Are Trips Just for Teachers?
The Fellows program, only accepted participants are able to take the trip. However, if you would like to travel with family or friends, please consider a trip with Bookbag Tours.
What’s not included?
Flights to and from your destinations are not included in the cost of our trips unless otherwise stated on the trip registration page. Travel insurance and Visas are not included. We do offer travel insurance (see below) and the links to apply for your visa approximately two months beforehand via a link in your private WhatsApp group.
Is travel insurance included?
Travel insurance is mandatory to participate in the Fellowship experience, but not included. However, you have the option to purchase from WeTravel or purchase through another company of your choice.
How do I book a trip?
To participate in a Fellows trip you must be accepted. Applications are accepted April 1 – October 31. Fellows Application Please be sure to read all information on the site before starting your application.
Am I the right type of person to apply for the Fellowship?
If you are an educator who is ready to engage deeply in global learning, grow as a reflective leader, and translate international experiences into meaningful, lasting impact within your classroom, school, and community, then you are the right person.
Is there a payment plan?
Yes! If your district does not cover the entire program fee we will set you up on a payment plan and help guide you in raising the uncovered portion of your fee.
How does my district pay?
Once accepted in the program we will send an invoice to your district which they can pay by check, money order or credit card. They will pay 50% within 30 days and the final payment will be due by March 1st. If you have more than one participant from your district the district can pay for all invoices together or separate.
What’s included in the price?
Hotel and/or Host stay, see listing.
Airport Transfers (subject to trip)
All Breakfasts
Bookbag Tours Conclusive Summit Dinner.
Any group activities that are planned by us as a part of the trip. Optional activities planned on your own are excluded.
Your amazing Trip Leaders, your Professional Development facilitators, and our On-Site and Off-Site Team members!
You become a member of the BBT Global Fellows Community and its resources
60 hours of PD credit
How do I get the PD Credit?
First, you will receive a formal certificate of your PD hours. Several states and districts are already acquainted with us and we are endorsed by the Palmetto State Teacher’s Association. Most districts will give credit and some may not. Please speak to your administration for requirements of professional development before booking. Contact us if additional information is needed.
I am attending with a teacher friend, should we book individually or together?
Please book individually. On the registration form there is a place to put the roommate choice. We will take care of you. When coming as a group, we just ask that you stay open for new friendships and be sure to make new meaningful friendships too, as we try to make every teacher feel included.
What about the flight?
We’re glad you asked! We keep our costs lower for you by providing you the opportunity, and flexibility, to book your own flight. You can fly from anywhere in the world to our learning destination and even use your frequent flyer miles if you like! For some trips (limited), we put together a group flight. Any group flights that are available will be posted in Nov/Dec in your private group. We are available to help you discover the best options when flying to your destination.
How much do flights cost?
Due to the vast amount of changes that can occur to increase or decrease airline prices, that are out of our foresight. We recommend using google flights to get an idea of pricing.
When should I start looking for flights?
Airlines release ticket prices approximately 9-11 months before the departure dates. Booking early is key to getting great rates but most airlines discount their prices 120-160 days before your trip. Start the research early so that you can recognize a good rate when you see one! Book directly from the Airline. These are sites we recommend for search purposes: skyscanner.com and flights.google.com. Another app to check is Hopper.
Should I get TSA-Pre Check or Global Entry?
That is up to you, but as avid travelers, we enjoy using our Global Entry pass (aka Trusted Travelers Program), which includes TSA pre-check. TSA pre-check is domestic only. Please email them with questions as we are not affiliated with them whatsoever.
Which countries do I need vaccines?
Not all countries need vaccination like Yellow Fever, etc…. Please speak with your physician as to which vaccines you will need. It is different for everyone.
Where and when should I get a VISA, or do I even need a VISA?
The governments do not allow you to apply for a VISA until three months before your trip. We will be posting more info to your private WhatsApp on how and when to apply for a VISA, if needed.
How can I afford a trip on a teacher’s salary? Are there grants, scholarships, etc available?
For the Fellows program we hope your district will pay for most of, if not all of, the program. If not, we help you raise money to fill in the gap. We recently heard that Donor’s Choose is back to funding PD Grants, so you can also check that out as well as the Fund for Teachers.
What about food?
Breakfast and Summit Dinner are included on most trips. All other meals are not included as our guests love to choose their own meals and not be stuck in a “meals package” so they can try out different cuisines or visit any restaurant of their choosing.
Can I go early or stay after the trip?
Definitely, as long as you are present for our opening welcome reception to meet your hosts. We are willing to assist by contacting BBT Travel, to extend your journey on the front end or back end of the trip. Just let us know your preferred dates and we can help with planning, lodging, transportation, and any activities you would want to do. Email contact@bbtglobal.us for assistance.
Is there a Teacher/Leader Ratio for each program?
We keep about a 10:1 Teacher to Leader ratio on our trips. This gives our teachers the atmosphere to create lifetime bonds amongst their fellow teachers and our leaders (what we’re famous for!)