keating by explorica

2017/18 North American tours

Making travel more accessible than ever Learn how on p.7

Ivy League Model U.N. Conference NEW!

Tour applications open for 2018 p.23

Get a GoPro for your school! NEW! See back cover

Ending soon! Student essay contest Lucky winner receives a free spot on tour p.11

Dear traveller,

Last fall we launched a bold initiative to make travel more accessible, and I’m proud to report that we’re off to an incredible start. Students have enthusiastically embraced our personal fundraising pages, receiving tens of thousands of dollars in contributions thus far. This year, we are continuing our efforts by expanding Explorica student travel grants. Together, we are helping more students than ever join their classmates on a life-changing educational experience.

The new year brings exciting changes in our headquarters as well: After 16 years as President of Explorica Canada, I’ve accepted a new role as Explorica’s Global Vice President of Operations. I’m thrilled to announce that our leadership has been passed to the very capable hands of my colleague David Conklin, now formally General Manager of Explorica Canada. I’ve known David professionally for many years, and together we will continue to serve Explorica’s mission stronger than ever before.

I invite you to learn more about our mission by exploring pages 1–9 of this catalogue. Because travelling with Explorica means you get more than the guaranteed best prices; it means you get the best value, an experienced team and the backing of North America’s largest and most respected educational travel provider.

Your partner in travel,

Dan KellerdGlobal VP of Operations

David ConklinGeneral Manager, Canada

About Explorica

We work one-on-one with teachers to create incredible educational tours that meet their unique needs and budget. All Explorica tours are fully inclusive, providing everything you need for a remarkable experience at the guaranteed best prices in the industry. Each expertly-designed itinerary immerses participants in the local culture while introducing them to the people, places and experiences that make each destination unique.

We’re known as the most responsive company in the industry because we listen to our group leaders and turn their ideas into reality. Whether it’s creating a custom activity or moving the industry forward with a game-changing innovation, we are continually improving the educational travel experience, with teachers as our guides.

Read more at explorica.ca/aboutus

What we provideEvery destination, every time; Explorica provides more services and support to give you a world-class experience.

A proven process with step-by-step support . . . . . . . . . .2

Experience you can trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Expert, personal service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

All tour inclusions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Student travel grants and fundraising support . . . . . . . . .7

Industry-leading safety and security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Teacher appreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Where we travelWe offer more than 200 fully customizable, fully inclusive tours on all seven continents.

Sample Canada tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Sample U.S. tours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Sample tours abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Prices in this catalogue are per person and vary by product, departure date, mode of transportation, and selected tour options. Taxes are not included. Starting prices based on lowest available price and subject to change.

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Choose your destination(s)Want to visit Ottawa and add an extension to Québec? Simply tell us where you want to go and when you’d like to leave, and we’ll work with you from there.

Pick a number of daysExplore an entire region over the course of a week, or save money with a quick, 2-day tour. No matter where you’re travelling, you can spend as much or as little time as you’d like.

Select activitiesHit the highlights, or hand-select from over 200 activities to create an entirely customized tour to meet a specific educational goal. It’s entirely up to you.

Build the perfect itineraryWe’ll help you put the pieces together—and make it fit your budget. Then, we’ll organize everything in one, easily accessible digital space: your Tour Centre on explorica.ca.

We help you chooseNiagara Falls or New York City? Budget or boutique? Tell us what you want, and we’ll make it happen.

A proven process: Step-by-step supportWe’re by your side every step of the way, providing expert guidance and support.

We help you recruitWe offer a number of resources to help you promote your tour to students and parents.

Tour promotion materialsFrom posters and PowerPoints to flyers and fact sheets, we provide all the tools you need to host parent meetings and info sessions.

Recruitment webinarsGet insider tips and tricks from experienced group leaders in an interactive, online setting.

Monthly payment plansOur flexible monthly payment plans can be adjusted to your tour needs so that more of your students can afford to travel.

Free spots for chaperonesWant some help on tour? We give you one free place for every 10 students you enrol on standard tours. Ask about our flexible, free place ratio if you want even more help!

Complete customizationNo one gives you more options, more flexibility, and more support than Keating by Explorica. You choose your tour

details, and your personal program consultant helps you meet your trip goals and budget. It’s your tour, your way.

WHAT WE PROVIDE

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“The itinerary from Explorica was the best we’ve experienced. The tour guides were resourceful, friendly and very giving and caring. When the inevitable challenges came our way, they made up for it tenfold. An amazing trip!” –Reg, Montréal 2015

We prepare youWe have been helping teachers lead incredible tours for over 50 years, so we know exactly what you need to plan and prepare.

Connect with mentorsOur exclusive teacher-to-teacher program connects you with experienced group leaders who can provide field-tested tips and advice.

Join a webinarOur pre-departure webinars teach you everything you need to know before you go!

Call us any timeYour program consultant is your go-to guru to answer all your questions and accommodate any special requests that you may have.

We deliver an exceptional experienceFrom the moment you start your tour we’re right by your side, making sure your travels are fun, engaging and totally worry-free.

Expert leadershipYour Explorica tour director meets you at the beginning of your tour and takes it from there, guiding your trip and managing all logistics. But what you’ll love most is how they bring your destinations to life for your students, providing authentic, engaging educational moments every step of the way.

A network of supportFrom our dedicated team of risk management professionals working around the clock to preempt any problems before they arise, to our 24/7 emergency hotline, when you travel with Explorica we’re always there for you.

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Over 50 years of experienceKeating by Explorica was the first company in educational travel, and our time-tested, teacher-approved tours are the result of more than five decades of knowledge and experience. No one knows educational travel like we do.

The most flexibilty and customizationEach Keating by Explorica tour is custom built to your exact specifications. You pick your destination(s), dates, activities and other tour details, and we make it happen—quickly, seamlessly and on budget.

Guaranteed tour and dateReserve the date and activities of your choice up to two years in advance.

Include tipsOnly with Keating by Explorica can you elect to include tips in your total price, so you can avoid the hassle on tour.

Transparent pricingOther companies might spring unexpected charges on you, but with us, what you see is what you get. No catches, no gimmicks and no hidden fees—just the lowest prices in educational travel, guaranteed.

Industry-best tour directorsOur professional tour directors set the bar high. Energetic, enthusiastic and engaging, they create an unforgettable experience for students and adults alike.

Established industry relationshipsWe’ve been working with the best hotels, restaurants and attractions in your favourite cities for years, ensuring that you’ll always receive first-class treatment.

Teacher-approved toursTeachers really love our tours. How do we know? We ask each teacher to evaluate their experience when they return home and tell us what they think. Our current satisfaction rating is 99%, so we must be doing something right!

Experience you can trustKeating by Explorica has provided an unparalleled travel experience for teachers and their students since 1963. Honest and personalized service, high-quality tours with the most customized itineraries, and the industry’s best tour guides have made Keating by Explorica Canada’s leading educational tour provider.

WHAT WE PROVIDE

“Explorica is an outstanding company that can be depended upon to deliver the best value and experience possible. Because of this, and the constant help and support of my extremely competent program consultant, I will only travel with Explorica.”

–Mary, French teacher

EX

CLUSIVE

EX

CLUSIVE

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Expert, personal serviceWhen you travel with Keating by Explorica, you’re more than a customer—you’re a fellow traveller. With more than 50 years of educational travel experience, we know exactly what you want—and need—to have a successful tour. Here are just a few of the people who work hard to ensure that you have an incredible tour experience, every time.

Carolyn Lutgens Program Manager

15 years at Explorica

Mike Di Leo Team Lead


Paola Briata Director of Contracting and Operations


Gabrielle Jolicoeur Ground Representative/ Tour Director


Tanya Dlugosz Tour Director


WHAT WE PROVIDE

“Explorica has done a wonderful job at hiring people who are adept at building relationships. Both my program consultant and tour director have done an excellent job of making this a most memorable trip for our entire grade 8 community.”

–Jim, Montréal 2015

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Round trip transportationWe provide transportation to and from your destination and all scheduled itinerary activities, and our clean, comfortable coaches follow the strictest safety standards.

AccommodationsWe guarantee top-quality hotels within 45 minutes of activities, so you have more time in your day to see the things you came to see. All Explorica hotels offer clean, safe and comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, and you can even upgrade for more amenities—for a night, or for your entire tour.

“Explorica understands the importance

of appropriate hotel selection for students.

The quality of the hotels is top notch,

and they’re located in safe areas that are

close to main attractions.”

–Joy, Spain & Portugal 2015

Overnight hotel securityYou deserve a good night’s sleep. With Explorica, you can rest easy knowing that your very own security guard is sitting in your hotel hallway to make sure your students are safe and in their rooms all night long.

Full-time services of a professional tour directorOur top-rated professional tour directors are by your side every step of the way from arrival to departure, managing every aspect of your tour.

Breakfast and dinner dailyYou and your students will fuel up for your adventures with hearty breakfasts and sample regional cuisine with filling, authentic dinners. Your tour director will show you the best places for lunches and snacks along the way.

All excursions and guided sightseeing toursYou’ll see more—and learn more—than you ever thought possible thanks to our professional, local guides who know our destinations inside and out. They amaze and educate with fun stories and little-known facts, and share hidden local gems you could never experience any other way.

“After our Parliament tour, Explorica

arranged for the class to sit in the

gallery and listen to the debates. It was

an amazing experience for all of us!”

–Jacqueline, Ottawa 2015

Quality tour componentsWhile standard inclusions appear to be comparable across leading tour operators, Explorica gives you more for your dollar. When it comes to travel, the details matter.

WHAT WE PROVIDE

“After travelling with another tour company and having many difficulties with hotels, meals and broken promises, Explorica delivered with flying colours. I am a convert.”

–Robert, economics teacher

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Student travel grantsWe offer student travel grants throughout the year to further lower the tour fee for your travellers. We award over $4 million in funds each year. Call for current promotions.

Guaranteed best pricesWe guarantee the best prices in educational travel—and if you happen to find a better price for the same quality components, we’ll beat it.

Personal fundraising pages NEW!

We empower students to raise money for their tour by giving them a personal fundraising page on explorica.ca. With an average contribution of $100, students can quickly and easily raise significant funds using their favourite social communities.

Monthly payment plansOur easy, automated plans allow your students to spread out their payments over the months leading up to their tour. This convenient feature helps more of your students afford to travel.

Flexible chaperone ratio Our guaranteed best prices are based on the industry safety standard of one chaperone for every 10 paying participants. However, if you don’t need that many chaperones, you can adjust the ratio to whatever you’d like, and we’ll lower your students’ tour fee accordingly.

Price accessibilityWe believe all students should have the opportunity to experience the world, so we provide a variety of resources to help more of your students travel.

EX

CLUSIVE

Learn more:

1.888.310.7116explorica.ca/affordability

WHAT WE PROVIDE

“Explorica makes it possible to start sign ups almost two years in advance, which gets students the best possible price and makes their monthly payments more realistic. This is how most of my students are able to pay for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

– Kate, English teacher

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Trusted experienceWe have been organizing safe and reliable tours across the globe for more than 15 years. And as a WorldStrides organization, Explorica travellers benefit from an additional 50 years of risk management experience and a worldwide network of support.

Proactive risk managementSafety protocols are built into every aspect of our operations. From rigorous safety checks and detailed site visits, to continuous safety trainings conducted by veteran risk management professionals, we take every possible precaution to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience for all participants.

Constant vigilanceOur Vice President of Risk Management, supported by our team of risk management professionals, continually assess all travel destinations and situations. We also partner with iJet, a leading security and risk management organization, for additional assistance monitoring and evaluating conditions.

Total travel protectionNo one wants to think about cancelling their tour, but sometimes life happens. Our two trusted travel protection plans offer a cash refund—not just credit for a future trip like other companies provide.

NEW:

Our travel protection plans now cover school board cancellations. Call your program consultant for details.

› Explorica Travel Protection PlanOur standard plan covers common mishaps like misplaced tickets or passport, lost luggage, sickness or injury during the tour, and more. And if you have to cancel your tour due to a covered reason, you will receive a full refund.

› Travel Protection Plan PLUSOur exclusive, upgraded plan adds to the standard plan, providing the ability to cancel your tour for any reason up to 30 days before departure and receive a cash refund for 75% of the non-refundable fee. This is the only “cancel for any reason” policy in the industry.

And as a member of the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO), a self-governed, non-profit corporation whose mission is to promote a fair and ethical market place where consumers can be confident about their travel purchases, your investment with Explorica is fully protected by TICO’s Compensation Fund.

Safety and securitySafety is our first priority, and our record proves it. We provide total peace of mind

for you, your students and your school.

“This is a world-class company from top to bottom. We felt so reassured when we received a personal email from the President of Explorica regarding our safety abroad. And from my amazing program consultant to our awesome tour director, I’ve been really satisfied with everything.”

–Margaret, history teacher

WHAT WE PROVIDE

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Unparalleled on-tour supportWe’re by your side every step of the way to provide guidance and assistance.

Expert tour directorsExplorica tour directors live and work in the cities our tours visit, and are thoroughly trained to handle any situation that may arise. They will advise you and your students on how to ensure your personal safety and the safety of your belongings at all times, while helping you see and experience the best each city has to offer.

“My tour director went above and beyond

and made it look so easy, but I know he

worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make

our tour the best experience possible. I feel

confident and relaxed when we travel with

him. I know we are in excellent hands.”

–Cheryl, French teacher

Overnight hotel securityWith Explorica, you can rest easy knowing that your security guard is keeping watch in your hotel hallway to make sure students remain safely in their rooms, all night long.

24/7 emergency supportWe operate a dedicated, 24/7 emergency contact line to assist you with any problem, anywhere, at any time.

Daily tour updatesOur exclusive online Tour Diaries enable friends and family to check on their loved one and follow the group’s progress. These private trip logs are posted daily by the group’s tour director.

Comprehensive liability coverageWhen you travel with Explorica, your tour is backed by our USD $50 million liability policy protecting third parties such as your school and school board. Your academic institution can rest assured that they are protected with Explorica.

Industry leadershipExplorica is a founding member of the Student Youth Travel Association (SYTA) and is a long-standing, active member of the the European Tour Operators Association (ETOA), the International Airlines Travel Agent Network (IATAN), the Ontario Motor Coach Association (OMCA) and other trusted industry associations.

“Travelling is never a by-the-book undertaking; from construction to strikes, the unexpected is always to be expected. My consultant was quick on her feet and well informed, making great choices when the unexpected arose. I always felt that my experience was important to Explorica and that I was in good hands.”

– Todd, senior humanities instructor

WHAT WE PROVIDE

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Countdown to CANADA’S

150thCelebrate our past, present and future

ANNIVERSARY

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Ottawa 2017150th Canada Day Anniversary Day 1 Hello Ottawa

› Travel to Ottawa › 2017 Confederation-themed Ottawa Animations walk: Sing, play games and perform skits to bring the history of our nation’s capital to life

› Dinner

Day 2 Celebrating 150th Canada Day › Celebrations on Parliament Hill › Express lunch › Celebrations continue on Parliament Hill › Dinner › Canada 150 Fireworks event

Day 3 Grand opening in Ottawa › Bank of Canada Museum: 2017 Grand

opening visit › Byward Market visit › Travel home

Days 3–4 Extension in Ottawa

Travel home or stay in Ottawa. Highlights: National Gallery special exhibits, the grand opening of the Museum of History and enjoy a dinner and dance

explorica.ca/O3C1.888.310.7116

$355 Starting price for a 3-day bus tour

Once a collection of colonies scattered across British North America, Canada has come a long way. In the mid-19th century, worsening social, economic and security issues encouraged the governors to consider forming a union to ensure a better life for their people. The discussion began amongst the governors of the Maritime provinces, but when Governor General of Canada Lord Charles Monck heard of the talks, he requested the discussion be broadened to include the rest of the provinces. These men, who we would later call the Fathers of the Confederation, met in September 1864 and the Charlottetown Conference officially began. On July 1, 1867, their framework was ratified as the British North America Act, giving birth to the Dominion of Canada.

Since then, our country has achieved unprecedented milestones. In 2015, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the National Flag of Canada, the 100th anniversary of the Second Battle of Ypres and the writing of “In Flanders Field,” just to name a few. 2016 brought the centennial of women’s suffrage, the 175th anniversary of the Election of Baldwin and Lafontaine and the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Hong Kong. With such a rich history, it’s no wonder that the energy going into the planning of Canada’s 150th birthday party is already palpable.

Our sesquicentennial is fast approaching, and provinces across the country are busy preparing. Ottawa will be the epicenter of the celebration with a full year of spectacular events such as a fireworks display and light show on Parliament Hill, and even a few additions to the urban landscape like the grand opening of The Global Centre for Pluralism.

“As Canada’s capital, we are used to playing host to national and international events. However, 2017 will be a once-in-a-generation occasion, as we prepare to host the world for Canada’s 150th birthday.... We are doing these things because Ottawa 2017 isn’t a

celebration of our past. It is a celebration of our future. It will leave an enduring legacy—one of excitement, opportunity and prosperity.” –Mayor Jim Watson, Ottawa

With Explorica’s 150th anniversary tour, you and your students can join the festivities in Ottawa on Canada Day. But you don’t have to wait until July 1, 2017 to start experiencing these historic events. Our expert travel consultants can create the perfect tour to meet the needs of your students, your school schedule and your curriculum. Just as Mayor Watson said, this is going to be a once-in-a-generation occasion. And we are ready to help you be part of it.

Student essay contestLearn how one of your students could win a free tour with our 150th anniversary student essay contest!

explorica.ca/canada150

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Remembrance Day in OttawaCommemorate Canada’s involvement in war and peace efforts throughout history. This educational tour includes participation in Ottawa’s official Remembrance Day services honouring the men and women who served, and continue to serve, our country.

Day 1 Hello Ottawa › Diefenbunker Museum visit › Byward Market visit

Day 2 Remembrance Day › Remembrance Day services › Beechwood Cemetery visit › Mackenzie King Estate grounds visit › Merivale Bowling attraction

Day 3 Ottawa landmarks › Canadian War Museum: Forged in Fire exhibit

› Parliament Hill: Centre Block guided visit, Peace Tower & Memorial Chamber visit

› Confederation Park visit › Canadian Museum of History guided visit › Ghosts and the Gallows: haunted walk & jail tour

Day 4 Goodbye Ottawa › Museum of Science and Technology guided tour

› Rideau Hall guided tour › Embassy Row walking tour: Ambassadorial residences of Egypt, Japan, Argentina, Spain, Iran, Thailand, South Korea & Stornaway

› Sussex Drive › Travel home

explorica.ca/RD31.888.310.7116

$534Starting price for a 4-day bus tour

Photo: Greg Kolz

Add a visit to the National War MemorialParticipate in Veterans AffairsCanada’s annual CanadaRemembers program, which worksto help young Canadians understandand appreciate those who havesacrificed for Canada in times of war,armed conflict and peace.

Canadian War MuseumHelp students connect with the past by exploring one of the world’s largest holdings of rare military vehicles, uniforms, medals and personal memoirs. The unique “Forged in Fire” tour examines how Canada’s battles abroad transformed our national identity at home.

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OttawaDay 1 Hello Ottawa

› Travel to Ottawa, meet your tour director › Supreme Court tour › Ottawa Animations walking tour › Parliament Hill, Peace Monument and Rideau Canal visit

› Dinner

Day 2 Ottawa Landmarks › Breakfast › Parliament Hill: Centre Block guided visit › Peace Tower and Memorial Chamber visit › Canadian Museum of History visit › Evening dinner & dance

Day 3 Goodbye Ottawa › Breakfast › Sussex Drive › Embassy Row Walking Tour: Ambassadorial Residences of Egypt, Japan, Argentina, Spain, Iran, Thailand & South Korea, Stornoway

› Rideau Hall guided tour › Byward Market visit › Travel home

Days 3–4 extension in OttawaTravel home or stay in Ottawa. Highlights: RCMP Stables visit and Royal Canadian Mint tour.

explorica.ca/O3S1.888.310.7116


Experience the nation’s capital, learning about the political and historical impact of the city with visits to Parliament, Stornoway, the Supreme Court and more. Just give us a call and create your own tour with any combination of our Ottawa activities.

More tours to Ottawaexplorica.ca/ottawa

Ottawa: Winter Tourexplorica.ca/O3WCrisp, white snow and glistening ice make Ottawa a picture of pure winter beauty. Walk through downtown and see the National Gallery of Art, Supreme Court and Parliament Hill, then get a chance to drive a dog sled and go sledding at the Ice Palace.

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Customize your tourHistory › Canadian War Museum › Ghosts and Gallows tour › Diefenbunker Museum

Politics › Parliament Building: East

Block tour › Meet your member

of Parliament › Rideau Hall walk of the grounds

Science › Laflèche caves › Canadian Museum of Nature › Aviation Museum visit

Fun › Skate on the Rideau Canal › Laser Quest › Merivale Bowling Centre

explorica.ca/customize

Ottawa & Montréalexplorica.ca/OMNSee where Canadian money is made during a tour of the Royal Canadian Mint and visit the Supreme Court and the War Museum before heading to Montréal to walk through its Old Town and experience an authentic sugar shack feast.

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MontréalDay 1 Bonjour Montréal

› Travel to Montréal and meet your tour director

› Montréal driving tour: Champlain Bridge, Olympic Park, Mont Royal, Chinatown, Business District, Bell Centre, Montréal Universities

Day 2 Learn the Ropes › Old Montréal walking tour: Place Jacques Cartier, Marche Bonsecours, Hotel de Ville, Vieux Port

› Notre-Dame Basilica visit › Old Montréal Rally › Explore Montréal › Sugar shack experience: traditional entertainment & dinner

Day 3 Au Revoir Montréal › St-Viateur Bagel shop › Mont Royal and Beaver Lake visit › Travel home

Days 3–4 extension in MontréalTravel home or stay in Montréal. Highlights: Olympic Park, Insectarium & Botanical Gardens, and Olympic Park Tower Observatory.

explorica.ca/mon1.888.310.7116


Practice your French in the beautiful Québécois city of Montréal. Soak in the cosmopolitan culture before exploring the city’s rich history as a First Nations’ village, fur-trading post, industrial centre and more.

More tours to Montréalexplorica.ca/montreal

Montréal History Tourexplorica.ca/M3HLearn about the vital role the fur trade played in Montréal’s economy back in the 1800’s with a tour of the Lachine Canal Fur Trade site. Walk through Montréal’s Old Town to discover its impressive architecture and enjoy a 17th century New France feast of native specialites.

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Customize your tourHistory › 17th-century New

France feast › Holocaust Museum › Pointe-à-Callière Museum

Science › Astronaut training at the

Cosmodome › Montréal Science Centre

with IMAX

Fun › Bowling › Dinner and dance › Laser Quest

Sports › Bike tour › Rock climbing › Snowshoeing


Montréal & Ottawaexplorica.ca/OMNRExplore Montréal’s Old Town and experience an authentic sugar shack feast before travelling to Ottawa to walk in the footsteps of some of the most influential Canadian decision-makers on a tour of the Supreme Court and War Museum.

Montréal Leadership Tourexplorica.ca/M3LA three-day immersion in the world’s second largest French-speaking city. Tour its bustling neighbourhoods and Old Town then visit an authentic sugar shack.

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Visit the capital of Québec, and experience the quaint, historic streets of a city steeped in French Canadian history and culture. Call us to create your own tour with any combination of our Québec City activities.

More tours to Québec Cityexplorica.ca/québec

Québec City & Montréalexplorica.ca/MNQRTour Québec’s Upper Town, taking in the beautifully lit National Assembly, Dufferin Terrace, Chateau Frontenac and Aux Anciens Canadiens. Walk the 17th century cobblestone streets of Lower Town and tour the St. Lawrence River by boat. Continue to Montréal for breathtaking views from the top of Mont Royal, and explore the interactive environmental science exhibits at the Biosphère.

Québec CityDay 1 Bonjour Québec

› Travel to Québec City and meet your tour director

› Historical Animation of Walled Upper Town: La Terrasse Dufferin, Château Frontenac photo stop, Rue du Trésor, Cap Diamant overview, National Assembly

Day 2 Explore the Old City › Spirit of Lower Town: l’Escalier casse-cou (breakneck steps), Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, Fresque des Québecois

› Musée du Fort visit › Plains of Abraham battlefield re-enactment › Historical Fact Finding Rally › Free time to explore Vieux Québec › One-hour “musical extravaganza”

Day 3 Rural Québec Experience › Côte de Beaupré Excursion: Chemin Royale, Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, Boulevard Sainte-Anne, St. Lawrence River

› Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré guided tour

› Picture stop at Montmorency Falls › Albert Gilles Copper Art Museum visit › Evening dinner & dance at Manoir Montmorency

Day 4 Au revoir Québec › Travel home

Days 4–5 extension in Québec CityTravel home or stay in Québec City. Highlights: Promenade des Gouverneurs walk and Place-Royal Interpretation Centre visit.

explorica.ca/Q4S1.888.310.7116


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Customize your tourHistory › Artillery Park › Soldier of Martello Tower › Village des Hurons

Fun › Winter Carnival activities › Aquarium › Whale watching

Sports › Circus school › Village des sports › Glissades on Dufferin Terrace

Culture › Dinner at a sugar shack › Ice Hotel › Musee National des Beaux Arts

du Québec


Québec: Carnavalexplorica.ca/QCCRide a toboggan to the foot of the Chateau Frontenac, drive a dog sled, visit an ice hotel where everything— including the furniture—is formed out of ice, and learn how maple syrup is made at a sugar shack.

Québec City: Ski Tourexplorica.ca/Q4ISchuss through powdery snow at Stoneham Ski Resort, explore Québec’s historic walled Upper Town and visit the impressive Basilica of Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré, where pilgrims pay homage to Ste-Anne.

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New York City Landmarks of ManhattanDay 1 Hello New York

› Meet your tour director › Midtown walking tour: Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trump Tower, Times Square, Grand Central

› Empire State Building & Observatory visit

Day 2 Downtown New York › Ferry boat to Ellis Island & Statue of Liberty

› Lower Manhattan guided sightseeing tour: Trinity Church, Wall Street, 9/11 Memorial visit

› Neighbourhoods walking tour: Chinatown, Little Italy, Greenwich Village, SoHo

› Optional Broadway show

Day 3 Uptown New York › Radio City Music Hall guided visit › Metropolitan Museum of Art visit › Central Park walking tour › Madison & Park Avenues › Broadway show

Day 4 New York City › United Nations visit

Days 4–5 New York City extensionTravel home or stay in New York City. Highlights: MoMA visit, United Nations visit, American Museum of Natural History & Hayden Planetarium visit.

explorica.ca/NYC1.888.310.7116


Washington, D.C., Philadelphia & New York Cityexplorica.ca/NPWExplore three of America’s most famous cities in one action-packed trip: Tour America’s capital, see the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia and experience the incredible sights and sounds of the Big Apple.

More tours to the U.S.explorica.ca/northeast

Customize your tourHistory › United Nations visit › Statue of Liberty › 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Culture › Apollo Theater show › Madison and Park Avenues › Central Park

Arts › Metropolitan Museum of Art › Broadway show › Museum of Modern Art


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Boston, NYC, Philly & Washington, D.C.Day 1 Hello Boston

› Meet your tour director › Freedom Trail walking tour: Old North Church, Paul Revere’s House, Boston Common, Old State House

› Featured meal: dinner at Faneuil Hall

Day 2 Salem › Boston Duck Boat guided sightseeing tour

(seasonal) › Salem walking tour: Witch Trial Memorial, Old Burying Point

› Salem Witch Museum visit › Optional evening ghost tour

Day 3 Boston to New York › Midtown walking tour: Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Times Square, Grand Central

› Empire State Building & Observatory visit

Day 4 Downtown New York › Ferry boat to Ellis Island & Statue of

Liberty › Lower Manhattan guided sightseeing tour: Trinity Church, Wall Street, 9/11 Memorial visit, Little Italy, Chinatown

› Optional Broadway show

Day 5 New York to Washington, D.C. › Philadelphia excursion: “Rocky Steps,” Independence Hall visit, Liberty Bell Center visit

Day 6 Washington, D.C. landmarks › U.S. Capitol guided tour › Supreme Court visit › Mount Vernon excursion › Arlington National Cemetery & Marine

Corps War Memorial › Washington, D.C. sightseeing: Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, National Mall, MLK Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, White House

Day 7 Washington, D.C. › National Archives visit › Smithsonian Museums visit: Options include the Air and Space Museum, Museum of Natural History, Museum of American History, Portrait Gallery, Museum of the American Indian, American Art Museum

Days 7–8 Washington, D.C. extensionTravel home or stay an extra day in Washington, D.C. Highlights: Holocaust Museum, Smithsonian Museums, National Archives and Ford’s Theatre.

explorica.ca/BND1.888.310.7116

$1,136Starting price for a 7-day bus tour

Washington, D.C.explorica.ca/WASTravel to the capital of the United States to discover its fascinating history, politics and people. Explore the beautiful national monuments and visit the Holocaust Museum and your choice of Smithsonian Museums.

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PhiladelphiaDay 1 Hello Philadelphia

› Meet your tour director › Philadelphia city walk: Washington Square District, historic waterfront, Old City Cultural District

Day 2 Philadelphia › Philadelphia guided sightseeing tour: Ben Franklin’s grave, U.S. Mint, “Rocky Steps,” The Thinker statue, Independence Hall visit, Liberty Bell Center visit

› Elfreth’s Alley › Betsy Ross House visit › National Constitution Center visit

Day 3 Goodbye Philadelphia › Franklin Institute Science Science Center › Travel home

Days 4–5 Lancaster extensionTravel home or continue to Lancaster. Highlights: Amish homestead visit, Pennsylvania Dutch-style dinner, visit to Hershey’s Chocolate World, Hersheypark.

explorica.ca/PHL1.888.310.7116


More tours to the U.S.explorica.ca/northeast

Customize your tourHistory and culture › African American Museum › Eastern State Penitentiary visit › Liberty Bell Center visit

Science and nature › Elfreth’s Alley › Franklin Institute Science Museum

Arts › Barnes Foundation visit


New York City Artsexplorica.ca/NYLExperience the vibrant arts and culture of the Big Apple! Take in all the famous attractions, including Times Square and Central Park, then immerse yourself in visual and performing arts. Take in a Broadway show, participate in a theater workshop, tour the famous Metropolitan Museum of Art, go behind the scenes at Radio City Music Hall and much more.

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Ivy League Model U.N. Conference in PhiladelphiaDay 1 Hello Philadelphia

› Meet Organizing Committee and check into conference and hotel

› Pre-conference workshops › Opening ceremonies › Committee session I › Faculty advisor reception › Faculty advisor/Head delegate meeting

Day 2 ILMUNC Conference › Ice skating with ILMUNC › Faculty advisor workshop › Summer opportunities fair › Delegate services open › Committee session II › Committee session III › Faculty advisor/Head delegate meeting › Delegate fest

Day 3 ILMUNC Conference › Delegate services open › Committee session IV › Committee session V › Faculty advisor/Head delegate meeting › Delegate dance › Delegate movie night

Day 4 Goodbye Philadelphia › Committee session VI › Closing ceremonies › Travel home

explorica.ca/MUN1.888.310.7116

Call for personalized quote

NEW! The Ivy League Model UN Conference (ILMUNC) is a unique educational expe-rience with an unparalleled focus on international affairs and networking. Students from across the continent come together as model UN delegates to debate and discuss pressing global issues in simulated UN committees. As a WorldStrides organi-zation, we are thrilled to now offer this exciting opportunity to Canadian students.

Enhance the experience for your students by adding time to explore Philadelphia’s finest attractions before and after the conference. See page 22 for inspiration, and give us a call to build your perfect tour.

EX

CLUSIVE

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Toronto

Leadership Camp

Niagara Falls

Montréal

Québec City

Saint-Adèle

Chicago

TorontoTake in the sights of the nation’s largest city from the top of the CN Tower. Explore the vibrant Kensington Market, Chinatown and the Distillery District. Revel at the art, history and science on display in the country’s largest museum and most expansive indoor aquarium.

explorica.ca/T2OLeadership Camp ExperienceLeave the city behind and escape to a beautiful forestland, studded with lakes and brimming with recreational opportunities. Choose from activities and workshops like kayaking, fishing, rock climbing and more.

explorica.ca/CMP

ChicagoStep into the birthplace of modern architecture. Climb the Willis Tower, see the iconic “Cloud Gate” sculpture and try a famous Chicago-style hot dog. Add a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Science & Industry.

explorica.ca/CHG

More to exploreSee these and more amazing bus tours on explorica.ca/bustours

If you can dream it, we can take you there. Simply choose your desired destination(s) and our knowledgeable program consultants will help you choose the activities, accommodations and experiences to meet your schedule and budget.

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Toronto

Leadership Camp

Niagara Falls

Montréal

Québec City

Saint-Adèle

Chicago

Saint-AdèleEmbark upon an action-packed adventure and sample the best of les sports d’hiver in this picturesque winter wonderland. Enjoy world-class skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating and more as you practice your French with local Québécois.

explorica.ca/SKI

Niagara FallsWitness the spectacular beauty of the most powerful waterfall in North America. View the islands and other famous landmarks, and take an interactive walking tour of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.

explorica.ca/N2A

Québec, Montréal & OttawaSoak in the French culture of Québec and Montréal’s quaint cobbled streets, irresistible crêperies and stunning examples of Gothic Revival architecture. Visit famous cultural institutions and tour Embassy Row in Ontario’s capital, and experience the caves and aerial courses of Laflèche nature park.

explorica.ca/QMO

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Why Québec City?Our trip to Québec City offers an excellent opportunity for students to practise their French outside the classroom. There are numerous activities that allow them to use their language skills in real-life situations. For example, students have opportunities to: listen to our French guides describe locations of geographical and historical significance, participate in re-enactments and dramatizations of early French history, and express themselves clearly and with confidence when in restaurants, sightseeing and shopping. The locals really enjoy it when visitors make the effort to speak their language—this creates a unique learning environment. Some students are a bit hesitant to speak French at first, but they see the value in engaging and participating in French speaking environments.

It’s a great city that combines elements of our geography and history—the grade seven curriculum comes to life in Québec! Students can participate in cultural activities, including traditional Québecois songs and dance. It’s a different culture from what we are used to here in Toronto.

What remarkable experiences have you had on tour?Basilica of Ste-Anne-de-Beaupré gives the students a glimpse of the religious devotion the French people continue to have, even today. When they see the exquisite details in the mosaics, stained-glass windows, paintings and sculptures they discover the extraordinary history of St. Anne and the important role she plays in the faith of the people. This holy site leaves everyone speechless.

Hiking through Canyon Sainte-Anne and crossing the suspension bridges is a thrill for the students every year.

The Montmorency Falls Park contains a large waterfall on the Montmorency River. A ride up on the gondola is always a treat, and the inn at the top is particularly beautiful. We have a lovely sit-down dinner overlooking the St. Lawrence River that gives the teachers a chance to relax and enjoy the moment. There is a panoramic view of the St. Lawrence River and Île d’Orléans that is breathtaking.

How does educational travel benefit your students’ overall educational experience?Throughout the trip, it becomes apparent that the students relate to their teachers differently. They see a different side of us and appreciate the chance to get to know us outside of the classroom. It fosters a really nice dynamic. Since the tour occurs at the end of the school year, students see it as something to work toward, and it’s a great motivator throughout the year. Most of the grade eight students view it as a graduation trip—a celebration of their hard work and a chance to commemorate a milestone in their lives. It’s a special time for everyone involved.

Meet Barb Buckley, a science teacher in Toronto. With more than eight years’ experience working with Explorica, Barb has gained invaluable insight into leading large groups on unforgettable tours.

Group leader spotlight

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Teacher appreciationWe know you work hard for your students, and we appreciate the impact teachers make on young lives every day. That’s why we designed our teacher appreciation program with you in mind, using your feedback to provide a better educational travel experience for teachers across the country.

Whenever you travel with us, you automatically qualify for the following benefits:

Free travelTeachers always travel free with Keating by Explorica, and chaperones can, too. We offer one free place for every 10 students, but you can adjust your chaperone ratio to save money for your students. Remember to ask about our flexible free-place ratio if you want even more help on tour.

Friend and family discountWant to share your experience? Receive a 10% discount off the tour cost for any colleagues or family members who accompany you on tour.

Referral bonusEarn a $250 referral bonus when you refer another teacher to lead a North American tour. Get cash as soon as they enrol just FIVE students for a trip, the lowest requirement in the industry. Check out our international tours to receive an even bigger referral bonus—up to $1,000!

WHAT WE PROVIDE

explorica.ca • 1.888.310.7116 27

Let us show you the world

With over 200 tours to all seven continents, Explorica can help you bring your lessons to life on a cultural immersion adventure. You’ll travel free, and your students will get the guaranteed best prices in educational travel.

Los Angeles & San Franciscoexplorica.ca/LSF

7–9 days, from $2,062

Canadian Rockies Adventureexplorica.ca/WCA 7–9 days, from $1,855

New Orleansexplorica.ca/NOL 4–5 days, from $1,550

Fly away with us to more than 75 countries: explorica.ca/tours

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Spain & Franceexplorica.ca/SAF

10–13 days, from $3,396

Costa Ricaexplorica.ca/COS

9–10 days, from $2,598

Paris, Normandy & Vimyexplorica.ca/RV7 9 days, from $3,536

3080 Yonge StreetSuite 5052, Box 77 Toronto, ON M4N 3N1

TICO: 50012536OPC: 702916

Printed in the U.S.A.

A better travel experienceEvery year, Canadian teachers who switch to Keating by Explorica tell us the same reasons: Better service from a more experienced team. Greater flexibility and more customization options. Superior quality tour components and authentic educational content. Grants and resources to make travel more accessible for their students. Give us a call to see what you could be getting with Explorica.

Get a GoPro for your school + $30 student travel grants NEW!

Replace the selfie stick with something that really captures your students’ expe-rience on school trips. Book a 2018 bus tour by March 31, 2017 and your group will receive a GoPro and a $30 travel grant for each student, to help more of your students travel. Call to get started: 1.888.310.7116.

Fundraising pages NEW!

We want our tours to be as accessible as possible, so we provide a personal fundraising platform for every student who signs up online. Call to learn more: 1.888.310.7116.

Guaranteed best pricesWe deliver superior quality and service at the guaranteed best prices: If you find a lower published price, we’ll match it.

$100 student travel grant NEW!

Book any 2018 North America flight tour and we will award a $100 travel grant to every student who enrols by March 31, 2017.

keating by explorica

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