ANSWERS to COMMON QUESTIONS
The FAQ is a "must read" for all trip participants! The Summer 2025 Trip is our 19th trip. There are 18 trips which have preceded this one and your question is most likely answered in the FAQ section below because someone has asked it before on an earlier trip. Please read the FAQ section throughly!
"Our days have been packed, our bellies are full, our feet are tired, our brains are expanded, our thoughts are soaring, our spirits are lifted, and we've made deep, lasting friendships with fellow travelers we've known only a few days."
A One Sentence Trip Description
GENERAL INFO
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Who are the trips for?
Our summer trips are designed for homeschooled students and family members. Grads and family members are welcome to come on our student trips. The trips are open to family members if the homeschooled student is also on the trip. Christian students from public schools are welcome. Families are welcome, as well as non-CC students. Parents are allowed and encouraged to come, but the trip is NOT designed to be a private family vacation separate from the established itinerary.
The trip is tailored around the studies of the Classical Conversations senior (Challenge 4) student, though other students will benefit greatly from the trip. Students who have studied Classical literature, students who are interested in Classical studies, or students who are going into Challenge 4 or have completed Challenge 4 will greatly benefit from this trip. Regardless of background, past trips have shown students bond quickly on our trips.
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Homeschooling is not a requirement. Christian students from public schools are also welcome.
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This trip is ideal for the Challenge 4 grad or the Challenge 3 student going into Challenge 4. It gives a first-hand perspective of what they have recently studied or what they will be studying in Challenge 4.
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Parents and Adults: please read the NOTE TO PARENTS joining the Trip
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Why only Italy, Greece, & Turkey?
We love travel and recommend exploring other parts of the globe. The unique focus of a ClassicalTrips.org experience is a classical approach to the ancient Greco-Roman world and its influence on Western civilization from a Christian perspective. Italy, Greece, and Turkey encompass unique aspects of history that have shaped our modern culture and are also significant to the growth of the early Christian church and it's spread across the world. Whether your specific interest is the study of Homer's world, the development of the Renaissance, or the missionary journeys of St Paul, you can experience all on a ClassicalTrips.org expedition.
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How long have you been taking groups overseas?
The Summer 2025 trip is our 13th year and 19th Classical trip to Italy, Greece, & Turkey. However, we've been taking groups overseas since 1988, traveling into 100 countries, and coordinating hundreds of overseas groups through the years. We've learned a thing or two and use that knowledge to maximize each trip's experiences, activities, and adventures.
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Why is the Spring Break trip more expensive than a similar Summer trip?
To facilitate the maximum amount of exploration and site visits, we have chosen slightly more expensive accommodations and local transportation for the shorter Spring Break trip. That additional cost is reflected in the overall trip price.
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Is there a payment schedule? What if I miss a payment deadline?
Yes, the Payment Schedule is found on the Payments page. If you miss a payment deadline and costs have increased due to adding you in after the group's air/lodging purchases have been made, those costs will be added to your overall trip costs. Trip payment is divided into 4 scheduled payments between December 2024 - April 2025. Payment schedule details are on the PAYMENTS page.
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Waiting List?
If the trip fills up, is there any way I can still go on the trip?
Possibly . . . we will start a Waiting List. If space opens, we will fit you in on a first-come/first-served basis. Due to changes in family schedules and other factors, this occasionally happens. Trip size maxes out at 30 people.
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Can I join the trip last minute?
Yes, but at a price! It depends on how "last minute" you are. We generally purchase intra-European airfare and pay for lodging months in advance of our trip departure. Adding someone in after that often means the airfare cost will have increased and the lodging space needed may go at a higher rate. Those costs are passed on to you. Entrance fees to sites & exhibits are not usually affected, but the increased airfare costs and lodging costs (above what the rest of the group is paying) can be hundreds of dollars more. However, we are happy to work with you to try to keep the costs down, should you add in late. Often, as a late add-in, if you're able to fly on slightly different flights than the rest of the group, your additional cost will be minimal. As a side note, the
TRAVEL INFO
What about Airfare?
As you are probably aware, airfare prices have fluctuated greatly in the past years.
You have two options:
(1) purchase your own airfare with our guidelines for arrival and departure dates so you meet up with the group in Europe or
(2) we will work with you to coordinate your air travel so you connect with a Trip Leader enroute to Europe.
NOTE: the date listed as the start date of the trip is the date you depart the USA, not the date of your arrival in Europe.
Example: a trip that runs May 29-June 17 will depart the USA on May 29, arrive Europe May 30; then depart Europe June 17 and arrive in the USA on June 17 (you lose time going and gain time returning).
Trip Leaders airfare is purchased in advance and the Itinerary is provided so you can connect at a USA Gateway city or European Gateway city with a Trip Leader before your arrival in Europe. Either way, we will work with you to get the best air itinerary at the lowest price.
The posted trip prices cover all travel between your arrival to Europe (usually Rome) and departure from Europe (usually Istanbul) between Italy, Greece, and Turkey.
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We will meet you at the arrival airport. You will not be left on your own!
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Passports
Required for international travel. Must be valid for travel 6 months AFTER the last day of the trip
(i.e. your passport must be valid until December 18, 2025).
New passports can take several months to obtain, so start early. Allow a minimum of 4-6 months to obtain.
Renewal passports can take 3-4 months to obtain, so plan accordingly.
The US Passsport office is understaffed and delays are common. Plan accordingly!
USA passport application: https://www.usa.gov/passport
Note: average turn-around time for Summer 2021 & 2022 was 3-4 months! Summer 2023 is 4-6 months.
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Visas
All necessary visas included in the trip costs.
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Additional European Travel
Additional time in Europe can be arranged before or after the group arrival & departure at your own expense.
Make arrangements in advance with the ClassicalTrips.org office if you desire this option.
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Travel in Europe (travel like a local)
We use public transportation as much as possible. We will NOT hire a tour bus. You will become an experienced traveler on Metro, Underground, train, city bus, Funicular, walking, and cheap intra-European flights, etc. On average, you will walk 8-12 miles per day over cobblestone streets and ancient trails.
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NOTE: You will actually walk 8-12 miles per day, up hills, up stairs, over hiking trails, and on rough roads, etc. (Note: this is very different than walking on a treadmill or sidewalk the same distance.)
This trip has been described by some as a "walking tour of Italy, Greece, & Turkey".
NOTE: we do not walk 8-12 miles non-stop!
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What Is A Walking Tour (walk like a local)
You will walk a lot! Based on IOS, Android, and fitness apps that track the distance and number of steps past participants have taken, you actually will walk 8-12 miles per day or use 15,000-25,000+ steps per day. Typically, a light day of walking is followed by a heavy day of walking. Unlike walking on a track or treadmill, almost all of the walking overseas is on rough paths, unpaved trails, cobblestone streets, and uphill (don't ask me to explain how it seems we never go downhill).
Due to a typically full schedule each day, we try to fit in as much as possible in the number of sites we see. Though you'll never have to run or jog, we frequently walk at a rapid pace to reach our next scheduled site, followed by opportunities to rest and enjoy.
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A walking tour of Italy, Greece, and Turkey gives you an understanding of how the locals live and what life is truly like in each country. As you learn to navigate local transportation, eat where the locals eat, and live like a local, you will gain an appreciation of the cultural and sociological dynamics of each country. More importantly, you will gain the understanding needed to return on your own in the future, confident in your knowledge to successfully master travel in Europe.
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LODGING INFO
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Accommodations/Lodging (stay like a local)
We stay in furnished apartments, leased flats, monasteries, or budget hotels. Think AirBnB or VRBO style . . . better than Youth hostels, but cheaper than traditional lodging.
Benefits are: (1) more living space, (2) kitchens, (3) courtyards, (4) laundry facilities, (5) stove top espresso makers, (6) easy access to public transportation, and (7) experiencing the culture like a local.
Drawbacks are: (1) shared bathrooms, (2) no elevators, (3) noisy neighbors, (4) no maid service, (5) no room service, (6) not located at major intersections, (7) rarely rated 5 stars in the Michelin Guidebook.
We book entire villas and buildings with large living spaces, spectacular views, and close proximity to the top sites when possible. All in all, it is a great way to save money.
Typically trip participants are housed 4-5 per room, 2 students per bed.
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NOTE: whether student or adult, we have the same accommodations. However, Students share rooms with Students, and Adults share rooms with Adults. If the lodging works out, there may be options for family members to room together, but this is not always the case.
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There are NOT options for private rooms, room upgrades, or bed requests. Though your actual bed may be a fold-out couch, futon, etc. or real bed depending on the availability at the lodging, you will always have a bed. Leave your sleeping bag & hammock at home!
Do NOT bring sheets, pillows, bath towels, sleeping bags, etc. ​
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Sleeping Arrangements (sleep like a local)
Depends on where we are. You will always have a bed, but it may be a fold out couch, rollaway, hideaway, or futon. If your bed is a double or larger, you will most likely share it. Sheets will be clean and bug-free, but not quite like the Four Seasons Hotel's satin sheets.
You will most likely share a bed.​
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CLOTHING INFO
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Clothing Guidelines (dress like a local)
Dress modestly. Choose clothing that covers the necessary areas and avoids excessive skin exposure.​ Avoid wearing clothing that is revealing or inappropriate for an educational setting. Clothing should cover the essentials and refrain from displaying offensive language, inappropriate symbols or graphics, alcohol, drug, or illegal products. Choose attire that is comfortable yet respectful. Appropriate undergarments required.
Holy sites have special requirements:
Both men and women need to cover their knees and upper arms. They prohibit wearing shorts or skirts above the knee, sleeveless tops, and low-cut shirts. Men must take their hats off before entering whereas women may continue wearing theirs. Although this is sometimes harder to follow during the summer months, without following these guidelines, you will either be turned away or required to buy a shawl to cover up (which is bumped up in price.)
Therefore, your best bet is to follow the rules and wear the appropriate clothing. Pants are your best bet, but long shorts or skirts below the knee are also allowed.
Do NOT wear short shorts, tops with exposed midriff, or sleeveless tops.
Comfortable, casual clothing is desirable for most of the trip. You will visit "holy places" in Italy, Greece, Turkey, and includes Vatican sites, churches, mosques, etc. You will be informed in advance the days we are visiting "holy place" sites.
Do bring a light jacket for cool or inclement weather.
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Note: You do not need Dress clothes for any upscale events, everything is casual.
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Average temps in Greece, Italy, & Turkey are between 70-105 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot & sunny. Sunscreen is a must.
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Laundry (wash like a local)
Pack enough clothes for 5-6 days only. You will have opportunity to do laundry at least once per country during the trip. Hand washable, quick dry items are best, as you can pack lighter but do laundry in your bathroom sink more often when washing machines are not available. Do not bring laundry detergent. Laundry detergent is available locally. We use laundromats periodically. Laundry is at your expense.
A packable "laundry line" is helpful.
Read these Travel Tips for how to pack.
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Walking Shoes
You truly will walk a lot! A good pair of walking shoes is required. On average, you'll walk 8-12 miles (sometimes more, sometimes less) per day over paved streets, cobblestone paths, up hills, to historic sites, metro stations, etc. Break-in a good pair of walking shoes several weeks in advance! Typically, one pair of walking shoes and one pair of hiking sandals are all that is needed for the entire trip. If your walking shoes are brand new and not broken in, pick up blister pads before departing.
Note: your trip leader has long legs, walks fast, and expects you to keep up with the group.
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LUGGAGE INFO
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Luggage
One (1) carry-on bag per person (rolling or back-packable) and one (1) personal item that fits under the airline seat in front of you.
NO Check-in bags! No large suitcases! No exceptions!
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Surprisingly, you can fit everything you need for this trip in one carry-on bag, plus a small daypack (which you'll use during the day for water bottles, snacks, etc.) A packing guide is provided here that will teach you the deep, dark secrets travel pros use to pack everything they need for a month of travel in just one small carry-on and one small day-pack.
(If you plan on traveling much in the future, this secret alone may well be worth the price of the trip!)
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Acceptable bag size is: 21.65 x 15.74 x 7.87 inches. IF in doubt, check the Cabin Bag requirements for Ryan Air (one we frequently use).
If your bag exceeds these dimensions, you WILL likely be charged an additional $90 or more per flight each way by the European airlines!!
Do not bring your bedroom pillow, towels, or sleeping bags!
Carry-on bag suggestions: Suggestion #1 Suggestion #2
(Check dimensions before purchasing)
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Note: You will carry your own bags. We do not hire porters. If your bags are too heavy for you to carry or roll down cobblestone streets, reduce the weight!
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MONEY INFO
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Money Exchange
On past trips, students have found approximately $250-350 sufficient.
The best exchange rates are always obtained by using a debit or credit card at ATMs that give the current rate of exchange.
Travelers cheques are difficult to exchange due to the very limited places that accept them and are NOT RECOMMENDED.
Cash (US dollars) typically incurs a 20% fee to exchange into Euro or Turkish Lira and is NOT RECOMMENDED.
We highly recommend bringing your spending money on a credit/debit card.
Note: a "chip card" is best and the least likely to be hacked.
Make sure your credit/debit card works overseas and is activated and working prior to the trip.
Note: you'll need to let your bank know you'll be withdrawing $money overseas.
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YES! We said US Dollars and Travelers Checks are NOT RECOMMENDED.
YES! Use a Debit/Credit card that is a CHIP card.
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Extra money
All your basic expenses are included in the trip, including 3 meals a day. However, items for which you will want extra money are: gifts, souvenirs, laundry, snacks, coffee shops, more coffee shops, lots of gelato, some great pastries, beach day, etc., and any meals you choose to eat separate from the group. On past trips, students have found approximately $250-300 sufficient.
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ATMs are the best way to obtain Euros or Lira during the trip, but you must inform your bank in advance of the trip dates and countries you will visit.
Check with your bank regarding fees charged for ATM cash withdrawal.
It is recommended you bring a Credit/Debit chip card that works overseas rather than cash!
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FOOD & DRINK INFO
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Food (eat like a local)
We will do our best to accommodate group tastes, but most often food preparation is out of our control. If you have stringent dietary needs, you will need to bring $ for your own food supply, as it is not feasible for the group to cater to one person's specific needs when traveling and eating as a group. There is no discount, reimbursement, or "money back" for your personal food purchased for the trip.
On a typical day, the group will eat from restaurants, food stalls, street vendors, and fresh food from the local market, either at a restaurant or in our apartment kitchen. You get to embrace the culture and live like a local.
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Most meals are served "family style". (Family Style means: the trip leader orders a variety of foods for the group to share around the table at the meal.) Either the trip leader will order for the group (to make sure you get to try some of the fantastic foods you've never experienced before), or each table will combine their $ allotment for that specific meal to order shared dishes for your table. As determined by the trip leader, there will be a few meals in which you will be given cash to eat at the establishment of your choosing.
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FOOD PHILOSOPHY: You are not expected to like everything, but you are asked to try everything.
You may discover a new favorite!
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NOTE: We rarely take you to an American chain restaurant overseas (though travel schedules may require it on occasion so I apologize in advance!) You may find one and eat at it on your own time and expense, but our thought is that you don't travel to the other side of the world to eat American food!
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NOTE: Read this if you have FOOD ALLERGY CONSIDERATIONS or CONCERNS​
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Typical meals (3 per day included)
BREAKFAST(almost always at our lodging): yogurt, fruit, coffee, tea, milk, cereal, bread, butter, jam, boiled eggs, bakery items, etc.
Note: a European breakfast is not like your typical American breakfast.
LUNCH: this is our larger meal of the day. Usually eaten sometime between 1p-3p at some of our favorite spots (which are highly rated restaurants / food stalls / etc. known for authentic meals of great quality and good quantities).
DINNER: smaller than lunch. Usually eaten between 8p - 10p.
Good food, just not as large as lunch.
Europeans typically eat supper later (8-9pm) than American standards, so you may want a snack in between meals.
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SNACKS (at your own expense): coffee shops, gelaterias, bakeries, etc.
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NOTE: our meal-time schedule is typical for Europe but later in the day than most American meal times.
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NOTE: water is our beverage of choice 99.9% of the time. Break your soda addiction.
Drink more water! Meals include water, but do not include soda, pop, coffee, tea, etc.
Though you will get a meal on the flights to Europe & back, bring some $ for snacks you may want at the airports to and from Europe.
Your first “trip provided” meal begins after you land in Europe & last meal ends when you depart from Europe.
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Water (drink like a local)
Every place we stay has drinkable, potable water. BRING A WATER BOTTLE for the trip. You will fill it before venturing out for the day and you will refill it multiple times during the day.
Water is essential for life . . . particularly your life!
We typically only buy bottled water in Turkey. Otherwise, we drink what the locals drink from the tap. It will not make you sick. Due to the typical level of daily exertion, you will need to stay well hydrated.
Plan on drinking a couple of litres per day!
NOTE: Students often lose water bottles. Leave the expensive ones at home!
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Restaurants Rules
Don’t order extra food or soft drinks and plan on reimbursing us. Order it on a separate ticket after all other orders have been placed.
However, opportunities for this will be rare as we normally order our meals “family style”.
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REQUIRED FORMS
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(1) Trip SignUp
Every trip participant is REQUIRED to complete the SIGNUP Form. One form per trip participant. If multiple members of a family are going on the trip, EVERY participant must complete the SIGNUP Form. No exceptions.
Due ASAP.
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(2) Trip Verification
Every trip participant is REQUIRED to complete the TRIP VERIFICATION Form. One form per trip participant. If multiple members of a family are going on the trip, EVERY participant must complete the TRIP VERIFICATION Form. No exceptions.
TRIP VERIFICATION Form is to be completed after you have purchased your airfare to/from Europe. Your passport information is required.
Due (4) four weeks before departure.
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(3) Trip Insurance
Every participant is REQUIRED to carry Overseas Medical insurance that covers Covid. If your existing U.S. medical insurance does not cover overseas medical coverage (including Covid treatment), you will be required to obtain coverage.
Proof of overseas medical coverage is required before trip departure.
If your current medical insurance does not cover you overseas, low-cost Overseas Medical Insurance policies that span the trip dates are available through Sevencorners.com and other travel insurance companies. Typical cost is $60 and is not part of your trip payments. The suggested policy is the Seven Corners Travel Medical Plus at Sevencorners.com, which covers $500,000 in medical expenses with a $250 deductible and Covid coverage.
Due (2) two weeks before departure.
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Note: Required Overseas Medical Insurance coverage is NOT for trip cancellation, lost luggage, delayed transport, etc., but for Medical & Emergency situations.
CFAR - Cancel For Any Reason insurance is not required or recommended. Travel CFAR Insurance (which includes Medical, Covid, lost luggage, & trip cancellation for any reason) is available for approximately $200-300 from a variety of travel insurance companies.
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Overseas Medical Insurance is required. Travel Insurance is not required.
Travel Insurance which covers: trip cancellation, lost luggage, delayed transport is NOT required or recommended.
CFAR (cancel for any reason) travel insurance is not required or recommended.
Overseas Medical coverage is required.
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You are not required to use Sevencorners.com for overseas medical insurance. We recommend them because we have had positive experiences with them the few times we have ever needed them.
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(4) Release/Hold Harmless Form
All participants are required to submit a 2024 SUMMER RELEASE & HOLD HARMLESS FORM OR 2024 SPRING BREAK RELEASE & HOLD HARMLESS FORM to participate in any GlobalQuest.org or ClassicalTrips.org trip or activity. Click link above to download the PDF form.
Due (4) four weeks before departure.
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(5) Passport digital copy
All participants are required to submit a digital copy of the Picture Page of their passport. This must be the current passport, not an expired or canceled passport. A sample picture of the image that must be submitted is here. All four corners of the Picture page must be shown, and all numbers and info on the passport must be easily legible. Do not include the Signature page.
Due (6) six weeks before departure.
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REQUIRED APPS
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Every trip participant is required to download Whatsapp.com to their smartphone for use during the trip. It's the best way to stay in communication among the group for times when we may be dispersed across one of the trip cities or for times when we need to inform everyone of the day's plans. It works over readily available wifi and does not cut into your data plan when on wifi.
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WHATSAPP
Download WhatsApp in advance and make sure it works for you in the USA before expecting it to work overseas.
A link to our ClassicalTrips group chat will be provided in advance.
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Cell Phones
Inform your carrier that you need international coverage. Remember, the cost of overseas calls and data can be prohibitive with an International plan in advance. Smartphones can be very useful by providing free calling & messaging back to the USA over free WiFi in each city. Smartphone use is discouraged during site visits and meals (except in case of emergencies) to allow time for processing and Socratic discussions among the group. Mealtimes and site visits are "no-phone" zones. Talk to your neighbor instead. Most cellphones have great cameras which are very useful for pics, etc.
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SUGGESTED APPS (not required)
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Wifi/Internet
Available in many locations. Always available at our lodging.
Best apps we've used for staying in touch back home are: WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Facetime, or Skype.
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Internet Safety Overseas
It is essential to use a VPN service when handling ANY confidential, financial, or private information online when you are overseas. A secure VPN can eliminate being hacked when online overseas. Especially important for any financial or important transactions requiring internet security. Here's a listing of various free VPNs. Note: paid VPNs are ad-free and possibly better.
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Smartphone Apps
We use the Rick Steves Europe app (https://www.ricksteves.com/watch-read-listen/audio/audio-europe) for additional information, free audio tours, and helpful tips for those who want to get the most out of the trip sites. Though not required, the free information is recommended for trip participants who have a smartphone. A recommended list of free audio tours is provided at PACKING and AUDIO TOURS
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Mobile Passport Control App
Recommended but not Required: Mobile Passport Control (MPC) allows eligible travelers to submit their passport and customs declaration information through a free, secure app on their smartphone or other mobile device. The use of MPC streamlines the traveler’s entry process into the United States by reducing passport control inspection time and overall wait time. Use of MPC is free and does not require pre-approval. Travelers who successfully use the MPC app will no longer have to complete a paper form or use an APC kiosk. As a result, travelers may experience shorter wait times, less congestion, and efficient processing.
MEDICAL/SAFETY INFO
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Safety
Safety is paramount in all we do. All reasonable and customary precautions will be observed at every leg of the trip. Though you will be stretched, challenged, and pushed, you will never purposely be placed in personal danger by the ClassicalTrips staff.
NOTE: People have asked about the safety of travel to Europe and Turkey. We will only be in the "safe" areas, far from terrorists, world crises, etc.
Trip leaders stay in close contact with the US Embassy in each country, and the Embassy is informed of our itinerary in advance.
We provide the US Embassy or Consulate our leader's contact information in case the Embassy needs to connect with our group.
Every trip itinerary and trip participant list is registered with the US State Department in advance.
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As a Student-oriented Christian travel group, we follow broadly accepted guidelines for Christian behavior and interaction among all trip participants. NOTE: SAFETY & CHRISTIAN BEHAVIOR DETAILS
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What about Turkey?
We stay in regular contact with the US Embassy in Istanbul as well as the US Consulate near our lodging during our travel in Turkey. Should there be any concerns prior to departure or during the trip regarding Turkey, alternate sites in Siena, Venice, Thessaloniki, or a Greek island may be added. Assuming there are no State Department restrictions to travel to Turkey, we will only be on the western coast of Turkey (which is the most modern and developed) and in Istanbul.
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Medical Emergencies
Though this is a rare situation, if you have a Medical Emergency during the trip, you (or your parents) will need to take care of the treatment arrangements & expenses. The ClassicalTrips staff will assist you as much as possible and help you pursue medical consultation, but cannot abandon the rest of the group.
Note: if a Student has a non-emergency illness, they will be left during the day in a safe, secure location with phone/text access, and their parents will be notified.
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What about Covid?
Trip plans could change due to Covid. However, we feel the current situation and Covid responses from Italy, Greece, and Turkey are developed enough that we feel confident in planning the Summer 2024 trip. Covid did NOT affect any of the trip details on the 2022 or 2023 Summer trips.
Please click this link to understand how Covid may affect the trip while it is in process.
Read the post titled "The What Ifs of Covid 2023"
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MISCELLANEOUS INFO
Chaperones & Parents?
Adult sponsors accompany the group during the trip. Groups are chaperoned for safety, Christian behavior, and to maximize the International experience. However, it is our goal for Students to be able to "explore" safe sections of each city in approved groups without a chaperone or parent. We believe this is an important part of their exposure and adventure overseas.
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Typically, students bond better and develop more socially when a parent gives them the freedom to experience the culture apart from parental supervision. "Helicopter" parents create a negative environment for others and limit the learning experience of the students.
PARENTS: read the page Parents on the Trip
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Beach Days
Plan on having one day at the beach. As schedule allows, this will either be along the Greece coast or the Rome coast. This generally incurs a $15-$25 cost (your expense) to rent a beach umbrella, lounge chair, entry fee, and snacks. Sunscreen required. Bring a swimsuit of your choice.
FYI: Though all the beaches we visit require "clothing", European standards tend to be skimpier than your average Church Youth Group standards. Modest swim attire is expected.
Note: There are typically no Beach Days on the Spring Break trip due to cooler weather.
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CHRISTIAN BEHAVIOR INFO
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Alcohol / Wine / eCigs / Smoking / Marijuana / etc
Decisions about alcohol, beer, wine, smoking, medical marijuana, etc are personal decisions, and Christian practices vary widely regarding their use. It is not our desire to impose our interpretation and practice upon trip participants, however, necessity dictates that we establish guidelines that the entire group will follow.
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ClassicalTrips.org has chosen to abide by a strict interpretation of "avoiding the appearance of evil" and "doing nothing that would cause a brother to fall" among all our fellow Christian believers.
All ClassicalTrips.org participants must agree to abide by our guidelines regarding the use of these during all of the trip.
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We practice a strict No alcohol, No wine, No smoking, No illegal drugs, No marijuana products, etc on all ClassicalTrip experiences.
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Each trip participant commits to abstain from these practices during the entirety of the trip, beginning with USA departure and ending with USA return. Though your personal beliefs may differ from these guidelines, by coming on the trip, you are agreeing to abstain during the trip in its entirety.
This commitment applies to all trip participants; applies to both adults & students; applies whether you are with the group or alone; applies during scheduled events or during free time, etc.
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It is our purpose to maintain a Christian witness at all times in all behavior.
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Read the CLASSICALTRIPS RULES TO LIVE BY for a better understanding of trip guidelines.
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HELPFUL TOOLS INFO
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Packing & Audio Tours on the trip
Though we have traveled extensively around the world, we like to utilize "travel helps and tips" that others have prepared when appropriate. The following link connects you to some of those travel resources that we have found helpful. In addition to Packing helps (how to pack in just a carry-on) there are also downloadable audio tours of the sites we will see. These will be helpful during the trip at many sites. Link to helpful resources: PACKING HELPS and AUDIO TOURS.
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Itinerary Schedule sample
Here is a sample itinerary. Dates are not exact until the week of the trip, but the sites listed are part of what you will experience. During the trip, this itinerary is updated regularly. It provides each student a daily schedule of their Site Expert sites so they can be prepared before heading out each day, thus enabling you to share effectively at each of your chosen sites. Additionally, it is a great way for family & friends back home to follow your adventures.
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List of some of the HISTORIC SITES you will visit.
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Previous year's sample itinerary:
Greece-Italy to Rome Florence Athens ITINERARY sample
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MISCELLANEOUS QUESTIONS
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What if I disobey the rules, venture off by myself, and get lost?
Before heading out in each city, we will discuss your plan of action, which will include (1) deep, sincere repentance, (2) contrition, (3) genuflection, (4) a phone # you will keep with you for help, & (5) a phone pic of our apartment address, and (6) a phone call to your parents. Remember, policemen are our friends.
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What if I run out of money?
You won’t go hungry nor sleep on the street. There may be a way for your parents to send $ to the Trip Leader, which we transfer to you.
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What if strange people keep pestering me to buy cheap souvenirs I don’t want?
Welcome to the world of travel where everyone assumes you have more money than they do.
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Can I go home early if I decide I’m too homesick?
Yes. Typically, it costs between $600-$1000 to change your ticket.
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What if I overpacked and can’t carry all my stuff?
We will donate your excess goods to the local economy or the nearest dumpster.
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What if my boyfriend/girlfriend is on the trip?
Please read the Trip Guidelines section about COUPLES.
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I've heard there are pickpockets?
Yes! You are an amazingly astute world traveler to recognize this. Please read these articles about Avoiding Pickpockets and this webpage.
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Important Reminders
INFORM your bank debit/credit if you plan on using your card overseas.
INFORM your phone provider if you plan on using your smartphone overseas.
Take out a calling/texting/data plan in advance if you plan on using your phone’s cellular data.
Wifi is available, but it can be spotty.
Don’t access personal data or websites without using a VPN.
Foreign SIM cards only work on UNLOCKED phones.
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Online Conference Call Meetings
There are Online Meetings held prior to the trip departure. Recordings of the online meetings are posted to the website afterward. The last conference call is held a week or two before trip departure. Call recordings are posted online after each call.
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GREG's SUGGESTED TRAVEL ITEMS
(because you asked)
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A recommended list of items we have found helpful in overseas travel is provided. None of these items are required. All of these items are easily packable in a carry-on bag, along with your clothing, etc. For your convenience, online shopping links are provided for each item where a specific product is recommended.
Link to SUGGESTED ITEMS
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College Credit
Due to the in-depth study of Western culture and it's roots, a number of colleges/universities are willing to grant academic credit for students who participate on this trip. Details here.
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Who is Global Quest Inc. and why am I writing checks to them?
Global Quest Inc is the parent organization of ClassicalTrips.org. ClassicalTrips.org is the educational arm of Global Quest Inc., which equips both students and adults in Christian education, a Biblical worldview, and a passion for world missions.
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Check out the LINKS below for more info:
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What if I still have questions?
Feel free to give us a call or text @ 918.770.8088
NOTE: you will most likely get voicemail. Please LEAVE A MESSAGE!
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Or send an email: classicaltrips@gmail.com
