Peru: Llama & Animal Service Adventure
Llamas and alpacas and vicuñas–oh my! If these cuties make your heart skip a beat, you’re in the right place. In addition to exploring Peru’s picturesque natural formations and iconic monuments (Rainbow Mountain, Machu Picchu), you’ll learn from indigenous herding tribes to care for these adorable yet utilitarian native creatures. Volunteering with animals in shelters or wildlife conservation centers will earn you a whopping 45 service hours.
This might be the program for you if…
- you love animals — specifically, llamas, alpacas, and other camelids
- you’re a fan of cooler weather: Peru is in winter mode during our June, July, and August
- outdoor adventure is your jam — there is a trek included on this program
- you’re looking for a community service-heavy experience
Check out additional Peru program offerings!
Hawaii: Sea Turtle Marine Conservation™
Introducing GLA’s first US-based program! Sure, the island of Maui may be a popular tourist destination, but it’s also a hotspot for conservation efforts. Several species of sea turtle call Maui home, but the fishing industry, climate change, and ocean debris (litter) pose a serious threat to their habitat. Learn about these challenges & how to help. You’ll also get a taste of the classic Hawaiian experience: luaus, beach time, and the natural wonders that make this island so special!
This might be the program for you if…
- you don’t have a passport and are a US citizen
- Moana is your spirit character
- you’re an animal lover
- you’re looking to explore Hawaii from a different perspective
Into marine conservation? See other program options here!
Morocco: Cultural Kaleidoscope™
Ask any seasoned traveler and they will tell you that Morocco is unlike any place in the world: bright, bustling souks, incredible dishes rich with spices, desert landscapes, and brightly-colored and uniquely shaped doors. Through the service work and 10 hours of Modern Standard Arabic instruction, you’ll get to experience this country in a way that many travelers will not. Explore several cities throughout the country, each with different customs, aesthetics, and traditions.
This might be the program for you if…
- you are an avid language learner or want to practice your Arabic with locals
- you’re an adventurous eater or open to trying new foods–Moroccan food is a treat for the taste buds!
- dry weather > humidity
- you’re looking to experience something far from your cultural norm
Interested in language immersion? Check out these alternate language-heavy locations!
Thailand: Hospital & Health Initiative™
Thailand is perhaps best known for its ornate temples, elephant population, incredible dishes, and picturesque beaches; in this program, you’ll experience all of these things and more! It is also a prime location for observing what healthcare looks like in Thailand and learning from professionals in the field. Whether you are passionate about public health or are interested in exploring what it’s like to spend time in a medical care setting, this is a great way to explore Thai culture while making a difference.
This might be the program for you if…
- you’re an aspiring physician, nurse, or healthcare worker
- new religions and eastern philosophies intrigue you
- you enjoy city living, as this program is based in Bangkok
- you’re a foodie–authentic Thai dishes are out of this world!
Thailand calling but public health isn’t up your alley? Check out our animal- and education-based programs!
Philippines: Climate Action Island Adventure
Our world is changing–with record temperatures worldwide and extreme weather, the issue of climate change is a global one. In the Philippines, the effects of rising temperatures and intense storms is particularly apparent due to the island nation’s geography and development. Explore the caves, beaches, and waterfalls that you’ll work to help conserve.
This might be the program for you if…
- you’re comfortable in the water — we’ll spend time in the ocean, river, and a waterfall
- you want to learn more about, or are already passionate about, taking steps to slow climate change
- natural beauty appeals more to you than an urban landscape
- you don’t like to leave home without your GoPro — this program is very active!
Costa Rica: Spring Break Beachside Service Adventure
Want to do something meaningful with your Spring Break this year? Excellent! Ten days in Costa Rica will fly by, as the days are filled with the perfect combination of community service, coastal adventuring, and leadership/team-building workshops. Each year, we hear from students who are amazed at just how much can be accomplished between school terms.
This might be the program for you if…
- Spring Break is prime travel time & best fits your schedule
- you’ve always wanted to stay in an ecolodge
- you embrace the “pura vida” lifestyle
- packing a ton of service and adventure into 10 days sounds like…well, an adventure!
Want to check out your Spring Break options? We got you! See our March & April programs here.
Our Enrollment Advisors are experts in all things GLA and can help you narrow down which program is the best fit for you based on your interests and summer schedule, as well as go over enrollment and payment options. Feel free to reach out at info@experiencegla.com or give us a call at (858) 771.0645.