Yes, all travel outside the U.S. will require a passport. Recent requirements also may require that you have your passport for a period of time prior to travel as well. Check out: Travel.state.gov
It varies depending upon the country we are visiting. If we are going to Africa, then yes you’ll need several. Not so much for Guatemala. However, typical shots such as tetanus are always a good idea to have updated. Check out: CDC Website
Here again, it’s a good idea. There are two different types. The first being trip interruption and baggage insurance that can be purchased separately. The policies vary greatly and you’ll need to do your homework. The second type of insurance is emergency medical insurance. This type of insurance covers you in the event of an emergency within the country and usually pays to get you to adequate medical care. This type of insurance is option that should be considered in the event you have special medical needs that require special attention. However the coverage’s vary greatly…do your homework.
It is always a good idea to have some local currency. You can buy it at the airport prior to your departure.
Currently, we are suggesting that a minimum age limit be 16 years old. The traveling conditions are sometimes difficult and are not suitable for young children.
We have several people that lead the trips. Currently the trip leaders are all members of the Hope Ignited Board of Directors.
Good question! The best answer is, don’t count on it. In some locations and at some point during your trip, you might come across an Internet cafe in a city. But I would not plan on it.
Accommodations vary depending on the country we visit. However, we will make every effort to keep you in accommodations that are better than camping and not as good as a mid range U.S. hotel.
The days vary with the country. However, one thing you’ll immediately notice is that the sense of urgency that we have grown accustomed to in the U.S. is not necessarily embraced in other parts of the world. The days will be pre-planned with a specified activity related to the trip type.
Hope Ignited organizes all of the travel arrangements and will send them to you with electronically. Your trip leader is responsible for making sure that each member of the team has all the information they will need.
It depends on how adventurous you are! We realize that having “safe” food and water is a critical aspect of a short-term mission trip. Our American diets are not designed to digest many of the foods that the locals eat. Therefore, we make every effort to find foods that will be both safe and delicious.
Here again, packing will vary based on the trip, country and time and duration of travel. However, the basic rule of thumb is…don’t bring anything you would be upset if it got lost, broken or stolen. Also don’t bring all your “nice clothing”. What we typically do when traveling to Africa is to bring clothing and luggage that we leave behind with our in-country host to be donated to a person of need. However, we have found that the following items usually always should be taken.
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Worn on you: |
Small Bag (carry on): |
Luggage: |
