2027 Alice Deal France Explorers Program
| Travel Dates: |
April 12, 2027 -
April 21, 2027
Dates are tentative until flight are secured
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| Group Organizer(s): |
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| WTT Contact: |
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| Program Tuition: |
$3,490 USD
Airfare not included in program tuition
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| Estimated Airfare: | $1,200 |
Important Reminders
Passport check
Insurance Reminder
Fundraiser
Review all materials
What to Expect
Please read through all of the information below. More details will be added as your departure draws closer.
Itinerary
We do everything possible to abide by itineraries as originally planned, but decades of experience teaches that we must be flexible in our planning. Changes to a trip’s schedule are uncommon, but Walking Tree reserves the right to make adjustments to programming in the best interest of the group.
| Day | Location | Description | Lodging |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 12 | Flight | Flight to Paris | Flight |
| February 13 | Paris | Upon arrival in Paris, we will meet our Walking Tree Program Leader at the airport and head to our hotel to drop our bags. We will then visit one of the world's most important museums: the Louvre! Opened in 1793, the Louvre boasts a collection of over 300,000 pieces. After exploring the museum, we will head to the nearby Palais Royal and Tuileries Garden. We will walk through Place de la Concorde and Place Vendôme, passing by the Palais de l'Élysée. Afterwards, we will go to one of Paris islands to visit Notre Dame. We will admire the exterior before going inside to have a glimpse of this Parisian icon. We will then take the metro and set out for a guided walking tour of Montmartre, one of Paris's most charming neighborhoods, also known as the "painter's corner." We will explore the area's steep, winding streets, discovering landmarks such as the Bateau Lavoir, Moulin Rouge, Place du Tetre, and the Café des Deux Moulins, famous from the movie Amélie. In the evening, we will dine at a local restaurant before returning to our hotel. | Paris Hotel |
| February 14 | Paris | In the morning, we will take the RER train just outside Paris to visit the Palace of Versailles, one of the most opulent palaces in the world. Known for its magnificent gardens and the historic Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, Versailles offers a glimpse into the grandeur of French royalty. We will return to Paris and stop at a boulangerie to buy our picnic lunch. We will then walk to the Champ de Mars to have a typical Parisian picnic and to see the Eiffel Tower up close. If time permits, we will ascend to the top for a spectacular view of the city. Afterwards, we will take the metro to go to the Arc de Triomphe and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city. We will then have some time for window shopping along the famous Champs-Élysées. In the evening, we will take the metro back to our hotel and have dinner nearby. | Paris Hotel |
| February 15 | Bordeaux and Biarritz | In the morning, we will board the high-speed TGV from Paris to Bordeaux, enjoying views of the French countryside along the way. Upon arrival, we will have a guided walking tour of the historic old town. Afterwards, we will buy picnic lunch at a boulangerie along the Garonne River. In the afternoon, we will continue by coach to the Dune du Pilat, where we will climb to the top for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding pine forests. After some time to take in the scenery and relax, we will continue to Biarritz, check into our hotel, and take a short walk along the coast before enjoying dinner nearby. | Biarritz Hotel |
| February 16 | San Sebastian and Saint Jean de Luz | In the morning, we will depart from Biarritz and drive across the border into Spain to San Sebastián. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a guided walking tour through the charming old town, followed by a traditional pintxos-style lunch, sampling a variety of local Basque dishes. In the afternoon, we will return to France and stop in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, where there will be free time to explore the harbor, shops, and seaside atmosphere. We will then continue back to Biarritz, where we will take a guided walking tour to see its famous coastline, beaches, and historic landmarks before enjoying the evening at leisure. | Biarritz Hotel |
| February 17 | Carcassonne and Nimes and Avignon | In the morning, we will depart early from Biarritz and begin our journey inland through the scenic countryside of southern France. Around midday, we will arrive in Carcassonne, where we will enjoy a guided walking tour of the medieval fortress, known for its impressive walls, towers, and historic charm. Afterward, there will be free time to explore and have lunch. In the afternoon, we will continue east to Nîmes, where we will make a brief stop to see its well-preserved Roman heritage, including views of the famous amphitheater. We will then travel a short distance to the Pont du Gard, where we will have time to admire this remarkable ancient Roman aqueduct and take photos. We will then continue to Avignon, check into our hotel, and set out to enjoy dinner at a local restaurant nearby. | Avignon Hotel |
| February 18 | Avignon and Cssis | In the morning, we will begin with a guided walking tour of Avignon, exploring its charming streets and historic squares. We will then visit the impressive Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe, and learn about its role in the history of the Catholic Church. In the afternoon, we will travel south to Cassis, a picturesque coastal village on the Mediterranean. Here, we will board a boat for a scenic cruise through the stunning Calanques National Park, for its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves. After the cruise, we will continue to our hotel check in, and have some time to explore Cassis before enjoying dinner nearby. | Cassis Hotel |
| February 19 | Monaco and Eze and Nice | In the morning, we will drive along the French Riviera to Monaco. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a guided walking tour of the principality, exploring its historic streets, the palace area, and famous landmarks. We will then stop at a local boulangerie to pick up lunch and enjoy a scenic picnic at the harbor, taking in the views of luxury yachts and the Mediterranean. In the afternoon, we will continue to Èze to visit the renowned Fragonard Perfume Factory and learn about the art of French perfume-making. Afterwards, we will drive to Nice, check into our hotel, and take the mini train up to the best viewpoint in the city for panoramic views of Nice and the coastline. We will return to the hotel area in the evening and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant nearby. | Nice Hotel |
| February 20 | Nice | In the morning, we will take a guided walking tour of Nice, exploring the charming streets of the Old Town (Vieille Ville) and strolling along the iconic Promenade des Anglais. We will stop for a picnic lunch to enjoy the seaside atmosphere and soak in the views of the Mediterranean. In the afternoon, we will visit the Matisse Museum to admire works by one of France’s most celebrated artists. Afterward, there will be free time to shop for gifts and French souvenirs in the local markets and boutiques. In the evening, we will come together for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant to celebrate the end of our trip. | Nice Hotel |
| February 21 | Flight | Today, we will make our way to the airport for our flight back to the USA. Bon voyage! | Your own bed! |
Accommodations
In order to provide a safe and memorable experience, we follow strict guidelines when choosing group accommodations. Walking Tree partners with hotels and guest houses which are centrally located, locally operated, clean and safe. We inspect each partner hotel to ensure they meet these standards.
Hotel Aida Opera
Located in the 9th district of Paris, Hotel Aida Opera offers air-conditioned guest rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat screen TV, a desk and an empty minibar. Each room also includes a private bathroom with a hairdryer, free toiletries and a bathtub or a shower. A buffet breakfast is served daily in the breakfast room. Guests will find in the lobby a afternoon snack service with tea, coffee and milk. Several shops, restaurants and bars can be found within a walking distance from the hotel.
Hotel Al Piave
Located in the heart of Venice, Hotel Al Piave is just steps away from St. Mark’s Square. This three star hotel has a truly Italian feel and offers a comfortable place to relax after a long day. Students will be divided by gender between double or triple rooms based on availability. There is free Wi-Fi and breakfast is included each morning.
Group Flight
Once your flight schedule has been confirmed, the itinerary will appear here.
Walking Tree will secure a seat on the group flight for each participant unless otherwise instructed.
Travelers are responsible for checked baggage fees. Please visit the airline’s baggage webpage to learn if you should expect to pay anything.
We will provide a group manifest – complete with reservation codes and ticket numbers – to the Group Organizer/s before departure, and travelers will need to check in at the airport in order to receive their boarding pass and have documents verified. We recommend arriving no later than three hours prior to the scheduled departure, but contact your Group Organizer for specific details on exactly where and when to meet on the day of departure.
FLIGHT INTERRUPTION, DELAY OR CANCELLATION
Air travel can be unpredictable. Regardless of proper planning, there may still be instances when a flight is delayed or cancelled due to staffing shortages, weather, mechanical problems, etc. Please note that in such an event, Walking Tree Travel (WTT) is not financially responsible for unanticipated costs incurred by travelers en route. Our programs officially begin and end in the destination country, and because our staff doesn’t fly with the group, Group Organizers (the traveling faculty member/s) become the front-line advocate for the group in the event of a delay. In most cases of cancellations or delays, the airline will be the one who re-books travel or possibly arranges a hotel and food the night. Our primary role will be to keep families updated and provide support to the Group Organizer to reach a quick and effective resolution.
Host Community and Project Details
Packing List
What follows is a sample packing list but you know yourself better than we do so please adjust accordingly. We recommend you bring a larger piece of luggage like a roller, duffel bag, or backpack, as well as a smaller backpack that you can bring on daily outings, weekend excursions and shorter activities.
“Less is more” is a packing tip we encourage for all our travelers. The list below should cover everything you would need, but know yourself and what you are comfortable traveling with. We suggest bringing only as much as you would be able to carry on your own.
Finally, we recommend consulting a weather forecast for your destination.
CLOTHES (quantities depend on your trip length) :
- Underwear
- Socks
- T-shirts
- Long sleeve shirts
- Sweaters or sweatshirts
- Shorts
- Rain jacket
- Travel/athletic shorts that are breathable and light
- Comfortable, everyday pants
- Nice shirt/top to be worn to more formal dinners
- Durable athletic/walking shoes
- Sandals (optional)
- Hat
TOILETRIES:
- Your basics
- Sunscreen
- Band Aids and Neosporin, basic first aid
- Hand Sanitizer
- Medication in properly marked original container
MISCELLANEOUS:
- Passport
- Sunglasses
- European plug adapter (Type C)
- Journal and pen
- Books
- Camera
- Debit card/US Dollars (we recommend about $100-$200, depending on amount of desired souvenirs, snacks, extra items etc.)
- Durable water bottle
- Deck of cards or other portable games
- Portable battery pack (optional)
Support Team
At a minimum, one experienced Program Leader will travel on every trip. In addition to this full time leadership presence, Walking Tree has additional staff in all destinations and 24/7 support from our headquarters in Denver, Colorado. Below you’ll find the the team members involved in the preparation, planning and execution of your program.
Harriet Docena
France Country Director and Program Leader
Harriet caught the travel bug early in her life. Born in the Philippines, with 7,107 islands, both of her parents are avid travelers. Most of their weekends and holidays were spent roadtripping and traveling to new places. After finishing her degree in Fashion design and merchandising, she realized that the fashion world was not for her. That’s why in 2006, she left her job and worked as a photographer on cruise ships. For years, she traveled the world to places such as the Caribbean, Alaska, South America, Europe, the Mediterranean, Hawaii, and Asia. After working and traveling nonstop, she decided to choose a place where she can stay put and have a “normal life”. In 2010 she was lucky to be awarded a “skills and talents” visa in France and chose Paris to be her new home. Harriet is also an avid surfer which brought her to different surf spots and exotic locations around the world. As of this moment, she has visited 80+ countries and around 500+ cities. She doesn’t think she will ever stop traveling. Nowadays, you can find Harriet traveling around Europe, obsessed with her chihuahua and surfing when the European waters are not that cold.
Emory University – B.A. Sociology and minor in Latin American History
Luke’s path to student travel began in Mexico, during a year abroad in Mexico and Central America. This formative time led him to join an international volunteer program which, after graduating from college, sent him to the small village of San Gerardo de Rivas in south-central Costa Rica. Welcomed by the loveliest of host families, his experience in this tiny town is directly connected to the beginnings of Walking Tree five years later. His love for travel still burns bright, and today he’s lucky to have a wife and daughter who are equally passionate about exploring the world. Settled in Denver, he adores his family and colleagues, skies whenever possible, and is a devoted fan of all Colorado sports teams.
Group Roster
Below is a list of the travelers enrolled on the program.
Blog and Communication
During travel we work hard to keep families updated as frequently as possible with blog posts and photos, giving you peace of mind that your traveler is safe and thriving on their program. Students regularly contribute to these posts, providing families back home a great way to vicariously track the progress of the trip. You will be notified when the first update is posted, after which we recommend checking in regularly via the black “Program Blog” button at the top of this webpage.
Assuming your school allows the use of cell phones, most destinations are wired enough to allow participants access WiFi at different moments in the program, allowing them to communicate directly with home. Ask your Walking Tree representative about the degree of connectivity on your program.
GLC Curriculum
Walking Tree has developed a curriculum of activities meant to help travelers get the most out of their trip before departure, during travel and after they return home. These simple and engaging activities are meant to spark discussion, frame experiences, and prepare participants to travel ethically and effectively both on this trip and on future adventures.For more information about student learning objectives and the format of the curriculum, click on the ‘learn more’ button below.
To view and complete the Pre-Program Activities, visit our online portal at the button below.
Standards of Behavior
In order to run a safe and successful program, it is vital that travelers are prepared to be on their best behavior and bring enthusiasm and interest to each and every day. A communal atmosphere of trust and mutual respect is the foundational. As such, all individuals participating on a Walking Tree program are required to take responsibility for their actions and adhere to a high standard of personal conduct.
IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL
- Possessing, consuming or distributing alcohol or illegal drugs.
- Associating with participants while they are in possession of alcohol or illegal drugs.
- Behaving in a way that consistently damages the group dynamic or jeopardizes personal or group safety. This includes consistently displaying a negative attitude, intimidating or excluding other participants, sneaking out, disobeying group leaders, and any other behavior that is not conducive to an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect.
GROUNDS FOR DISMISSAL OR IN-COUNTRY CONSEQUENCE
- Getting a piercing or tattoo.
- Stealing, or deliberately damaging or defacing any personal property, buildings or materials.
- Threatening physical or emotional harm, or brandishing a weapon.
- Possessing, consuming, or distributing tobacco or nicotine, including vape pens.
- Riding mopeds, motorcycles, or any other type of unauthorized vehicle.
- Being out of designated area or accommodations after curfew.
- Breaking group rules.
These standards of behavior are essential for the successful completion of your program. Please take the time to review these as a family and make sure everyone understands and agrees to them.
Health and Safety
We strongly recommend visiting the CDC France website to get the most updated information on health and vaccination considerations in your destination country. In addition, we encourage you to consult your personal family physician so you can be as informed as possible when making important decisions about vaccinations and other necessary health-related preparations before traveling.
Our in-country staff meticulously prepare for all programs. Walking Tree receives regular updates from the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to proactively stay ahead of any potential security concerns. Our in-country staff also verify the safety records of our partner organizations, vendors, and transportation providers, thoroughly vet homestay families through in-depth interviews and visits, and stay informed about important current events in the region.
Program Leaders are seasoned travelers who are CPR and First Aid certified, undergo thorough training in crisis management, and participate in comprehensive leadership training. We do our best to prepare for any eventuality and have detailed emergency protocols for our leaders, in-country staff, and U.S.-based staff.
We collect medical disclosures from all participants to ensure we can meet every student’s needs during the program. Please inform us immediately of any additional health issues not listed during your initial registration process. Leaders and in-country staff are prepared to respond promptly to any mental, physical, or emotional health concerns and follow comprehensive emergency protocols.
Insurance
While we work hard to ensure the safest experience possible for our travelers on program, experience teaches that travel can be unpredictable. For this reason, we recommend that all travelers consider a travel insurance policy with a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) provision. Detailed explanations of plan options can be found via the link below.
To provide travelers and families with a quality option, Walking Tree has partnered with Travel Insured International, one of the most respected providers in the industry. Begin by getting a quote here.
IMPORTANT NOTE: in order to secure coverage that includes CFAR, you must purchase the plan within 14-21 days of your first payment to Walking Tree. Be careful when you read the tenets of the policy to ensure you understand the required timeframe for purchase. You must also insure 100% of your trip cost, so program tuition + flight. Please reach out to us with questions.