Students again have an opportunity to positively impact lives and communities around the world with Rustic Pathways. Rooted in the principles of global responsibility and community, all Rustic Pathways programs follow our Cleaner, Safer, Healthier Program. With the advice of health experts, our Safety Team updates protocols on a regular basis. Contact our team for specific protocols for any of the 20 countries that we visit.
| Before you travel |
Vaccinations |
- In general, you do not need a COVID-19 test before your program.
- We will let you know if your destination has special entry requirements.
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- We no longer ask for proof of COVID-19 vaccination for students.
- We do encourage all students to follow all US CDC guidelines. This includes guidelines on COVID-19 and other vaccines.
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| Masks and face coverings |
Daily screening |
- Masks are available upon request.
- We adhere to local government mask guidelines and policies.
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- We screen temperatures to watch for symptoms.
- Upon client request, we can arrange access to COVID testing.
- We can also arrange access if a destination requires a COVID test.
- We adhere to local government screening policies.
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| Social distancing |
Enhanced cleaning and increased ventilation |
- We may ask students to keep social distancing as much as possible, especially indoors.
- We are extra careful whenever we interact with local community members.
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- Fans and screened windows provide ample access to fresh air.
- We use air quality monitors indoors.
- We design program activities to get students outside in fresh air.
- We have increased disinfection of sleeping areas and shared surfaces with EPA-approved products.
- Staff clean rooms daily.
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| Food and beverage |
Program leader standards |
- Handwashing stations will be available at each meal.
- Program staff clean and disinfect surfaces used for eating.
- Staff clean and disinfect food preparation areas.
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- Rustic Pathways global staff must maintain up-to-date vaccinations for COVID-19.
- Staff are also screened before each program.
- Leaders and staff undergo regular training on health, safety, and risk management. We base our training in care, courtesy and respect.
- We focus on empowering our team to act and respond when incidents may occur.
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| Shared responsibility |
If you get COVID before you travel |
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based sanitizer when soap is not available.
- Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. Be sure to cough or sneeze into your elbow if a tissue is unavailable.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Avoid sharing cups, glasses or utensils.
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- No problem! Focus on getting healthy first.
- You can switch to a program later in the summer. Contact us for help.
- You can cancel and submit a claim to your insurance provider. We can help with any invoices or receipts you need.
- Note: if you submit a claim — get a verified positive test for your claim documents. Insurance companies may not accept an at-home test.
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