Greece, where ancient history meets breathtaking sunsets, beaches and piercing blue skies. Start your adventure in the ancient city and capital of Athens and explore both classical architecture and modern city life. Join in on an included excursion through the Acropolis and be amazed by the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike. Enjoy the shops, and vibrating cafes and restaurants. Fill your minds with the extensive history in local museums and galleries.

Our island-hopping adventure begins on Crete, the country’s largest and most populous island. Crete has it all, from their gorgeous beaches, the richness of history, Cretan traditions and wonderful cuisine. Take a walking tour of Heraklion’s Old Town, which was first established in roughly 820AD. Visit Knossos – the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete, and often called Europe’s oldest city – to explore the ruins of the Palace of the Minoans.

Next, we head to the stunning and glamorous island of Santorini, known for its symbolic white buildings and blue rooftops. We will explore the unique shops, pathways and side streets on a walking tour of Fira, Santorini’s capital. Fira is the most picturesque capital of the island, and Oia is the spot you want to be to catch the most breathtaking sunset. The whole archipelago of Santorini is still an active volcano. Students will have the option to take a tour to see the unique volcanic landscapes.

From Santorini, we make our way to Syros. One of the islands of the Cyclades, Syros is known for its long white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters. When coming into the island by boat, you will have a stunning view of the island, and a preview of the incredible architecture. Walk the streets of Ermoupoli, the capital of the island, and explore the local shops, admire the Venetian marble buildings, and take in the amazing scenery that Cycladic nature provides. 

We will then head back north to spend the final few days in Athens. Enjoy your farewell banquet with delicious Greek food overlooking the old city and the Parthenon.

Age group: 13 to 15

Costa Rica is a country like no other. Twenty-six percent of this tiny Central American country is composed of conservation and natural protected territory. Breath-taking rainforests, booming volcanoes, and some of the rarest and endangered wildlife on the planet are just some of the reasons why Costa Rica is a must-see.

Start your adventure in Monteverde. Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, which has been described as “the jewel in the crown of cloud forests”. Discover this unique area by trekking across walkways built in the forest canopy. This will give you an opportunity to learn about cloud forest ecology and thousands of species. Take an included nighttime hike to uncover nocturnal animals not visible during the day.

Next, we will travel to La Fortuna, a small town at the foot of Arenal Volcano. From here, we’ll visit stunning waterfalls and swim in hot springs at the base of the volcano. This town is a must-see when coming to Costa Rica.

Our third location takes us to the fascinating Arenal Volcano National Park. Arenal is known to be the adventurous capital of Costa Rica, having access to the rainforest, a volcano and the country’s largest lake.

Spend your final week in Playa Hermosa, a popular beach-front resort town. With its 10km long strip of gray sand, one of the best-maintained beaches in the country, and crystal-clear blue waters, it will be hard to say goodbye to this beautiful location.

Age group: 13 to 15