Girl Scouts love to travel! Hostelling International has been working with Girl Scouts of America to bring cultural and travel education to girls around the country. Minnesota is proud to offer these interactive programs developed by HI education staff in Chicago and Girl Scouts USA. The following programming options are expected to be suitable for junior Girl Scouts and older.
Cultural, Educational Programming For Girl Scouts
World Travel 101 for Girl Scouts
Specifically designed for girls, World Travel 101 for Girl Scouts is fun and interactive. Girls learn what it takes to travel internationally – from pre-trip planning, budgeting, health and money matters, transport and rail passes to cultural recognition and sensitivity. This program is best suited for girls who are thinking about planning a trip abroad, and need an introductory course.
Trip Planning 101 for Girl Scouts
Trip Planning 101 introduces girls to culturally sensitive travel and helps them start planning a trip to take with their troop, with their family, or on their own. During one troop meeting girls are introduced to the art of packing light, the philosophy of hostelling, and the tools to be a respectful, global citizen. This program is best suited for girls who are currently planning a trip abroad.
Cultural Kitchen
Cultural Kitchen gives girls the opportunity to learn about a new culture and try delicious food in the company of travelers. Girls spend one troop meeting plus an evening dinner researching a culture, reporting on their findings and enjoying good food and conversation.
Girl Scout Specific Activities
Girl Scouts Go Hostelling Patch
Here’s a patch that’s fun to earn and can start you on the path to traveling around the world! The patch can help you become a global citizen who is connected to people and places near and far. Get connected by getting your patch when you complete just one activity in each of the three areas. Once your troop has earned the Discover the World patch or other patches while staying at hostels please share your story with us. Give your troop extra recognition and help other troops by sharing your ideas.
Passport To Adventure
Developed in partnership with GS USA, the Passport to Adventure is full of great activities and tips to help Girl Scouts interact with fellow travelers from all over the world and make the most out of their travels.
Girl Scout Get Aways
HI-USA hostels now offer Getaway packages! Formerly known as Wider Opportunities, Getaways are two to four day travel experiences for Girl Scouts that are part of the Studio2B program. From exploring the cities and making peace in the world, to learning new skills, Getaways offered by HI-USA help Girl Scouts add to their adventure and work towards meeting their personal goals.
More Information On Our Cultural Programming For Girl Scouts
If you are interested in getting your Girl Scout troop involved, want to be added to the invitation list for a Cultural Kitchen event, receive training, or to become a leader for of these programs, e-mail our GS coordinator Mary Evans at girlscouts@himinnesota.org.
