FAQs
For whom is this program designed?
While we welcome any US citizen or permanent resident with a desire to join a fun, group educational tour, the typical age range for previous groups has been between around 18 and 30, and we’ve had a lot of college students and recent graduates.
How do I join this program?
Please complete our online form and we’ll reach out to answer any questions you have and set up a phone call if you’d like. There’s no fee to complete the form but once you fill it out you will have the ability to reserve a spot on the program by paying a $250 deposit towards the program fee.
Where will I be staying?
Accommodation is provided in shared rooms at hostels or hotels in London.
When should I book my flights?
We will send out detailed information on flight booking 6-8 weeks prior to the trip start date. In many cases we will give you the “green light” to purchase flights earlier than this if we already have the minimum group size required to move forward.
What does the program fee include?
As a nonprofit organization committed to creating accessible intercultural experiences, InterExchange sets pricing carefully. In addition to everything listed under What’s Included, your program fee covers the costs of program design, site visits, application review, one-to-one advising, and other program administration. Please also see our refund policies.
Is my flight included in the program fee?
No, the cost of your flight is not included in the program fee.
Who is leading the program?
Experienced group leaders with education and international program leadership backgrounds will be with the group from start to finish. You will have their contact number in the days leading up to the trip.
Will I have assignments to complete?
We’ll be sending you some short readings and resources to add context to your experience, which we encourage you to check out before or after the trip. While we won’t be collecting “assignments” or providing grades, the program works better when everyone participates to the fullest.
Can I spend more time in the region before or after the program?
If you have the time, we encourage you to further explore the UK or Europe after the program ends. If you arrive early, you can meet the group at the airport or at our initial accommodation location, as opposed to the normal airport meeting point. We’ll coordinate with you about this.
Can the program accommodate travelers with disabilities?
We’re happy to speak with you about your needs so that we can evaluate our ability to accommodate them. We also ask all participants to complete a medical form, which a doctor must sign.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
The program can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free diets. If you have any other specific dietary concerns or restrictions we would encourage you to let us know upon signing up so that we can ensure there won’t be any difficulties accomodating them. Once you are booked we will collect further information about any allergies or dietary restrictions so that your group leader is aware.
How is participant safety and wellness taken into account on this program?
Most importantly the group travels together, your leader will never be far and you’ll have their phone number in case of any emergencies. They will provide some general safety tips on your first night in London. Should you require medical attention during the program your group leader will help you get to the most appropriate facility. Also, travel medical insurance is included on the program (usually you would pay out of pocket and submit a claim for reimbursement once you’re back home).
As a precaution we suggest you avoid carrying around large sums of money, not counting money in public, and being vigilant as usual when using an ATM machine, and being mindful of your surroundings, especially when taking photos. If for any reason you require transportation for personal use (for example if you stay in the country after the program), stick with official taxis, public buses, and licensed tour providers.
Why should I travel with InterExchange?
InterExchange has facilitated purposesful travel experiences for young adults since 1968 and is a U.S. Department of State-recognized sponsor for Exchange Visitor programs in the U.S. and a provider of powerful educational adventures outside of the U.S. While we’ve been around for decades, we develop bespoke group trips that cover specific topics that young adults most care about today. This allows us to reach an audience with shared interests so that the group experience is very much a part of what people remember about these trips!