(August 2024 - Secondary School)

(August 2024 - Secondary School)

Tour operator: Edventure were very efficient in helping me to put the programme together and most of what was agreed in advance was delivered. Hotels were excellent and no problems at all. All pre-booked visit locations were secured. All transport was secured. However, there were a few surprises: The 2 pre-paid meals were paid on the night by the tour guides using a corporate credit card. Neither tour guide (Washington DC & New York) was aware that they had to do this but after discussion with myself and their manager (Aaron Killian), they agreed to do so. The restaurants had expected me to pay and students to select from standard menus. Tour guides in Washington & New York seemed to expect a generous tip from the group despite myself gaining written confirmation from Edventure that this was already included in the price. I only realised this on seeing the departure of our Washington guide who was clearly disappointed not to receive anything but I was unprepared for this and unable to rectify the situation. Following a discussion with the New York tour guide at our first meeting in my hotel room, we agreed that I would provide a tip and this certainly encouraged him to do his utmost for our group. We experienced an excellent tour with him and all parties left highly satisfied. Pre-paid meal at La Puglia, New York was lacking in quality though strangely the students really enjoyed it! New York Tour Guide: It was with pleasant surprise that our New York tour guide turned up upon our arrival and continued to accompany and support us throughout our time in the city. This was not included on the itinerary as I expected him for only part of the time. However, this greatly improved the student & staff experience (both culturally and academically) and I felt his tip of $100.00 was justified. (July 2024 - Secondary School)

(July 2023 - Secondary School)