TRAVEL TO LEARN	Ph. 602.538.2929 info@itraveltolearn.com
	SPANISH – ECOADVENTURE – VOLUNTEER – CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT – NATURE-BASED EXPERIENCES

Upon registering for a program or trip, you will receive an in-depth guide covering these and other topics.

GET A PASSPORT
A passport is needed to travel to Nicaragua. Start looking into getting a passport immediately. If you already have one, visit the State Department web site and familiarize yourself with regulations to ensure everything is in order.
To get a new passport
Passport renewal
Find a passport facility near you.

BUYING A PLANE TICKET(Options)
1) Purchase discounted tickets directly from airlines. Travel To Learn will reserve tickets. Students who have been accepted to our program will receive instructions for purchasing these tickets.
2) Purchase your ticket individually to arrive on the first day of the program and depart on the last day. Your Trip Leader will meet you at the airport.
**Keep in mind that an International Student ID Card may entitle you to a discounted airfare.

TRAVEL/MEDICAL INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
Under 18: International Travel/Medical & Personal Insurance under parent/guardian
18 and over: International Travel/Medical

RECOMMENDED TRAVEL/MEDICAL INSURANCE (financial requirement of participant)
It is important to carry an International Medical Insurance Policy. However, Travel To Learn does not endorse any insurance carrier. We can only make recommendations based on past experiences but are not liable for insurance claims.
Travel To Learn requires proof of International Medical Insurance for international programs and trips.
ISIC (International Student Identification Card) cards are available for students, teachers or travelers under 26 years of age. The cost is under $30. This site shows the benefits.
Optional Insurance Policy
If you want more insurance or more information, you can compare policies.

WEATHER
Nicaragua enjoys an average temperature of 80°F year round and the humidity averages 65%. There are two seasons, green and dry. The green season is from mid-May to mid-November, the dry season from late-November to early-May. Rain during the green season is normally limited to short and powerful bursts with longer showers at night. The hottest time of year is at the end of the dry season, from March to May, while the coolest period is from October to January. The weather during the student programs (June and July) is extremely warm and humid. Decide when you are going to visit Nicaragua and dress appropriately.
Check the weather in Nicaragua -- Check the weather in Granada

PACKING (a more detailed list will be provided upon registration)
We include one laundry service in the middle of your trip, just before leaving Granada.
Pack essential items (toiletries, bug repellent, beach towel, etc) Bath towels and bed sheets will be provided.

Clothing: Keep your dress casual and lightweight, keeping in mind that we are participating in outdoor activities. Lightweight, quick dry polyester blends are best. Cotton simply absorbs the humidity. Although you are not going to be able to dress like Nicaraguans, you don’t want to call attention to yourself by wearing flashy or trendy clothing.
A rain jacket is a good idea for rainy months. Lightweight, quick-dry clothing (polyester blend) is perfect for outdoor adventures and will dry quickly. Cotton will soak up the humidity and will take longer to dry. Jeans and long sleeves may be too warm for the outdoors. Quick dry pants are a great option or some type of lightweight cotton pants to wear in the evening. Shorts and t-shirts are perfect for daily tours or non-outdoor activities.

Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are necessary. For some of the longer hikes, a hiking boot or cross trainer will be useful. Water sandals are perfect for days at the beach, kayaking or lakes.

Suitcase vs Backpack: Bring a backpack you can use for day trips. Pack your gear in a suitcase or larger backpack. The easier to carry the better off you'll be so keep that in mind.

COMMUNICATION
You'll have access to the Internet in Granada during the first week but the more remote areas we visit may not have immediate access. Your program leaders will, at all times, be able to make and receive emergency phone calls via a cell phone. They will also check email everyday when possible in case there are any messages sent by parents/guardians. We will have contact phone numbers for all the places we will be staying as well.

SAFETY AND SECURITY
Although there are inherent risks traveling anywhere, you will find that Nicaragua is very safe. Program Leaders, Chaperones and all professionals that come in contact with the participants work to ensure everyone's safety.
Your Program Leaders have traveled safely by following guidelines that simply translate into common sense. By signing a Code of Conduct, students promise to adhere to rules that are designed to keep them safe, while still giving them the freedom to make the most of their experiences.
Travel To Learn participants will be transported using a private vehicle, giving us a lot of flexibility in case of an emergency. We are familiar with medical facilities and we have a cell phone with us 24 hours a day.

FOOD AND WATER
Although some Nicaraguans drink tap water in different cities, it is not safe to drink if you are a foreigner. Always drink bottled water while traveling in Nicaragua. Most ice that is used is filtered but you should ask. Travel To Learn only visits restaurants that have a good reputation for being sanitary.

POSSESSIONS AND CASH
Although we don't prohibit students from brining any electronic equipment (iPod, MP3) we ask that these stay at home. Having electronic equipment means that you'll be looking for a place to charge it. While traveling you want to take in the sights and sounds and be respectful by listening to people when they speak to you. It's simply an added distraction that separates you from the places and people you are visiting and defeats the purpose of traveling. Bring a good book instead.
It's always difficult to decide how much money to take on a trip. As you make this decision, remember that Travel To Learn pays for almost all of your expenses. We even cover a laundry service and the airport exit fee (if not paid for in the ticket) for high school students. You'll only need cash for gifts, snacks or some extra events not part of the program fees. Cash machines work well so a debit card is what we recommend traveling with. You can change cash in banks or in the market in Granada. We strongly discourage students from bringing more than $250 in cash.

MEDICAL ISSUES
All travelers are encouraged to consult with a physician to ensure that any unique healthcare needs can be met.
Travel To Learn can make recommendations based on past experiences but is not liable for anyone who does or does not take specific vaccinations. The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) publishes recommendations for citizens traveling abroad. Travelers should take these recommendations seriously and follow the guidelines set by the CDC. To research health issues specific to Nicaragua visit CDC's Health Information for Travelers to Countries in Mexico and Central America.

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