Program Reviews

This was an amazing eye-opening experience. I had traveled internationally before, but nothing could have prepared me for GLA South Africa. We stayed on multiple nature reserves, and I saw some of the most breath-taking scenery of my life. Simply just waking up in the morning and seeing the beautiful African landscape was an experience in itself. I participated in volunteer work on this trip, working alongside conservationists and scientists tracking animals and assisting in anti-poaching efforts. The GLA team was great, and I really enjoyed my time on the trip. I would definitely recommend GLA South Africa to any teen who seeks adventure.

In this whole experience that I had, it was full of highs and lows. The majority of the lows was due to my own fault do to not bringing enough water, snacks, hygiene products, money, and entertainment sources. But even with those problems I had an amazing time with all my peers and the staff. The views of the nature and towns were also amazing and would sometimes remind me of home. The night life was also lots of fun whenever we went to a restaurant or the supermarket. The staff was also always there to help whenever we needed help.

Our son attended the Sea Turtle Initiative/Costa Rica during the summer of his sophomore year. We felt confident in our choice and the staff of GLA kept us informed. We felt good about sending our son overseas with this group. We had all the information we needed, and the staff posted pictures of the activities so we could enjoy peace of mind knowing our son was well cared for. He had a fabulous experience and grew in his knowledge of the environment, as well as enjoying a new culture and friends.

This had to be one of my favorite trips overall. Not only did I get to embrace the culture in Costa Rica and practice a different language, but there were also so many animals, and that's always a plus! Not to mention Costa Rica has some bomb ice cream.

This trip also inspired me to keep working for what I want to do as a future career - help animals abroad in shelters but also on the streets. At first, I was a little unsure about going on one of these trips, because a trip I went on in 2022 was very different. However, I don't regret going on this trip and definitely recommend it to any animal lovers, or just anyone trying to get away from home!

I would highly recommend this trip for people trying to get out of their comfort zones but not sure how, animals have a way to get you out of your shell!

My daughter had the most amazing 2 weeks of her life in the Dominican Republic through GLA. The friends and memories she made are priceless. She learned valuable lessons about the lives other people live and it opened her eyes to a life she never would’ve experienced if not for GLA. Along with lessons in volunteerism, she had so much fun doing exhilarating activities like zip lining and canoeing. This experience truly left my daughter open minded to a new world she’s never seen before. P.S she didn’t even mind the limited phone time :).

My daughter went to the program and absolutely loved it. She made many friends and it was a great way for her to learn to be independent as well as grow her mindset from other cultures around the word. They got to visit many different sites, explore Bali from a local and tourist perspective and tried Indonesian foods. The program had very modern housing which was great. There was A/C and individual beds with showers and western toilets. But there were also aspects of the program that kept the housing very traditional such as the temple that they got to utilize on the first day.

I was debating about going on this trip because it was such a big commitment. But, it was the best trip decision I've ever made. Along the trip I made the closest friend's I've ever had in just the span of two weeks, something I was never expecting. Aside from the social scene making it always fun, the empierces I had and new things I learned were so impactful. I saw tortoises, blue footed boobies, and snorkeled with the sea turtles and seals. The food and culture was also amazing to be immersed in.

ecently had the pleasure of experiencing the GLA (Global Learning Adventures) program, and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make my experience unforgettable. Their dedication and enthusiasm were evident, creating an atmosphere that set the stage for an incredible adventure.

The staff at GLA played a pivotal role in making the entire journey seamless and enjoyable. Their professionalism and warmth were evident from the initial orientation, where they provided comprehensive information about the program, to the daily activities where they offered guidance and support. It was evident that they were not just doing a job; they were genuinely passionate about the program and ensuring each participant had a transformative experience.

What truly stood out was the personalized attention the staff provided. Whether it was assisting with cultural nuances, explaining the significance of local traditions, or simply being a friendly face to turn to, the GLA staff created a sense of community that made me feel at home in a foreign land. Their expertise and commitment fostered an environment where I felt encouraged to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the full spectrum of the experience.

The program itself was a perfect blend of education, service, and adventure. GLA's carefully curated curriculum allowed me to not only learn about the local culture and environment but also actively contribute to community development projects. It was a hands-on approach that enriched my understanding and left a positive impact on the communities we engaged with.

One of the highlights of my time with GLA was the sheer enjoyment I derived from the activities. From exploring historical landmarks to participating in local festivities, every moment was filled with excitement and discovery. The program's balance between structured learning and leisure time allowed me to absorb the surroundings at my own pace, fostering a genuine connection with the destination.

Equally significant were the incredible people I met during my GLA experience. The diversity of participants added a dynamic element to the program, exposing me to different perspectives and forging lasting connections. Collaborating with like-minded individuals on service projects not only strengthened our bond but also highlighted the power of collective action in making a positive impact.

In conclusion, my time with GLA was nothing short of transformative. The exceptional staff, engaging activities, and the wonderful people I met along the way made it an adventure of a lifetime. This program not only broadened my horizons but also instilled a sense of responsibility and cultural appreciation that will stay with me for years to come. GLA has truly set the standard for immersive learning experiences, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a blend of education, service, and adventure in a global context.

My 17 year old daughter went with a friend and loved it. The first night was a little difficult because it was a very rustic camp and took some getting used to, but by day two she was in the groove. Took her out of her comfort zone, met wonderful new friends, and explored. Our daughter is vegetarian and had lots of options for food & really enjoyed it. The night patrol got rained out a few times but they were able to see turtle eggs that were laid. I would highly recommend this company and they offer camps all over the globe.

I recently had the incredible opportunity to volunteer in Costa Rica on an ocean conservation and surf adventure youth program, and it was an experience that surpassed all my expectations. Organized by GLA, this immersive journey not only allowed me to explore the pristine beaches of Costa Rica but also to actively contribute to marine conservation efforts. However, this program was not just about giving back; it was about personal growth. I developed a deeper appreciation for nature, gained new skills, and formed meaningful connections with fellow volunteers from around the world.