Get Started: Frequently Asked Questions
Travel & Packing
Travel & Packing
How do students travel to the destination country?
We are flexible about how students arrive to our programs and we try to accommodate diverse needs. You are welcome to purchase any flight that arrives in the destination country on the first day of the program. As long as you arrive on the arrival day, our staff will pick you up at the airport. Once you enroll in a program, we will provide exact information about which airport to fly into and any restrictions in terms of arrival times.
However, for students coming from the USA who wish to fly together with other students, we offer a suggested group flight itinerary for each program. This flight departs out of a US gateway city. This is not a chaperoned flight, but students can meet at this gateway and fly to the destination country together. Once you enroll in a program, we will provide the suggested group flight information to you.
Whether or not a student needs a visa depends on his/her country of citizenship and chosen GLA destination. For more specific information, please consult: http://www.traveldocs.com. All GLA students need passports valid for at least six months beyond the last day of the program and with at least one full empty page (to allow for an immigration stamp upon entry at the designated destination airport). US students can find information about renewing their passports at: http://travel.state.gov/passport/get.html.
- Essential items include clothing and personal items (such as toothbrush, soap shampoo, deodorant, etc...). Towels and bed sheets will be provided at all GLA campuses.
- For clothing, we suggest you first visit: www.weather.com to see what average temperatures and weather conditions are like for your particular GLA destination. Generally, India and the Dominican Republic are hot during the June, July and August. However, it is winter in Cape Town, and it can be quite windy and is much colder during those same months. All students should bring shoes that allow them to comfortably do hikes and participate in active sports, such as soccer.
- Once you are accepted into a GLA program, you will receive a destination-specific packing list of recommended items to bring.
How much spending money will a student need and have permission to bring?
Except for airfare, GLA programs are all-inclusive. We provide students housing, transportation, three full meals a day, health insurance, and entrance fees to all scheduled events. Therefore, additional expenses are minimal. However, we understand that some students may wish to purchase additional snacks or souvenirs. We recommend students bring approximately $300. Students are strongly encouraged to bring an ATM card and credit card to access additional funds if necessary.
Can students bring laptops or mobile phones?
- Yes, mobile phones. No, laptops (except where explicitly permitted, ask a Program Advisor). GLA programs are designed for students to fully engage in their three week experience and spend their free time building relationships with members of the GLA family. Therefore, the use of laptops phones is not permitted. Students will have access to internet on almost a daily basis.
- Because we understand the need to communicate while traveling to and from GLA destinations, students may bring mobile phones. We ask that students use moble phones appropriately and only in situations when it is necessary.
Can students bring or have electric blankets, hotplates or microwaves in their rooms?
No, for safety reasons, students are not permitted to keep any heating devices in their rooms.
Can students bring an iPod, MP3 player or CDs with a self-contained Discman?
We understand that students may experience extended travel routes to and from program sites, so we do allow students to bring with these devices. Once students arrive on campus, we ask that students use these devices in moderation and focus on engaging the rest of the group and building relationships with other students.
How will students be transported while on the program?
We contract an experienced local bus company to transport staff and students together for all official off-campus activities.
How will the students get to the GLA location? Will a chaperone fly with them?
GLA has "recommended flights" departing from certain gateway cities that parents choose to send they children on. Although there is not a GLA chaperone, upon request of the parents, the airlines provide an escort for an "unaccompanied minor" to make sure he or she safely boards the plane. At the departure gate, GLA students can easily identify each other. As soon as the students arrive at the airport in the destination country, a GLA staff member will be there to meet them.
Can parents join their children for holiday travel, after the program?
Yes, parents may join their children for holiday travel once the summer program is completed. In fact, this is a great opportunity not only for a wonderful family vacation, but also to share in your child's explorations.
