Local youth have chance to travel to United Kingdom

Local educators are accepting applications from area youth who want to be part of the Explorica travel group that will head to Scotland, Ireland, Wales and England in Summer 2025.

The Explorica trips are specifically designed to provide educational experiences to those who participate, said Pam Mindemann, the Elgin educator who has been organizing local participants for years. Educator Kelly Akard said the trips are specifically designed to acquaint youth with other countries, in a way that ensures safety and interaction with local history and culture.

“It’s one of the safest ways to travel,” she said, confirming she and Mindemann will be accompanying youth on next year’s trip, as they did did in the Summer 2024 trip to Japan.

Participants may sign up for the experience for a $50 fee, then have several months to raise funds to cover the total cost: $4,658 for students (those under age 23) and $5,188 for adults (age 23 and older). The price includes round trip airfare, nine overnight stays, meals and all guided tours, for a trip beginning June 9, 2025.

Highlights will include: Ireland: Dublin, with trips to several cathedrals, Trinity College and a city walk; Wales: a visit to the town with the world’s longest name; Scotland: a trip to Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, and the homes of Alexander Graham Bell and Robert Louis Stevenson; and London (traveling there via train) to see Buckingham Palace and other historical sites.

The trips are open to any high school student and adults, although younger students may participate with their parents, Akard said. Information, to include the full itinerary and registration details, is available at the Explorica website: explorica.com/Mindemann-9985.

Information also is available by calling (580) 512-0363.