SCHOOL CLASS TRIP TO PUERTO RICO

Without a doubt, Puerto Rico is distinguished with one of the most unique cultures in the world.  During the early 18th century, in order to populate the country, the Spaniard took Taino Indian women as brides.  Long after Spain lost control of Puerto Rico, Spanish immigrants continued to arrive on the island, mixing many of their customs with the locals.  Cuisine, eating habits, music, and family traditions are among the many Puerto Rican customs that define their unique culture.  Additionally, this island has an abundance of adventure opportunities, including amazing rainforest waterfalls, bioluminescent kayak tours, and incredible coral reefs.  Learn, explore, and help restore an orphanage in an impoverished section of San Juan.

Sample Itinerary - 5 days

Day 1

Your group will fly to San Juan where an Appleseed Expeditions guide will meet you at the airport. You will have time to check in at your hotel and freshen up before the group sets out to explore the city, beginning with a guided walking tour of the Old World Spanish settlement founded by Ponce de León, seeker of the fountain of youth.  San Juan's historic center includes many beautifully restored buildings and homes in the Spanish Colonial style, and you will also see the very forts that once protected the city from foreign invasion.  Throughout the day you will have opportunities to enjoy the sights, sounds, flavors, and shopping of this colonial city.  Following dinner you may opt to take a night-time tour of the historic sites.  (Fees for optional activities are not included in the price of the trip.)

Day 2

This morning the group will travel to El Yunque Rainforest and have the chance to hike in the only tropical rainforest in the U.S.  You will be amazed at the many species of animals and plants found there!  Later, you will head to Luquillo Beach, considered the most beautiful beach in Puerto Rico, for an afternoon of sun and relaxation.  The group will return to San Juan for dinner.

Day 3

Today your group will head to one of the country's most beautiful beaches for a day of snorkeling and exploring an amazing coral reef.  In the evening you will enjoy a kayaking tour of the Bio Bay, a lagoon filled with billions of bioluminescent organisms.  At the end of this busy day, your group will head out for a wonderful dinner.

Day 4

During your final full day in Puerto Rico, your group will take the opportunity to explore the city to its fullest.  In the morning you will be able to do some shopping or maybe spend time on the beach to soak up the sun.  Following lunch, your group will head to a local orphanage on the outskirts of San Juan where you will have the afternoon to interact with the children, tell stories, sing songs, perform skits, or even put on a fair for them.  Your Spanish language will be put to good use as you serve these children.  After a fulfilling afternoon of service, your group will head back to San Juan for dinner at a typical Puerto Rican restaurant.

Day 5

After a fun trip to Puerto Rico, it will be time to catch your flight back home.