A group of student travelers reflecting on their trip to Seoul, South Korea, together.
Pre-Travel Reflection Questions
These questions help students make connections between classroom learning, cultural context, and personal goals. Teachers can use them as bell-ringers, journal prompts, or group discussion starters before the trip begins.
Learning and Knowledge of Cultural Differences
- What is the most important thing you hope to learn on this trip?
- What cultural differences are you aware of, and which ones do you want to understand better?
- How might this experience connect to topics you’ve studied in class?
- What parts of the destination’s history or culture are you most curious about?
- Which local issues or community topics interest you most?
- How can thoughtful self-reflection deepen your understanding of cultural experiences?
- What’s one question you have about the place you’re visiting?
- What ideas from history, geography, or social studies relate to the locations on your itinerary?
Anticipation and Expectations
- What aspects of the trip excite you most?
- What emotions are you feeling—curiosity, excitement, nervousness, joy?
- What surprises do you think you might encounter while traveling abroad?
- If you had to summarize your hopes for this trip in one word, what would it be and why?
- How do you anticipate adapting to daily life in a new environment?
- How do you think you will be perceived by locals?
- What new skills, habits, or perspectives do you hope to gain?
- Who among your peers might enjoy this experience, and why?
- What potential life-changing moments do you imagine?
- What would make this journey meaningful and enjoyable for you?
Sensory and Emotional Experiences
- What new sights, sounds, tastes, or smells do you expect to experience?
- What foods or local dishes are you most excited to try?
- What conversations do you hope to have with people you meet?
- What challenges do you anticipate, and how might you respond to them?
- Which aspects of your identity feel most present when you travel?
- What types of moments do you want to remember once you’re home?
- How can you be a positive ambassador for your school, family, and community?
Practical Considerations
- What parts of home will you appreciate taking a break from?
- What parts of your home culture might you miss most?
- Is there anything you hope to do more—or less—of while traveling?
- How can you ask thoughtful questions while avoiding generalizations about other cultures?
- What travel advice would you share with someone preparing for a similar trip?
- What concerns do you have about being away from loved ones?
- How will you budget or manage spending money during the trip?
- Will you limit phone use to stay more present in the experience?
- What’s one thing that could improve the trip for your whole group?