As the world begins to reopen, our student groups are getting back out on the road, visiting a variety of destinations throughout Europe and Latin America. We’ve been able to take a customized and thoughtful approach to every country, itinerary, and group by embracing flexibility. And we’re thrilled to see the lasting, life-changing impact that travel has on students is back—in a big way.
Enter Amy and Jordan, high school science teachers and first-time Group Leaders from central Ohio. This July, they departed on Explore Iceland: North and South with nine students and full trust that EF would get them there and back safely, while also hoping for some once-in-a-lifetime experiences along the way. Watch the video below to explore more of their story.
Ready to travel again
Through consistent communication and expectation-setting before their trip, Amy and Jordan worked with their Tour Consultant to understand exactly what was waiting for them on the other side of the Atlantic. While EF’s on-the-ground teams monitored health and safety measures throughout their entire journey in Iceland, Amy and Jordan could partake in activities they’d never tried before, and watch their students experience transformative growth on tour.
From hiking glaciers and seeing waterfalls to trying new foods and visiting hot springs, Amy and Jordan’s Zoom lessons came to life. STEM concepts really clicked for their students, in immersive, hands-on ways that are tough to replicate through online learning. They also watched their students gain more independence, form lasting friendships with each other, learn more about themselves and their place in the world, and have a whole lot of fun.
Amy, Jordan, and their students get ready to board their flight to Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.
The group spotted breaching tails during a whale-watching excursion off the coast of Akureyri.
After seven full days of exploring, Amy and Jordan’s students relaxed in the warm, geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.
While visiting Þingvellir, a national park that played a pivotal role in Iceland’s history, the group was able to stand where two tectonic plates meet.
Amy, Jordan, and their students get ready to board their flight to Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.
The group spotted breaching tails during a whale-watching excursion off the coast of Akureyri.
After seven full days of exploring, Amy and Jordan’s students relaxed in the warm, geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.
While visiting Þingvellir, a national park that played a pivotal role in Iceland’s history, the group was able to stand where two tectonic plates meet.
It felt ordinary, but in an extraordinary circumstance.
Jordan B., Co-Group Leader
Amy and Jordan opened the world for their students by taking them to Iceland, allowing them to step out of their comfort zones, try new things, and connect with each other and locals they encountered along the way. And when they returned? Students were ready to go back out into the world and experience even more.
Travel that’s designed with the future in mind.
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