First Time Travelers

Beginner-friendly trips designed for students new to international travel

15 HOURS+ COMMUNITY SERVICE

Programs offering 15+ service hours through immersive, on-the-ground projects

Limited Space

High-demand programs with limited spots for early applicants

Browse the full collection of travel programs

AMERICAS

AFRICA

EUROPE

PACIFIC

ASIA

Start with our three most-loved regions for first-time travelers. Perfect for high schoolers and parents who want a balance of adventure, safety, and meaningful impact.

SERVICE & IMPACT

Hands-on service programs focused on meaningful community impact

CULTURAL IMMERSION

Deep-dive travel experiences centered on language, culture, and local connection

LEADERSHIP & MORE

Programs that build global leadership, confidence, and real-world skills

Browse the full collection of Rustic Pathways travel programs.

TRENDING
Japan Greece Costa Rica
Italy Fiji Korea

Naomi Tao

Naomi Tao
Mail

Creative Lead and Graphic Designer

Born in London and raised in St. Louis, Naomi learned the importance of global citizenship and community building at an early age. Her passion for these things and her love of travel led her to Rustic —first as a student and again in 2013 after graduating from the University of Southern California with degrees in fine art and marketing. When Naomi is not managing the Rustic Pathways brand or packing her bags for yet another adventure, you can find her learning about sustainable agriculture, cultivating fruits and vegetables in her garden, or catering intimate dinner parties for family and new friends.
Published

Latest

Different Fruits Around The World

November 21, 2023 · 8 min read

Eating abroad means you get to eat all the local food, delicacies, and in-season fruits and vegetables. Take a peek at some of the fruits and vegetables you might see at the market on a Rustic Pathways’ high school summer travel program.

Read more

Global Potato Recipes — Peruvian, Indian & Moroccan Dishes (Easy Rustic Eats)

November 21, 2019 · 5 min read

Food is powerful. It is the great connector—shaping our memories and cultivating community. This holiday season, try incorporating one of these international inspired potato dishes into your holiday meal and get inspired to see the world.

Read more

Gallo Pinto Recipe — Traditional Costa Rican Rice and Beans (Easy & Authentic)

November 5, 2019 · 3 min read

Try making Gallo Pinto, Costa Rica’s traditional rice and beans, at home with this easy recipe. A staple enjoyed on Rustic Pathways’ student travel programs—simple ingredients, big flavor, pura vida!

Read more

Green Papaya Salad Recipe (Som Tam) — Easy, Authentic Thai Salad

October 23, 2019 · 4 min read

Prepare authentic Som Tam, Thai green papaya salad, at home with this easy recipe from Rustic Pathways, inspired by our travel programs in Thailand.

Read more

Thai Pumpkin Curry Recipe — Easy, Spicy & Perfect for Fall (Rustic Eats)

October 23, 2019 · 4 min read

Food is powerful. It is the great connector—shaping our memories and cultivating community. This Halloween, bring together your friends and family for a bowl of this hearty Thai pumpkin curry.

Read more