St Leonard's College CUE China Service Program

Asia St Leonard’s College CUE China service program

Trip Highlights Dujiangyan Panda Breeding Centre volunteer program

3 day community service immersion at Miao Village Yangtze River excursion View the Terracotta Warriors and explore Xian Service day at Huilin Community for people with learning disabilities

Urban exploration Shanghai Dinners focusing on regional delicacies Visit to the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven in Beijing Explore an impressive section of the Great Wall at Mutianyu

Exploration of Beijing, Shanghai, Xian and Chengdu Great Race adventure in Beijing Trip Duration 18 days Trip Code: SOG3897

Grade Adventure touring Activities Community Project, Volunteering, Cycling, Day Walking and Cruising Summary 18 day trip, 10 nights hotel, 2 night village stay, 3 nights Yangtze cruise and 1 night train

Welcome to Why travel with World Youth Adventures? World Youth Adventures (WYA) is a specialist division of World World Youth Adventures Expeditions that provides overseas adventure experiences for youth Thank you for your interest in our St Leonard’s College CUE China and young adults. We’ve provided safe, quality travel experiences for service program trip. At World Youth Adventures we are passionate students for over 20 years, in which time we’ve designed and operated about sharing our experience in providing off the beaten track literally hundreds of fun, educational, adventurous, original and safe experiences and the thrill of coming face to face with untouched itineraries to more than 25 countries. If you are a student looking to cultures as well as wilderness regions of great natural beauty, try your first overseas adventure, travelling with WYA is a sound first with students and young adults as you prepare yourself for life’s step. You’ll join like‑minded youth from across the world, utilise our challenges ahead. We are also committed to making sure that decades of experience to tailoring unique experiences and benefit our range of unique itineraries are well researched, affordable in terms of safety, price and value, thanks to our unrivalled overseas and tailored for the enjoyment of our small groups or individuals ‑ network. Your parents will be pleased to know that your duty of care philosophies that have been at our core since 1975 when we began is our number one priority. We are financially protected with adequate operating adventure holidays. The itineraries will give you the very bonding and financial safeguards taken out in Australia, New Zealand, best travel experience, designed by people with incredible local North America and the UK. Refer to our website to learn more about knowledge who share our vision of authentic exchange and real our industry leading risk management procedures. Our tours for young exploration with a responsible tourism approach. We hope you will people will not only open your mind to a new world of thinking. By join us on this life changing experience, in the meantime join our choosing to travel with World Youth Adventures, your tour will actually community at Facebook.com/WorldYouthAdventures benefit the local peoples youl interact with, safeguard the ecosystems you explore and contribute to the sustainability of travel in the regions you’ll experience.

St Leonard’s College CUE China service program A comprehensive learning and community service project journey exploring the diversity of China from the Three Gorges to the Great Wall in this staggeringly vast and diverse country

Trip Dates The Trip An in‑depth journey through China for the St Leonard’s Year 9 CUE Program featuring 2016 08 Nov - 25 Nov Community Service, Urban Exploration and Environmental Sustainability.

What you will learn . St Leonard’s College Year 9 CUE program Community Service, Urban Exploration, Environmental Sustainability The program will be fine tuned to St Leonard’s College’s CUE program requirements and will focus on the following: *Engaging students in positive risk taking and experience beyond the classroom that is built on the concepts of connections. *Provoking inquiry into real world themes/issues and how individuals, local communities and the global community are impacted upon. *Encouraging behavior change ‑ towards more sustainable decision makers and therefore people of action. *Instilling in each student, a positive attitude toward self, the community and their world. *Giving students greater independence to develop life skills and qualities considered important in independent learners and workers.

At a Glance DAY 1 FLY MELBOURNE TO CHENGDU VIA BANGKOK, WELCOME DINNER DAY 2 DUJIANGYAN PANDA BREEDING CENTRE VOLUNTEER PROGRAM DAY 3 VISIT SISTER SCHOOL ZONGBEI MIDDLE SCHOOL, BULLET TRAIN TO CHONGQING FOR THREE GORGES CRUISE DAYS 4-5 THREE GORGES RIVER CRUISE DAY 6 THREE GORGES CRUISE TO YICHANG. FLY TO GUIYANG, TRANSFER TO KAILI DAYS 7-8 IN KAILI, MIAO VILLAGE COMMUNITY SERVICE IMMERSION DAY 9 IN KAILI, MIAO VILLAGE COMMUNITY SERVICE IMMERSION, FLY TO XIAN DAY 10 IN XIAN, SERVICE LEARNING PROGRAM AT HUILIN COMMUNITY CENTRE, VISIT GRAND MOSQUE DAY 11 VISIT TERRACOTTA WARRIORS. OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO SHANGHAI DAY 12 ARRIVE SHANGHAI. EXPLORATION OF CITY INCLUDING YUYUAN GARDENS DAY 13 VISIT SHANGHAI MUSEUM AND FRENCH CONCESSION. BULLET TRAIN TO BEIJING. DAY 14 BEIJING EXPLORATION, KUNG FU LESSON, CHINESE ACROBATIC SHOW DAY 15 DAY TRIP TO MUTIANYU SECTION OF GREAT WALL. DAY 16 BEIJING THE GREAT RACE DAY 17 BEIJING FLY TO MELBOURNE VIA BANGKOK DAY 18 ARRIVE MELBOURNE

What’s Included 3 teachers from St Leonard’s College travelling with group 17 breakfasts, 16 lunches and 16 dinners 3* hotels throughout China on a twin-share basis International on Thai Airways International Domestic airfares within China Expert bilingual guide throughout Sleeper train travel between Xian and Shanghai Boat cruise through the Three Gorges

Private air conditioned transport Sightseeing and entry fees as listed in itinerary Medical kit Visa costs Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1 Fly Melbourne to Chengdu via Bangkok, welcome dinner 08NOV TG462 MELBOURNE TO BANGKOK DEP 00:30 ARR 05:40 08NOV TG614 BANGKOK TO CHENGDU DEP 10:05 ARR 14:00 On arrival you will be met at the airport by your guide and transferred to your hotel to freshen up after your flight. This afternoon we will have a trip briefing with your guide in the hotel foyer. Following this, we will head out to a local restaurant for an arrival dinner and our first taste of Chinese cuisine with a local delicacy, Sichuan Hot Pot. Overnight 3* Chengdu Hotel Meals: D

DAY 2 Dujiangyan Panda Breeding Centre volunteer program Today is an exciting day as we transfer 1 hour from our hotel to the Dujiangyan Panda Breeding Centre. Our group will participate in the Panda research volunteer program from 9am to 3pm. The day program includes the students being involved in helping with the Panda’s enrichment program. This afternoon we return to our hotel for rest before heading out for dinner. Overnight Chengdu 3* hotel Meals: B,L,D

DAY 3 Visit sister school Zongbei Middle School, bullet train to Chongqing for Three Gorges Cruise This morning we will make a visit to St Leonard’s College sister school, the Zongbei Middle School. Later in the afternoon we catch the bullet train to Chongqing and we will board our boat for the start of our Three Gorges Cruise. Meals: B,L,D

DAYS 4-5 Three Gorges River Cruise The Yangtze River is the longest river in China and the third longest waterway in the world. We travel along one of the most picturesque sections of the river where over millions of years, it has carved its way through the surrounding mountains creating uniquely beautiful gorges, now named the Three Gorges. Over the next three days we will have the opportunity to view the dramatic scenery along the banks of the Yangtze River, as high peaks tower above us from both sides. In some sections, huge cliffs and dramatically perched temples can be seen and we are able to view how the river affects the peoples lives in this region. We will have time to discuss the effects of tourism in the area and the impact on the environment. Waterfalls spray mist over the river, creating a mystical feeling as we meander along an area that soon will be forever changed. During the cruise we have the chance to get off the boat for three onshore excursions to further aid with our discussions. The Ghost city in Fengdu, a tributary visit to Shengnong stream and a dam tour. Accommodation aboard our boat is in private twin share cabins. All meals on board are included. Meals: B,L,D

Fast Facts DAY 6 Three Gorges Cruise to Yichang. Fly to Guiyang, transfer to Kaili We arrive into Yichang mid morning and visit the Yichang Three Gorges dam project before Countries Visited: transferring to the airport to catch our flight to Guiyang. On arrival we transfer to our hotel before China heading out on an orientation walk of the city and heading out to dinner. Visas: Overnight 3* hotel Kaili Yes* Meals: B,L,D Vaccinations: DAYS 7-8 In Kaili, Miao Village community service immersion Please consult a travel vaccination specialist for up to date information Over the next three days we will immerse in the Miao Village community program. The exact details of the immersion program will be organised over the coming months after discussions with the Leader: community and St Leonards College. During our time here the students can be involved in a project Expert local leader as well as joining the scholastic program and preparing workshops that they can host for the local *Ask our staff for more information. students. Overnight dormitory style accommodation at local village Meals: B,L,D

DAY 9 In Kaili, Miao Village community service immersion, fly to Xian This morning after breakfast we complete our program and partake in a hand over ceremony for the project back to the local community. After lunch we transfer to the airport in Guiyang for your flight to Xian. On arrival transfer to your hotel to freshen up before we head out for dinner. Overnight 3* hotel Xian Meals: B,L,D

DAY 10 In Xian, service learning program at Huilin Community Centre, visit Grand Mosque Xian is the traditional starting point of the Silk Road. The old walled city of Xian, the capital of Shaanxi Province, is a vivid example of old and new China. The modernised new city bustles around the quaint, winding lanes of the Old Quarter, where old men can be seen smoking pipes and watching the world go by, as butchers pull their carcass-laden carts and hawkers sell their wares. Today will be a great learning experience as we spend the day on a service learning program at Huilin Community Centre for people with learning disabilities. We will join the local students for the day and participate in a range of activities including games, sport, dancing and singing. The local students will help teach us how to make traditional dumplings this afternoon. At the completion of our program we visit the old city wall of Xian and hire bikes so we can explore at handle bar level. We finish the day with a walking tour around the Muslim Quarter and learning about the ancient Silk Route. Our tour will include a visit to the Grand Mosque. The Grand Mosque is the oldest and one of the most renowned mosques in the country, founded in 742 during the Tang dynasty (618-907). Tonight we enjoy a regional local delicacy at a dumpling banquet. Overnight 3* hotel Xia Meals: B,L,D

DAY 11 Visit Terracotta Warriors. Overnight train to Shanghai Today we visit the famous Terracotta Warriors. These warriors stand in their thousands outside the tomb of Qin Shihuang, where they were uncovered in 1974 by peasants digging a well. Each warrior stands over 6 feet tall and has different features and characteristics. Some stand in a vanguard with crossbow and longbow bearers; others hold spears, daggers and axes at the ready. They are accompanied by dozens of horse-drawn carriages and enormous terracotta horses. The sight of the warriors arising from their muddy grave, some intact, others still submerged in the ground, is an extraordinary one. This afternoon we transfer to the train station for our overnight train to Shanghai. Overnight train Meals: B,L,D

Responsible Travel DAY 12 Arrive Shanghai. Exploration of city including Yuyuan Gardens Upon arrival in Shanghai we transfer to our well-located hotel to freshen up before we start our The environments that you’ll travel exploration. Shanghai is known as the “Paris of the Orient” and it is easy to see why. Long the through are fragile. It is our responsibility place of quick fortune and teahouses, Shanghai has a vibrant feel that infects all travellers that pass as visitors to minimise the impact of our through her gates. The vibrant Bund is an awesome place to congregate and has been the setting presence. Learn how you can minimise for countless classic paintings over the years. This morning after breakfast we will embark on a your impact by downloading our day of exploration including visits to the Long Hua Buddhist Temple, a walk through the famous Responsible Travel Guidebook from our and spectacular Yu Garden, the river ferry to Pudong, time at the underground market, Nanjing East website. While you’re there learn more Road, sunset at Shanghai Tower and a walk along the Bund. about our sustainable travel policies. Overnight 3* hotel Shanghai Meals: B,L,D

DAY 13 Visit Shanghai Museum and French concession. Bullet train to Beijing. Today we continue our exploration of Shanghai with a visit to the Urban planning exhibition centre and Shanghai Museum. The Shanghai Museum now houses over 120,000 cultural relics including Chinese bronze, ceramics, paintings and caligraphy. We transfer to the train station for the bullet train to Beijing. Overnight Beijing Meals: B,L,D

DAY 14 Beijing exploration, Kung Fu lesson, Chinese Acrobatic Show After breakfast we will start our exploration of Beijing. We will enjoy part of the tour in a local trishaw. Our sightseeing whilst in Beijing will include a visit to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Zhongshan Park and the Temple of Heaven. Whilst at the Temple of Heaven we have arranged for a private lesson in traditional Kung Fu by a local Chinese expert. This afternoon we will undertake a walking and orientation exercise around the Hutongs. Hutongs are a type of narrow street or alley featuring lines of traditional courtyard residences. They are a wonderful glimpse into a bygone era. Late this afternoon we will make our way to the famous Chinese Acrobat show. Set in an old theatre, the Acrobat show is something to see as very talented young men and women enthrall the crowd with daring feats involving bicycles, dragons, swords and double-jointed body parts! Overnight 3* hotel Beijing Meals: B,L,D

DAY 15 Day trip to Mutianyu section of Great Wall. Today is special, as we travel to a beautiful section of the Great Wall of China. The Mutianyu section is approximately a 1.5 hours drive from Beijing, slightly further than the popular and very busy Badaling Gate section. The Mutianyu section is renowned for its Ming Dynasty Guard Towers and stirring views. The Great Wall of China is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and is one of the worlds most unusual and awesome sites. Construction commenced over 2000 years ago, around 221 B.C, as a defence line to keep out invaders, along the course of several thousand kilometres. The Emperor Qin Shihuang unified the various northern walls into the Great Wall we see today. We have the opportunity to walk along this section, quite often with no one else in sight and appreciate the many watchtowers as well as the surrounding rolling hills. Meals: B,L,D

DAY 16 Beijing The Great Race Today is the day of The Great Race in Beijing. Overnight 3* hotel Beijing Meals: B,L,D

DAY 17 Beijing Fly to Melbourne via Bangkok This morning we continue to explore Beijing before transferring to the airport for our flight to Melbourne via Bangkok. 24NOV TG615 BEIJING TO BANGKOK DEP 17:05 ARR 21:20 Meals: B,D

DAY 18 Arrive Melbourne 25NOV TG465 BANGKOK TO MELBOURNE DEP 00:05 ARR 13:05 Meals: NIL

This Itinerary Is Subject To Change With Any Change In Community Regulations As Well As Governmental Changes And Natural Circumstances Beyond Our Control.

Country Information China never fails to conjure up a myriad of feelings, images and a sense of mystery. Its history cannot be summed up in a few paragraphs and to fully appreciate the currents that have shaped the country and its people, you must take the time to read at least one of the many excellent books available. Within the almost four million square miles of China’s vast territory live more than 1.2 billion people, which makes it the most populated nation on earth. For centuries, outsiders have yearned to visit China and it’s only since 1976 that tourism really started. Initially, foreign visitors were only allowed to see a fraction of what the country had to offer. However, today it is possible to visit as many as 60 different areas. An increasing number of historical sites are also being restored and opened up to viewing for foreign tourists. As much as China is keen to display its stunning scenery, historical sites and impressive cities, it is also dedicated to conveying something about how its society works. Although its political system has set it apart from the west, China is now moving forward in leaps and bounds, especially in the areas of trade and commerce. The major cities are indicative of the burgeoning economy of modern China. As in the days of Marco Polo, travellers are still regarded as honoured guests and the locals delight in watching you watching them.

dietary requirements Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering these medications.

vehicles & safety During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all which are fit for purpose and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have seat belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example. Whilst we do not include animal rides on most of our trips, there are occasions where it may be possible to undertake them optionally and to do so is at your own risk. Note that helmets and professional riding equipment are not available in all circumstances.