The World Is Changing. Help Your Teen Be Ready for It.
Today's students need more than academic knowledge to succeed. They need confidence, adaptability, cultural intelligence, and the ability to connect with people from different backgrounds. Through immersive, hands-on educational travel experiences, The Global Citizen Program helps students develop the skills, perspective, and confidence they'll carry with them for the rest of their lives.
Because some of life's most important lessons can't be taught in a classroom…they have to be experienced.
Why parents choose GCP
Student-First Approach
Students are the heart of our programs. Every itinerary, experience, and decision is designed with one goal in mind: creating meaningful opportunities for students to learn, grow, build confidence, and experience the world in authentic ways. From quality accommodations and immersive cultural experiences to exceptional support before, during, and after every journey, we're committed to providing an experience that puts students first.
Exceptional, Volunteer Teacher-Leaders
Our programs are led by exceptional U.S. Teacher-Leaders who volunteer their time because they genuinely care about helping students learn, grow, and experience the world. They're passionate educators who want to mentor, inspire, and create life-changing opportunities beyond the classroom. Throughout the program, they serve as trusted role models, encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones, build confidence, and make the most of every experience
Health, Safety & Support
Your teen's health, safety, and well-being are our highest priorities. From pre-departure preparation and parent meetings to experienced Teacher-Leaders, dedicated local Program Directors, and 24/7 support from our U.S. team, we're committed to providing a safe, supportive, and well-managed travel experience every step of the way.
Smaller Groups. Bigger Experiences.
Smaller groups create stronger connections. Students receive more personalized attention, develop closer relationships with their Teacher-Leaders and fellow travelers, and enjoy a more engaging, flexible, and meaningful travel experience.
Authentic Experiences, Not Just Sightseeing.
Every GCP itinerary is designed around active, hands-on experiences that bring each destination to life. Students don't just visit famous landmarks they connect with local people, experience regional traditions, enjoy authentic cuisine, and participate in meaningful cultural and educational activities that deepen their understanding of the world.
More Time Exploring, Less Time on a Bus.
Every itinerary is thoughtfully planned to maximize time experiencing each destination—not sitting on a bus. We choose centrally located accommodations, efficient transportation, and well-designed routes so students spend more time exploring neighborhoods, connecting with local culture, and making the most of every day.
An Investment in their future
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Independence & Confidence
Our programs help students build confidence and independence by stepping outside their comfort zone in a safe, supportive environment. Whether it's navigating a new city, trying unfamiliar foods, or embracing new experiences, every day offers opportunities to grow.
Students return home more confident, more independent, and better prepared to take on new challenges—in school, college, and beyond.
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Cultural intelligence
Success today requires more than academic achievement. It requires the ability to understand, respect, and collaborate with people from different cultures and backgrounds. By interacting with local communities and experiencing daily life in another country, students develop cultural intelligence (CQ)—an increasingly valuable skill in higher education, business, and nearly every profession.
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Team Work & Leadership
Some of the greatest growth happens when students step outside their comfort zone together. Whether rafting, hiking a glacier, completing a city challenge, or tackling a ropes course, they build confidence, resilience, communication, and leadership skills while forming lasting friendships.
These shared experiences prepare students to lead, collaborate, and succeed long after the journey ends.
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Friendships & Memories
Shared adventures create lasting friendships. As students explore new cultures, overcome challenges, and experience each day together, they build meaningful connections and unforgettable memories.
Many return home with lifelong friends and experiences they'll carry with them for years to come.
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A Competitive Edge
The experiences students gain through GCP help prepare them for college, careers, and life. Through cultural immersion, hands-on learning, and real-world experiences, they build confidence, resilience, adaptability, and global awareness—qualities colleges and employers increasingly value.
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A Broader Worldview
Travel helps students see the world—and themselves—through a new lens. By experiencing different cultures, languages, and ways of life firsthand, they gain a deeper appreciation for diversity and develop empathy and respect for others across the globe.
Find the Right Program for Your Teen
Whether your teen is traveling with their school or joining one of our Teen Summer Travel Programs, every Global Citizen Program experience is designed to inspire confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning through travel.
Traveling with Your School?
If your school, teacher, or organization is already planning a trip with The Global Citizen Program, simply search below to find your group's private program page. There you'll find your itinerary, pricing, travel dates, enrollment information, payment schedule, and other important trip details.
Looking for a Summer Adventure?
Students, aged 13-18, are welcome to join one of our Teen Summer Travel Programs—no school group required! Travel alongside teens from across the United States while exploring incredible destinations, building lifelong friendships, and gaining confidence through immersive, hands-on experiences.
European Highlights: Spain, France & Italy
Costa Rica: Nature, Culture & Community
Japan: Land of the Rising Sun
WHAT’s INCLUDED
Every program and destination is different, but our commitment to quality, support, and transparency remains the same. These examples highlight many of the features and services commonly included on all GCP programs. Please refer to your specific program itinerary for a complete list of inclusions.
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Each itinerary is carefully designed to balance education, cultural immersion, and adventure ensuring students make the most of every destination.
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Every group is accompanied by an experienced local Program Director who manages daily logistics, shares their culture and local insights, and ensures the program runs smoothly. By handling the details, they allow our Teacher-Leaders to focus on mentoring, supporting, and enjoying the experience alongside their students
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All of our programs include round-trip domestic and international airfare from your local U.S. airport. We carefully select flight itineraries that offer the best combination of convenience, comfort, and reliability while minimizing unnecessary layovers whenever possible.
For our Teen Summer Travel Programs, students travel from their local airport to a designated U.S. gateway city—such as New York, Chicago, or another major hub—where they meet their Teacher-Leaders and fellow travelers before boarding their chaperoned international flight together.
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We carefully select comfortable, centrally located hotels for their safety, convenience, and proximity to the places students are exploring.
Unlike many student travel companies, every student is guaranteed their own bed on all of our international programs—no bed sharing. We believe a good night's sleep is an important part of a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable travel experience
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Each day begins with a hearty hotel breakfast buffet to fuel the day's adventures, while evenings feature regional dinners that introduce students to the authentic flavors and traditions of the destinations they're exploring.
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Every activity, cultural experience, guided tour, and attraction included in your itinerary is covered—no optional excursions or unexpected activity fees.
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Before departure, students and families participate in a series of online meetings covering everything from flights, packing, and travel logistics to health information, safety, cultural expectations, and what to expect throughout the journey.
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We believe families should know exactly what they're paying for before they travel. In addition to the core components of your program, your price includes all applicable taxes, service fees, and customary tips for local guides, drivers, restaurants, and other included services—so students don't need to budget for unexpected expenses along the way.
What our alumni students are saying…
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Allison G. | Mom - New Jersey
As parents sending our son on his first international trip without us, we naturally had some nerves. From the moment they departed, the chaperones were absolutely incredible. They kept parents well informed throughout the trip, shared regular updates and photos, and made us feel connected every step of the way.
The itinerary offered the perfect balance of educational opportunities and unforgettable fun, allowing the teens to experience Greece’s incredible history and culture while making lifelong memories with new friends.
He returned home with a newfound sense of independence, greater confidence, and countless stories from an adventure he’ll never forget. We couldn’t have asked for a better first international travel experience for him. -
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Danielle | STUDENT - CONNECTICUT
“The Italy, Croatia, Austria and Hungary program was absolutely amazing. We shared incredible experiences, and were thoroughly immersed into different cultures. For me, a highlight of the trip was hiking at the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia! Overall this trip was truly beautiful and life changing.”
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Paisley | STUDENT - TENNESSEE
“I’ve been on several programs with The Global Citizen Program and every time I make new friends and experiences that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I feel so lucky and honored to be apart of this program! It really is the opportunity of a lifetime!”
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Isla | STUDENT - Massachusetts
“Traveling to Greece with The Global Citizen Program was an unforgettable experience that far exceeded my expectations. The culture, the food, the itinerary, and the people were all incredible. I had so much fun getting to know everyone, and I was genuinely sad when it ended. I’m still in touch with my group all the time!”
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Gardlyne | STUDENT - PENNSYLVANIA
“I think it’s imperative for you to know that programs like this are not solely for you to have travel experience, but it’s to live in another person’s world and fully grasp the beauty and wonder of it all.”
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Quincy | STUDENT - CALIFORNIA
“I can’t believe it is over! It’s been so much fun meeting new people, seeing new places….I hope to see a lot of you on next years trip!”
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Valentina | STUDENT, FLORIDA
“I loved that I got the opportunity to meet new people that I will never forget, and see places I won’t forget as well! Coming on this trip alone forced me to open up to new people that I can now call my friends. Thank you to our teacher-leaders, and travel director, Ben, for everything you guys did”
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Ainsley | STUDENT- PENNSYLVANIA
“This trip allowed me to get outside of my comfort zone and meet some amazing people! I learned that Europeans don’t always believe in toilet seats, or big elevators, but they do LOVE nutella. Thank you to our leaders, and everyone who made these 18 days so memorable!”
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Esther | STUDENT - MASSACHUSETTS
“I got the opportunity to learn about ancient cultures, art, music, clothing, etc. All while making new unforgettable friends!”
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your teen's journey comes with plenty of questions—and we're here to help. Below are answers to some of the questions we hear most often from parents. If you don't see what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're always happy to help.
Bring Learning Beyond the Classroom
Teachers: Ready to Start Planning Your Next Class Trip? Whether you have a destination in mind or are just beginning to explore the possibilities, we'll guide you through every step—from designing the perfect itinerary to preparing your students and families for an unforgettable experience.
Parents: Interested in our Teen Summer Travel Programs? We'd love to help you find the perfect program for your teen and answer any questions you may have.
Call or text us at 978-255-4601, or complete the form below to start the conversation.
