FAQ's Cost and Equipment

FAQ's: We have a lot more to say about our adventures than we can possibly fit into this website. Choosing a program that fits your needs isn't easy. If you want to know more, don't hesitate to pick up the phone and give us a call. We're very proud of the fact that your primary contact before, during, and after your trip will be with us, Directors Jim and Donna Stein, Associate Director Kimberly Bartlett, Admissions Director Barbara Semitekol, Admissions Staff Tessa Rhyner, Logistics Director Adam Lindsley, Marketing Director Alexia Vanek, and Business Manager Katia Brandt. We're involved in every detail, from creating the programs to climbing the mountains, in order to make your adventure the best. We can assist you with everything, from selecting the best expedition for your needs to proper clothing and gear for your adventure. We encourage your phone calls or e-mails.
What is included?: Amazing experiences, beautiful terrain, wonderful people, hearty meals, and equipment. We supply all necessary gear, such as tents, ropes, technical and cooking equipment, helmets, maps and compasses, even a traveling library.
What is not included?: Program cost does not include: domestic, international, in-country or inter-island airfare; personal spending money; excess baggage fees, passports, visas, airport departure fees, incidental meals on arrival and departure days; personal items; medical, hospital, and evacuation expenses; expenses resulting from delays due to bad weather, trail, river and road conditions, sickness, government action, and flight delays. The Road Less Traveled requires that you purchase travelers' insurance.
What about gear?: We provide all the necessary gear such as tents, ropes, cooking equipment, maps and books, with the exception of some occasional modest gear rental. The type of trip that you will be on dictates what you need to bring. On our language programs, you only need to bring personal clothes and belongings. For our adventure expeditions, in addition to clothing and belongings you must bring a good pair of broken-in hiking boots, a backpack, and a sleeping bag and pad. Our community service program participants need to provide their personal clothes and belongings, a sleeping bag and sleeping pad, and on most trips sturdy work boots. A general clothing and equipment list will be sent in your Travelers Information Packet.
What about spending money?: We suggest bringing approximately $30-40 per week for personal items, magazines, stamps, postcards, etc. Amounts will vary with international trips and will be covered in the international Travelers' Information Packets.