Are you tasked with planning an amazing trip for your school group, but feeling overwhelmed by all the options? With so many incredible destinations across the UK and abroad, how do you go about picking the perfect spot? Don’t worry – we’re here to help!
The first thing to think about is the aims of your trip and what activities and experiences your group would enjoy most on youth group or residential school trips. This will allow you to narrow down the options considerably.
If you’re looking for more of a service focus, consider destinations with ample volunteering opportunities. For example, projects in places like Romania, Uganda or Ecuador allow you to do charity work like building schools or working at children’s homes. It’s incredibly rewarding!
For trips for schools that are all about cultural immersion, European cities like Paris, Rome, or Barcelona make excellent choices. Wandering the museums, cafes and neighbourhoods is a great way to soak up the local culture. Urban UK destinations like London, Edinburgh or Manchester also work well.
For students keen on outdoor adventure, look for destinations with ample options for activities like hiking, camping, water sports, or mountain biking. The Lake District and Snowdonia in the UK are prime spots, with rugged natural beauty and outdoorsy charm.
Finances will play a major role in narrowing down your options. Sit down and determine a comfortable budget for your class or group, keeping costs like transport, accommodation, food, activities, and insurance in mind.
Once you have a budget range, research the estimated costs of flights, lodging, tours, and attractions at potential destinations. Less expensive European destinations to consider could include Croatia, Poland, Turkey, or the Baltic states. Within the UK, sticking to rural destinations like the Lake District or Yorkshire Dales can save money.
In cities, utilise affordable lodging like youth hostels. You can have an amazing experience in London or Edinburgh without breaking the bank by using public transport and taking advantage of free museums and attractions.
Research how safe potential destinations are when planning your school trip. Look at government travel advisories and crime rates in the areas you’re considering. Avoid regions with high risk of terrorism, civil unrest, or health hazards.
Also, research the accessibility and infrastructure of your chosen destination. Consider whether it has reliable public transport, wheelchair accessible options, hospitals and emergency facilities if needed. For rural or remote areas, check the availability of phone and internet service.
It’s important to research typical weather patterns at your destination during the time you plan to visit. This way, you can avoid extreme heat, cold, or rainy periods that could ruin your fun.
For example, Mediterranean beach destinations can get uncomfortably hot and crowded during peak summer. Opt for spring or autumn instead. On the flip side, the UK’s Lake District is best enjoyed during the milder summer months for hiking and water sports.
There you have it – our top tips for choosing winning destinations tailored to your school group. With a bit of thoughtful research and planning, you’re sure to pick locations that will provide enriching experiences. Just run your options by your class, make sure it fits with your budget and safety needs, and get ready for an unforgettable trip!
