Accommodations All the accommodations will be smaller than we might be used to. Japanese hotels and houses are much more conservative with their space. Here are details about their accommodations: Hotel in Tokyo The students will go to a comfortable hotel after arriving in Tokyo. It features modern architecture, air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and comfortable beds.
Service Project The students will provide up to 8 hours of community service while in the program. Students will work on a project to cleanup park space along a river in Tokyo. Japan is a famously clean place, but we’ll learn first-hand the sense of pride for caring for our space when we pitch in with a local environmental organization. The students will be working with a local cultural exchange organization to immerse young local children in English and excite them for language learning and international exchange. The Rustic students will prepare activities and games. Then they’ll join an afternoon group of young children to play and learn in English. The students may collaborate on an English project and exchange stories. The project will allow the Rustic students to see what Japanese children know about their countries. In return, the Japanese students will get to practice their English skills and get excited about how English learning can open up connections to new people. “Through my travels, I learned a lot of things about myself. I learned how much I enjoyed doing service projects, interacting with the local people, and learning about new cultures. I discovered how passionate I am about helping others.” –Rachel Rowland, Former Rustic student who traveled on three different programs
Food The students will eat a large variety of food while they’re in the program. Breakfast will be eaten at a delicious buffet in our accommodations offering a mix of Japanese foods and Western staples. Lunch, dinner, and snacks will often be eaten out. Expect to get a chance to eat many different types of Japanese dishes including sushi, ramen, tempura, curry rice, okonomiyaki, and more. We’ll also be able to eat more familiar foods when that is your preference. Japanese versions of Western food can sometimes be quite unique, as well. Depending on the type of food meals may be individual plates, but in some cases, we may eat from shared dishes family-style. Chopsticks are the most commonly used utensils, however, you can always ask for a fork or spoon if that is more comfortable
What’s Included in Your Program Program Leaders & Guides English Speaking Rustic Pathways international and local leaders Airport Transportation Meet and greet with private transportation to and from the airport Comfortable Accommodations All nights of accommodation All Meals Included Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout your stay Ground Transportation All transportation between program locations and activities All Activities Every activity, entrance fee, and experience in your itinerary 24/7 Support On-call support throughout the program for peace of mind Emergency Coverage Included emergency evacuation assurance plan All Fees & Tips Airport taxes, departure fees, donations, and guide tips What’s Not Included in Your Program International Flights Souvenirs Additional Snacks Visa Expenses Passport Fees