FAQs and the answers

Are the World Horizons trips safe?

We consider all World Horizons travelers our children. Nothing is more important than their welfare. We take the utmost care in choosing safe program sites for our trips and have local contacts in each destination, some of whom we’ve known for 20 years. We will gladly address your specific concerns personally. Following World Horizons' rules and regulations, and the instructions of their leaders, is essential to preserving each traveler’s health and safety.

Who leads the groups?

We select World Horizons leaders based on their experience, maturity, and judgment. Many leaders are school teachers; many are returnees from the Peace Corps who have lived and worked abroad. All are fluent in the languages of the country they will visit. Each leader is required to be First Aid certified, and many leaders are also certified as Wilderness First responders. All leaders attend a spring training session, where the Directors explain World Horizons’ philosophy, expectations, and rules. Returning leaders share their experiences with newcomers, participating in role-playing and other exercises to better anticipate potential issues. For more information, call us!

What are our living conditions, and do we have toilets and showers?

Living conditions vary from trip to trip. Most locations have running water and flushing toilets. Some of these will be more primitive than you are used to. In some locations you will find conditions similar to what you have at home.

What is the food like?

The food is what you make of it! Your World Horizons group will live together as a family, shopping, cooking, and keeping house for yourselves. The chef roster rotates each day, with two travelers cooking the main meal. Foods generally reflect the local culture. For instance, in Central America, you can expect to be eating a great deal of rice and beans. We can accommodate vegetarians, and many other dietary restrictions - just let us know when you apply.

Does World Horizons do home stays?

Generally not. (Fiji, where the group stays with the tribal chieftain, is a rare exception.) Travelers have very full days full of new experiences. We believe evenings together allow them to relax, bond, and learn from each other in a supportive, communal setting.

May I bring a friend?

Of course--if you can share! A successful trip depends on individuals within the group learning about each other and working together. Meet new people! Your adventure begins with your group! Alex Lieppe, a 16-year old traveler from Atlanta, said: "It was the first time (going on a trip) where I didn't know anybody. It ended up turning out great. We all got our accents kind of confused. I got a few people saying `y'all`."

How many hours of community service will I do, and will I get documentation for them?

Approximately 25-30 hours per week. This may vary. Certificates are completed and mailed at the end of the summer.

What do we do during our free time?

Time is built in for your relaxation and exploration. Depending on the trip you choose, you might spend evenings checking out the local town or village, playing games or sports, journal writing, or just talking. On weekends you might take short overnight trips to historic or scenic sites. Your weeks of service are rewarded at the end of the trip - the group chooses a location, and everyone heads out for 3 days of well-earned R&R!

"This unique experience was the most significant event that has ever occurred in my life. The nine people that I shared this Iceland adventure with sit in a special part of my heart and I will never forget them. I matured from this trip, and I learned about myself ... Even though my trip only lasted one month, in my mind this was so meaningful... and I will cherish my experience as long as I live."

Justin Monsen, New York
-- Iceland