For those of you who are curious, here is the itinerary for my trip to the UK and Ireland.
June 17 2008 - July 6 2008
Tuesday June 17 2008
Depart for London, England
• Meet your delegation and board your flight for England.
Wednesday June 18 2008
LONDON, ENGLAND
• Welcome to England! Introductions to your People to People delegation manager
and motor coach driver mark the commencement of your program.
• We have planned a special first day in England, which we will reveal on your
arrival! Learn about the Druids, how the Romans influenced Britain's history and
how Londoners coped with the German bombs during WWII in this amazing
venue.
• If time allows, we will visit Greenwich best known for its maritime history and
giving its name to the Greenwich Meridian (0% longitude and Greenwich Mean
Time). Step forward or back in time as you cross the Meridian in Greenwich Park
before travelling on to your hotel.
Thursday June 19 2008
LONDON, ENGLAND
• Discover London with a Blue Badge Guide.
• This morning you will make your way to Buckingham Palace to view the precisely
choreographed Changing of the Guard.
• Join Henry VIII for a Medieval Banquet lunch.
• Explore the must-see Tower of London. As a prison, it confined such famous
prisoners as Elizabeth I and Sir Walter Raleigh.
• Meet the Yeoman Warders “Beefeaters,” who guard the tower and are caretakers
of the mysterious ravens. Legend has it that if the ravens ever leave the Tower,
the Kingdom will fall!
• Cruise the River Thames taking in many of the city’s famous sights.
• This evening, experience London’s well-known theater scene by attending a
performance of one of London’s most popular shows.
Friday June 20 2008
LONDON, ENGLAND
Remember you are meeting an official today, so plan on dressing up.
• Meeting with a current or former Member of Parliament. This unique opportunity
explores the British Constitution and discusses the respective roles of the House
of Commons, the House of Lords and the Monarch, a true honor for Student
Ambassadors.
• Next visit The Imperial War Museum and discover how the Second World War
has been pivotal in shaping our culture and society over the last 60 years.
• You may have time to stroll through Covent Garden, with its shops and cafes.
Residents and street entertainers of every vocation throng through the Piazza.
• Ride on the London Eye, the largest Ferris wheel in the world. This astonishing
443 ft high ride provides a fantastic panoramic view of the city.
Saturday June 21 2008
CARDIFF, WALES
• Visit the beautiful city of Bath – home to Britain’s only natural hot spring. With
waters flowing at a constant temperature of 115 degrees F. The Celtic King
Bladud discovered the Royal Baths in 860 BC. He realized the spring’s curative
powers by imitating his pigs and rolling around in the hot mud!
Sunday June 22 2008
CARDIFF, WALES
• Big Pit stands on the edge of Blaenafon, a town that played a vital part in the
Industrial Revolution. This revolution transformed the landscape, culture and
society of Wales, the UK and the world. Go 300 feet underground with a real
miner to see what life was like for thousands of men working at the coal face.
• Explore Cardiff Castle, a remarkable structure whose history also spans nearly
2000 years. Originally a Roman fort, Norman invaders built a castle keep (the
main tower and stronghold of a castle) within the Roman ruins in the 12th
century. Climb to the top of the keep for a breathtaking view of the city of Cardiff.
Monday June 23 2008
WATERFORD, IRELAND
• Journey to Fishguard and board the ferry for Rosslare, Ireland. Your destination
tonight in the “Emerald Isle” will be the city of Waterford.
Tuesday June 24 2008
CAHERSIVEEN, IRELAND
• Waterford probably sounds familiar, as it is world-renowned for its crystal. You
will be able to observe all stages of the crystal-manufacturing process, including
the highly skilled crafts of glass blowing and engraving.
• At Blarney Castle little remains of Blarney Castle except the castle keep (the
main tower and stronghold of a castle), built in 1446. Climb the 127 steps of the
keep to take part in the long-standing tradition of kissing the Blarney stone.
• Welcome to Cahersiveen, famous for Daniel O'Connell the 19th Century Irish
Politician and campaigner for both Catholic emancipation and for Repeal of the
1801 Act of Union between Ireland and Great Britain. This evening you will be
welcomed at St Mary's Gaelic Athletic Association to learn the Irish sports of
hurling or Gaelic football.
Wednesday June 25 2008
CAHERSIVEEN, IRELAND
• Our morning will start with a stroll through the town learning about local history,
political and economic issues as well as the flora and fauna that is to be found in
these wonderful hills overlooking the Atlantic.
• We will then join our Irish hosts in a day supporting the local community -
preparing and delivering meals for the elderly, visiting the local hospital and
working in the gardens of this community.
• This evening prepare for a ceili where you will learn the art of Irish music and
dancing whilst enjoying a traditional Irish meal. If you have not already learnt
about "the craic" you will have done before the end of the evening!
Thursday June 26 2008
LIMERICK, IRELAND
• Start your day in a horse-drawn jaunty car traversing through the countryside
surrounding the lakes of Killarney. Carved by glaciers, this area offers fabulous
views of the boulder-strewn gorge. At the bottom of the gorge, enjoy a
breathtaking cruise across one of the tranquil lakes.
Friday June 27 2008
LIMERICK, IRELAND
• Explore County Clare and the region known as the Burren. A great rocky
expanse in Ireland's County Clare, it is one of the world's truly unique places. Its
ancient, awe-inspiring stone structures hold secrets from the past that may never
be unraveled. With its vast limestone plateau, it is described as a lunar-type
landscape that provides a unique botanical environment in which Mediterranean
and Alpine plants, rare to Ireland, grow side by side.
• View the majestic Cliffs of Moher. The cliffs rise 700ft above the Atlantic Ocean
and boast views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands beyond.
• At Ailwee Caves, explore the great caverns, stalactites and subterranean rivers
which are unique to the geology of the Burren. This stunning creation of nature
was formed by the melt waters of a prehistoric ice age.
Saturday June 28 2008
IRISH HOME STAY, IRELAND
• Bunratty Castle is one of Ireland’s major historical sites. Built in the 15th century
and restored to its original condition in the 1950s, Bunratty was home to many
Earls and important residents of County Clare.
• Adjacent to the castle is Folk Park, a re-created rural village typical of Ireland at
the turn of the century. The village boasts shops and a range of domestic
architecture, including a labourers’ cottage and an elegant Georgian residence.
• Today you will meet your home stay family and be welcomed in your new Irish
home.
Sunday June 29 2008
IRISH HOME STAY, IRELAND
• Explore Ireland’s capital city of Dublin. Encounter such famous landmarks as St.
Patrick’s Cathedral, Phoenix Park, Trinity College and statue-lined O’Connell
Street.
• Immerse yourself in Dublin's culture and tradition by completing the 'Famous
Dubliners' interactive quiz. A great way to discover the city.
Monday June 30 2008
IRISH HOME STAY, IRELAND
You need to wear appropriate footwear and clothing today as you will get very
wet and muddy during some of the activities on the farm. We advise you wear
your oldest clothes and tennis shoes for this activity.
• Immerse yourself into Ireland’s country life as you become “Irish for a day”. While
enjoying the lush Meath countryside, learn about traditional Irish sports, farming
and music. Meet an Irish farming family who also happen to be traditional Irish
musicians. Take part in a turf cutting demonstration and learn how to make
traditional Irish soda bread!
Tuesday July 1 2008
BANGOR, WALES
• Say good-bye to your home stay family and re-join your delegation.
• Make your way to the Ferry port where your ferry will take you over to Wales.
• Learn more about the ancient history of the beautiful island of Anglesey. Visit a
five thousand year old burial chamber built at the point when the Stone Age was
ending and the Bronze Age was dawning. It was the last refuge of the Druids and
later formed part of the westernmost edge of the Roman Empire.
• Encounter the village that boasts one of the world’s longest station names:
Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwyllllantysiliogogogoch!
Wednesday July 2 2008
BANGOR, WALES
• Take a tram ride up to the Great Orme Copper Mine. One of the country’s most
important archaeological sites, the mine dates back over 3000 years to the
Bronze Age. During the orientation, gain valuable insight into the time-honored
mining and smelting process.
• Travel to Llanberis, a quaint village at the foot of Mount Snowdon, once the slate
quarrying capital of the world and the ancestral home of Thomas Jefferson. Visit
the Welsh Slate Museum, followed by a short walk to the spectacular site of
Dolbadarn castle, the last refuge of the Welsh princes.
• Continue along the spectacular Llanberis Pass to the village of Beddgelert. Learn
about the legends of Arthur and Merlin connected with this beautiful and
mysterious valley.
• Visit Conway, one of the finest medieval walled towns in Europe, dominated by
Edward Longshanks' magnificent castle. Take a short battlement walk and
admire the views around you!
Thursday July 3 2008
BANGOR, WALES
• Today is all about challenge, excitement and energy! Get ready for a day full of
adventure and personal growth through interactive and challenging workshops
led by the Full On team. You will have the opportunity to learn leadership skills,
set personal goals and step outside your comfort zone. Conquer FEAR by
abseiling 70 feet off a tower wall at Penrhyn Castle!
• During your time in Wales, you may notice the distinct Welsh language. In some
areas, it is still the primary language and today you will learn some basic phrases
in this Celtic language.
Friday July 4 2008
WARWICK, ENGLAND
• Explore the city of Chester, first settled by Romans in 79 AD. The medieval walls
and ornate timber buildings, known as the Chester Rows, represent medieval
high-rise stores. Here your Roman Centurions guide will tell you tales of
Chester’s eventful history.
• This evening you will have a unique experience in the grounds of Warwick
Castle. You will learn about medieval battle preparations, dances and rituals from
re-enactors culminating in the firing of the world's most powerful Trebuchet
(catapult).
Saturday July 5 2008
LONDON, ENGLAND
• Time to explore the magnificent, medieval castle at Warwick. In 1068, William the
Conqueror fortified its site, which overlooks the river Avon. Imagine yourself in
the Middle Ages as you explore the dark and gloomy dungeon, gruesome torture
chamber and splendid armory.
• Next stop is Stratford-upon-Avon, perhaps one of the most recognized towns in
England. It is the birthplace of one of the world’s most celebrated playwrights,
William Shakespeare.
Sunday July 6 2008
DEPART FOR THE USA
• Pack up your suitcase for the last time and board the coach for the airport.
Remember to complete your program evaluations and exchange friendship cards
with your fellow Ambassadors!
PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary may change at any time without notice. Updated
Schedule of Activities will be posted on your student’s OnBoard Web Site.
Special Requirements for Participation:
• Some activities have mandatory footwear requirements in order to participate.
Please make sure each student packs one pair of old tennis shoes for
participating in water activities. These shoes will get fully wet and at times
muddy so please ensure they are old.
• These same activities will require an old shirt and shorts for comfortable
participation. These items will get wet and muddy.
• Please have each student pack a light weight duffel style bag that can easily be
stored in their luggage. Delegations will participate in a few overnight
experiences that will require them to pack for one night in this bag and will not
have access to their luggage.
June 17 2008 - July 6 2008
Tuesday June 17 2008
Depart for London, England
• Meet your delegation and board your flight for England.
Wednesday June 18 2008
LONDON, ENGLAND
• Welcome to England! Introductions to your People to People delegation manager
and motor coach driver mark the commencement of your program.
• We have planned a special first day in England, which we will reveal on your
arrival! Learn about the Druids, how the Romans influenced Britain's history and
how Londoners coped with the German bombs during WWII in this amazing
venue.
• If time allows, we will visit Greenwich best known for its maritime history and
giving its name to the Greenwich Meridian (0% longitude and Greenwich Mean
Time). Step forward or back in time as you cross the Meridian in Greenwich Park
before travelling on to your hotel.
Thursday June 19 2008
LONDON, ENGLAND
• Discover London with a Blue Badge Guide.
• This morning you will make your way to Buckingham Palace to view the precisely
choreographed Changing of the Guard.
• Join Henry VIII for a Medieval Banquet lunch.
• Explore the must-see Tower of London. As a prison, it confined such famous
prisoners as Elizabeth I and Sir Walter Raleigh.
• Meet the Yeoman Warders “Beefeaters,” who guard the tower and are caretakers
of the mysterious ravens. Legend has it that if the ravens ever leave the Tower,
the Kingdom will fall!
• Cruise the River Thames taking in many of the city’s famous sights.
• This evening, experience London’s well-known theater scene by attending a
performance of one of London’s most popular shows.
Friday June 20 2008
LONDON, ENGLAND
Remember you are meeting an official today, so plan on dressing up.
• Meeting with a current or former Member of Parliament. This unique opportunity
explores the British Constitution and discusses the respective roles of the House
of Commons, the House of Lords and the Monarch, a true honor for Student
Ambassadors.
• Next visit The Imperial War Museum and discover how the Second World War
has been pivotal in shaping our culture and society over the last 60 years.
• You may have time to stroll through Covent Garden, with its shops and cafes.
Residents and street entertainers of every vocation throng through the Piazza.
• Ride on the London Eye, the largest Ferris wheel in the world. This astonishing
443 ft high ride provides a fantastic panoramic view of the city.
Saturday June 21 2008
CARDIFF, WALES
• Visit the beautiful city of Bath – home to Britain’s only natural hot spring. With
waters flowing at a constant temperature of 115 degrees F. The Celtic King
Bladud discovered the Royal Baths in 860 BC. He realized the spring’s curative
powers by imitating his pigs and rolling around in the hot mud!
Sunday June 22 2008
CARDIFF, WALES
• Big Pit stands on the edge of Blaenafon, a town that played a vital part in the
Industrial Revolution. This revolution transformed the landscape, culture and
society of Wales, the UK and the world. Go 300 feet underground with a real
miner to see what life was like for thousands of men working at the coal face.
• Explore Cardiff Castle, a remarkable structure whose history also spans nearly
2000 years. Originally a Roman fort, Norman invaders built a castle keep (the
main tower and stronghold of a castle) within the Roman ruins in the 12th
century. Climb to the top of the keep for a breathtaking view of the city of Cardiff.
Monday June 23 2008
WATERFORD, IRELAND
• Journey to Fishguard and board the ferry for Rosslare, Ireland. Your destination
tonight in the “Emerald Isle” will be the city of Waterford.
Tuesday June 24 2008
CAHERSIVEEN, IRELAND
• Waterford probably sounds familiar, as it is world-renowned for its crystal. You
will be able to observe all stages of the crystal-manufacturing process, including
the highly skilled crafts of glass blowing and engraving.
• At Blarney Castle little remains of Blarney Castle except the castle keep (the
main tower and stronghold of a castle), built in 1446. Climb the 127 steps of the
keep to take part in the long-standing tradition of kissing the Blarney stone.
• Welcome to Cahersiveen, famous for Daniel O'Connell the 19th Century Irish
Politician and campaigner for both Catholic emancipation and for Repeal of the
1801 Act of Union between Ireland and Great Britain. This evening you will be
welcomed at St Mary's Gaelic Athletic Association to learn the Irish sports of
hurling or Gaelic football.
Wednesday June 25 2008
CAHERSIVEEN, IRELAND
• Our morning will start with a stroll through the town learning about local history,
political and economic issues as well as the flora and fauna that is to be found in
these wonderful hills overlooking the Atlantic.
• We will then join our Irish hosts in a day supporting the local community -
preparing and delivering meals for the elderly, visiting the local hospital and
working in the gardens of this community.
• This evening prepare for a ceili where you will learn the art of Irish music and
dancing whilst enjoying a traditional Irish meal. If you have not already learnt
about "the craic" you will have done before the end of the evening!
Thursday June 26 2008
LIMERICK, IRELAND
• Start your day in a horse-drawn jaunty car traversing through the countryside
surrounding the lakes of Killarney. Carved by glaciers, this area offers fabulous
views of the boulder-strewn gorge. At the bottom of the gorge, enjoy a
breathtaking cruise across one of the tranquil lakes.
Friday June 27 2008
LIMERICK, IRELAND
• Explore County Clare and the region known as the Burren. A great rocky
expanse in Ireland's County Clare, it is one of the world's truly unique places. Its
ancient, awe-inspiring stone structures hold secrets from the past that may never
be unraveled. With its vast limestone plateau, it is described as a lunar-type
landscape that provides a unique botanical environment in which Mediterranean
and Alpine plants, rare to Ireland, grow side by side.
• View the majestic Cliffs of Moher. The cliffs rise 700ft above the Atlantic Ocean
and boast views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands beyond.
• At Ailwee Caves, explore the great caverns, stalactites and subterranean rivers
which are unique to the geology of the Burren. This stunning creation of nature
was formed by the melt waters of a prehistoric ice age.
Saturday June 28 2008
IRISH HOME STAY, IRELAND
• Bunratty Castle is one of Ireland’s major historical sites. Built in the 15th century
and restored to its original condition in the 1950s, Bunratty was home to many
Earls and important residents of County Clare.
• Adjacent to the castle is Folk Park, a re-created rural village typical of Ireland at
the turn of the century. The village boasts shops and a range of domestic
architecture, including a labourers’ cottage and an elegant Georgian residence.
• Today you will meet your home stay family and be welcomed in your new Irish
home.
Sunday June 29 2008
IRISH HOME STAY, IRELAND
• Explore Ireland’s capital city of Dublin. Encounter such famous landmarks as St.
Patrick’s Cathedral, Phoenix Park, Trinity College and statue-lined O’Connell
Street.
• Immerse yourself in Dublin's culture and tradition by completing the 'Famous
Dubliners' interactive quiz. A great way to discover the city.
Monday June 30 2008
IRISH HOME STAY, IRELAND
You need to wear appropriate footwear and clothing today as you will get very
wet and muddy during some of the activities on the farm. We advise you wear
your oldest clothes and tennis shoes for this activity.
• Immerse yourself into Ireland’s country life as you become “Irish for a day”. While
enjoying the lush Meath countryside, learn about traditional Irish sports, farming
and music. Meet an Irish farming family who also happen to be traditional Irish
musicians. Take part in a turf cutting demonstration and learn how to make
traditional Irish soda bread!
Tuesday July 1 2008
BANGOR, WALES
• Say good-bye to your home stay family and re-join your delegation.
• Make your way to the Ferry port where your ferry will take you over to Wales.
• Learn more about the ancient history of the beautiful island of Anglesey. Visit a
five thousand year old burial chamber built at the point when the Stone Age was
ending and the Bronze Age was dawning. It was the last refuge of the Druids and
later formed part of the westernmost edge of the Roman Empire.
• Encounter the village that boasts one of the world’s longest station names:
Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwyllllantysiliogogogoch!
Wednesday July 2 2008
BANGOR, WALES
• Take a tram ride up to the Great Orme Copper Mine. One of the country’s most
important archaeological sites, the mine dates back over 3000 years to the
Bronze Age. During the orientation, gain valuable insight into the time-honored
mining and smelting process.
• Travel to Llanberis, a quaint village at the foot of Mount Snowdon, once the slate
quarrying capital of the world and the ancestral home of Thomas Jefferson. Visit
the Welsh Slate Museum, followed by a short walk to the spectacular site of
Dolbadarn castle, the last refuge of the Welsh princes.
• Continue along the spectacular Llanberis Pass to the village of Beddgelert. Learn
about the legends of Arthur and Merlin connected with this beautiful and
mysterious valley.
• Visit Conway, one of the finest medieval walled towns in Europe, dominated by
Edward Longshanks' magnificent castle. Take a short battlement walk and
admire the views around you!
Thursday July 3 2008
BANGOR, WALES
• Today is all about challenge, excitement and energy! Get ready for a day full of
adventure and personal growth through interactive and challenging workshops
led by the Full On team. You will have the opportunity to learn leadership skills,
set personal goals and step outside your comfort zone. Conquer FEAR by
abseiling 70 feet off a tower wall at Penrhyn Castle!
• During your time in Wales, you may notice the distinct Welsh language. In some
areas, it is still the primary language and today you will learn some basic phrases
in this Celtic language.
Friday July 4 2008
WARWICK, ENGLAND
• Explore the city of Chester, first settled by Romans in 79 AD. The medieval walls
and ornate timber buildings, known as the Chester Rows, represent medieval
high-rise stores. Here your Roman Centurions guide will tell you tales of
Chester’s eventful history.
• This evening you will have a unique experience in the grounds of Warwick
Castle. You will learn about medieval battle preparations, dances and rituals from
re-enactors culminating in the firing of the world's most powerful Trebuchet
(catapult).
Saturday July 5 2008
LONDON, ENGLAND
• Time to explore the magnificent, medieval castle at Warwick. In 1068, William the
Conqueror fortified its site, which overlooks the river Avon. Imagine yourself in
the Middle Ages as you explore the dark and gloomy dungeon, gruesome torture
chamber and splendid armory.
• Next stop is Stratford-upon-Avon, perhaps one of the most recognized towns in
England. It is the birthplace of one of the world’s most celebrated playwrights,
William Shakespeare.
Sunday July 6 2008
DEPART FOR THE USA
• Pack up your suitcase for the last time and board the coach for the airport.
Remember to complete your program evaluations and exchange friendship cards
with your fellow Ambassadors!
PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary may change at any time without notice. Updated
Schedule of Activities will be posted on your student’s OnBoard Web Site.
Special Requirements for Participation:
• Some activities have mandatory footwear requirements in order to participate.
Please make sure each student packs one pair of old tennis shoes for
participating in water activities. These shoes will get fully wet and at times
muddy so please ensure they are old.
• These same activities will require an old shirt and shorts for comfortable
participation. These items will get wet and muddy.
• Please have each student pack a light weight duffel style bag that can easily be
stored in their luggage. Delegations will participate in a few overnight
experiences that will require them to pack for one night in this bag and will not
have access to their luggage.
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