Program Reviews

This trip taught me so much about the cultural practices and ways of life across the Polynesian Islands. Growing up near big cities, I rarely got the opportunity to visit a region where time was slower and daily practices were intentional. The Polynesian Journey program truly grounded me and taught me that absorbing the present moment is the greatest gift. This trip was full of intense outdoor activities, lots of thrilling adventures, and cultural exchange. Although there were many bright sides to this trip, the dynamic of the group of travelers sets the tone of the program. Over the course of the 10 weeks, I learned how to resolve conflict, settle disagreements, and have difficult conversations. The result is a much more mature and patient version of myself. Being away for two-and-a-half months is a long time to be out of your comfort zone, but it was such a unique journey that I’ll never forget.

There aren’t enough words to express how amazing this trip was. It opened my eyes to a different, more slow way of living. The beautiful scenery only complemented the warm and welcoming Australian people. We saw so many different terrains: mountains, lakes, beaches, rivers, sand dunes, rainforests. I wish I could pick one best moment from the trip, but they were all so special. Getting close to my travel group and instructors was so meaningful. Everybody was down for some fun and those 4 weeks were filled with so much adventure and laughs. It was a growing experience for sure, but I would do it again and again if given the chance.

If you want to see the world in a unique way, create close friendships, and be supported by thoughtful and amazing counselors, this is the program for you. This program allowed me to grow and learn about myself in ways I wouldn't be able to if I wasn't pushed to be in the new and unfamiliar. Not only was Thailand amazing, but the activities we did were incredibly fun. From a day of silence at a monk center, to climbing up a waterfall, playing with elephants, cooking classes, and incredbly scenery, there was not a day I wasn't excited to wake up and see what was in store. I was able to connect to the place around me, become super close with everyone who had the same passion to be out in a new area, and I also made friends with the trip directors on the program and still talk to one of them to this day. If you are still deciding whether to take on this adventure, just say yes, and I promise you won't look back.

It’s been 8 months since I came back from my Pacific Discovery trip, and the memories I have still feel fresh in my mind. Surfing in North Shore, white water rafting in New Zealand, camping, and spending time in a Fijian village were all new experiences for me and put me far out of my comfort zone, allowing me to grow as a person. In addition, being thrown into a group of 13 people and living with them for 10 weeks created such a tight community, and that experience also prepared me for my first semester of college. I’d like to give a special thanks to my instructors Henry, Erin, and Sabrina for being very down to earth and friendly and organizing our plans day to day. Highly recommend this trip.

I decided I wanted to take a gap year during my Sophmore year of high school. I started working and earned up enough money to make it happen. I did plenty of research into what would be the best option and searched nearly every program in GoOverseas. I was looking for a program would a group of kids around my age 18-20, who were excited to see and try new things. I chose the South America program because of the opportunity to use and learn Spanish, also because it is the program with the most volunteering and activities that I new would benefit me in the future (with experience and resumes). I wanted to see the world but feel safe and confident as a 18 yr old girl. This was the perfect program. I got everything I wanted and way more. Every day was packed with life changing experiences that I reflect on all the time. It was definitely one of the best periods of my life waking up every day knowing it might just be the best day I have ever had. With fun ziplining, rafting, biking, and so many other tours. Seeing Machu Pichu, Galapagos, and the Amazon were definitely some of my highlights. After the semester I spent the next semester doing internships and volunteering as I solo traveled using the skills and knowledge I gained from PD. I am now a student at CU Boulder. When graduating high school I had no idea what I wanted to study and the only think that inspired me was traveling. Because of my gap year I found my passion for architecture through all the amazing volunteer work and seeing some of the most impressive architectural sites. I am now studying architecture and am so thankful I took my gap year. Pacific Discovery helped me start of my life on the right foot after high school and has definitely gotten me to where I am today. I would encourage anyone who is not sure about their next steps to consider the Pacific Discovery South America program.

The memories and growth I experienced on this trip was truly unmatched. For young adults, it is so important to take time off and learn who we are outside of academics and this program is the perfect way to do it. While Pacific Discovery targets and achieves cultural literacy, the personal learning you do alongside your travel group and leaders help create an unshakable sense of self to cement you through your future learning, goals, and struggles. However, you don’t only leave with increased knowledge of yourself and the world, but also with friends and memories that last a lifetime.

Two years ago, I spent a month in Australia with Pacific Discovery, and it’s still one of the best things I’ve ever done. We hiked rainforests, snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef, planted trees in rural areas, and camped under starry skies—all while building a tight-knit crew of awesome people.

What set it apart? It wasn’t just travel. It was real connection—with nature, with new friends, and with myself. The program leaders were incredible, the experiences were unforgettable, and the personal growth was immeasurable.

If you’re even thinking about doing a Pacific Discovery program—just go. You’ll feel like a whole new person, come back with stories, and probably a very sandy backpack. 10/10 would go back!!!

My time on the South America gap semester program was easily one of the best experiences in my life so far. I had so much fun whether we were trying delicious new foods, zip-lining, or hiking a volcano. I also feel like I learned so much, not only about South American culture, but about myself. This program really pushes you to go out of your comfort zone, both physically and mentally. For me, a big takeaway from these two months was the value of group living and learning how to show up for a group of people. I’m forever grateful for the people I met and the bonds that were formed in this program.

Getting to experience the beauty of South American culture was so incredible. Visiting local communities, volunteering in the Andes, and even learning bits of the Quechua language were experiences I’ll never forget. I will say, this trip is very jam-packed with not a whole lot of downtime. It’s challenging but so rewarding. If you’re someone who loves being on the go - or wants to challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone, I think you’ll really appreciate this experience like I did!

My 18-year-old son just completed the 70-day Australia/NZ trip. It was a fabulous experience for him. It was the right mix of adventure, fun, community service, and travel. They had once-in-a-lifetime experiences hiking, skydiving, and white water rafting. They had The accommodation was basic, and some were better than others. But I think that’s exactly right for a trip like this. It’s not supposed to be all comfort, and they push outside of their comfort zone.

Perhaps, most importantly, my son said the 2 instructors were exceptional people and leaders. I’m grateful he had this experience and would recommend the program to anyone looking for a way to see the world and learn more about themselves and other people.

To say I loved Pacific Discovery’s Polynesian journey would be an understatement. This program was 10 weeks straight of excitement, learning, adventure, laughter and pure joy. This program provided me with some of my favorite memories like snorkeling with mantras, swimming in countless water falls in the picturesque country of New Zealand, playing hours of games with the most precious children in a Fijian village and numerous sunrise swims on the coast of Hawaii. It also taught me invaluable lessons through experiences that can not be replicated else where!