Question 1

Do you offer Travel Protection Insurance?

Accepted Answer

Our team has done extensive research to facilitate a partnership with a travel insurance company that excels at providing an excellent student-group-friendly product at a truly affordable cost.
 
This company offers a benefit option of Cancel For Any Reason that you may want to consider to provide confidence as you move forward with your Program.
 
Travel protection packages from Travel Insurance International may offer benefits for:
Trip Cancellation
Trip Interruption
Travel Delay
Missed Connection
Baggage Loss/Delay
Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation
Accident & Sickness Medical Expense
Cancel For Any Reason

Click here to view the Travel Insured International Group Plan Overview with pricing and coverage information.
 
Feel free to reach out to our Reservations Team today or call 715-234-6500 should you have any questions.

Question 2

Who is the Organizer?

Accepted Answer

The Organizer is the person with whom we communicate about the program. This person is often a teacher or school administrator, but can also be another school staff person or a volunteer parent.

Question 3

What does the Organizer do?

Accepted Answer

The Organizer works with us in deciding which program will be offered, the dates of the program, etc.

The Organizer also appoints chaperones. These chaperones can be teachers, school staff, or parents. Each chaperone is typically responsible for a certain number of students.
Organizers promote the trip using suggestions and tools provided by Students on Tour.

While on location, the Organizer helps with decisions if and when they need to be made and, of course, aids in supervision and discipline.

Question 4

What support does the Organizer receive from Students on Tour?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour manages the money. Our accounting department works directly with each family.

Students on Tour and its sister company use a client trust account administered by an independent firm of Certified Public Accountants for the protection of your money. Other student tour providers have trust accounts to be sure, but they are self-administered. In other words, the tour provider can access your money; Students on Tour does not. All monies are held in a CPA administered trust fund, other than the deposit. Funds are only released for your program expenses when due. Any additional monies are released at the conclusion of your program. Your money is safely in the hands of the independent CPAs who pay the bills and only pay Students on Tour after your trip is over.

During the program, our Education Program Leaders (EPL) are with your group 24 hours a day from the time you arrive on location until you are on your way home. The EPL takes care of all arrangements, provides teaching throughout the program, and in general runs the trip.

We provide through-the-night hall security guards who will watch over your group at the hotel(s).

Question 5

When is the best time to “book” my Education Program?

Accepted Answer

Most groups book their programs a year in advance. The earlier the program is booked, the more time families have to make monthly payments.

Question 6

When is the best time of year to travel?

Accepted Answer

The majority of schools schedule their programs during regular school time. April and May are the most popular months, along with the time around spring break, which changes year-to-year.
 
More schools at taking notice of the advantages of traveling during off-season times including January, February, and autumn. During these times there are shorter lines and fewer crowds. About ten percent of schools travel during summer break.

Question 7

How is the itinerary designed?

Accepted Answer

Our Itinerary Specialists will develop an itinerary that reflects the best learning opportunities for the cities you choose to visit and the length of the overall program. They also take into consideration attractions and sites that will enhance learning objectives you may have for your group.

Question 8

Does Students on Tour provide any pre-program education materials?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. A Students on Tour Explorer Workbook is provided for each student participant.

Question 9

I am the group Organizer.  Is there a way to have my registration costs reduced?

Accepted Answer

Yes! With enough paying participants, your registration can be complimentary. You may also be able to offer complimentary registration to chaperones as well. Our Reservations Department can assist you with this planning. Generally speaking,
For east coast programs that travel by motorcoach, one complimentary participant is earned for every fifteen (15) paid participants.
For west coast programs that travel by motorcoach, one complimentary participant is earned for every twenty (20) paid participants.
For programs that travel by air, one complimentary participant is earned for every ten (10) paid participants.

Question 10

Who leads the Students on Tour education programs?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour has an exclusive staff of trained and licensed Education Program Leaders (EPL). They are selected based on their background, education, personality attributes, and experience with young people.

Question 11

Are your Education Program Leaders screened?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All Students on Tour Education Program Leaders go through background checks and are also licensed by the District of Columbia.

Question 12

What are some of the safety procedures used by Students on Tour?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour recognizes safety as our highest priority. The following are a few of the procedures we have in place:
Students on Tour uses established and vetted motorcoach vendors, hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
We also follow all established federal guidelines outlined for motorcoach operators.
Each participant is provided with a program badge and lanyard to wear throughout the tour. This badge is preprinted with the Students on Tour 24-hour toll-free emergency hotline number that participants or first responders can use to contact our office in cases of emergency.
Students are not allowed to be without adult supervision.
At hotels, through-the-night hall monitor security is provided via bonded and licensed operators.
Hotel orientation is given to review stairs location and evacuation procedures.

Question 13

How many participants are needed in order to be considered a group?

Accepted Answer

The travel industry requires at least ten people to be considered a group. Yet there is a significant cost – benefit to having a larger group. An ideal group size is at least 35 people.

For smaller groups there are two options:
Consider joining one of our open tours (if available)
Consider “matching” with another small group (if available)

Question 14

Is there a maximum number of participants allowed?

Accepted Answer

No—there is no upper limit! We have worked with groups of over 450 participants and very routinely work with groups of 200+ participants. These groups are divided into motorcoach "teams" and each team has its own Students on Tour Program Leader.

Question 15

Who can we invite to join our education program?

Accepted Answer

That's up to you. Many schools focus on one particular grade, while others offer the program to the entire school. Some invite parents and other family or community members, while others limit the program to only students and teachers.

Question 16

Is it a good idea to mix grade levels?

Accepted Answer

It is not unusual for schools to combine two grades. There are unique challenges with a greater grade span, yet it certainly can be done.

Question 17

What about chaperones?

Accepted Answer

Many attractions and sites require students to be accompanied by a chaperone. A general guideline is to plan to have at least one adult chaperone for every ten students.

Our Education Programs are set up to have one complimentary participant for every -
Ten (10) paid participants, if traveling by air
Fifteen (15) paid participants, if traveling by motorcoach to the East Coast
Twenty (20) paid participants, if traveling by motorcoach to the West Coast
Organizers often offer these complimentary spots to chaperones.

Question 18

What type of transportation is used on Students on Tour Programs?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour uses newer model motorcoaches that meet all federal transportation guidelines. These deluxe motorcoaches are equipped with large windows, comfortable upholstered seating, a restroom, air conditioning, and a public address system. Most also include WIFI andn a electric outlets.

For groups using air transportation, our Travel Coordinator diligently shops for tickets that will take into account both the group’s budget and schedule.

Question 19

Do you have information on what the TSA allows me to bring on my trip?

Accepted Answer

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website has information on the different items you may or not bring on your trip and where it needs to be packed in your luggage.

https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all

Question 20

What are the hotels like?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour uses several tiers of hotel properties. For groups choosing to stay in downtown locations, we use hotels such as Hyatt, Embassy Suites, Holiday Inn, etc.

For groups wishing to economize, we use nice suburban properties such as Hyatt Place, Holiday Inn Express, Country Inn and Suites, etc.

We choose properties that are in safe locations and are clean with up-to-date modeling.

Question 21

How many participants are assigned to each hotel room?

Accepted Answer

Typically there are either two adults or four students in each room. Generally speaking, every room will have two large beds. Adult couples and single occupancy participants may have a single king-sized bed.
 
The Organizer determines room assignments.

Question 22

What type of meals are included on a Students on Tour program?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour looks for restaurants and eating options that provide you with variety and choices. Sometimes the meals are set up in a buffet style other times they are plated, but they always allow for a number of options. Breakfasts are normally set up at our hotels. Lunches are normally not included in our package price but we plan to go to places were there are many choices. Dinners are complete hot meals.

Question 23

I have a student who is physically disabled, are they able to join the program?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, Students on Tour follows all ADA guidelines. For example, if a student requires a wheelchair lift on the motorcoach, we will arrange for that.

During the registration process, there is a place to indicate the need for a special service.

Question 24

What if medical assistance is needed while we are on a Students on Tour program?

Accepted Answer

In the event of an emergency, 911 will always be contacted.  For non-emergency situations, we utilize other healthcare options, such as Urgent Care or Minute Clinics.  There are a number of CVS drugstores in Washington, DC, Virginia, and New Jersey that include Minute Clinics.

Question 25

How are payments made?

Accepted Answer

Both registration and payments are completed online. Payments can be made by Visa, MasterCard, Discover cards or by PayPal. Checks and money orders are also accepted.
 
The Registration Fee is paid upon registration. The remaining program cost is divided into four approximately equal payments: one to be paid one hundred and fifty (150) days prior to trip departure, one to be paid one hundred and twenty (120) days prior to trip departure, on to be paid ninety (90) days prior to trip departure and at sixty (60) days prior to trip departure. Scheduled payments need to be made on time in order to avoid a late charge. Participants can make additional payments any time as long the scheduled payments are up-to-date.
 
Except for the Registration Fee, the payments are made payable directly to Students on Tour's Client Trust Account, an FDIC-insured client trust account administered by an independent firm of Certified Public Accountants.
 
*In California, all payments, including the deposit, go directly to Students on Tour Client Trust.

Question 26

Can individuals register after the deadline?

Accepted Answer

Participants should be strongly encouraged to follow the scheduled dates for your Education Program registration and payments. When Registration Fee and payment dates have passed, an individual will be considered a late registrant and will be required to register as a ‘Waitlisted’ participant. While we will attempt to secure space on the program it may not be possible. Please keep the following in mind for ‘waitlisted’ participants:

If airline seats have already been ticketed/released, we likely will not be able to secure an additional airline ticket with the group, or the ticket price may be higher (possibly considerably higher) than what was secured for the group. Consequently, there would be an additional fee for the airline ticket, and more than likely, late registrants will not be able to fly with the group. Note: We do not allow a minor participant to fly unaccompanied, therefore, a single student must fly with the group.

Tickets for some venues may no longer be available (e.g. Broadway, museums, etc.). Tickets often sell out months prior, particularly during high-volume times of the year. If we cannot secure a ticket for an event with the group, the late registrant would not be able to attend the event/activity.

If hotel space has been released, it is likely that additional rooms will not be available. Our Reservations Team will work with you as the Organizer to determine the possibility of housing late registrants within the existing group space.

Question 27

What is Students on Tour cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour has one of the most lenient cancellation policies in the industry!

As each participant registers for the trip, they pay a Registration Fee equal to ten percent of the student quad occupancy price. For programs including Broadway shows, the amount of the Broadway Ticket will be added to the Registration Fee. This Registration Fee is considered earned by Students on Tour upon receipt; the Registration Fee is non-refundable and non-transferable for any reason under any circumstance.
 
Participants cancelling more than eighty (80) days prior to trip departure will be charged the amount of the Registration Fee.

• Cancellations within eighty (80) Days prior to departure will be charged 20% of total Program cost
• Cancellations within sixty (60) Days prior to departure will be charged 35% of total Program cost
• Cancellations within forty (40) Days prior to departure will be charged 50% of total Program cost
• Cancellations within thirty (30) Days prior to departure will be charged 75% of total Program cost
• Cancellations within twenty (20) Days prior to departure will be charged 100% of total Program cost

Don't forget we offer a Cance For Any Reason policy.  Check it out here.

Question 28

How have you prepared the Students on Tour staff to provide support for our well-being?

Accepted Answer

Our professional and highly trained Program Leaders are knowledgeable of CDC guidelines and will model and encourage healthy practices throughout the Program. Ample encouragement and time will be provided to all group members for proper hygiene, and especially handwashing; hand sanitizer will also be readily available. Program Leaders will remind and encourage passengers to follow all necessary distancing guidelines as appropriate for the group. Students on Tour staff will monitor their own health daily and only lead Education Travel Programs if they are symptom-free. We have back-up staff ready should the need arise.

Question 29

Will there be health screenings each day?

Accepted Answer

Groups will be encouraged to have a staff member dedicated to monitoring their own participants. Monitoring at the discretion of the group organizer could include temperature readings, and alertness of symptoms.

Question 30

Do I need to bring a mask?

Accepted Answer

Yes - Face masks are required at certain sites / locations.
All passengers should provide their own disposable or reusable face coverings; please bring an adequate supply for the entire duration of the program.
All face coverings should:
Fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth and allow passengers to remain hands-free
Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
Be secured (with ties or ear loops)
Be made of breathable material, either disposable or reusable

Question 31

Should I bring my own hand sanitizer?

Accepted Answer

Hand sanitizer will be readily available throughout your travels including on the motorcoach. If you choose to bring you own, review the TSA rules:

https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/releases/2020/05/21/tsa-prepared-summer-travelers-updated-security-procedures

Question 32

What if I’m not feeling well the day before our group leaves for our tour program?

Accepted Answer

If you are not feeling well, do not travel.
Be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of illness.
Follow CDC guidance if symptoms develop.
Contact your organizer as soon as you determine that you are not able to travel.

Question 33

What if I get sick while on the tour program?

Accepted Answer

While on the travel program please monitor your health. If symptoms develop, you will be separated from the group and connected with medical care. Based on the counsel of medical personnel, appropriate measures will be taken to provide for your well-being. As has been our standard practice over the past 36 years, Students on Tour will work with our traveler(s) to secure alternative transportation if traveling with the group is not possible due to a medical reason.

Question 34

Are there new guidelines for traveling by air?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are new TSA guidelines and procedures for 2020 summer and fall travel. Please carefully review them before going to the airport. Note specifically the points regarding separating food and packing smart. A face mask will be required in the airport and on the flight.

Question 35

What are airlines doing for the well-being of passengers?

Accepted Answer

All airline companies are following federally mandated guidelines with the traveler’s safety as the top priority. Specific disinfecting and sanitization procedures have been developed by each carrier to provide for the well-being of those travelling. Each major airline company has produced resources to share with the travelling public detailing their specific processes. Links to these resources can be found at www.studentsontour.com/travel-safely

Question 36

What sanitization procedures are practiced at our hotels?

Accepted Answer

The hotel industry has committed to a very aggressive sanitization and disinfection process to provide a clean and healthy environment allowing you to travel with confidence. They are also employing innovative measures to allow for touchless services. The major franchise hotels used by Students on Tour have created resources that detail their sanitization processes of rooms, common spaces, and food service areas. Find the weblink to these resources at www.studentsontour.com/travel-safely.

Question 37

What steps are motorcoach companies taking to provide for a clean environment on the coach?

Accepted Answer

Motorcoach companies are regulated by federal agencies and specific trade associations that are collaborating to provide for the safety and well-being of passengers.  Each company with whom we partner is taking additional sanitization measures.  Before any group boards the motorcoach for the first time, the coach will be thoroughly sanitized from previous passengers.  The motorcoach will not be used by any other traveler/group for the duration of the trip.  Hand sanitizer will be readily available to all passengers throughout each day.  Each evening the coach will be cleaned and sanitized.

Question 38

What will food service be like?

Accepted Answer

Group dining has often been provided by means of buffet-style service.  Students on Tour has requested that all our food service be transitioned away from buffet service to cafeteria-style (buffet-line served by waitstaff) or plated meals served at your table. 
In addition, more separation will be required from other restaurant patrons and groups.
Our partner restaurants are monitored closely by federal, state, and local health regulators. Many specific safety measures have been instituted to ensure for the well-being of patrons, including employee screening, and additional training in best practices of food safety.

Question 39

Will we be able to visit everything on our itinerary?

Accepted Answer

Many of the sites we visit are open and ready to welcome visitors within the context of current regulations. These sites have developed innovative tools to allow for an engaging and fun experience keeping the safety and well-being of guests as the top priority.
The Students on Tour Team closely monitors all the states and cities where we travel. We also communicate regularly with our travel partners and vendors. With 36 years of experience, we can make adjustments as necessary to ensure a full, exciting, and life-impacting education program.

Question 40

Do you offer Travel Protection Insurance?

Accepted Answer

Our team has done extensive research to facilitate a partnership with a travel insurance company that excels at providing an excellent student-group-friendly product at a truly affordable cost.
 
This company offers a benefit option of Cancel For Any Reason that you may want to consider to provide confidence as you move forward with your Program.
 
Travel protection packages from Travel Insurance International may offer benefits for:
Trip Cancellation
Trip Interruption
Travel Delay
Missed Connection
Baggage Loss/Delay
Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation
Accident & Sickness Medical Expense
Cancel For Any Reason

Click here to view the Travel Insured International Group Plan Overview with pricing and coverage information.
 
Feel free to reach out to our Reservations Team today or call 715-234-6500 should you have any questions.

Question 41

Why should my child travel with Students on Tour?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour is committed to providing your child with a quality educational tour program of our nation's top historical sites and attractions. Our professional Education Program Leaders will guide your child and their friends on an amazing journey. Your child will be excited as they see our nation's history come to life. Their minds will be expanded through the power of travel, as they experience different cultures, sights, and smells. They will learn much about themselves and the country in which they have grown up. Your child will be empowered by the knowledge they gain on this program, which will aid them in making more well-informed and productive choices in the future.

Question 42

How much money should I send with my child?

Accepted Answer

You will want to check your package itinerary for specific details regarding which meals are included. Usually participants need to plan to purchase lunches each day. An average budget of about $10 per lunch works for most individuals. The only other expense would be souvenirs.

If the program includes air travel, you will need to anticipate baggage fees for checked bags; these fees are different for each airline. The airline’s website is an excellent resource for up-to-date information.

Question 43

Who needs my child's medical information?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour recommends providing the group Organizer with any pertinent medical information. If there is special medical information that will assist Students on Tour in making special ADA accommodations, let us know upon registration. This would include the need for a wheelchair lift, accessible hotel rooms, a refrigerator in the hotel room for medication, etc.

Question 44

Can I use my frequent flier miles or hotel points to lower the cost of the trip?

Accepted Answer

Since Students on Tour Education Programs are sold as packages, “miles” and “points” cannot be applied. The rates we receive are already discounted for group travel.

Students on Tour does offer a Land Only option, which means the participant makes their own travel arrangements to and from the Education Program. Contact the group Organizer for the Land Only form, which needs to be completed and submitted to our office. The program price is adjusted after the Land Only form is processed.

*Note: We do not allow a minor participant to fly unaccompanied, therefore, a single student must fly with the group.

Question 45

How do I view my account history?

Accepted Answer

You can access your account anytime online at www.studentsontour.com. You will need your username (usually email address) and password.

From your account, you can make a payment, as well as view current and past registrations, payment history and balances.

Question 46

How are Students on Tour itineraries designed? Who chooses which sites and attractions are included?

Accepted Answer

Itineraries are based on Students on Tour's experience since 1984 of providing quality educational programs for students from all over the United States. Each itinerary is designed by our team of Itinerary Specialists. Sometimes an Organizer will have a specific request of an attraction that will enhance school curriculum.

Question 47

What type of transportation is used on Students on Tour programs?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour uses newer model motorcoaches that meet all federal transportation guidelines. These deluxe motorcoaches are equipped with large windows, comfortable upholstered seating, a restroom, air conditioning, and a public address system. Most also include WIFI and electric outlets.
 
For groups using air transportation, our Travel Coordinator diligently shops for tickets that will take into account both the group’s budget and schedule.

Question 48

If there is an emergency at home, how do I contact my child?"

Accepted Answer

With today’s technology, students are much more accessible via their own cell phone or the cell phone of the group Organizer. Students on Tour would recommend contacting the group Organizer before speaking with your child.
 
In addition to cell phone contact, about three weeks before trip departure, the group Organizer will receive hotel information, including addresses and phone numbers, to share with participants. Students on Tour also has a 24-hour hotline (800-286-8732), which reaches our office staff who in turn will contact the Education Program Leader who is with your child.

Question 49

What are some of the safety procedures used by Students on Tour?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour recognizes safety as our highest priority. The following are a few of the procedures we have in place:

Each participant is provided with a badge and lanyard to wear throughout the tour. This badge is preprinted with the Students on Tour 24-hour toll-free emergency hotline number that participants or first responders can use to contact our office in cases of emergency.

Students on Tour uses established and vetted motorcoach vendors, hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
 
At hotels, nighttime security is posted and dedicated to your group, which allows participants and teachers to have a good night of rest.

Question 50

Does Students on Tour provide behavior guidelines, dress codes, etc. for the education program?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, the details are listed during the registration process and presented again on the first day of the program. In addition, any rule that would apply at the participant’s school is automatically included within the understood guidelines and rules of the tour.
Here are a few examples of what Students on Tour includes in our list of guidelines:
Possession of alcohol, non-prescribed drugs, or tobacco by students is prohibited
No clothing showing, referring to, stating, or implying anything to do with alcohol, drugs, profanity, or sex is allowed
No clothing referring to or picturing any musical group or individual is allowed
Very baggy clothing or revealing clothing is not allowed
Finally, any clothing thought objectionable by the trip Organizer or your Students on Tour Program Leader will not be allowed

Students on Tour and/or the Organizer of this tour reserves the right to send home any participant, at their expense, whose behavior interferes with the enjoyment or safety of the other participants or who violates stated guidelines or rules which are presented during the registration process.

Question 51

Is My Program Going To Be Cancelled or Moved?

Accepted Answer

We want to assure you that our team is proactively working with Program Organizers to make necessary adjustments to programs. Each group is being worked with on a case-by-case basis. We are working with groups with imminent departure dates first.
​
Please note, we work through the Program Organizer or the school associated with each program on high-level decisions for your trip- like changing dates or canceling the program. If you have questions related to your group moving or canceling the dates of your tour program, we recommend that you wait to hear from your Program Organizer, who will be working with our team to confirm any changes and share them directly with your group.
 
We appreciate your patience as we work with your Program Organizer.
​

Question 52

What if I need to cancel?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour offers the most lenient cancellation policy in the student travel industry.  Please see our standard cancellation policy here.  During this time we are being additionally lenient limiting penalties to only to non-refundable items.

Question 53

Will I get a full refund?

Accepted Answer

We are doing our very best to refund everything that we possibly can for individuals or groups that have to cancel.  In every case, we are retaining the deposit that is considered earned upon receipt.  To provide the excellent services our reputation and integrity represent, we have spent numerous personnel hours and monies to prepare for your program.  Our staff has attended to every detail of the program to ensure it was ready to take place flawlessly.  We paid them for their work.  We paid suppliers, vendors, and other required invoices to provide an excellent education program from a compliant and reputable tour company. 
 
Many tour operators are offering little or no refund; most are offering vouchers only for future travel.  We have worked hard to get refunds from vendors/suppliers so that we can maximize your refund.

Question 54

When will I receive my refund?

Accepted Answer

We are a bit overwhelmed due to the current situation, but are processing refunds as quickly as we receive the refunds from our vendors.  It is taking around 4 weeks for the processing in most cases.  The refunds will be returned to/in whatever form the payments were made. 
 
We are working on your behalf as fast as we can.  You will receive a receipt noting the credited amount when the credit is processed.  You will not need to call us to facilitate your cancellation if your school cancelled your program.

Question 55

Why am I receiving an airline voucher?

Accepted Answer

We would so much rather give you the airline credit in actual money.  At this point, a voucher is all that most of the major carriers are doing for passengers that were ticketed when this began.  In most cases, they are waiving change fees for rebooking.  Since they have your money, we are forced to take what they are offering.  Passengers receiving vouchers will be given clear instructions on how to use the voucher.
 
We know that airlines are receiving pressure to give refunds in the form of money, not vouchers.  Perhaps we will see a change ultimately in that process.

Question 56

What does Students on Tour do to increase safety and care for the well-being of travelers?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour has always taken, and continues to take, a proactive approach to the health and safety of our travelers.  Their safety and security is, and always will be, our highest priority.
Our Education Program Leaders are trained to regularly encourage best practice hygiene with our travelers. Additional measures are always taken especially during flu season. Necessary time is taken to provide travelers with the opportunity to get supplies as needed, and ensure proper hand-washing time is provided for before and after meals.
The airline transportation industry has taken increased measures to be transparent regarding safe travel environments for travelers.  Innovative steps are being taken to ensure clean air and sanitized surfaces for both in the air and in airports.  
Motorcoach companies are taking additional steps to ensure regular sanitation of all hard surfaces and are providing hand sanitizer stations on all motorcoaches.
Hotels and other sites are proactively following heightened sanitation procedures. They are developing additional long-term standards to ensure sanitization to assist in the prevention of spreading of germs.
Students on Tour is grateful for long-term vendor relationships that have proven track records of maintaining clean environments and are as dedicated as we are to our traveler’s safety and well-being.

Question 57

What Can Travelers Do To Stay Well?

Accepted Answer

All travelers should follow standard hygiene practices to stay healthy.  
These include: 
Do not touch any part of your face without first washing your hands. 
Avoid contact with persons who are already ill. 
Avoid unnecessary touching of other persons (e.g. shaking hands in greeting).  
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. 
Carry hand sanitizer (60-95% alcohol) and use it for situations where handwashing might not be possible. 
When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with a tissue or in your elbow. 
Stay home if you are ill.

These tips will also help travelers protect themselves against the common cold and flu viruses.

Question 58

What If A Traveler Gets Ill?

Accepted Answer

If anyone shows signs of illness, care is taken to ensure proper medical attention.  
​
Our Education Program Leaders are equipped with information for local medical attention through teams like Doctors On Call or medical facilities nearby. 
​
In the unlikely event that a traveling group is quarantined, Students on Tour is committed to supporting all travelers until their safe return home, securing lodging, transportation and meals and helping to facilitate flight changes, as well as covering any financial costs associated with these items.

Question 59

Trusted Resources

Accepted Answer

For your reference, please note the following official resources:
CDC travel notices
CDC COVID-19 webpage
WHO COVID-19 webpage
US State Department
Student Youth Travel Association webpage:  https://syta.org/coronavirus-resources-communications-and-websites/

Question 60

I have a student who is physically disabled, are they able to join the program?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, Students on Tour follows all ADA guidelines. For example, if a student requires a wheelchair lift on the motorcoach, we will arrange for that.
 
During the registration process, there is a place to indicate the need for a special service.

Question 61

My child is physically disabled. Do I need to let someone know?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour follows all ADA guidelines and will assist in making arrangements for your child's special needs. It is important to alert us at the time of registration if special arrangements will be needed (e.g. wheelchair lift, accessible hotel room, refrigerator in room, etc.).

Question 62

Is the program chaperoned?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Students on Tour Education Programs are designed to include one chaperone for every ten participants. We assist the group Organizer in planning for the inclusion of chaperones.

Question 63

What are the hotels like?

Accepted Answer

Students on Tour uses several tiers of hotel properties. For groups choosing to stay in downtown locations, we use hotels such as Hyatt, Embassy Suites, Holiday Inn, etc.

For groups wishing to economize, we use nice suburban properties such as Hyatt Place, Holiday Inn Express, Country Inn and Suites, etc.

We choose properties that are in safe locations and are clean with up-to-date modeling.

Question 64

How many students are housed in each room?

Accepted Answer

Typically, there are four students in a room. There are rare occasions when, due to an odd number of students on the program, there may be three or five (roll-away bed) in a room. Students may also room with their parent. Students on Tour policy does not allow for only two students in a room.

Tell Me About Being an Organizer

Do you offer Travel Protection Insurance?

Who is the Organizer?

What does the Organizer do?

What support does the Organizer receive from Students on Tour?

When is the best time to “book” my Education Program?

When is the best time of year to travel?

How is the itinerary designed?

Does Students on Tour provide any pre-program education materials?

I am the group Organizer. Is there a way to have my registration costs reduced?

Who leads the Students on Tour education programs?

Are your Education Program Leaders screened?

What are some of the safety procedures used by Students on Tour?

How many participants are needed in order to be considered a group?

Is there a maximum number of participants allowed?

Who can we invite to join our education program?

Is it a good idea to mix grade levels?

What about chaperones?

What type of transportation is used on Students on Tour Programs?

Do you have information on what the TSA allows me to bring on my trip?

What are the hotels like?

How many participants are assigned to each hotel room?

What type of meals are included on a Students on Tour program?

I have a student who is physically disabled, are they able to join the program?"

What if medical assistance is needed while we are on a Students on Tour program?

How are payments made?

Can individuals register after the deadline?

What is Students on Tour cancellation policy?

How have you prepared the Students on Tour staff to provide support for our well-being?

Will there be health screenings each day?

Do I need to bring a mask?

Should I bring my own hand sanitizer?

What if I’m not feeling well the day before our group leaves for our tour program?

What if I get sick while on the tour program?

Are there new guidelines for traveling by air?

What are airlines doing for the well-being of passengers?

What sanitization procedures are practiced at our hotels?

What steps are motorcoach companies taking to provide for a clean environment on the coach?

What will food service be like?

Will we be able to visit everything on our itinerary?

Do you offer Travel Protection Insurance?

Why should my child travel with Students on Tour?

How much money should I send with my child?

Who needs my child's medical information?

Can I use my frequent flier miles or hotel points to lower the cost of the trip?

How do I view my account history?

How are Students on Tour itineraries designed? Who chooses which sites and attractions are included?

What type of transportation is used on Students on Tour programs?

If there is an emergency at home, how do I contact my child?"

What are some of the safety procedures used by Students on Tour?

Does Students on Tour provide behavior guidelines, dress codes, etc. for the education program?"

Is My Program Going To Be Cancelled or Moved?

What if I need to cancel?

Will I get a full refund?

When will I receive my refund?

Why am I receiving an airline voucher?

What does Students on Tour do to increase safety and care for the well-being of travelers?

What Can Travelers Do To Stay Well?

What If A Traveler Gets Ill?

Trusted Resources

I have a student who is physically disabled, are they able to join the program?"

My child is physically disabled. Do I need to let someone know?

Is the program chaperoned?

What are the hotels like?

How many students are housed in each room?

Can my child select their roommates?

What type of meals are included on a Students on Tour program?

What if my child has a serious food allergy?

Do you have information on what TSA allows me to bring on my trip?

Who leads the Students on Tour education programs?

Are your Education Program Leaders screened?

What if my child needs medical assistance while on a Students on Tourprogram?

How do I register my child for their Education Program?

How do I make a payment for my child's Education Program?

Does Students on Tour provide trip cancellation coverage?

What does it mean when a trip is in a "Waitlist"?"

Are there Terms and Conditions that I should read before registering my child?

Can I register after the deadline?

What is Students on Tour cancellation policy?

Can I register online?