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Study Tours and Short-Term Study Abroad

Study tours abroad, - featured study tours -.

Riga Winter Break

Navruz in Uzbekistan

Georgia Spring Break

We also offer online courses and virtual events .  Contact us about faculty-led or other custom options.

How Much Does It Cost To Study Abroad?

• Program:   Each program page  gives its specific pricing information. SRAS offers a variety of program choices of varying length and cost.
• Cost of Living:  Students report spending between $60-90 per week in most locations for food, transport, and entertainment.
• Housing:  With very few exceptions, SRAS programs include housing. See  each program page  for more information.
• Airfare:  Our  International Airfare Guide  can give you some pointers on getting the best price for tickets to and from your study abroad destination.

Studying Abroad for Educators

• Ideas and material for the classroom
• Ability to better advise your students heading abroad
• Networking with colleagues
• Affordable access to less accessible destinations
• Inspiration for faculty-led custom programs
• Opportunities for faculty and administrators to visit lesser known places in Eurasia that we feel have great potential for custom programming.

Talk to an Expert about Study Tours and Short-Term Study Abroad

Studying abroad is a big decision. You should make sure that your experience will advance your academic, personal, and professional goals. We encourage you join an  info session  or  contact us  with any questions.

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At Stetson, we’ve used SRAS to arrange all of our student study abroad trips for the past five or six years. During that time we’ve sent dozens of students on summer- and semester-long programs in Moscow, St Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod and Irkutsk. In every interaction I’ve had with them, SRAS has been prompt, reliable, knowledgable, courteous and quick to lend a hand when needed.

Just yesterday my student successfully defended her honors thesis on environmentalism around Lake Baikal, a project that would not have been possible without the fieldwork that she conducted on her SRAS study abroad program in Irkutsk. I hope to see more such projects in the future and will keep directing students to SRAS programs!

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WEST MEETS EAST - ANCIENT MEETS MODERN

• Oct 10, 2023

International Study Tour Topics(1 of 30) - We Open the World for You

Updated: Oct 13, 2023

"We Open the World for You: The Transformative Power of International Study Tours"

International Study Tour Topics Catalogue

The Benefits of International Study Tours for Students

Choosing the Right Destination for an International Study Tour

Planning and Organizing an International Study Tour

Cultural Immersion and Language Learning during Study Tours

The Impact of International Study Tours on Global Perspective

Balancing Academics and Exploration during Study Tours

Sustainable Tourism and Ethical Considerations in Study Tours

Enhancing Interpersonal Skills through International Study Tours

Overcoming Challenges and Adapting to New Environments during Study Tours

Promoting Cross-Cultural Understanding through Study Tours

The Role of Technology in Facilitating International Study Tours

Collaborative Learning and Team Building on Study Tours

Safety and Security Measures for International Study Tours

Parental and Institutional Support for Students on Study Tours

International Study Tours and Career Development Opportunities

The Role of Tour Guides and Facilitators in Study Tours

Experiencing Art, History, and Architecture on International Study Tours

Impact of International Study Tours on Personal Growth and Confidence

Alumni Perspectives: How Study Tours Influence Long-Term Success

Exploring Local Cuisine and Food Culture during Study Tours

Environmental and Ecological Awareness on Study Tours

Learning from Global Business Practices on Study Tours

The Influence of Politics and Governance on International Study Tours

Integrating Service Learning Projects in Study Tours

Exploring Natural Wonders and Landmarks on Study Tours

Comparative Education: Contrasting Educational Systems on Study Tours

Study Tours in the Age of Virtual and Augmented Reality

Artistic and Creative Inspiration from International Study Tours

The Role of Travel Writing and Photography in Capturing Study Tour Experiences

Promoting Social Justice and virtue/morality Awareness on Study Tours

Chapter 1: The Benefits of Students Participating in International Study Tours

International study tours provide students with invaluable learning and developmental opportunities. This experience not only complements traditional classroom education but also plays a crucial role in personal growth and cultivating a global perspective. Here are some key benefits of students participating in international study tours:

1. Cultural Immersion and Language Learning: International study tours expose students to different cultural environments, encouraging them to understand and respect people from diverse backgrounds. Students have the opportunity to learn and practice various languages, enhancing their language skills and cross-cultural communication abilities.

2. Broadening Global Perspectives: By experiencing the lifestyles, social systems, and cultural traditions of different countries and regions firsthand, students' global perspectives are expanded. They gain a better understanding of the world's diversity, nurturing a more open-minded way of thinking.

3. Extending Academic Knowledge: International study tours can be integrated with classroom learning, allowing students to learn through practical experiences. For example, students can explore historical landmarks, artistic works, or ecosystems, leading to a deeper understanding of academic subjects.

4. Confidence and Independence: Participating in international study tours alone, students face new challenges and decisions. Problem-solving, adapting to new environments, and living independently enhance their confidence and independence.

5. Interpersonal Skills: International study tours often require students to collaborate with other students and locals, improving their interpersonal skills and teamwork spirit.

6. Cross-Cultural Understanding: Students have the opportunity to interact with people from different backgrounds, discovering commonalities and differences. This helps to eliminate biases and promotes cross-cultural understanding and respect.

7. Career Development Opportunities: International study tours offer valuable experiences related to future career development. In a globalized world, students who possess in-depth knowledge of cross-cultural communication and collaboration are more competitive.

8. Broadening Horizons: International study tours take students out of their familiar environments, exposing them to new experiences and ways of life, fostering enthusiasm and a spirit of exploration.

In conclusion, students participating in international study tours embark on a journey of exploration, learning, and personal growth. Through such experiences, they benefit from cultural immersion, global perspectives, personal development, and future career opportunities. The education sector should encourage and support more students to engage in such study tours, enabling them to become more inclusive and open-minded global citizens in the era of globalization.

For complete article of 30 topics, please download here:

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STUDY TOUR INFORMATION

The TOP study tour opportunities are made possible by the public and private partners of the Transatlantic Outreach Program: the Federal Foreign Office of Germany, the Goethe-Institut, Deutsche Bank AG, and Siemens AG. The submission deadline for 2024 TOP study tour applications has passed. Applications for the 2025 TOP study tours will be posted here in the fall.

INTRODUCTION

Eligibility, frequently asked questions.

Since 2002, the Transatlantic Outreach Program (TOP) has offered fully funded professional development study tours to Germany for social studies and STEM educators from the United States and Canada. The purpose of the TOP study tours is to offer educators a multi-faceted understanding of important issues in contemporary Germany and the European Union and to equip them with information, resources, and networks that they can use in their instruction to increase their students' global competency. If you want to take part in meaningful professional development and have an adventurous international experience with other passionate and inquisitive educators, we invite you to apply! TOP study tours are typically two weeks in length. Successful applicants will begin their TOP study tour experience by attending pre-departure webinars before traveling with the group to Germany. Groups usually stay in two to three German cities (both small and large) and visit schools, businesses, government offices, non-profits and civic organizations, historical sites, museums, etc. Please note that TOP study tours are fast-paced and often physically demanding! The majority of participants' time in Germany is scheduled as a group within the context of a comprehensive daily program, starting early in the morning and concluding late in the evening. Participants travel and learn together in groups of 12-15 educators who come from all over the United States and Canada, bringing a variety of different backgrounds, perspectives, and areas of focus to the experience. TOP study tours are not ideal for those who typically benefit the most from solo, unscheduled travel. TOP seeks to create diverse – and therefore multifaceted and inspiring – travel groups and we welcome and encourage social studies and STEM educators from all communities to apply! Knowledge of the German language is not a requirement; all study tour events will take place in or be translated to English. Over 1,800 social studies and STEM educators have traveled to Germany with TOP since 2002.

• Applicants must be employed full-time as an educator of social studies or STEM subjects in the Unites States or Canada.
• Applicants must submit a letter from their supervisor confirming their employment status as a full-time social studies or STEM educator in good standing.
• Eligible educator roles include classroom teachers (grades K-12), general education/elementary educators, university methods professors, curriculum coordinators, principals, applicable curriculum authors, applicable district, state, federal employees, etc.
• Applicants who feel they qualify as a social studies or STEM educator but do not fall within the aforementioned eligible roles should contact TOP directly.
• Instructional coaches, librarians, teaching assistants, part-time teachers, are not eligible to apply at this time.
• Opportunities for student-teachers may be announced at a later date.
• Opportunities for those seeking to learn about the German apprenticeship system may be announced at a later date.
• TOP Alumni are not elligible to re-apply.
• 8 June – 22 June, 2024 
• 22 June – 6 July, 2024 
• 6 July – 20 July, 2024 

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?

Can an applicant apply for both types of tours, what are the study tour dates, what is the cost.

• Airfare to Germany and back.
• Ground transportation in Germany (trains, busses, public transit).
• Accommodations in Germany – each participant will have their own hotel room.
• Two meals per day: typically breakfast and one group meal.
• Entrance fees for group visits to museums, historical sites, city tours, etc.
• Resources and materials for your classroom.

HOW PHYSICALLY INTENSE IS THE EXPERIENCE?

What is the travel itinerary, is german language fluency a requirement, when is the application deadline, how much time does the application require, what are the application requirements.

• Professional statement of purpose (3,000 characters).
• My contribution to the group (1,500 characters).
• Lesson plan (4,500 characters).

WHAT IS THE EMPLOYMENT VERIFICATION LETTER?

How can an applicant improve their chances, what responsibilities do applicants have if accepted.

• TOP lesson plan authorship guide for social studies educators.
• TOP lesson plan authorship guide for STEM educators.

DO I NEED TO APPLY FOR A PASSPORT NOW?

When will applicants be notified, may participants extend their stay in germany, what about spouses/family members, experiencing difficulties with the application.

• Potential solution: check the SPAM inbox. If emails are not there, add "[email protected]" and/or emails from the "@goethe.de" domain to the "safe senders" list.
• Potential solution: try sending emails to a different address such as Gmail, Yahoo, etc.
• Potential solution: the supervisor should ask the applicant to log into GAP to re-send the email to the supervisor. The supervisor will receive a new email containing an updated link. This link should be used to upload the completed recommendation letter.
• Potential solution: the supervisor must create a GAP account using their default internet browser and be logged into the GAP portal in order to upload the letter. After the supervisor has completed the letter, they should open their default internet browser, log into GAP using their account information, then finally click the upload link in the email, which should open in a new tab/window in the same default browser. We will try to eliminate this step in the future.

Send an email to TOP.

Call TOP at +1 202 847 4700.

BACK TO THE TOP MAIN PAGE

15.228 SSIM MBA Study Tours

Study Tours empower MBA students to immerse themselves in global business contexts by proposing and planning tours with faculty and staff mentorship.

About MBA Study Tours

MIT Sloan's International Study Tours are uniquely student-led and organized. This 3-unit elective course is composed of four 3-hour classes in H1 of the spring semester, leading to a 2-week expedition during SIP Week and Spring Break . Backed by faculty and staff mentorship and a financial subsidy from MIT Sloan for both participants and organizers, students create tours to acquire business insights outside the U.S., and sharpen management skills. Annually, 3 trips are approved, accommodating 20 participants, 5 student organizers, and 2 staff. Enrollment is exclusive to MBA and LGO students. This course is eligible to meet the MBA 15.005 SIP degree requirement. Seize this distinct Sloan opportunity for hands-on global business exploration!

For Organizers

Guidance for planning your proposals, timeline, and more!

For Participants

Learn about the international study tours themes and destinations, and the application process  here

Application to join this course closes on Wednesday, November 29.

For Faculty and Staff

Review the 15.228 Participants Website here , access the comprehensive handbook and the Staff Mentor Deck here .

For questions, contact Paul Buckley , Student Life Office or Sheila Canalle , MBA Program Office

Retail Study Tour

retailstudytour.com

What is Study Tour?

So what exactly is a study tour? The answer to that question depends entirely on who you are and what you’re doing. Is it a group of people studying at a university, or is it just a student taking an extracurricular trip? There are many benefits to both types of trips, but I’ll touch on the main advantages here. Whether you’re looking for a field trip or studying abroad, a study tour is a great way to learn more about a new country.

If you are interested in an overseas study tour, you have come to the right place. With DIS Study Tours, you can explore cities across Europe, including London, Vienna, and the Netherlands. You can also visit Poland and the Faroe Islands. In addition, DIS also arranges trips to places such as Iceland and the Faroe Islands, which you can explore on a study tour. There are many advantages to studying abroad.

Group of people

A study tour is an educational trip designed to help a group of people learn more about another country’s education system. Typically, it will be accompanied by a university academic who teaches the course. A group may also have accompanying staff, which may be from the university itself or an external third-party organization. The accompanying staff may not be present when the study tour group arrives at its destination.

Before heading on a study tour, it is important to determine the purpose of the field trip. Study tours are great for exploring the world and learning about its different aspects. During the tour, students will gain valuable insight into the different cultures and ways of life. The goal of a study tour is to help students become aware of the world and its people, and the faculty member leading the tour will be an excellent resource for this purpose. Faculty members should also have a thorough knowledge of the area they will visit in order to assist students with their questions.

Experiential learning

One way to learn from experience is to take a study tour. Study tours provide students with a first-hand look at a particular country’s culture, history, and geography. In addition, students can engage in hands-on activities such as cooking, shopping, and hiking, as well as attend seminars, workshops, and other educational events. Study tours are also excellent opportunities to meet people from other countries and explore their local culture.

Site visits

In addition to classroom lessons, site visits are an important component of study tours. In addition to gaining insight into different work environments, these site visits allow students to learn about career transitions from company employees. The BU’s BEST program designs site visits for students in different career tracks. Here are some tips for students considering a site visit:

For educators, Study tour excursions offer the opportunity to deepen their knowledge of the world. This knowledge can be used to enrich the cultural exchange within their classrooms and communities. Participants travel with other educators who have the same interest in global exploration and cultural exchange. The purpose of these tours is to help participants learn from others and foster long-term partnerships. To learn more about Study tour excursions, read on. Here are three examples of what to expect during a study tour.

Academic content

The academic content of a study tour is a crucial aspect of the educational process. Students travel to a European country and meet with academics, business experts, and government officials to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s policies. Students will complete as much on-site research as possible. The topics of previous study tours have ranged from EU enlargement to the Euro financial crisis. During the study tour, students will gather in Brussels for lectures, meet with members of the European Parliament, and engage in a mini-parliament exercise.

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What Is An Educational Tour? How Educational Tour Does Benefit A Student?

What is an educational tour.

Presently students, in various fields of study, are participating in educational tours, to have a better and more practical view about their field of study. Now, the question is what is an educational tour? It was an unfathomed aspect of studying, even a few years back. Now, the schools, colleges, and universities are giving more importance to it as they provide a rich experience, an experience never felt before.

Educational tours are immersive group touring experiences that students participate in a group. They engage, play, and learn along with the program in a practical and a more entertaining way. These experiential learning programs increase their overall learning experience by taking them to new places.

An educational tour is of great fun, but people with little idea about it may confuse it with vacations. This is the primary thing that should be kept in mind. There are proper differences between educational tours and vacations. In student educational tours , the students are treated to a visual experience of what they have been learning so far, which has a deep impact on what they learn. Typically led by teachers and group chaperones, they get in touch with unlimited global learning and get a firsthand experience of various cultures. They gain the capacity to appreciate different corners of the world and as they socialize and interact with the local people, they have a broader perspective of life.

Benefits of educational tours

Let us have a look into the multitude of benefits, educational tours have.

Interacting with locals:

When it is simple classroom teaching, the students see the world through a glass, which their teacher asks them to wear. They are not exposed to the various thoughts and perspectives of the people in other parts of the world or the country. When they interact with people from different cultures, not only will they learn about different views, values, and perspectives but they will also learn to empathize with them. There are various aspects of social interaction like greeting or acceptable topics of discussion. The students will get enlightened about all of them.

Connecting different issues:

Whatever is read in the history books, will have no significance, till that place is visited and the flavors are smelled. When the students study various historical issues and form an idea about a certain culture, often they might have a wrong notion regarding a culture. They will learn in a more concrete way and understand how political, socioeconomic, political and other environmental issues are connected, once they tie their shoelaces for educational field trips. Most importantly, the B2B educational trip organizers in India organize various experiential activities, helping the children to benefit more from the outings. They can be asked to maintain journals and take interesting photos to have a valuable contribution to their knowledge.

Instilling a passion for traveling: 

As portrayed beautifully by the legendary Satyajit Ray, in his film Agantuk, learning is incomplete without traveling. During the tours, students are guided not through the pages of the book but by experiences. The learning becomes more enjoyable through travels and the students have a broadened understanding of the world. Some of them might even realize their passion for knowing more about countries and cultures and turn it into a rewarding career. 

Cultural observation:

On a good educational tour, the students experience the nuances of a different culture. Again the organizers arrange for activities like volunteering or intermingling with people from different socioeconomic backgrounds. These experiences help the students to develop a deep understanding of how a country is run, what more needs to be done, and what are the scopes for development. They can get inspired to work towards a change.

With their experiences in different cultures, the students will learn to introspect the situations in their homeland in a different way. Once they become aware of the situations affecting other parts of the country or the world, they can work for a change in their own state, city or country. By this time, there must be a fair idea of how an educational tour does benefit a student.

Student educational tours-A new approach to education

There is a very famous saying in education, “Education is what remains when you forget everything you have learned. The same is the condition of our education system, in India. We are only taught to remember the language of the books and apply it in the exams. It is like committing to memory and vomiting in exams. Our education system is highly administered by how much marks we are getting at the end of the day. The same syllabus repeats itself year after year and it ends up in the students depending on rote learning, to quantify how much they have learned.

This educational tour in India is of great importance. We have to understand that Newton formulated the laws of gravitation, only when he was sitting under an apple tree and not when he was in his classroom. The present system of education in India also has very little place for extracurricular activities but boast of full personality development. The current approach of studying science subjects has also become rotten and is not able to amaze the students with the wonders of science.

So the question arises, what is the remedy? The answer is to change the system of education drastically. More experimental and practical teaching has to be done. When a geography book teaches about stalactites and stalagmites, the students should be taken to a place with these geographical formations, to understand what these objects actually are. Thus a school trip India is the need of the hour.

Educational tour itinerary

When planning an itinerary for educational tours, the schools or colleges should always plan it with a professional educational travel consultant. The tour guides should be well versed with the conditions in the streets and the stories revolving the places of attractions. The educational travel consultants should have qualified individuals to work for a well planned educational tour. The goal of an educational trip is to deliver the greatest standards of learning experience to the group and to keep the travel tour on schedule.

For a proper trip, an educational tour itinerary should be planned much before the tour. An experienced tour operator focuses on various activities based on acquiring life skills. This is known as experiential learning. These activities are designed and conducted in an interactive ambiance so that the students learn everything but in an informal environment. They do not have to keep themselves confined within the four walls of the classroom and restrict themselves from asking questions.

Some Insights:

• Ideally, to make the kids familiar with every member of the trip, there should be a welcome speech and formal introduction to every member of the group. The children should be made aware of the go-to persons of the group in case of emergencies, like the chaperones, the destination experts, etc. After that, breakfast can be served and the expedition for the nearby places of attraction can be started. Otherwise, the students can be asked to engage in the activities, scheduled for them.
• For visiting a place like a museum, there can be group activities. The entire group can be divided into teams and activities can be charted out for them. These activities will help in the development of skills like team building, time management, and leadership. After the visit, children can assemble for their lunch.
• By the end of the day, some informal activities can be arranged. Also, if it is a one day trip, they can start preparing to come back. If it is more than a day’s trip, the same schedule can be followed the next day as well. The only thing that is to be kept in mind that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. So, there should be ample scopes for the students to enjoy their trip as well.

Industrial visits for college students

The college life basically prepares the students to get ready for life. The college students have to get ready for the big bad world, both professionally and personally. If along with classroom learning, industrial trips can be arranged for them, their education will be complete from all spheres. Industrial visits have their own importance, especially in shaping the career of a student who is pursuing a professional degree. Industrial visits are considered an important part of a college curriculum and the purpose of these visits are to provide the students with insights regarding how a company works.

Theoretical knowledge is never sufficient for making a good professional career. If the students aim to go beyond academics, they have to participate in industrial visits to get practical exposure to their preferred field of work. Thus, industrial visits for college students are of great importance. The college trips also help in invoking a sense of entrepreneurship among the students. Today’s world is in search of entrepreneurs to help boost economic conditions. Industrial visits provide an excellent opportunity for the students, to interact with the industries and know more about the industrial policies, rules, regulations and in short the industrial environment.

These visits are considered to be one of the most tactical methods of teaching and the main reason behind this is that they let the students learn practically, merely by interaction, employment practices, and working methods. The students also get exposure from the academic point of view. Thus, there is an emerging need for a good and reliable college trip organizer with good contacts in the industry.

Need and significance of study tour

Proper education is not only about reading books and solving questions but also attaining knowledge by experiencing them practically. Practical experience is an integral part of education. Thus, traveling adds to our experience and knowledge and should be considered an important part of education.

In this connection, traveling to places has two purposes, pleasure and acquiring experience. In both cases, knowledge is bound to be derived. As far as we are interested in education and traveling, traveling should be made compulsory for students. The need and significance of study tour can be enumerated as follows:

• Whatever is studied from the textbooks, have to be verified in the light of reality. Only when this is done, the knowledge earned from the books can be implemented easily. For achieving this condition, there must be sufficient opportunities for traveling in the form of educational tours and excursions.
• There are certain subjects that cannot be learned from textbooks. Subjects like Geography and History and some branches of science have to be highlighted by experiential practices. For perfect knowledge in these subjects, the students must be patronized and inspired to go on educational tours.
• Last but not least, education without pleasure is always ineffectual and prosaic. The process of education in which there are recreational facilities proves to be most effective.

How to organize educational tours?

It is always advisable to take the help of school trip organizers, or college tour organizers whether it is a day trip or something more extensive. There should be fun as well as some learning to keep everyone engaged. Some tips to keep in mind before educational tours are organized are:

Planning should be done in advance:

Planning a trip for the students takes a much longer time than what actually thinks. If it is an international journey, there should be a proper arrangement of visas. If there is a larger group, the accommodation part has to be looked after, well in advance. The logistics part has to be sorted first, before the fun and the educational activities are arranged.

The costs should be kept down:

The costs of travel should always be minimized as much as possible. Some of the students might not be able to attend if the costs are too high. The trip should be made accessible to as many students as possible. This will be the real success of an educational trip.

The students and the parents have to be prepared:

The trip leader should set up the last meeting with the students and the parents before the journey starts. This will be the time when he or she will get to know any kind of medication prescribed for a particular student. Also, he/ she will get a chance to make the rules and regulations clear and inform the students about anything he wants them to bring for the journey.

Group activities should be planned:

The activities should be planned beforehand to make sure that on the day, they are carried out, there is no confusion and there is a smooth implementation of all of them.

Educational tour companies

Nowadays, many primary and secondary schools and colleges are attached to specialized school and college tour operators. These school tour operators and college trip organizers work along with the educators and teachers and make their tasks easy. This is a very recent concept, wherein the organizers lend their expertise to work towards a fruitful learning journey for the students, in the form of traveling. Now, why are they so vital for the educational system?

They help in adopting an interactive style of teaching by organizing field trips, both domestic and international. They help in going for experiential learning. What is experiential learning? As the name suggests, experiential learning is learning with the help of experience. The benefits of experiential learning are many.

• It helps in the immediate application of knowledge in order to solve real-life problems and real-world challenges.
• Experiential learning has a debriefing session where the learners receive feedback after the completion of every session. Thus, they attain more experience and perfection.
• Reading a book or attending lectures never helps in having the same experience as an actual activity helps in having. It builds effective communication skills and proper teamwork.
• When a learner can self-monitor how much he or she has learned, that is considered the best form of learning. Experiential learning helps in self-introspection and having a smooth transition from being a novice to an expert.
• As there is a 360-degree feedback loop, pouring in from all quarters, the learners can improve to a great extent, through experiential learning. In the traditional system of learning, the only measurement of success is sitting for an exam and getting scores.

Think of Pencil Voyages When You Think Of A Great Learning Experience

The search for an experienced and able tour operator ends in Pencil Voyages, who have been conducting activity-based tours for a long time now. Some exclusive services provided by them are:

• Creating exclusive experiences for the students, by organizing for them customized excursions. We have programs for schools, colleges, universities and other educational and skill development organizations.
• We ensure that our trips are capable of developing teamwork skills, leadership and building self-confidence. All our trips are professionally guided and maximize experiential learning.

Specializing in educational trips, adventure tours, industrial visits, domestic excursions, special interest tours, and international expeditions. Speak with our experts to know about all our programs now.

Home » Campus Life » University Honors Program » Honors Experiences and Opportunities » Honors Seminars/How to Register » Study Abroad and Study Tours

Study Abroad and Study Tours

Uhp study tours, frequently asked questions.

• Can I apply to more than one program? Yes, you can apply to as many as you like!
• Do these count as an Honors experience? Yes, all seminars count as an Honors experience upon successful completion.
• Can I go on multiple programs? Yes, if you can fit them into your schedule, you can travel on multiple programs in a semester.
• Do I need a passport? Yes, you need a valid passport with at least six months of validity to travel abroad.
• Do I need a visa to enter any of these countries? It depends on your nationality and the travel destination. We will work with individual programs on any visa requirements.
• Is there a fee to apply? No, there is no fee to apply for a study tour.
• What does the program fee cover? The program fee covers all group logistics: flights, hotels, group transportation, group tours, group meals, etc. It DOES NOT cover personal expenses such as personal meals, passports, visas, vaccinations, luggage fees, etc.
• Do I have to book my own flight or hotel? No, we will arrange all of this.
• Is the travel component optional? No, the travel component is considered part of the course. Students who enroll in seminars with a travel component should plan on traveling with the group barring extenuating circumstances.
• When are study tour applications due? The initial round of applications are typically due the second week of the semester prior to the study tour running (mid-September and end of January). However, we often do several rounds of applications to fill classes.
• How many students are on each study tour? It depends, most programs are around 20 students, but some have smaller enrollments of around 12 students.
• What’s the application process like? Most programs have a competitive application process; we may easily receive 2-3 times more applicants than open spots. All study tours will have an interview component with the faculty leader. Once the faculty leader completes the interviews, they will send a list of students to invite, to waitlist, and to decline. Students are then notified of their status. Students who apply during the initial round will know their status before priority registration.

Any questions not answered please  email Ashley Webber .

Study Abroad and International Travel Resources

For information on  other UC study abroad programs  offered outside of University Honors, visit   UC International's online database . All UC students who participate in a study abroad program or international experience are  required to attend a pre-departure orientation  session with UC International Programs.

The University may amend, modify or rescind any information, policies, guidelines, rules, procedures or regulations that relate or apply to study abroad and may incorporate new terms and conditions that apply to study abroad, at its sole discretion.  Students enrolled in such programs will be expected to comply with all rules, policies, guidelines, and requirements of any jurisdiction to which they are travelling.  To the extent permitted by law, any student’s failure to comply with such university and/or foreign jurisdiction’s, policies, guidelines, or requirements may result in the student not being able to complete participation in study abroad. 

• Italy  - Spring 2020 (study tour cancelled)
• France and England  - Spring 2022 (study tour cancelled)
• Iceland  - Spring 2022 (study tour moved to Fall 2022)
• Brazil  - Spring 2022 (seminar cancelled)
• Vampires, Monsters, and Monstrosity- Spring 2021 (study tour cancelled)
• World Folklore and Traditions- Spring 2021 (study tour cancelled)
• International Institutions- Spring 2021 (study tour cancelled)
• Austria and Hungary - Fall 2020 (study tour cancelled)
• Colombia - Fall 2020 (study tour cancelled)
• Montreal, Canada - Fall 2020 (study tour cancelled)
• Portugal  - Spring 2020 (study tour cancelled)
• Tanzania  - Spring 2020 (class cancelled)
• Brazil  - Spring 2020 (study tour cancelled)
• Greece and Egypt  - Fall 2019
• France and England  - Fall 2019
• Montreal, Canada  - Fall 2019
• Iceland  - Fall 2019
• Scotland  - Spring 2019
• Belgium and The Netherlands  - Spring 2019
• Israel  - Spring 2019
• Chile  - Fall 2018
• Montreal, Canada  - Fall 2018
• Germany  - Fall 2018
• United Kingdom  - Fall 2018
• Brazilian Amazon  - Spring 2018
• Rome, Italy  - Spring 2018
• Vienna, Austria  - Spring 2018
• Montreal, Canada  - Fall 2017
• Cuba  - Fall 2017
• France and England  - Fall 2017
• Ireland  - Spring 2017
• Dubai, UAE  - Spring 2017
• Cuba  - Spring 2017
• Scotland  - Spring 2017
• Rome, Italy  - Spring 2016
• Brazilian Amazon  - Spring 2016
• South Africa & Botswana  - Spring 2016
• Iceland  - Spring 2016 
• Scotland, UK  - Spring 2016
• Brussels, Belgium & The Hague, Netherlands  - Spring 2016
• Vienna, Austria  - Spring 2016
• London, UK & Paris/Normandy, France  - Fall 2015
• Montreal, Canada  - Fall 2015
• Paris, France  - Spring 2015
• Florence & Rome, Italy  - Spring 2015
• Tanzania  - Spring 2015
• New York City  - Spring 2015

Since 2002, the National Association of Fellowships Advisors has coordinated biennial summer study tours for fellowship advisors.

Previous trips have taken us to Germany, the United Kingdom, Ireland, China, and Taiwan. These study tours allow fellowship advisors to become familiar with universities, higher education systems, and the foundations that sponsor scholarships and fellowships for study in these countries.

Upcoming Study Tours

2024 study tour - germany and austria, germany and austria study tour, sunday, may 12 – wednesday, may 22, 2024.

Program fee: $2,300 (single room) or $1,850 (double room) – some meals included Registration limited to 30 participants. Register here .

A great professional development tradition returns with our Study Tour to Germany and Austria from May 12 – 22, 2024! Join fellow NAFAns visiting scholarship foundations, educational and research institutions, and cultural attractions in Berlin, Weimar, and Vienna. Deadline to apply is March 29, 2024.

Questions? Please contact Study Tour Committee Chair Susan Albrecht ( [email protected] ).

DRAFT ITINERARY

ALL Items Subject to Change Until Confirmed. Similar institutions will be substituted if any below cannot host us on desired dates. Scholarship participants and alumni may be met at different tour stops than listed below.

All lodging, transportation, daily breakfast and selected other meals are included.

Sunday, May 12

• Individual arrival at Berlin hotel by 5:00 PM local time
• Welcome dinner; Program Outline

Monday, May 13 to Wednesday, May 15 (Berlin, Germany)

• Visit the German Parliament.
• Meet representatives and current participants in Fulbright, DAAD, CBYX, and International Parliamentary Scholarships.
• Meet with representatives of six Berlin area universities.
• Walking tour of the central city.
• A day trip will also be taken to either Potsdam or Frankfurt Oder (TBD) for a university visit and exploration.

Thursday, May 16 to Saturday, May 18  (Weimar, Germany)

• Including a city in the former East was a must for tour planners, as we wanted to offer advisors the chance to experience a taste of an area of Germany that is often overlooked by US fellowship applicants.
• Visit universities, research institutes, and cultural attractions.
• Meet with competitive fellowship awardees.
• Take a walking tour of Weimar.

Sunday, May 19 to Tuesday, May 21 (Vienna, Austria)

• Walking tour of Vienna
• Visit University of Vienna, Viennese University of Economics
• Visit Fulbright Austria Commission, OeAD (Agency for Education and Internationalization), U.S. Embassy Vienna
• Meet with U.S. competitive fellowship awardees in Vienna
• Cultural Events (scheduled and optional) listed closer to tour date
• Tour closing dinner, discussion, evaluation

Wednesday, May 22

• End of Germany-Austria Study Tour; Depart for home or elsewhere…

Germany/Austria Study Tour FAQ

Q. What is the deadline to apply? A. The deadline is March 29, but space is limited! With a maximum of 30 participants, registering sooner rather than later is highly advisable – whether you seek single- or double-occupancy.

Q. Is there an option for a double room? A. Yes! In a first for NAFA Study Tours, a limited number of double rooms are available for NAFA participants. Registration is first come, first served, so line up a roommate to register together (or let us know your gender preference) as soon as possible.

Q. What does it mean to say registration is first-come, first-served? A. There are a firm 6 spots available for double occupancy and 24 for single occupancy. If the doubles fill early, later registrants will only be able to register at the single rate. If the single rooms all fill early, the only way to register will be to select double occupancy.

Q. What costs are covered in the Tour fee? A. All lodging, in-country transportation for items on the Tour itinerary, and listed cultural events are fully covered by the fee, as well as daily breakfasts, three lunches, and five dinners. Airfare, other meals, incidental expenses and souvenirs, and transportation costs outside of the listed itinerary points are not included in the Tour fee and must be paid individually.

Q. Will I need to pay the full amount at registration? A. No, you will be charged a non-refundable $300 deposit, which may be paid via credit card or by check to be received by March 29, 2024. Payment of the remaining balance will be due by May 1, 2024.

Q. What are the exact dates of the Tour, with arrival and departure times? A. We ask that all registered participants arrive at the Berlin hotel by 5:00 PM on Sunday, May 12 th, and plan to depart Vienna no earlier than the morning of Wednesday, May 22 nd .

Q. So the Tour starts in one city and ends in another? A. Yes. We begin in Berlin, travel to Weimar, and end the Tour in Vienna.

Q. Where can I find out what the Tour stops are? A. A draft itinerary is available above. Note that lodging and dates in each city are set, but other items are subject to change until confirmed closer to the departure date.

Q. Do I need a visa to take part in the Tour? A. If you are a U.S. citizen with a current, valid passport, no visa is required. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you are responsible for ensuring you can legally enter the European Union, Germany, and Austria prior to departure in May.

Q. I heard U.S. citizens might have to pay to enter the European Union. Is that true? A. Our current understanding is that this fee does not take effect until 2025. Should such a policy apply to our May 2024 trip, we will let you know immediately. Participants would have to cover that fee individually.

Q. I have (friends, students, colleagues) in Germany and Austria who would love to see me. How can I meet up with them? A. We ask that Tour participants plan to take part in all scheduled events on the itinerary. However, there is free time built into the Tour (often evenings) to plan whatever you would like outside of official events. Any time marked “dinner on your own” could be an optimal time.

Q. Will there be vegetarian or vegan options for meals during the Tour? A. We are requesting all vendors for NAFA-organized meals provide a vegan option. You may note specific food allergies or dietary restrictions on your registration form, and we will do our best to accommodate these.

Q. Are all events, transportation, etc. accessible for those with disabilities? A. We are planning the Tour with maximum accessibility in mind. Do note we will be traveling by train and using public transportation for much of the Tour, including for hotel transfers, site visits, and city-to-city travel. If you require accommodations not typically available when using public transportation or train travel, please note this on your registration form and we will do our best to accommodate these.

Q. May my spouse or significant other be the second person in a double room and/or take part in Tour events? A. All rooms and events are reserved for NAFA members only. Spouses or significant others may shadow the Tour but should arrange their own lodging and not expect to take part in any official Tour events. We will generally pre-book and pre-pay for our group as a whole. However, for any event that is truly free and open (e.g., a city walk hosted by one of our co-leaders), partners would be welcome to come along.

Q. Do I need to speak or understand German to take part in the Tour? A. Nein! All events will be held in English, and the Tour leaders are fluent in German (some even in Austrian dialects!) if interpretation is needed.

Q. With whom will we be meeting in Germany and Austria, and who are my co-participants on the Tour ? A. Biographies of those we are meeting with will be available closer to the Tour date. We will also be requesting your biosketch prior to departure to let others on the Tour and our hosts know who each of us are, too.

Q. I’ve never been to Germany or Austria. Is there a way to get a brief orientation or cultural tips beforehand? A. Our team will be providing a list of resources and we also hope to hold a couple of online information sessions prior to departure.

Q. Do I need to purchase insurance for my trip? A. That will be a decision left up to you. Do note that NAFA is not responsible for travel cancellation or interruption, damage, loss, or theft of luggage and/or personal belongings, or for personal injury, accident and/or illness, so it is recommended that you have adequate insurance to cover these possibilities. Insurance packages are normally available through your airlines. GeoBlue is an oft-recommended provider whose coverage also includes evacuation.

Q. Are there options for family, friends, and colleagues to keep up with our travels? A. Yes, we plan to blog daily during the Tour and are looking for volunteers!

Past Study Tour Recaps

2020 virtual study tours recap – marshall mondays.

Due to COVID-19, the 2020 Study Tour went virtual. NAFA partnered with Marshall Scholarships to organize Marshall Mondays Brunch & Learn. This experience offered virtual tours, an introduction to university programs, lectures, and meetings with scholars.

Each Monday from June 1–August 14, the following campuses hosted a virtual event; recordings from these are available in the Member Library :

• University of Exeter
• University of Birmingham
• University of Southhampton
• University College London
• University of Warwick
• University of Manchester
• University of Liverpool
• University of Bristol
• University of East Anglia
• University of Nottingham
• Imperial College
• University of Durham
• University of Kent

2018 Study Tours Recap – China and United Kingdom

China Study Tour – May 8–17, 2018 Leaders: CET Academic Programs and NAFAns Charlotte Evans & Brian Souders Twenty NAFA members traveled to three cities in China in May 2018: Beijing, Harbin, and Nanjing. They visited Schwarzman College, Yenching Academy, Princeton in Asia, Fulbright scholars based in China, CET Beijing, the Hopkins-Nanjing Center, and more.

Read more about the 2018 China Study Tour

United Kingdom Study Tour – June 3–15, 2018 Leaders: NAFAns LuAnn Saunders-Kanabay & Barbara Wise; Mary Denyer, Marshall Scholarship Administration This ever-popular tour was sponsored by the Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission, with cooperation from the Rhodes Trust at Oxford, the Gates Cambridge Trust at Cambridge and the Fulbright UK Commission at selected sites. To Cardiff and back, attendees learned about UK postgraduate education and funding, experienced select universities, and met with fellowship recipients.

Read more about the 2018 Study Tour

2016 Study Tours Recap – United Kingdom, Germany, and Taiwan

United Kingdom Study Tour – June 2016 To Glasgow and Back! Thirty-four NAFAns learned about UK postgraduate education and funding and visited 17 universities in June 2016. Sponsored by the Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission, Mary Denyer (Assistant Secretary and Head of Scholarship Administration) again hosted and arranged this ever-popular tour with cooperation from the Rhodes Trust and the Rothmere Institute at Oxford, the Gates Cambridge Trust at Cambridge, and the Fulbright UK Commission at selected sites.

Read more about the 2016 UK Study Tour

Germany Study Tour – June 2016 Nineteen NAFAns met with representatives from nine funding agencies and visited universities and research institutions that are members of the German Excellence Initiative. The tour was generously organized and supported by Fulbright Germany and the DAAD. NAFAns traveled to Berlin, Dresden, and Leipzig. Participants also met with U.S. students and fellowship recipients who shared their firsthand experiences with those programs.

Read more about the 2016 Germany Study Tour

Taiwan Study Tour – March 10–20, 2016 The Foundation for Scholarly Exchange (i.e., Fulbright Taiwan) and the Taiwan Ministry of Education, International Division, hosted members of the National Association of Fellowships Advisors in Taiwan. Led by Brian Souders and Jeanne Sokoloski, the Taiwan trip was the first, exploratory NAFA trip to Asia. A group of 12 NAFA members visited major Taiwanese universities where Fulbright partnership awards are offered (National Chengchi University, Cheng Kung University, and National Taiwan University), in addition to visiting two Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship sites throughout the country. The group benefited from being introduced to the Taiwanese education system; took part in discussions with the Ministries of Education and Foreign Affairs; met with Foreign Service Officers at the American Institute in Taiwan (the unofficial American embassy); and were introduced to the fellowships available in Taiwan to U.S. students and faculty.

Read more about the Taiwan Study Tour

2014 Study Tours Recap – United Kingdom

United Kingdom – June 2014 NAFAns traveled from London to Cardiff, to Southampton, to Reading and East Anglia, visiting 14 different institutions of higher education. During the site visits, participants met with university administrators, as well as with U.S. students who were studying in the UK. Universities included UCL, Imperial, Kings College, Royal Holloway, Reading, Oxford, Bristol, Cardiff, Surrey, Southampton, Birmingham, Nottingham, East Anglia, and Cambridge.

2012 Study Tours Recap – United Kingdom and Washington, D.C.

United Kingdom Study Tour – May 2012 Study tour took participants “on the road,” traveling from London to Edinburgh to Cardiff, visiting with 13 different institutions of higher education. Accompanied by Mary Denyer, assistant secretary and head of Scholarship Administration of the Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission, participants were hosted by many of the institutions. During the site visits, participants met with university administrators, as well as with American students who are currently studying in the UK. The agenda included the Universities of Southampton, Cambridge, Durham, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Imperial, UCL, Kings, Bristol, Cardiff, Keele, Warwick, and Oxford.

Washington D.C. Study Tour – June 2012 This tour provided participants with a range of intensive workshops including a “science day” with visits to the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, and presentations from other relevant foundations (e.g., Goldwater, EPA, DoD/SMART). There were also half-day workshops on the UK/Ireland (Marshall, Mitchell, Gates Cambridge, Rhodes), IIE (Fulbright, Gilman, Boren, Freeman-Asia), and Truman/Udall. Participants traveled using the easily accessible Metro system. The tour also included a group dinner and an evening of entertainment at either the Capital Steps or Pal Joey.

2010 Study Tours Recap – Germany

Germany Study Tour – January 2010 NAFAns traveled to Germany on a tour organized and supported by both the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the German Fulbright Commission. Participants learned about the German educational system and various fellowship opportunities, some of which fund professional internships. Scholarship advisors were able to talk with faculty and administrators during site visits to a variety of institutions.

2008 Study Tours Recap – United Kingdom and Germany

United Kingdom Study Tour This was the fourth time members of NAFA traveled to the United Kingdom to visit universities and meet with fellowship organizations. The weeklong tour went to London, Oxford, and Cambridge. Representatives from various universities throughout the UK also met NAFAns in London. Thank you to Mary Denyer, assistant secretary & head of scholarship administration of the Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission, for organizing this tour.

Germany Study Tour – June 2008 During the first-ever Germany Study Tour, 26 NAFAns traveled to universities and met with students in Berlin, Bonn, and cities in Bavaria over the course of 10 days. The tour was generously subsidized by both the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the German Fulbright Commission.

2006 Study Tours Recap – United Kingdom and Ireland

United Kingdom Study Tour – June/July 2006 NAFAns spent four days at Cambridge for a symposium. The following universities gave presentations: The University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, London School of Economics and Political Science, University College London, University of Manchester, School of Oriental and African Studies, Cardiff University, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Courtauld Institute of Art, University of East Anglia, University of Bradford, and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. The group then traveled through Southern England (including a visit to Rhodes House, Oxford) and Wales before taking a ferry to Dublin, Ireland. While in Dublin, the group visited a number of Irish universities.

2004 Study Tours Recap – United Kingdom and Ireland

United Kingdom and Ireland Study Tour – June 2004 Members of NAFA were able to experience first-hand higher education in England, Ireland, and Northern Ireland through site visits to universities. Participants were able to choose one week in either England or Ireland or both weeks. The following visits were part of this tour: London School of Economics and Politics, Imperial College, School of Oriental and African Studies, University College London, Cambridge, Oxford, Warwick, Manchester, and Westminster.

In Ireland, the following sites were visited: University of Ulster, Queens University Belfast, Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, Dublin City University, National University of Ireland, Cork, Limerick, and Maynooth.

2002 Study Tours Recap – United Kingdom

United Kingdom Study Tour – June 2002 NAFA members visited universities in England and Scotland:

• England: London School of Economics and Politics, School of Oriental and African Studies, Imperial College, Oxford Brooks, Oxford, Cambridge, York, Durham.
• Scotland: Edinburgh, St. Andrews

NAFA’s purpose is to promote educational, ethical, and equitable fellowships practices.

NAFA is not able to work directly with individual scholarship seekers. If you are a college-level student in search of merit-based awards, please contact your university for guidance.

National Association of Fellowships Advisors 800 N 22nd St Richmond, VA 23223

[email protected]

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Study Tours give MBA students the opportunity to explore the economic, political, and cultural contexts of business in regions around the world. Tours are proposed by students, who then partner with faculty and staff mentors to plan the tour content and logistics. A student organizing team identifies a theme they are passionate about and designs a series of for credit classes and a 2 week trip in March, during SIP and Spring Break, to explore this in detail. Student participants have the opportunity to learn about the theme and experience specific challenges associated with it first-hand. In addition they meet, learn from, and exchange ideas with business and government leaders outside of the US. If you are a current Sloan MBA student interested in organizing or going on a study tour,  check here  for further details.

Sloanies on Study Tour

A sample of what Sloanies do on MIT Sloan Study Tours!

China Study Tour

St-12: 9 days students group tour: beijing - xi’an - shanghai.

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of China on this life-changing 9-day China study tour! Being one of the four oldest civilizations, there are a lot of cultural relics you can visit in China. We have included the must see sites like the Great wall, the Forbidden City and the Terra Cotta Army, and we also focus on the cultural side of China. You’ll visit a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) pharmacy, learn Tai Chi and Chinese Calligraphy in Beijing, make your own Terra-cotta Figurines, and learn how to make Dumplings in Xi’an. To help you to understand Chinese manufacturing, we have included a tour to the Volkswagen Auto Factory in Shanghai.

• Trip Highlights
• In-depth tour to Forbidden City with a Treasure Hunt in it
• Visit a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) pharmacy
• Learn Tai Chi and Chinese Calligraphy in Beijing
• Make Terra-cotta Figurines and Making Dumplings in Xi’an
• Tour to the Volkswagen Auto Factory in Shanghai

No Shopping Traps

Learning, Experience Activities, Culture, History

Accommodation

Best Season

Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Full itinerary for China Study Tour

On arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or the newly built Daxing International Airport (PKX), our guide will pick you up from the arrival hall and take you to check in to your hotel in Beijing. Take a rest in the hotel then enjoy a welcoming dinner in a local restaurant.

Beijing City Road

Get up and have breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant, our guide and driver will pick you up from the hotel lobby and take you to visit the 600 year old Royal Palace – the Forbidden City . As you’re strolling through the complex with your guide, make sure to pay close attention to what your guide says as he or she will be dropping clues regarding the stories, history, and legends of the city. You’ll need to gather these clues to complete the treasure hunt . Then we’ll visit Tiananmen Square – the largest city square in the world – where you can find landmarks like the Great Hall of the People, Mao Zedong Memorial Hall and National museum of China around the square.

Students work together for the treasure hunt in the Forbidden City

After the tour of the square, we’ll have lunch at a local restaurant, then Chinese Calligraphy Learning in a school in a Hutong. You’ll learn a language which is totally different from English. It will help you to understand why Chinese characters have united the Chinese people as a nation for thousands of years. Today’s last stop is Tong Ren Tang Chinese pharmaceutical company . It is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) pharmacy. TCM formed a unique system to diagnose and cure illness during its 3000 years’ development. You’ll find all kinds of herbs that TCM doctors use to treat illness.

Write "one, two, three" in Chinese

We’ll arrange dinner in a local restaurant for you.

Optional activities: The Legend of Kungfu Show in Red Theatre : This is a must see show for Kungfu fans. During the show the skilled performers will demonstrate different Kungfu styles from the Shaolin Temple, which is considered to be the birthplace of martial arts in China. Peking opera at Liyuan Theater : With a history of more than 200 years, Peking Opera is one of China's main traditional drama forms and on the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage list. The art combines instrumental music, vocal performance, mime, dance and acrobatics.

After breakfast in your hotel, we’ll head for the Temple of Heaven where the emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1912 CE) worshiped heaven and prayed for a good harvest. It is also a popular park for local people to do their morning exercise. We’ll arrange a Tai Chi master to teach you basic Tai Chi .

The steps to the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest

We’ll have lunch at a local restaurant after the tour to the Temple of Heaven, then drive 1.5 hrs to the Mutianyu Great Wall . We have included a round trip cable car to and from the wall, so you have enough energy to have a walk on top of it.

One of Towers on Mutianyu Great Wall

Then return to your hotel and have dinner in a restaurant en route.

Today we’ll visit the royal retreat for Qing emperors – the Summer palace , and we have also included the Garden of Virtue and Harmony which was the private theatre for the Empress Dowager Cixi. Then we’ll go to Beijing Zoo , where there is a panda house for Giant Panda, and we’ll visit the panda house.

A Panda in the Panda House

We’ll have lunch at a nearby restaurant. Then visit a supermarket to buy drinks and snacks for dinner as we’ll be taking the overnight train to Xi’an.

We’ll get to the train station at 17:00 and check in by presenting your passports. The train departs Beijing at 18:50. We will book a soft sleeper for you. Soft sleepers are spacious, 4-berth compartments with two upper and two lower berths. All of the necessary bedding is provided. Hot water is available for making tea or coffee. You can get more information by clicking "What is a Chinese Overnight Train Like?"

The train will arrive in Xi’an around 7:40am, and our guide and driver will pick you up and take you to your hotel. We’ll leave our luggage in the hotel then start visiting. Our first stop is The Terracotta Warriors and Horses museum , where you’ll come face to face with the “soldiers and horses” that date back to 200 BCE. We’ll visit one shop and learn to make terra-cotta figurines ; you’ll get to keep whatever you have made as a souvenir.

Make Terra-cotta Figurines

We’ll arrange lunch in a restaurant near the museum then return to the city center. We’ll have a stroll in the Muslim Quarter and visit a Chinese style mosque there. Xi’an is the starting point for the Silk Road, the well-worn route for merchants and travelers from Persia, Arabic countries, and Central Asia who came here for business in ancient times, thus forming the Muslim communities here. You can find tons of great street food here.

Inside of the Great Mosque

We’ll arrange dinner in a restaurant near the quarter and send you back to your hotel after the dinner.

Optional activities: Music Fountain Show on North Square of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda : Just outside the famous Big Wild Goose Pagoda, this is a good place to have a walk in the evening . Tang Dynasty Music & Dance Show : This is a show that features traditional Chinese music and dance. You can also have dinner here, they have delicious dumplings.

Today we’ll visit the 650-year-old city wall , which is the best preserved city wall in China. You can have a walk along the wall or rent a bike to ride on it. You’ll have a lovely view of the city.

Ride on a bike on the old city wall

Then we’ll head to Eighteen Duck King Restaurant to learn how to make dumplings (Jiao zi) . Jiaozi (pronounced "jow-zee") is the most common type of Chinese dumpling. Crescent-shaped and formed with a wrapper made from wheat dough, jiaozi are usually filled with ground pork, cabbage, and scallions, and served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil.

Make Dumplings

You’ll have Jiaozi as lunch in the restaurant, and then head to a supermarket to buy drinks and food for the overnight train ride to Shanghai.

We’ll take you to the train station at 15:00 and the train leaves around 16:30. We’ll overnight on the train tonight.

You’ll arrive in Shanghai at 8 am and we’ll pick you up from the train station and take you to your hotel. Shanghai is the financial center and the most modern city in China. It was also one of the earliest cities to open to the West. We’ll first visit the Former French Concession to notice its historic architecture; you’ll find a lot of European styled buildings here. Then we’ll proceed to the Shanghai Museum , one of the best museums in China, and a showcase of Chinese arts and culture. You can easily spend 1.5 to 2 hrs here.

Shanghai Wukang Road

After the museum tour, we’ll visit the Yuyuan garden , which is a 400 year old garden built according to Feng Shui principles. Outside the garden is the famous Yuyuan Bazaar , where you can find a lot of souvenir shops and xiao long bao (dumpling) restaurants. Have some free time at the bazaar.

Shops in the Yuyuan Bazaar

We’ll arrange dinner at a restaurant near your hotel, then return you to your hotel.

Optional activities: Night Cruise on Huangpu River : The lights of the buildings on both sides of Huangpu River will be turned on. You can take lots of nice pictures. Shanghai Circus World “ERA - Intersection of Time” Acrobatics Show : This is the most popular acrobatic show in Shanghai, showcasing traditional Chinese acrobatics with great music and lighting.

Today is a learning day, and we’ll drive 1 hour to Shanghai Volkswagen Auto Factory . Shanghai Volkswagen, a Chinese-German joint venture, is the largest auto manufacturing base in China, producing the largest number of vehicles in China. We’ll visit their factory and learn more about the car industry. We’ll watch the auto-making process in action – a must-see for car lovers. After a tour of the factory, we’ll visit the Auto Museum nearby; they have a great collection of cars of different brands, all in good shape.

Take a shuttle bus touring Shanghai Volkswagen Auto Factory

We’ll arrange lunch in a restaurant on the way back to the city. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Bund ; it is the heart of Shanghai. We’ll stroll down the Bund and explore the beautiful architecture and history behind the neo-classical buildings.

Neo-classical Buildings in The Bund

We’ll arrange a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.

We’ll take you to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) for your flight home. You have the option to take the maglev train, which is the fastest way to Pudong airport. Its highest speed is 431 km/h, and it takes only 8 minutes for the 30 km journey from Longyang train station to Pudong airport.

Hotels for your reference

What’s included.

• Experienced English speaking guide in each city
• Hotel accommodation with breakfasts
• Licensed divers and comfortable vehicles with air-conditioning
• Unlimited bottled water
• Meals as listed in the itinerary
• Entrance fee to the listed attractions
• Soft sleeper train ticket from Beijing to Xi'an
• Soft sleeper train ticket from Xi'an to Shanghai
• Tour Summary
• Full Itinerary
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New J-Term 2025 study tour to Cuba: Info sessions next week

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Carthage is pleased to announce an additional J-Term 2025 study tour to…Cuba!

Come and learn about the course The Role of Tourism in Cuba and Its Effect on Cuban Society during an information session:

• Tuesday, April 9 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Lentz Hall 411
• Wednesday, April 10 Noon-1 p.m., Lentz Hall 411

If you are interested but cannot attend these meetings, contact Professor Maribel Morales ( [email protected] ) or Professor Jeffrey Roberg ( [email protected] ). 

This study tour is a unique experience to visit Cuba and learn about the role of tourism and its effect on Cuban society. It is designed to enhance students’ global perspectives by exploring the impact of socialism on Cuba and the similarities and differences of the Cuban and U.S. political, economic, and social systems.

Students will learn about life in Cuba through its traditions, music, dances, art, food, gender roles, and language in this diverse culture that includes a mixture of Spanish, African, and Caribbean cultures. Students will have the opportunity to engage with Cuban citizens in a wide variety of settings, including cities like Havana and rural areas. Other destinations include: Viñales, the main street of this town is lined with colorful colonial-era wooden houses; Soroa, a stunning natural area of rolling hills and beautiful tropical scenery; Playa Ancon, a 2.5-mile-long beach with bright white sand and warm, turquoise waters; and Topes de Collantes, a nature reserve park in the Escambray Mountains range in Cuba. We will also explore the effects of tourism in the small city of Trinidad in central Cuba, which is a main tourist destination, known for its cobblestone streets and old Colonial houses. Finally, we will explore what the U.S. embargo on Cuba means for the average Cuban.

Tentative travel dates: Jan. 13-28, 2025 General education designations: International Perspectives

For more information, contact:

Maribel Morales: [email protected] , Jeffrey Roberg: [email protected]

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Just a Few of the Biggest Concert Tours of 2024, from Olivia Rodrigo to Bad Bunny

Posted: April 7, 2024 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

Listening to your favorite musician at home is fun, but there's nothing quite like the experience of singing along with them, and tons of more fans, live. And as luck would have it, 2024 is shaping up to be a massive year for some of the world's top musical acts, so chances are your favorite performer might be stopping at a city near you soon.

Ahead, we rounded up some of the biggest concert tours of 2024, ranging from Taylor Swift's mega-popular Eras Tour to Drake and J. Cole's exciting It's All A Blur Tour - Big as the What?—set to kick off this winter. You can also expect tour dates from classic icons like Stevie Nicks, Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, and more.

1) Taylor Swift

Undoubtedly one of the biggest concert tours ever, Taylor Swift's Eras Tour will continue right through 2024. The international leg of the tour kicked off in Japan, where she played four shows in Tokyo. She'll also stop in Melbourne, Singapore, Paris, Madrid, London, Milan, and more before returning to the States to play in the fall.

There's nothing like seeing T. Swift IRL, but don't fret if you're unable to nab tickets—the Eras Tour movie is now available to stream from the comfort of your home.

2) Olivia Rodrigo

This is not a drill—"Drivers License" singer Olivia Rodrigo will be hitting the road on tour starting at the end of February. The Guts World Tour runs from February through mid-August and has dates in Nashville, Toronto, Chicago, and New York City, among others. Even cooler? Rodrigo will have a stacked list of special guests—like PinkPantheress, Remi Wolf, The Breeders, and Chappell Roan—with her.

3) Red Hot Chili Peppers

Did you hear the good news? The Red Hot Chili Peppers have extended their global tour through summer 2024. The buzzy stadium tour, which kicked off in June 2022, will now run until July 2024 and bring the California-based band to places like Los Angeles, Tampa, Toronto, and Salt Lake City.

4) Bad Bunny

It's fitting that "Monaco" rapper Bad Bunny titled his tour Most Wanted —it's slated to be one of the year's hottest tours. Planned to help promote his latest studio album, Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar Mañana , Most Wanted will kick off in Salt Lake City on February 21 and run through May 26.

5) Billy Joel

If you haven't yet seen Billy Joel perform live, there's still time! The Piano Man has added more tour dates to his schedule, stopping in cities like Tampa, New York, Denver, and St. Louis this year. Even more exciting? He'll share the stage with fellow iconic performers Sting and Stevie Nicks for some of these dates.

Mitski recently announced that she's expanding her North American tour dates , and we couldn't be more excited. The months-long tour, which supports her 2023 studio album The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We, has a long list of stops, including Miami Beach, Philadelphia, Brooklyn, and Paris.

There's nothing quite like a Madonna concert, that's for sure. The singer's Celebration Tour , which started last October, continues straight through the spring with dates in Seattle, San Francisco, Mexico City, and more. Besides her eye-catching sets, chart-topping songs, and impressive choreography, concertgoers also get a glimpse of the performer's fantastic costumes, which include looks from Versace and Jean Paul Gaultier.

8) Bleachers

The New Jersey-founded rock band, which is fronted by Jack Antonoff—known for producing albums for top acts like Taylor Swift, Lorde, and Lana Del Rey—not only has announced a new album but a new tour , too. The tour will start in the UK in March, ending fittingly in the band's home state of New Jersey in mid-June. Check out their newly released music video for "Tiny Moves" if you need a Bleachers fix in the meantime.

9) Nicki Minaj

Nicki fans rejoice: the rapper and singer might be coming to a city near you soon as part of her Pink Friday 2 World Tour. The massive tour will include performances in Brooklyn, Oakland, and Baltimore, with stops at Dreamville Festival and Rolling Loud California along the way.

10) Blink 182

Live out all of your nineties and early aughts pop-punk dreams with one of Blink 182's One More Time Tour dates. The tour, which supports the band's ninth studio album, One More Time..., will bring the trio to cities all over the globe, including Sydney, Santiago, Portland, and Boston. The tour's supporting act is Pierce the Veil, which is also worth checking out.

11) Stevie Nicks

The oh-so-magical Stevie Nicks continues her touring streak with a bunch of 2024 concert dates . Set to begin in Atlantic City, NJ on February 10, Nicks will visit a dozen cities throughout the U.S. this year, such as New Orleans, Omaha, and Chicago. "Let's keep this party going in 2024," the singer-songwriter posted on her Instagram in September to announce the newly added tour dates.

12) The 1975

The 1975 is showing no signs of slowing down. The British band, famous for hits like "Somebody Else" and "Robbers," has extended their 2023 tour through 2024. Titled Still...At Their Very Best , the 22-date tour will open in Glasgow on February 8 and conclude in Amsterdam on March 24.

13) Drake and J. Cole

Rap greats Drake and J. Cole come together for the It's All a Blur Tour – Big As the What? which is guaranteed to be a good time. Drake, fresh off his 2023 It's All a Blur tour with 21 Savage, is set to hit dozens of cities starting in February, many of which J. Cole will also be in tow for. Scoop up tickets ASAP, as Drake's shows are known to sell out.

14) Janet Jackson

Superstar Janet Jackson is also extending her 2023 tour, Together Again , into 2024 with dates in Anaheim, Austin, New Orleans, and Hartford. Even cooler? Jackson's supporting act is the 2000s southern rap legend Nelly.

15) Rolling Stones

If you've ever dreamed of seeing the Rolling Stones perform live in person, now's your chance. The iconic rockers, who released their studio album Hackney Diamonds this past fall, are returning on the road for a 16-date tour with shows throughout the United States and Canada. Concertgoers can expect a mix of new tunes and Stones classics.

16) Bruce Springsteen

Famous for countless listenable hits like "Born to Run" and "Glory Days," Bruce Springsteen is set to embark on a massive world tour this year with his band, The E Street Band. The much-anticipated tour will take the Boss and his crew to cities such as Phoenix, San Diego, Dublin, and Madrid, from March through November.

17) John Mayer

Be sure to catch John Mayer's solo tour this year, which will bring the guitarist and crooner to cities throughout Europe. This leg, an extension of his popular 2023 solo tour, will kick off in Stockholm on March 13 and finish in Dublin on March 29.

18) Shania Twain

Okay, this one is technically a residency , but we're excited nonetheless. Shania Twain, most known for her incredible outfits (her hooded leopard print look, anyone?) and hits like "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" is setting up shop in Vegas starting May 10. Twain's residency will take place at the Bakkt Theater at Planet Hollywood on and off throughout December 2024.

All good things must come to an end. The Eagles, known for "Hotel California" and other amazing rock songs, began their final concert tour this winter. It launched in Phoenix on January 20, with March 16 as its last date in the United States. Eagles fans won't want to miss this one.

20) Alanis Morisette: The Triple Moon Tour

Alanis Morisette joins forces with Joan Jett and the Blackhearts for their 2024 Triple Moon Tour , which has dates in North America and Canada. This tour is a great one to catch this summer, as it's slated to run from June through August.

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Hong Kong students return ‘moved and inspired’ after national security study trip to mainland China

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More than 70 teachers and students have returned to Hong Kong after spending a week in Beijing, Shanghai and Hangzhou on the government’s first national security education study tour.

According to a statement issued Thursday, students were “were particularly moved and inspired by the arduous Long March of the Communist Party of China,” referring to a military retreat by the Red Army during the Chinese Civil War in 1934.

The 75 principals, teachers and students from 17 secondary schools set off last Friday to visit Tiananmen Square, the Palace Museum, the Museum of the Communist Party of China in the Chinese capital, and the National Security Education Exhibition Hall in Shanghai, among others.

Students on the tour displayed “outstanding achievements” in an Inter-school National Security Knowledge Challenge jointly organised by the Department of Justice, the Security Bureau, the Education Bureau and the pro-Beijing Hong Kong Shine Tak Foundation.

‘Pride and respect’

The statement quoted a student from Hong Kong Taoist Association Tang Hin Memorial Secondary School, Lung, who “expressed immense pride and respect” when watching the flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square.

“As the national flag rose, a feeling of unparalleled pride and reverence surged within her, and she is willing to contribute her efforts to the prosperity and success of her motherland,” the statement read.

Yin, a student from St Stephen’s Girls’ College, “realises that only with a strong and prosperous country, social stability, and protection from external threats can people live and work in peace,” the statement continued.

Undersecretary for Security Michael Cheuk said that he hoped students would “continue to take the responsibility of safeguarding national security and strive for the betterment of Hong Kong and the country.”

See also: Exclusive: No Taiwan election study tour this year for University of Hong Kong students

Last week’s study tour differs from the compulsory mainland study tours for the Citizenship and Social Development subject, which more than 50,000 students are expected to join, according to the Education Bureau.

Citizenship and Social Development was introduced into the local curriculum as an overhaul of Liberal Studies in 2021, introducing more China-related content.

The move came after then-chief executive Carrie Lam and some pro-Beijing politicians accused the subject of fuelling the pro-democracy  protests and unrest in 2019 .

Since the imposition of the national security law in 2020, Hong Kong’s education system has seen an increased focus on patriotic and national security.

According to local media, kindergartens in 2021 received reference books on the security legislation so youngsters can begin their education on the legislation early, an education that continues throughout “key learning stages.” Since the 2022-23 school year,  all schools must hold weekly flag-raising ceremonies  at which China’s national anthem is sung, with penalties for  those who “disrespect” the raising of the flag .

University students are not exempt, with undergraduates  required to pass an introductory course on the Beijing-imposed law  to graduate. Students at the University of Hong Kong told HKFP that while they did not feel like they were being brainwashed by the course, it  failed to clarify where the “red lines” were drawn .

During his Policy Address in 2023, Chief Executive John Lee announced further  patriotic education initiatives to enhance national identity and appreciation of traditional Chinese culture among Hong Kong people including new school initiatives and a revamped museum.

Organising additional study tours to mainland Chinese cities was among national security education-related policy goals listed in Lee’s policy address last year.

Beijing inserted national security legislation directly into Hong Kong’s mini-constitution in June 2020 following a year of pro-democracy protests and unrest. It criminalised subversion, secession, collusion with foreign forces and terrorist acts – broadly defined to include disruption to transport and other infrastructure. The move gave police sweeping new powers and led to hundreds of arrests amid new legal precedents , while dozens of civil society groups disappeared . The authorities say it restored stability and peace to the city, rejecting criticism from trade partners , the UN and NGOs .

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James Lee Reporter

James Lee is a reporter at Hong Kong Free Press with an interest in culture and social issues. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Journalism from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, where he witnessed the institution’s transformation over the course of the 2019 extradition bill protests and after the passing of the Beijing-imposed security law.

Since joining HKFP in 2023, he has covered local politics, the city’s housing crisis, as well as landmark court cases including the 47 democrats national security trial. He was previously a reporter at The Standard where he interviewed pro-establishment heavyweights and extensively covered the Covid-19 pandemic and Hong Kong’s political overhauls under the national security law.

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U hosts HESSA deans for week-long study tour at Salt Lake City campus

With the vast portfolio of responsibilities that comes with the role, academic deans are notorious for having full calendars. So, it was no small feat to arrange for 23 deans of Pakistani higher education institutions to meet with over two dozen University of Utah deans and administrators during a week-long study tour at the U’s Salt Lake City campus from January 27 to February 3, 2024.

“I am grateful that so many of our U colleagues and our Pakistani partners were able to participate in USAID’s Higher Education System Strengthening Activity study tour. Our discussions were wide-ranging—setting institutional goals, connecting communities with universities, fostering research collaborations, and developing strategies to increase post-graduation employment. This diversity of pursuits reflects what makes a dean’s job so exciting, and of course also challenging at times. It was valuable to have the opportunity to come together as educators and administrators to share in the richness of this work and accelerate the development of each institution’s goals,” said Dr. Dave Kieda, Distinguished Professor of Physics and Astronomy, and study tour host.

Salt Lake City study tour learning activities

The week kicked off with Dr. Mitzi Montoya, U Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Erin Rothwell, U Vice President for Research, presenting on the role of central administration in advancing a university’s goals, identifying emerging academic and research trends, and creating links between university research and industry.

A tour of Utah Nanofabrication Facility helped participants gain an understanding of the role of a major campus research facility in advancing university research and how university research facilities support local industry and workforce training.

Up next was Katie Hoffman-Abby, Vice President of University Career Services and Student Employment, who spoke about strategies for engaging and fostering long-term, sustainable relationships with potential employers, measuring the effectiveness of career services, and how to use assessment for improvement.

Participants then toured Lassonde Studios, the U’s hub for entrepreneurship, to learn how the program trains students to identify market needs and opportunities.

On the third day of the tour, the Pakistani deans met with mentors and contemporaries in their respective disciplines to talk through strategic initiatives and develop implementation and assessment plans for their institutions in Pakistan. They also explored opportunities for potential collaboration with U.S. colleagues who share similar academic backgrounds.

A meeting with Jason Taylor, U Assistant Dean, focused on creating new academic pathways for student success, followed in the late afternoon by a passionate discussion on the value of a humanities perspective regardless of academic discipline or career pursuit with College of Humanities Dean Hollis Robbins.

The next day, the group explored the topic of online degrees and certificates as a tool for increasing student outcomes with Dr. Deborah Keyek-Franssen, Associate Vice President for U Connected Learning. Dr. Phillip Osteen, Dean for the U’s College of Social Work, led the group in a discussion of developing community-focused student employment connections.

The day concluded with a tour of the J. Willard Marriott Library by Donna Harp Ziegenfuss, Faculty Services Librarian, and Alfred Mowdood, Head of Faculty Services. Discussion topics included the academic role of U.S. university libraries compared to similar library facilities in Pakistan, how online-based information access and emerging artificial intelligence technology is changing the mission of university libraries, and how the libraries are evolving to meet the changing needs of academics, research, and student success.

On the final day of the tour, the Pakistani deans took the spotlight, offering their own presentations on strategic initiatives they plan to implement at their respective institutions because of the HESSA training.

The role of study tours

After participating in the recent training, “I would like to establish a good mentoring and counseling system in my university, and work on industry-academia partnership to support student employment,” said Dr. Muhammad Khurram, dean at Pakistan’s National University of Science and Technology (NUST).

In addition to sending U personnel to Pakistan to deliver workshops, and hosting virtual programming, the U has welcomed program participants to both its Salt Lake City campus and U Asia Campus .

About HESSA

USAID’s Higher Education System Strengthening Activity is a $19 million, five-year project that aims to bridge the employment gap between industry and academia and enhance the capacity of Pakistani universities to deliver graduates well-prepared for the demands of the modern workplace.

The University of Utah is the lead implementer and project partners include the University of Alabama, the Institute for International Education, Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC), and 16 Pakistani partner institutions.

The trio of American institutions is working closely with the HEC and Pakistani colleges and universities to deliver trainings, host study tours, instigate networking, advance research and innovation, and spearhead equity initiatives.

Related Stories

• Category: Xbox Game Pass

Coming to Xbox Game Pass: LEGO 2K Drive, EA Sports PGA Tour, Harold Halibut, and More

• Megan Spurr, Community Lead, Xbox Game Pass

My favorite part about “coming soon” to Game Pass is that it quickly turns into “available today” messaging. From driving to golfing to tomb raiding, there’s plenty here that’s going to be available sooner rather than later. Let’s take a look at the games that are mere moments away from your download queue!

Available Today

Superhot: Mind Control Delete (Cloud, Console, and PC) Returning to the Game Pass library today, Superhot: Mind Control Delete gives you more insight into the signature power fantasy world of Superhot with more story, more signature gameplay, more action, more guns. Keep dancing the slow-motion ballet of destruction for much longer than ever before.

Coming Soon

LEGO 2K Drive (Cloud and Console) – April 3 Welcome to Bricklandia, home of a massive open-world LEGO driving adventure. Race anywhere, play with anyone, build your dream rides, and defeat a cast of wild racing rivals for the coveted Sky Trophy!

Lil Gator Game (Cloud, Console, and PC) – April 4 Who wouldn’t want to be an adorable Lil Gator? Embark on a cute “lil” quest, discovering new friends, and uncovering everything its island has to offer. Climb, swim, glide, and slide your way into the hearts of the many different characters you meet along the way in this adorable open-world adventure!

EA Sports PGA Tour (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) EA Play – April 4 EA Sports PGA Tour is coming to The Play List with PC Game Pass and Ultimate via EA Play. Become a Major champion, tee off on the Par 3 Course at Augusta National, along with three new 2024 Major host courses.

Kona (Cloud and Console) – April 9 Another game is making a return to the Game Pass library! A strange blizzard ravages Atamipek Lake. Step into the shoes of a detective to explore the eerie village, investigate surreal events, and battle the elements to survive in this chilly, interactive tale you won’t soon forget.

Botany Manor (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) – April 9 Available on day one with Game Pass! Explore the historic manor home of retired botanist Arabella Greene, who has amassed a collection of rare, long-forgotten flora that require special conditions to help them bloom. Unlock new seeds, look for clues in the items scattered around the residence, and solve each gardening puzzle to revive these plants.

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Definitive Edition (Cloud, Console, and PC) – April 11 Experience the final chapter of Lara’s origin as she is forged into the Tomb Raider she is destined to be. Combining the base game, all seven DLC challenge tombs, as well as all downloadable weapons, outfits, and skills, Shadow of the Tomb Raider Definitive Edition is the ultimate way to experience Lara’s defining moment.

Harold Halibut (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) – April 16 Available on day one with Game Pass! Harold Halibut is a handmade narrative game about friendship and life on a city-sized spaceship submerged in an alien ocean. Join Harold as he explores a vibrant retro-future world in his quest to find the true meaning of ‘home’. You can learn more about Harold Halibut in Xbox Wire’s recent hands-on preview here .

DLC / Game Updates

No Man’s Sky Orbital Update – Available now Dock your fully customized starship in the sleek new space stations of update 4.6, Orbital! Space stations have been completely overhauled internally and externally; new starships can be constructed from salvaged parts; frigate fleets can reach out for guidance with interstellar expeditions; standing and guilds have been improved, trading and system economies have been deepened – and much more! Learn more about No Man’s Sky ’s Orbital update here on Xbox Wire .

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Perks

Final Fantasy XIV Online: Starter Edition – Available now Join over 30 million adventures worldwide in the critically acclaimed online RPG.  From now through April 19, the Final Fantasy XIV Online – Starter Edition base game is now free for a limited time – including a 30-day free play period for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members. Terms apply. You can also learn how to build your Warrior of Light in Final Fantasy XIV Online here on Xbox Wire .

YouTube Premium 3 Month Trial – Available now Watch your favorite YouTube creators without ads, offline, and in the background. Plus, stream the latest songs from your favorite artists with uninterrupted access to YouTube Music. New users only. Monthly subscription fee starts at the end of trial. Cancel anytime. Not available in all regions. Terms apply .

Battlefield 2042 : Season 7 Field Kit – Available now In the iconic all-out warfare first-person shooter of Battlefield 2042 , Game Pass Ultimate and EA Play members can get the Battlefield 2042 Season 7 Field Kit containing a Ride’em Crab Boy Weapon Charm, Rising Tide AM40 Weapon Skin, and Dustproof Specialist Headgear.   Check out the other EA Play member rewards and Perks here on Xbox Wire .

Leaving April 15

Make sure you give the following games a proper farewell before they leave the Game Pass library. As always, you can save up to 20% off your purchase to keep them in your library.

• Amnesia Collection (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Amnesia: Rebirth (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Back 4 Blood (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Phantom Abyss (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Research and Destroy (Cloud, Console, and PC)
• Soma (Cloud, Console, and PC)

That wraps us up! Let us know which game you’re planning on playing first over at @Xbox ,  @XboxGamePass or @XboxGamePassPC . Catch you next time!

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