim parts of yourself on the path to becoming more whole, as you travel physically from untracked Lake Titicaca to the most profound region of Peru. There is only one Sacred Valley; in this transformational place, you’ll work with local shamans to release extraneous energies from your body and spirit, returning with a new relationship to yourself, your life and the world around you.

This trip is designed for those who wish to serve their local communities and the global community within a paradigm of love, integrity, and balance; who seek improved health and well-being; and who crave transformation of body, mind, spirit, heart, and soul. This journey is for those who want a cultural and spiritual experience and to connect with like-minded souls. Who enjoy meditation and ceremonies as well as being open to a new culture. This is not a typical tourist trip. 

This trip will allow you to: 

Work closely with Paqos (Shamans/healers) for powerful transformations within yourself.

• Discover the wondrous Andes and learn about healing herbs and the Sacred Mountains and of the Apus.

• Discover the wonders of Lake Titicaca and the Islands. 

• Join a small “Ayllu”, (group/community) with similar interests and share a journey together. 

• Create Despachos (Haywarikuy) Ceremonies. Including the Ayni despacho, one of the most important types of Peruvian Offerings to bring balance.

• Learn to transcend the physical realm naturally.

• Discover the healing power of an ancient culture.

• Reclaim yourself by releasing limiting beliefs, and old patterns and issues of the past. 

• Release culturally defined power structures that limit you and your life.

• Visit with the artisans of Peru, including the weavers. 

• Enjoy the unique foods of Peru.

• Walk in the Andes and learn about healing herbs and the Sacred Mountains of Los Apus. 

• Get new insight into the Spanish language and South American cultures.

Only TWELVE spots are available for this adventure, so we expect it to sell out quickly.

What’s Included:

● All accommodations in Peru. We will be staying at a combination of three- to five-star hotels. Each participant will share a lovely room and a bathroom. The Willka T'ika hotel is luxurious and located in a spectacular location. Here is where we will stay in the Sacred Valley: https://willkatika.com/

● We provide meals and there are a few dinners and lunches that you are responsible for during the trip. This gives you the choice to take time for yourself or with the group to eat lunch or dinner. In the itinerary below you will find the meals you are responsible for paying for. 

● You will be picked up at the airport and taken to your hotel. All ground transportation in Peru will be via van, taxi, train, and boat

● Guided tours of Cusco, Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca 

● All ceremonies with Shamans and guided yoga and meditation 

● Entry to several archaeological sites 

● Entrance to Machu Picchu 

● A train ride to Machu Picchu 

● Gogi guides to help translate and support you throughout the trip 

● A shamanic ceremony in which you’ll absorb the teachings of the Sacred Valley 

● Daily Yoga

What’s not Included:

● Airfare to/from Peru ($800-$1,200); excess baggage charges; airport taxes; all airport costs, including meals and drinks 

● All alcoholic beverages and water 

● Travel insurance of any kind (emergency medical and evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip and can be purchased for $75-$150 through Travel Guard or World Nomads; details will be provided with the confirmation of your deposit) 

● You are responsible for 1 lunch and 4 dinners throughout the trip. It should be around $100 (total) depending on where you wish to eat. This gives you time to explore on your own or join the group at a restaurant as well. 

● Willka T'ika Hotel offers a range of therapeutic spa treatments, and solar baths to restore the body and these are optional to guests and not included in the price. 

● Tips for the hotel staff at Willka T’ika

● Admission to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes (optional) 

● Tips for guides/shamans 

● Healing session with Marianna https://www.lightnstone.com/

MEET OUR LEADERS:

Marianna Jacobs, healer/guide

As a Paqo, (Shaman/healer), with knowledge of the Sacred Valley and the Q’ero People and their culture, Marianna will be coordinating with Francisco and Vilma to hold ceremonies and share insights into the culture, land, and its people. She will be also offering daily Yoga and will be available for private Transformative Energy Sessions.

For over four decades Marianna has explored the world of indigenous healing beliefs. She has collaborated with healers in many cultures learning their ancient techniques. Marianna followed her calling to Peru and Chile to become a certified Shamanic Energy Practitioner and a graduate of the Light Body School of the Four Winds Society. In her own practice, she combines her knowledge from the Pacquos/Shamans of the Q’ero lineage of Peru with indigenous techniques she has learned during extensive time in Bali and India. She also draws from her studies of Yoga, Reiki and Pranic healing, to create her own unique and evolving healing practice. 

SESSION with MARIANNA: This is the perfect time to have energy work done before and during the trip as well. https://www.lightnstone.com/about-1 

Marianna acts as a conduit to clear energy that no longer serves us. Throughout our lives, we all have experiences and various forms of trauma that can become wounds that dim the radiance of our essential selves. We are also born with genetic and ancestral information and energy that may restrict or interfere with our well-being. Marianna works with us to distinguish which issues to address, intuitively helping us shift and transform to a healthier state of integrated physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual balance. Marianna has had great success working remotely by telephone, Skype, FaceTime or WhatsApp anywhere in the world. She also offers a “Dreamtime Session”, shared remotely when you are sleeping in the comfort of your own home. This works especially well with young children. She is also available for private, couple, or group sessions at her hilltop office in Putney Vermont and at the "Open Door" Health Clinic in White River Junction, Vermont. Her Putney Office sits on the side of Putney Mountain, and after a session, there are nature paths to walk and a beautiful view to enjoy while processing the experience. When needed, Marianna will travel to see clients. Marianna’s deep affinity and connection with animals has made her practice effective for animals as well and can be quite helpful with pet owners and their relationships with their furry loved ones. 

Franciso Victoria, cultural guide

With his fluent language skills; English, Spanish, and Quechua, deep cultural scholarship, close friendship with Vilma, and expertise in Lake Titicaca, Francisco will be a perfect local guide for our Allyu!

Born in Argentina and living in Peru for almost a decade, Francisco has devoted himself to studying and practicing the local cultural and spiritual Andean Traditions. Having a major in International Relations gave him the tools to approach and understand different cultures and perspectives. But his calling went beyond books and theories: he wanted to connect with a deeper sense of being and creating. And so in the Andean communitarian rituals and beliefs, he found a way of connecting to the subtle realms of Nature Beings, thus healing, and understanding his place in this world.

Alongside his Peruvian wife Yandy, Francisco founded the organization Karpay, creating hundreds of workshops, retreats, trips, and programs, and working with thousands of Spanish and English speakers that approach this path to grow, heal, rest, to remember how to love themselves and others. Every day he learns from his relationships with his partner, his son, his masters, and students, but also from the spirits of the mountains, the lakes, and the lands that welcome him.

In this Journey he will be accompanying and guiding us through the sacred sites and rituals, sharing from his heart the gold nuggets of wisdom that the Andeans have so generously gifted him.

Vilma, Hampeq (Shaman/Healer)

As a direct descendent of the most revered Paqo’s in Peru, VILMA is one of Peru’s foremost Paqo healers, sharing her knowledge from the heart. She is one of the rare Shamans of her level to communicate in English.

Since she was very young, Vilma has been entrusted with the teachings of her abuelos and abuelas (grandparents), the elders of her community. The subtle way in which she handles the coca leaves, lights up the incense, performs her prayers, and touches the cotton used in the rituals, shows her love and respect for this legacy of connection with the spirits of her land. ​Walking with her and learning patiently from her craft, and witnessing how she speaks with the other realms, we will recognize that her knowledge cannot be found in a textbook. Her teachings are about awareness and action.

​For Vilma and her Elders "to heal" means to be aware of the energy around you and within you. To be a "healer" a hampeq or a shaman means to be connected to the sources of life and death, to the delicate balance that allows our presence in this world, and to open the gift of sharing this presence as medicine to our communities and others that seek our help.

​Because in the end, the art of healing is truly effective once we allow ourselves to become the teachings and tools we receive along the way. Through the warmth in your hands and breath, you become the leaves that bring life; through the gratitude in your prayers you become the incense you offer to the spirits; through the cotton you gently caress, you become the wound you help yourself and others heal.

Liz Jackson, Director and Founder of Gogi Abroad

As the Founder of Gogi Abroad, Liz will bring her expertise as a group travel coordinator to provide safe and smooth transitions throughout this journey. She has been working with communities in Peru for around ten years now. Based in Brattleboro, Vermont, Gogi Abroad was founded by Liz Jackson, a passionate educator, and traveler who has been teaching and leading international trips for over 18 years. Liz’s passions are working with indigenous communities and she feels like one of her main purposes on earth is to be a weaver of cultures and communities. Liz has traveled extensively to Peru and worked with indigenous communities and shamans for several years now. Liz has attended workshops with the Q’ero, deep breath work, and many retreats that work with spirit and meditation. She loves to bring westerners to a new land where she has deep connections and provides an authentic experience abroad. These experiences show us more about who we are inwardly and give us the opportunity to grow and transform on many levels. She is looking forward to this adult trip to Peru as we will connect with the Peruvians, and learn about the land, history, and healing practices of the ancient cultures. 

MAASAI CULTURE, KILI WATERFALLS, SAFARI and ZANZIBAR

We are so happy to see you are interested in our Tanzania trip! With its zebras, giraffes, lions, Maasai warriors, and the astounding Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania offers breathtaking landscapes and a raw beauty that is incomparable. Here at Gogi Abroad, we like to think we are training the next generation of travelers (and traveling with purpose with adults). We act not as tourists, but travelers who are able to move comfortably within a culture, make connections, and contribute.  

 We will be immersed a few nights in Longido, a Maasai village, three days on Safari, four days on Zanzibar island, and a few in between stops in the vibrant cities of Moshi and Arusha. 

We start our trip by immediately going to the waterfalls near Mount Kilimanjaro and observing sustainable coffee farming practices in the area. We will adjust to the time difference by listening to how coffee is made, listening to the locals sing, dance, and roast the beans, then enjoying a cup of coffee before departing for Longido, a small Maasai village. 

By the end of this adventure you will have seen the wild animals and unique Maasai tribe of Ngorongoro and the abundance of marine life from the ‘Ngorongoro of Zanzibar' and create new friendships that will last a lifetime. 

On this trip, you will see firsthand how the Maasai are adapting to climate change and diversifying their livelihoods. We will learn about the water issues in this area and how the Maasai manage their resources during a drought. While living in the village, we will become aware of the challenges many Maasai face as they attempt to continue a pastoral way of life in an increasingly harsh and dry environment. We will participate in ceremonies, walk among the Maasai, bead, hike, cook and experience their jewelry and beadwork. The Maasai are known for their traditional way of living, preserving their own language, and we will have the opportunity to learn firsthand about their traditions and customs.

By working with others and fully engaging in a service learning project one day at the school, you will gain an understanding of the Maasai culture and language. Hearing the sounds of an unfamiliar language exposes us to another way of expression, opening up a new world. Cultural immersion is always a part of Gogi Abroad programs! We have found that this is the best way to feel fully connected to a place. On this trip, we will be working with the MELOC SCHOOL, which provides children with an education, bathrooms, clean water, and two meals each day.

The Tanzanian bush welcomes Gogi Abroad with safaris featuring beautiful zebras, giraffes, and lions! During a weekend excursion to Fred’s family boma, you will experience the raw beauty of Tanzania as we embark on a safari adventure to the Ngorongoro Crater and live with a tribe at their boma (dwelling). This is an evening off the beaten path, under a starry sky and immersed in the singing of the tribal women as we take in a whole new world. 

After our time learning about the Maasai traditions and customs we will make our way to the lively city of Arusha. After a full day of sightseeing and shopping in the city we will eat delicious BBQ and prepare for our 45 min flight to the island of Zanzibar. 

You will step off the plane onto the Zanzibar Archipelago and we are certain that you will feel transported through time and place. This is one of the world's great cultural crossroads, where Africa meets Arabia meets the Indian Ocean. 

The true meaning behind Zanzibar’s nickname of ‘Spice Island’ will become clear during our two night stay in Stone Town. As we tour the area and dig deep into the island’s culinary culture we will engage all our senses, taking in the heady aromas of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, chilis, vanilla, saffron and curry. The island also cultivates pineapples, jackfruits, lemons, limes, oranges, pomelos, durians and coconuts. We will eat at the bustling open-air night market where our engagement with the island’s food and culture meet.

For the last three nights in Zanzibar we will head far north (two hours by car) to a beautiful town called Nwinge. This area’s beaches are idyllic, and in this sleepy village life still moves at its own pace, despite the hotels and guesthouses nearby. Of all the coastal destinations on Zanzibar Island, this area seems to have the most 'local' atmosphere. For tourists, this tranquil unhurried ambience means Nwingi is definitely a place where it's easy to switch off.

Here we will relax, and be immersed in the laid back and beautiful atmosphere. We will swim with sea turtles, and one day sail to Mnemba Island and snorkel. Mnemba Island and the conservation area that surrounds it are one of the most popular dive and snorkelling sites in the whole archipelago. Here you can see a wonderful variety of marine life, including tuna, barracuda, moray eels, reef sharks, turtles, dolphins, and shoals of batfish, trigger fish and humpback snappers. During the migration season, it's even possible to spot humpback whales. As Mnemba is so popular (it's been dubbed the 'Ngorongoro of Zanzibar'), in some areas the sheer number of boats and divers is causing damage to the reef. Experienced dive companies will be delighted to take you to quieter, less crowded sites.

We live and work with a modern Maasai family and with a traditional Maasai family. Living in the village is the best way to truly experience the life and culture. You will see and experience things that most travelers staying in a hotel will never have the opportunity to. Longido is about 2 hours 30 minutes from Kilimanjaro and 45 minutes to Arusha, which is around 45 minutes away. Arusha is a fertile area and is well suited to agricultural production. Our homebase allows for excursions to nearby wildlife parks, including the Serengeti Plains, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire. Waterfalls and banana and coffee plantations await!

What’s Included:

• All in-country travel which includes, bus, taxi, safari, sailboats and airfare to Zanzibar 

• All accommodations, and a variety of activities. As a group we will be staying together in the town of Longido. Participants will be sharing a room and bathroom here. We can provide you with your own room in Moshi, Arusha and Zanzibar but this costs a little more than if you were to share. 

• One load of laundry in Longido 

• In Longido, three delicious meals each day are provided by Nancy Francis, the owner of La-Mamaa Cafe in Longido. We also provide all food beyond Longido. All food is safe and delicious. 

• All breakfasts and lunches are provided, and most dinners (except 4 dinners in Zanzibar) 

• A weekend of living at a boma (village) near the famous Ngorongoro Crater plus a weekend safari of exploring the 10-mile-wide Ngorongoro Crater is also included. 

• We will sail two times in Zanzibar (in the South and then again up North) and soak up the sun and culture of Stone Town while learning about the history, food and culture of the island. We have many engaging and relaxing activities planned in this unique and charming country. 

• Snorkeling 

• Tours of cities and towns

Not include: 

• Airfare (approx. $1,600 - $1,900) We can meet you in Kilimanjaro at the airport. 

• Visa ($100) - We can get a visa on arrival at the airport. Must have a clean new $100 bill 

• Mandatory international travel insurance and it must have “cancel for any reason” ($100 - $150) 

• Personal expenses and souvenirs

• Tips for guides (Liz, Fred and boat guides in Zanzibar, and Safari driver) 

• Alcohol beverages, soda, and water when at restaurants. Gogi buys gallons of water for you to have any time, but at restaurants, you will need to purchase your own beverage. 

• There will be FOUR dinners that you are responsible for in Zanzibar. We will let you know which evenings this will be. This gives you time to explore on your own or we can eat in groups as well. Gogi will provide a place to eat and you can join or not but you will cover your costs, providing flexibility and choice for everyone. Dinners can range from $10-$50 depending on what you want in Zanzibar. All breakfasts and lunches are included. 

• Extra snacks throughout the day are not included

• Laundry in Zanzibar can be done by the hotel (you will need to pay for this) 

Trip Leader and coordinator, Liz Jackson

Only TWELVE spots are available for this adventure, so we expect it to sell out quickly.

 Summary: We are looking ahead and planning to run our 2021 trips with new safety and sanitation guidelines. We are now codifying these Health and Safety guidelines and practices with all of our partners: bus companies, homestays, restaurants, schools, and outings that we do abroad. 

Life is a tree:

A journey of service and simple wilderness living in the highlands and Amazon of Ecuador

Age: High School (14-18)

August 1-15, 2022 (15 days)

Gogi Abroad and Nahual Expediciones come together to offer a unique experience of travel and giving back to the earth and its inhabitants. 

In an era where sustainability is no longer just a concept, but now a need in all our actions, we merge the opportunity of travel with leaving good traces and exploring new cultures and knowledge. Through outdoor adventure and sustainable living: we will visit permaculture farms both in the highlands and the Amazon basin; we will work with the locals and indigenous communities; experience world class rafting; and get to connect with the land and its people, in deep and meaningful ways!

The Amazon Rainforest has the ability to capture the imagination like no other place on earth. The river is a classic descent through breathtaking jungle scenery with traditional homes along the shore. The combination of wildlife,  impressive waterfalls and engaging Gogi/Nahual guides will ensure the trip of a lifetime!

Trip highlights

• Arrive to Palugo Farm and take part in the rhythm of a permaculture farm. Prepare for expedition through food preparation, community building and farm work 

• Experience the Azhanga Permaculture Chocolate Farm.  Here we will learn the process of “plant to truffle” for making chocolate as well as spend days working with the local Kichwa community in education and reforestation

• Rafting on the spectacular amazon and see the jungle scenery in nature reserves and national parks

• Explore caves and beautiful rock formations, swim in natural river pools

• Discover and be immersed in a new culture with Kichwa communities promoting self sufficiency and eco tourism initiatives

• Learn from experienced Nahual rafting guides who will ensure that your adventure is safe and exciting

• Explore Quito with its fusion of Spanish, Italian, Moorish, Flemish and indigenous art; walk the narrow cobblestone streets, buy souvenirs, and take in the architecture.

• End your journey by relaxing and rejuvenating in the mineral-rich, Papallacta hot springs

Gogi has nurtured a relationship with Nahual (https://nahual.com.ec/) and Palugo Farm for a decade. Our own families have developed a relationship, we’ve connected with the indigenous people and the land, and created an important sisterhood to help students and adults transform and grow while traveling. The Gogi-Nahual sisterhood is based on the common goal of seeing the world and all its cultural wonders through the lens of exchange, empowerment, education, and environmental awareness.

The Gogi Abroad-Nahual sisterhood is grounded in the common goal of seeing the world, its wonders, diverse cultures and realities through the eyes of empowerment, education and environmental awareness. www.gogiabroad.com and https://nahual.com.ec/

Our homebase: Palugo Farm

An hour from Quito, Palugo Farm is an agricultural oasis. A year-round CSA, the farm is nestled on 240 beautiful acres and employs ecological building principles. Fresh, local fruits, veggies, meat, and dairy nourish us and wildlife viewing enhances our stay. Palugo is an ideal place for the group to get acclimated to the altitude (2800m above sea level) and to Ecuadorian Culture.

 An immersion into simple living begins as soon as you arrive at the Palugo farm in Ecuador. Palugo is a 4th generation family farm dedicated to sustainable practices and providing a space for learning directly from the land and its people. Here, the organic gardens, dairy cows, llamas and chickens help us to understand ancient farming techniques while participating in engaging hands-on work.

Life at the farm involves a wide range of projects and daily chores. You will process your own food, learn native crafts and work on service-learning projects. Whether making drums, traditional flutes, “esteras” mattresses or adobe structures, our projects will start from scratch and be guided by the help of native craftsmen unveiling traditions that have lasted many centuries. 

Azhanga Chakra Chocolate Farm and Community!  

This is a special permaculture project nurtured by an older couple from the city who decided to go back to the land and regenerate farm land into secondary and productive edible forest. Here you will learn about their farming practices and make delicious organic chocolate from harvest, fermentation to roasting and elaborating your own truffles. There are native trees, a beautiful river, and growing cacao trees to host our stay as well as the opportunity to connect with the local community in sustainability projects.

What’s included:

• All ground transportation in Ecuador, including pick up from the airport 

• All accommodations in Ecuador 

• Three daily meals (made from locally grown, organic food), including water, tea, and juice

• Craft supplies and instruction

• Guided tours

• Excursion to hot springs 

• Gogi/Nahual guides to educate, and connect students to another culture and family. 

What’s NOT included:

• Roundtrip airfare to Quito ($400-$800)

• Excess baggage charges 

• Food and drinks at the airport

• Food and meals in addition to the three daily meals provided

• Personal expenses, such as gifts 

• Travel insurance (around $65-$100)

• Tips ($20-$50 per student) 

For more information please contact: info@gogiabroad.com or 802-275-2948

This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the Spanish culture and language in Cádiz, the oldest city in Europe. We will begin our trip with a homestay before we travel to the typical villages of Andalucia. There we will be living and working within an interesting network of permaculture projects, doing a range of activities.

On the farm, we will help design and plant a bee-friendly garden and get our creative juices going as we paint and do other artistic activities. The farm is based in a rural area where traditional knowledge and farming practices are still used.

Cádiz is an open port city with a thriving Spanish culture. Flamenco began in Cádiz, and the city also has many of the cleanest beaches in Spain. Its small size is perfect for students in this age group! It truly is a hidden jewel.

You will experience the vibrant culture that Cádiz is known for as we visit the many beautiful beaches and historical sites of the city and region. Each day will be filled with fun activities for teens, such as sea kayaking, flamenco dancing lessons, music classes, and tons of time exploring the cobblestone streets and white sand beaches.

Improve your Spanish skills through conversations with locals, your host family, and new friends. There are only a few American students here but many students from Europe. At K2 Internacional School, you will not be just another student. Small class sizes (around 10 students) mean you will receive personal attention from friendly teachers who lead interesting, interactive classes. You will have three hours of classroom Spanish as well as opportunities to practice your new skills in real-life situations.

Age: High School (15-18 years)

Includes: All accommodations in Spain are included and each student will live with a welcoming host family. Two students will share a room and a bathroom. After eight days in Cadiz, we will be staying in a small village and work with Beetime in Santa Luica. Students are provided with three traditional and delicious meals each day; all transportation within Spain; craft activities; guided tours of Roman ruins on the beaches; and an archaeological site in Cadiz; one week of Spanish classes at K2 Internacional School, three days of surfing lessons in El Palmar, and a Gogi leader to guide, support, educate and help translate throughout the trip.

Does not include: Airfare to/from Spain ($800-$1,000); mandatory international travel insurance (emergency medical and evacuation insurance can be purchased for  $75 – $150 through Travel Guard or Nomad Travel. Details will be provided with confirmation of deposit).

Learn Spanish at K2 Internacional School: In the mornings from 9:00-1:00 during the week students will improve their language proficiency as they settle in with their host family and open up more and more in class. By living in Cadiz students have the opportunity to improve language skills, meet new friends, and learn about this historic European city in an engaging and meaningful way.

Surfing en El Palmar:  Students will travel down the coast after their cultural week in Cadiz to the unspoiled countryside. There are sand dunes, pine groves and crystal clear waters. This is the ideal place for surfing and taking part in a service learning project. Students will stay in in a small village near the beach and learn how to work together cooking, living and being in a Spanish community. There are endless beaches of fine white sand and in the afternoons it is common to see a local riding on his Andalusian horse on the beach.

Sustainability & Service Learning in Santa Lucia :  Students will have the opportunity to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills as they take part in a service learning project with BeeTime. The BeeTime Project developed in an effort to engage in a social-ecological problem-solving approach to the current adversities facing the honeybee. Working with local people, it cultivates a community of natural beekeepers who see their hives as an integral part of their permaculture projects or smallholding gardens, and with artists to raise awareness to the fascinating stories hidden within the hive.

Flamenco, music and dance:  Students will have the opportunity to experience hands-on learning from flamenco to satirical “chirigota” tunes and drumming. Andalucía has always been a very musical land! This is a place of music and dancing! We will watch the amazing guitar strings being played with the snapping of fingers and clicking castanets!  Experience the stamping of feet and the crowd yelling “ole, ole”, all of which mold together to create this wonderful culture we know as flamenco.

Beach excursions: Cadiz is full of sandy beaches and beautiful spots not to be missed. Students will spend many afternoons exploring the city beaches as well as a day at Bolonia. We will visit the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia. The beaches of Andalucia are filled with brilliant mixes of local color. Students and families will have an evening together on the beach that was featured in the James Bond movie Die Another Day, starring Pierce Brosnan and Halle Berry.

Spanish food and a cooking class:  Spaniards love to cook and they love their food! The food of Spain is packed with flavor and character. Students will learn about the local dishes, from tasty tapas to superb seafood and traditional roasts. Students will have the opportunity to purchase ingredients (in Spanish) at the local market and as a group learn how to cook a large paella for our fiesta!

Living with a host family: This is the best way to really understand more about the culture and learn Spanish! By being immersed in the culture each student will gain a new perspective of themselves and the world with empathy and compassion. Gogi Abroad and K2 have been working with these host families for over 10 years and the host families welcome everyone with open arms!

Elephants, Service Learning & Safari Adventures With the Maasai

Sustainability skills and climate change: On this trip, students will see firsthand how the Maasai are adapting to climate change and diversifying their livelihoods. We will learn about the water issues in this area and how the Maasai manage their resources during a drought. While living in the village, we will become aware of the challenges facing many Maasai as they attempt to continue a pastoral way of life in an increasingly harsh and dry environment.

Service Learning: By working with others and fully engaging in a service learning project, students gain an understanding of the Maasai culture and language. And hearing the sounds of an unfamiliar language exposes us to another way of expression, opening up a new world. Cultural immersion is always a part of Gogi Abroad programs! We have found that this is the best way to feel fully connected to a place.  

 Safari Adventures: Tanzania welcomes Gogi Abroad students with safaris featuring beautiful zebras, giraffes, and lions! During a weekend excursion, students will experience the raw beauty of Tanzania as we embark on a safari adventure to the Ngorongoro Crater and live with a tribe at their boma. By continuing to go outward, we will then discover the waterfalls near Mount Kilimanjaro and observe practices of sustainable farming in the area.

What is included in the cost of the program?

This three week trip working with the Maasai and animals is $3,000. This trip includes all in-country travel, accommodations, and a variety of activities. As a group we will be staying together in the town of Longido at a homestay. Students will be sharing a room and bathroom. Three meals each day are provided by Nancy Francis, the owner of La-Mamaa Cafe. Her food is safe and delicious. A weekend of living at a boma (village) near the famous Ngorongoro Crater plus a weekend safari of exploring the 10-mile-wide Ngorongoro Crater.  

In-country travel: All group transportation expenses upon arriving in Tanzania are included in the cost of this program.  

Food: While in Tanzania, students will be provided three square meals that consist of traditional Tanzanian fare including rice and beans, goat, chicken, tortillas, and fresh fruits and vegetables, whenever available.  

Lodging: We will stay at a homestay as a group. Francis and his wife Glory own a restaurant in the village of Longido and a homestay that is attached to their home.

Tuition does not include:

• Airfare (approx. $1,500 - $1,900)

• Visa ($100)

• Mandatory international travel insurance ($75 - $150)

• Personal expenses and souvenirs (each student $300)

• Entrance Tickets to the Crater ($100)

SERVICE LEARNING AND ACTIVITIES IN TANZANIA INCLUDE:

Language lessons:  Language is the bridge for connecting to a culture, so each day Gogi Abroad students will have mini language lessons to learn how to communicate with our new friends from the village. The oral history of a tribe is handed down through generations, but just like the Maasai on the Tanzanian plains, oral tradition is becoming endangered. It is said that when a tribal leader dies so does a volume of history, so tribe members must pass down this knowledge to preserve it. With this in mind, our language study does not focus on academic language but rather on the spoken language. The daily classes learning Kimaasai and Kiswahili will provide a unique connection and help students engage more thoroughly with the people of Tanzania.

Beading at the women's cooperative: Gogi Abroad students will observe the ways different cultures create art that as a means of self-expression. As we work alongside Maasai women at a beading cooperative, students will soon realize that the experience reaches beyond the basic beading of an ankle bracelet. There is a sense of sisterhood, cooperation, and meditation that weaves into the experience as well as the art forms.

Learning sustainability skills: We will have the opportunity to observe sustainable models of managing essential resources such as water, food, and animals among tribes in Tanzania. Students learn firsthand about how the Maasai adapt to the climate change and how they are diversifying their livelihoods. During our stay with a Maasai tribe in Longido, we will have the option to eat roasted goat in a tent at their weekly cattle market – a culinary experience that will take many of us far out of our comfort zones.

Hand dyeing with Mama Ola: Clothing and adornment represent a sense of pride in tradition and cultural heritage. Despite growing Western influence, many people in Tanzania continue to dress in traditional styles of clothing. The cloth is often made of hand-dyed materials. Gogi Abroad students will learn how to tie-dye cloth with famous Mama Ola of Longido.

Traditional cooking: Culinary arts are an enriching part of the Gogi Abroad adventure. Students will get to know a lot about the local diet and learn to cook with a wide variety of ingredients. Meal preparation is a time for joyous connection with our new Tanzanian friends. We will learn to prepare all sorts of wonderful dishes and local specialties. Our time spent on the local culinary arts also provides an enriching opportunity to connect with people using our new language skills! Students will cook with Leyeyo’s foster grandmother and share their food with the children at school. Students will also learn basic cooking and tribal cooking techniques unique to this area of Tanzania. Through hands-on learning, students will explore the cultural uniqueness of food and learn about sustainability.

The Maasai are a shepherding people, and their animals are an incredibly rich part of their heritage as well as the cuisine. As such we will spend time learning about the goats, including how to prepare one for a meal. Most people never have the opportunity to get this close to their food or understand the sacred relationships that can exist between a tribe and its food.

Hiking to see waterfalls and visit sustainable coffee plantations: The Moshi area is full of coffee plantations, and when Gogi students go outward to hike the paths to the waterfalls, they will walk through both banana and coffee farms. Visiting a private coffee plantation is truly a coffee lover's dream because students get to experience the way Tanzanians roast and brew coffee from scratch over an open fire! It may just be the freshest cup of organic coffee you ever have!

Service learning at the MELOC School in Longido: Gogi students will work on a variety of initiatives at the MELOC school in Longido. Projects include helping to build the school and working with the children directly on variety of different subjects. The MELOC Academy is still in the building phase, but when complete will be an Integrated Special Education School with three tracks supporting mainstream students as well as those who are deaf, mentally impaired, and visually impaired. The main building of the school will be partitioned into five rooms large enough to accommodate 15-20 students per class. One classroom will be for deaf students, and the second classroom for those who are mentally impaired. The third classroom is intended for mainstream students and those who are blind. The fourth room initially will be used as a bookstore, and the fifth room will be a temporary administration office.

Open to students age 13-16. this is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the Spanish culture and language in Cádiz, the oldest city in Europe. We will begin our trip with a homestay before we travel to the typical villages of Andalucia. There we will be living and working within an interesting network of permaculture projects, doing a range of activities.

On the farm, we will help design and plant a bee-friendly garden and get our creative juices going as we paint and do other artistic activities. The farm is based in a rural area where traditional knowledge and farming practices are still used.

Cádiz is an open port city with a thriving Spanish culture. Flamenco began in Cádiz, and the city also has many of the cleanest beaches in Spain. Its small size is perfect for students in this age group! It truly is a hidden jewel.

You will experience the vibrant culture that Cádiz is known for as we visit the many beautiful beaches and historical sites of the city and region. Each day will be filled with fun activities for teens, such as sea kayaking, flamenco dancing lessons, music classes, and tons of time exploring the cobblestone streets and white sand beaches.

Improve your Spanish skills through conversations with locals, your host family, and new friends. There are only a few American students here but many students from Europe. At K2 Internacional School, you will not be just another student. Small class sizes (around 10 students) mean you will receive personal attention from friendly teachers who lead interesting, interactive classes. You will have three hours of classroom Spanish as well as opportunities to practice your new skills in real-life situations.

Includes: All accommodations in Spain are included and each student will live with a welcoming host family. Two students will share a room and a bathroom. After eight days in Cadiz, we will be staying in a small village and work with Beetime in Santa Luica. Students are provided with three traditional and delicious meals each day; all transportation within Spain; craft activities; guided tours of Roman ruins on the beaches; and an archaeological site in Cadiz; one week of Spanish classes at K2 Internacional School, three days of surfing lessons in El Palmar, and a Gogi leader to guide, support, educate and help translate throughout the trip.

Does not include: Airfare to/from Spain ($800-$1,000); mandatory international travel insurance (emergency medical and evacuation insurance can be purchased for  $75 – $150 through Travel Guard or Nomad Travel. Details will be provided with confirmation of deposit).

Learn Spanish at K2 Internacional School: In the mornings from 9:00-1:00 during the week students will improve their language proficiency as they settle in with their host family and open up more and more in class. By living in Cadiz students have the opportunity to improve language skills, meet new friends, and learn about this historic European city in an engaging and meaningful way.

Surfing en El Palmar:  Students will travel down the coast after their cultural week in Cadiz to the unspoiled countryside. There are sand dunes, pine groves and crystal clear waters. This is the ideal place for surfing and taking part in a service learning project. Students will stay in in a small village near the beach and learn how to work together cooking, living and being in a Spanish community. There are endless beaches of fine white sand and in the afternoons it is common to see a local riding on his Andalusian horse on the beach.

Sustainability & Service Learning in Santa Lucia :  Students will have the opportunity to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills as they take part in a service learning project with BeeTime. The BeeTime Project developed in an effort to engage in a social-ecological problem-solving approach to the current adversities facing the honeybee. Working with local people, it cultivates a community of natural beekeepers who see their hives as an integral part of their permaculture projects or smallholding gardens, and with artists to raise awareness to the fascinating stories hidden within the hive.

Flamenco, music and dance:  Students will have the opportunity to experience hands-on learning from flamenco to satirical “chirigota” tunes and drumming. Andalucía has always been a very musical land! This is a place of music and dancing! We will watch the amazing guitar strings being played with the snapping of fingers and clicking castanets!  Experience the stamping of feet and the crowd yelling “ole, ole”, all of which mold together to create this wonderful culture we know as flamenco.

Beach excursions: Cadiz is full of sandy beaches and beautiful spots not to be missed. Students will spend many afternoons exploring the city beaches as well as a day at Bolonia. We will visit the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia. The beaches of Andalucia are filled with brilliant mixes of local color. Students and families will have an evening together on the beach that was featured in the James Bond movie Die Another Day, starring Pierce Brosnan and Halle Berry.

Spanish food and a cooking class:  Spaniards love to cook and they love their food! The food of Spain is packed with flavor and character. Students will learn about the local dishes, from tasty tapas to superb seafood and traditional roasts. Students will have the opportunity to purchase ingredients (in Spanish) at the local market and as a group learn how to cook a large paella for our fiesta!

Living with a host family: This is the best way to really understand more about the culture and learn Spanish! By being immersed in the culture each student will gain a new perspective of themselves and the world with empathy and compassion. Gogi Abroad and K2 have been working with these host families for over 10 years and the host families welcome everyone with open arms!