travel abroad high school

High School Study Abroad Programs

Ready to Be a CIEE Global Navigator?

Our Global Navigator high school study abroad programs take you around the world to gain independence, flexibility, a broader worldview, and new friends, too. Go abroad during high school or after graduation for as little as 3 weeks to a full semester or academic year. Explore our full range of student travel programs below.

High School Summer Abroad

3-4 Weeks Experience a summer of language immersion, art courses, STEM courses, service-learning abroad, and other topics in one of 30+ destinations.

High School Semester Abroad

1-2 Semesters Live the life of a local teen and attend high school for a semester or an academic year in Spain, Japan, France, Germany and more!

Gap Year Abroad

Experience the World Before College For recent high school grads who want to travel, explore, and experience a new culture before attending college.

First Year Abroad

Complete Your First Year of College Abroad For recent high school grads who want to complete their first year of college abroad while pursuing their passions as a global citizen and staying on track to graduate in four years.

Follow @cieeglobalnavigators on Instagram & TikTok !

Can you study abroad in high school.

Yes, studying abroad in high school is possible and that's what CIEE Global Navigator programs are all about! 

Our full range of study abroad programs give high schoolers the opportunity to spend anywhere between 3 weeks and a full academic year abroad. Our scholarships make summer abroad accessible to more students as we give away close to $6 million in scholarship funds to U.S. high school students each year. Students who may otherwise not have had a chance to travel as teenagers get to make lifelong friendships with students from across the U.S. and the world, helping them see themselves and other cultures in a new light.

Studying abroad in high school is not only transformative; it helps students stand out in college applications and job interviews. Unlike other countries where studying abroad is common during high school, only about 2% of U.S. students get that opportunity every year!  

Learn About the CIEE Difference

Questions About High School Study Abroad

Studying abroad while still in high school offers many benefits for teens, such as:  

• World language proficiency  
• Credentials for college applications and job interviews  
• Life skills, like independence, intercultural awareness, and a global perspective , that can’t be learned in the classroom 
• New friendships to last a lifetime  

After participating in CIEE high school study abroad programs, Global Navigator alumni are on the path to becoming global citizens with the cultural competencies that prepare them for the future. 

High school study abroad is all about experiential learning.  

Discussions, group work, hands-on workshops, excursions and time for reflection are types of experiential learning offered on Global Navigator programs.  

Students who learn through direct action, experience, and reflection can gain greater knowledge of a topic, develop more skills, and make better connections with the subject-matter in and out of class.   

While everyone is different and there is no specific age when it is best to study abroad, high school is a special time of life when studying abroad can make a real difference. It helps students grow into more independent adults and shapes college and career choices ! 

CIEE high school study abroad programs are designed for high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Most students on CIEE Global Navigator programs are in their junior and senior year. 

Parents and teachers are sometimes concerned about their freshmen high school students studying abroad. However, approximately 20% of our students are rising sophomores. A study abroad experience with three full years of high school remaining provides the foundation for greater growth in language and independence over time.  

Our High School Summer Abroad Language & Culture programs offer students the option to earn 4 college credits in high school to put toward a future college degree.   

Since 1947, CIEE has been opening doors for U.S. students to study abroad.   

We’re the longest-running, non-profit study abroad organization and operate our own study centers around the world. Every year, we support more than 3,500 U.S. high school students traveling abroad. We also administer the largest study abroad scholarship fund for high school students in the U.S. and award $6 million every year, making our programs accessible to everyone! 

What People Are Saying

"My Paris experience was life-changing in several ways [...] My CIEE experience has made me more independent, has given me a more open mind and more global perspective, has significantly improved my French and has made me more enthusiastic about incorporating French into my daily life."

Dahlia S. | Global Navigator Alum | French Language & Culture in Paris, France

"This trip has had a great impact on how I see the world, myself, and the USA. It is absolutely a trip I will never forget and will take with me through my life." 

Julia H. | Global Navigator Alum | Leadership & Service Through Mandela's Example in Cape Town, South Africa

"Not only have I made lifelong friendships with lots of new, amazing people, but I have learned about a topic I am passionate about in one of the most beautiful places in the world... I learned to speak basic Setswana and about human-wildlife conflict and conservation. I also got to learn about water and soil erosion/conservation. This meant the world to me!" 

Kayla W. | Global Navigator Alum | Botswanan Wildlife Conservation in Gaborone, Botswana

"I can't express to you how grateful my family is for the amazing opportunity [...] This experience has changed my daughter in profound ways, and it is such an unexpected surprise for us all. This year in high school, she attributes her ability to make friends more easily and open herself up directly to her CIEE experience! We talk about this often, and just wanted to let you know that this program changes lives."

Kimberly K. | Parent of Global Navigator Alum | Spanish Language & Culture in Madrid, Spain

High School Blogs

Where Are Our High School Summer Abroad Participants Now?

How does a high school summer abroad program influence your lifepath after? During our most recent podcast, we set up a surprise reunion to find out!

• Language & Culture
• Reflections

2 Essential Ways to Prepare for Your Teen’s High School Summer Abroad

Once your teen is accepted on their CIEE high school summer abroad program and you have confirmed their participation, anticipation will fill your home. There are two very important tasks... keep reading

• Parent Resources
• Pre-Departure

Italy: A Day in My Life

I am currently studying abroad in Fano, a seaside town on the coast of the Adriatic Sea in the region of Marche, Italy. For me, a typical school day in... keep reading

• Global Internship

Your Donation Holds the Keys to Global Change

High school students are open-minded and ready to learn about themselves and the world. With your help, a small seed of change, planted at this point in their development, can influence the trajectory of their lives in a positive, lasting way.

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High School Abroad

Be an exchange student in high school and gain confidence, independence, and a global perspective. students who study abroad stand out in their college career and beyond., choose your adventure.

• 16 years old
• Host Family or Supervised Residence Hall
• 1 Year of Japanese Language Instruction

• 15 - 18 years
• Host Family
• 2 Years of Spanish Language Instruction

• No Language Requirement

• Beginner German

• 14 - 18 years old
• Beginner Spanish

• 15-18 years

• 14-19 years

• 2 Years of French Language Instruction

• 2 Years of German or Willing to Take Classes

• 15 - 17 Years

• 15 - 18 Years

New Zealand

• 15 -18 Years

Netherlands

Ready to have a life changing academic adventure abroad?

Studying abroad in high school is a chance to stand out on your college applications while exploring a new country and culture, make international friends and learn about yourself and the world around you. let us help you get started on choosing the right program for you.

The Greenheart Travel Team

Greenheart travel team.

High School Programs

Why Greenheart Travel?

We’re your personal cheerleaders as you navigate the unpredictable joys, surprises, and challenges of life abroad. with unrivaled support and guidance, we give you the tools to make sure you’re more than a tourist, you’re a world citizen. you don’t just travel for the sights, you travel for a change.

Scholarships

We provide scholarships each year of over $12,000 to those who are considered First Time Travelers.

Greenheart Travel Atlas

An interactive guide to help facilitate your experience. The Atlas will help you meaningfully engage with the rest of the world.

Alumni Programs

Your program doesn't have to end when you get home. We have full scholarship alumni programs for returned global leaders.

Our Mission

We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Our mission is to help people "travel for a change".

Reviews From Our Travelers

Sure, we think our programs rock, but don't just take it from us. read real reviews from our alumni and get insight into our programs and what might be the best fit for you..

Frequently Asked Questions

We know there is a ton of research to do when thinking about a high school program. read more about how we'll support you as a study abroad student with greenheart travel., why greenheart.

There are a so many factors to consider when committing to a high school abroad program. Below are a few ways Greenheart Travel can help make this planning process as stress-free as possible, and help make sure this is a successful and life-changing adventure!  

Cultural Immersion

Greenheart Travel high school students live with a local host family and receive a full cultural and language immersion experience.  

Unique Programs Around the World

Whether it’s studying abroad in Costa Rica, Spain, or the U.K., Greenheart Travel programs will give you an authentic glimpse into the many facets of life abroad. Where are dreaming to traveling? We can help you get there with a diverse list of program destinations.

Flexible and Affordable Programs

Traveling abroad doesn’t have to interfere with the school curriculum or your child’s graduation timeline. Greenheart Travel offers summer and winter break programs, as well as trimester, semester and academic yearlong study abroad opportunities around the world.  

Service Learning Opportunities While Abroad

Need to meet service learning requirements to graduate, we will help you find volunteer and service learning projects in your host community during your time overseas through our Greenheart Club.

Personal Program Manager for Every Student

Greenheart Travel has a personal program manager for each student traveling abroad, offering support from the time you or your child inquires to the time they return home, by someone you know by name.

Academic Development

Greenheart Travel alumni are provided with the guidance and tools they need to translate their impactful experiences abroad into tangible skills that can be highlighted on their college applications. Through our Alumni network, your child will have a chance to connect with like-minded students, and mentor future participants.

CSIET Accreditation

Greenheart Travel is annually audited by the Council on Standards for International Education Travel (CSIET), which acts to ensure that we offer quality programs for our participants. To learn more about their process and standards you can find information on their site .

Greenheart Travel’s Commitment to Helping You Prepare for Your Program

Our high school abroad program managers care about each student’s experience abroad. To help facilitate a successful and life-changing program we offer each student TWO in-depth pre-departure orientation, as well as in-country orientations upon arrival.

Pre-departure Preparation and Orientations

“Everything was well organized and I was prepared for my experience and received a great host family and area to live in.”  Kailey, Greenheart Travel high school alumna in Italy 

The most important part of a study abroad program is having realistic expectations about what the experience will entail. Most importantly, students need to have the tools to deal with the challenges and successes they’ll face while abroad. Whether through regular phone conversations, e-mails, or Skype meetings, students will have the necessary information to make sure they are getting all they can out of their international experience.

Unlike other organizations, Greenheart Travel conducts not one, but  two pre-departure orientations . These sessions offer best practices to get the most out of the full immersion program and offers a full picture of what to expect as an exchange student.

General pre-departure orientation

This orientation covers essential logistical information about the student’s program. It is conducted by a local coordinator in your area when possible, or by a Greenheart Travel staff member.

Pre-departure orientation covers topics like:

• Lines of Communication
• Communication while abroad
• Money (how much to bring, what to expect)
• Insurance/Healthcare
• Risk Factors and Tips
• Emergency Procedures
• Program Rules
• Program Evaluations
• Recommended Reading Material

Both students and parents attend this (online) orientation to prepare logistically for their high school abroad program. They also learn the practices and procedures for communicating questions and concerns while a student is abroad.

Cultural Pre-departure Orientation Understanding the basics of culture shock is very important, and understanding the intricacies of a completely different and unique culture is essential. Our Greenheart Travel cultural pre-departure orientations go over the basics of the host country’s culture where a student will be studying, and gives insight into what will be the most exciting and challenging component of the program. This particular orientation has proved invaluable to both parents and students, making the ‘unknown’ known.

Cultural pre-departure topics include:

• Recommended questions to ask the host family when the student first arrives
• Conversation starters to ‘break the ice’ with new host family members and friends
• Suggestions on how to show appreciation to a host family
• Potential issues related to cultural differences and how to avoid them or how to handle them if they do occur
• Basic phrases and lingo of the host country’s language
• Information on the 5 stages of culture shock
• Tips on how to handle culture shock and homesickness
• Social Integration
• Typical meals (cuisine, meal times, etc)
• How to acclimate to the host country’s culture before departure (i.e. begin taking shorter showers (Ireland), begin using chopsticks (Japan, etc.
• Little known aspects of host country’s culture (i.e, In most Spanish homes, people are expected to wear house shoes)
• Group participation with fellow students studying in the same country about this upcoming adventure!

The cultural session is conducted via Skype by a Greenheart Travel staff person in the national office. All participants and their parents are asked to attend the session pertinent to their host country destination.

Continued Support During and After a High School Abroad Program

Once a student has started their study abroad program, Greenheart Travel program managers continue to support both the parents and the students during their time abroad.

Even after a student has returned home, their program manager will do a follow up call and check in on if they are experience reverse culture shock and introduce them to our Greenheart Travel alumni community and opportunities.

Service Learning

Does your high school require you to volunteer to meet graduation requirements? Are you applying to top colleges that are asking for your service learning experience? As a Greenheart Travel student, you will become eligible to join our Greenheart Club which can help you accomplish both of these goals!

The Greenheart Club challenges our participants to pursue a deeper level of immersion through volunteerism. It is also a great way to:

• Receive resources to help you find projects in your host country
• Track and present all your service-learning hours during your program
• Earn rewards and project grants based on the number of service learning hours you record
• Explore you host community, meet international friends and make a positive impact

Once you are accepted on your Greenheart Travel high school abroad program, we’ll help you get started! In the meantime, get inspired by our alumni stories on our blog.  

What do alumni say about the Greenheart Club?

“It is a great feeling to know that I am able to make a difference. I have also had students tell me that I’ve made them realize how important studying in school and learning English is. I’m glad I was able to help these students and show them how much potential they have if they apply themselves. They are amazing people and I will miss them all when I return to the U.S.” – Diana Freedman, Greenheart Travel alumna in Italy

Early Bird Application Discount:

Apply for a Trimester, Semester or Academic Year high school abroad program and receive $300 or $500 off depending on the length of your stay.

Deadline to apply for a:

• Early Bird Fall 2022 Program Discount: December 15, 2021
• Early Bird Spring 2023 Program Discount: May 28, 2022

Greenheart Exchange Host Family Discount:

Families who have hosted a student through Greenheart Exchange in the United States are eligible for the following program discounts. Programs must start within 12 months of the last date of hosting a student.

• Hosted one semester or less:  $300 discount on a High School Abroad Program
• Hosted one full semester or longer:  $500 discount on a High School Abroad Program

Summer High School Abroad

Why study abroad in the summer?

For students with commitments during the academic year, Greenheart Travel offers short-term (one or two-month programs) in Argentina , Costa Rica , and New Zealand for students who want to experience life as an exchange student abroad during their summer break! You’ll live with a host family and attend a local high school to learn language skills, gain intercultural skills and make lifelong friends – and impress college admissions counselors .

For High School Faculty

Greenheart Travel’s programs offer an immersive, cultural experience. From living with local families to attending classes in their host country’s native language, these experiences give students global awareness, provide translatable life skills, and build character. By offering cultural exchange programs to your students, you are making the world their classroom!

Please head here to read more about your role in helping a student study abroad. For High Schools .

Parent FAQs

The decision to send your teenager abroad can be difficult and there are a lot of questions to consider. We understand your concerns and the Greenheart Travel staff is there for you every step of the way! For us, it is important that parents be involved in the decision from day one.

We want to make the process of studying abroad as fun and painless as possible for you and your child, while also ensuring that it is a successful and life-changing adventure! You can learn more about our values and the services we provide to you and your child here .

Below are some of the common questions we get from parents as they consider our study abroad program:

What does it mean to be in good mental health in the program eligibility requirements?

Moving to a new culture and staying in unfamiliar surroundings without your normal support structure can be very stressful, even to a well-adjusted student. Sending a student with pre-existing conditions on an exchange program could exacerbate whatever challenges the student was previously facing. In order to ensure the safety of our participants, we must be rigorous in our pre-screening of all applicants.

Therefore, we may not be able to accept students who have struggled with any kind of mental illness within the last 2 years and/or are reliant on medication to address their existing mental health condition.

These include, but are not limited to:

• Obsessive compulsive disorder
• Debilitating anxiety
• Eating disorders

If the student’s mental health issue has been managed (post-medication) for over 2 years, we will ask for a note from his/her relevant practitioner (psychologist, therapist, psychiatrist, etc) as part of the application process.

What are my chances of being accepted into the High School Study Abroad Program?

If you have two years of foreign language experience, at least a 2.75 GPA, and a true passion for discovering new cultures you will have an increased chance of being accepted. If you are not accepted or rejected from the program, we will refund your deposit.

What kind of assistance will my child receive while abroad?

There is a strong network of people working together to ensure your child’s time abroad is successful. This includes the Greenheart Travel program manager in the U.S., the natural parents, the local coordinator abroad in country, the host school, and the host family. Immediate assistance will be provided by the local coordinator and/or host family according to a robust chain of communication, explained prior to departure.

Do you offer any scholarships, financial aid, or special discounts?

Yes. Every year we offer various scholarships for select high school program destinations. There are two Early Bird Deadline discounts offered each year as well. See our Discounts and Deadlines section for more information. If you have hosted a student for Greenheart Exchange, you are also eligible for a Greenheart Host Family discount .

My child’s school requires service learning in order to graduate. How will they do that abroad?

Greenheart Travel is proud to offer the Greenheart Club for all of our students. The Greenheart Club challenges our participants to pursue a deeper level of immersion through volunteerism. As a member of the Greenheart Club, your child will receive guidance in strategizing creative ways to give back to their community, have access to tools for tracking their impact and receive incentives for their efforts as a global leader. This is a great chance for your child to get to know the local community outside of the classroom while they study abroad.

Can friends study abroad together?

Our programs are based on a full, cultural immersion experience so friends are not allowed to study abroad together in the same host town. Don’t worry though; making friends in the new host country will happen quickly!

Can my child come home to visit or can we visit them while abroad?

No. Visits are not allowed during the high school program. If your family wishes to visit, you should plan to meet your child after your program is completed. In this instance, Greenheart Travel’s National office and international partner office should be informed of your family’s plans.

Does my child need to be fluent in another language?

No. One of the main goals of studying abroad is to become fluent in another language while living overseas. The host family and school will not expect your child to be fluent when they first arrive and will help them improve their language skills. As long as your child tries their best, they’ll pick up the language sooner than you might think!

Can my child take the SATs while abroad?

You child will not be able to take the SAT’s while abroad.  We highly recommend taking the SAT’s prior to or after the program.

My child has already graduated, are they still eligible?

On a case by case basis, we can accept graduated students for Argentina, Austria, Belgium, England, France, Italy, Netherlands, and New Zealand. Check out our gap year information for all your options!

Can we speak to current high school students or alumni?

Yes! Check out our blog or your child can join our exclusive teen programs Facebook group to talk to current and past students.

If there is a class I must take in order to graduate, can you guarantee that I will be able to take it abroad?

There are no guarantees that you can take certain classes at your host school. Greenheart Travel will be able to provide information about the general curriculum for your age level in your host country; however, in most cases, you will not be able to sign up for specific courses until AFTER you have arrived in your host country.

Can I choose where I will be placed with my host family?

No. You can choose your destination country, but you must be flexible about where you are placed within that country. We make it a priority to place students with host families that closely match your interests and personality. For this reason, we work first to find a suitable family rather than a destination preference. We can never guarantee placements in any specific city or region, and we match based on compatibility with the host family. 

I know a family in my program country that would like to host me. Is this possible?

This is possible as long as we have a support network in the family’s host community and there is an available nearby host school.

Will I be placed in a city?

No. It is very unlikely you will be placed in a city. A majority of our families live in small to medium-sized towns outside of major cities, and it is important you be open-minded to small-town life.

Will I have a host sibling my age?

There is no guarantee that you will have a host sibling your age. Your host family may have young children, teenage children, or grown children who no longer live at home. Regardless of the age of your host siblings, they’ll be excited to welcome into the family!

What if I don’t like my host family? Can I request a new one?

No. We do not change host families based on preferences or location. However, if issues arise once you are on the program, we will handle them on a case-by-case basis and may make changes if necessary.

Schedule a Phone Call

Not sure where to start? We can help! Set up a phone call to go over our program options here:

Application Process

Committing to studying abroad can feel daunting, but we are here every step of the way to make the application process as simple as possible! Below are the various steps you’ll need to take to be accepted on a high school abroad program.

2. Submit Basic Program Information:  The first step in our application portal will be basic things like your chosen start date, etc.

3. Submit your Application Fee :  A $1,500 application fee is required in order to apply for the program.  This is subtracted from your total program fee, it’s not additional. 

4.   Complete Application & Documents :  Provide more detailed information about yourself in Part 2 of the application. In this section, you’ll tell us more information like your work history, motivations for joining the program, travel history, and emergency contacts. You will also submit your documents (below) within your portal account.

5.   Interview: After submitting your application fee, you will schedule. During this interview, we will ask you questions about living with a host family, adjusting to new situations and homesickness, among other things. You will also receive an overview of the next few months and what you can expect. This is done via Zoom, and at least one parent should also be in attendance.

6. You’re Accepted!  Once you’ve completed all the steps, Greenheart Travel will thoroughly review your application and will contact you within 2-3 weeks about your acceptance. Then, you’ll get more information about preparation, visas, and placement.

7. Commitment Payment:  Once you are accepted to the program, you will need to submit a $5,000 commitment payment within 14 days to confirm your spot on the program. We cannot start the host family matching process until we have this deposit. Once you submit your commitment deposit you will unlock the acceptance portion of your portal, which includes things like pre-departure videos, travel and arrival information, the Greenheart Travel Atlas, and more.

7.  Book your flights, and get ready for your adventure! 

Required Documents

In addition to completing an application, you will also be required to submit documents. You can be collecting the documents during the application process, but all documents will be due 14 days after you submit your deposit.

The following documents will be required for all destinations:

• Letter of Recommendation (from a teacher, coach or guidance counselor) – does not need to be sealed, should be scanned and uploaded to the document portal
• Transcripts from the last 3 years (unofficial transcripts accepted)
• Student Dear Family Letter
• Parent Questionnaire & Letter
• Photo Album (5-7 photos of you on a Word document with captions)
• Medical Form (including immunizations)
• Copy of your passport
• 60-90 second self-introduction video sent via YouTube link
• Secondary rules & expectations document signed by both parents and students

For payments, a $1,500  non-refundable fee will be due with your submitted application. This is a deposit will be deducted from your overall program cost.

Once you are accepted onto the program, a $5,000 commitment payment will be due within 14 days of acceptance.  The remaining balance is due 16 weeks prior to  your start date, or at the same time as your commitment payment, whichever comes first.

You’ve Been Accepted, Now What?

Start getting ready for your adventure! Your program manager will be in regular communication with you to make sure that you are on track in your preparations to go abroad.

• Upon acceptance, you will receive a student handbook (parents – you get one, too!) and access to the  Greenheart Travel Atlas , as well as the  Greenheart Club .
• You will receive your host family and school placement roughly 2-3 months after acceptance.
• After receiving your host family and school placement, you will receive further instructions on applying for your student visa (if applicable for your program length)
• We will also schedule an online pre-orientation with other Greenheart students a few weeks before your departure!

Payment Schedule

For payments, a $1,500 non-refundable Application Fee will be due with your submitted application. This will be deducted from your overall program cost.

Once you are accepted onto the program, a $5,000 Commitment Payment will be due within 14 days of acceptance.  Remaining balance is due 16 weeks prior to your tentative start date. If you are accepted within 16 weeks of your start date your remaining balance will be due at the same time as your $5,000 Commitment Payment.

If your application is submitted after the deadline, you will be expected to pay the remaining balance of total program fee within two weeks of acceptance.

Not sure where to start?

Be put in touch with a program expert who can guide you through the process..

Contact Information

Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Exchange Programs

High school study abroad.

Expand your horizons – study abroad!

The U.S. Department of State offers scholarships for American high school students to study abroad from two weeks to an academic year. Students live with host families, engage with local schools, and gain skills to be competitive in the global workforce. Previous language study is not required for most programs. Fact sheet

Congress–Bundestag Youth Exchange Program (CBYX)

Full scholarships for high school students to spend an academic year in Germany. Live with a host family while you attend high school and immerse into your host community and German culture!

Future Leaders Exchange Abroad (FLEX Abroad)

Full scholarships for American high school students to live and study for an academic year in Georgia, Kazakhstan, or Poland. As a FLEX Abroad participant, you can help strengthen ties between the peoples of the United States and Central Asia and Central and Eastern Europe.

Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Abroad

Full scholarships for American high school students to live and study in Middle East, Africa, Asia, or Southeast Europe. Get to know another culture first-hand and form lasting friendships with your host family and community!

National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y)

Apply for a full scholarship to immerse yourself in Arabic, Hindi, Indonesian, Korean, Mandarin, Persian (Tajik), Russian, or Turkish for a summer or an academic year while living with a host family and experiencing the local culture. Previous language study is not required!

Youth Ambassadors

Full scholarships for high school students and adult educators to take part in approximately 3-week youth exchange programs in Central and South America during the summer months.  Gain new skills or improve your Spanish or Portuguese in a fully immersive language and cultural experience focused on leadership, civic engagement, and community service.

Gain International Perspectives Without Leaving the USA

Not ready to travel outside the USA? You can still make connections around the world with these short-term domestic exchanges and hosting opportunities.

Study Abroad Opportunities for U.S. High School Students

Experience a new world and expand your horizons - study abroad in high school! The U.S. Department of State offers full scholarships to high school students to study abroad for one academic year. Create long-lasting friendships with people around the globe, promote mutual understanding, learn a new language, and develop leadership skills.

Full scholarships for high school students to spend an academic year in Germany. Live with a host family while you attend high school or participate in an internship. Live and learn German culture!

Full scholarship to study Arabic, Bahasa Indonesia, Mandarin, Hindi, Korean, Persian (Tajik), Russian, or Turkish for a summer or an academic year. Live abroad with a host family while pursuing your intensive language study. Previous language study is not required. Language learners of all levels are encouraged to apply!

Full scholarships for American high school students to live and study in Middle East, Africa, Asia, or the Balkans. Get to know Muslim culture first-hand and form lasting friendships with your host family and community!

Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Exchange Programs U.S. Department of State

High school study abroad

Whether you're looking to high school study abroad for a year, or you'd just like to spend a summer in a foreign country, you've come to the right place. We have a range of high school study abroad programs to give you a taste of life abroad. We also operate international boarding schools. Study abroad high school is a major decision, so get in touch with us. We guide you every step of the way.

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Why study abroad in high school?

Attending high school abroad is a transformational experience. Many students do not go abroad until university, so you'll be getting an educational head start. Our private international boarding schools offer a full high school education in English for native and non-native English speakers.

Graduates continue on to English-speaking universities, including some very prestigious institutions like Harvard and Cambridge. These are full-time, academically challenging study abroad programs, with the on-site academic and personal support necessary to make a smooth transition from living at home to attending high school abroad.

High school study abroad programs for summer, semester or year

There's no better way to become fluent in a language than by studying it in an immersion environment. Enrolling in a high school study abroad program will improve your foreign language skills: a major asset to your future studies and career. You'll also become move independent and come home with an entirely new perspective on the world.

Our high school study abroad opportunities in non-English speaking countries include flexible short-term summer and semester programs, long-term language programs, and exam preparation programs:

Why EF is the best choice to study abroad for high school students

• 50+ years of experience : EF has been providing study abroad high school opportunities since 1965.
• 50+ destinations : At EF you can choose from a variety of destinations, and no two are the same...
• Innovative learning space : EF has created state-of-the-art learning environments that include comfortable student lounges, modern language labs and spacious classrooms.
• The best guidance : Due to our small classroom sizes and personalized approach to teaching, you can count on EF during and after your language course.
• A complete experience : Outside our intensive language training programs, EF organizes various excursions and activities in order to experience true cultural immersion.
• In-house management : Unlike many other organizations, EF language schools are managed by staffs that are hand-picked by our organization, including our highly trained language teachers.
• Recognized worldwide : EF is globally recognized by major educational institutions such as the University of Cambridge.

Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of studying abroad in high school.

Attending high school abroad means living closely together with local high school students. You'll experience the lifestyle, culture and traditions of your foreign country up close, and learn the foreign language fast and effectively. Studying abroad in high school is also good for the development of your cultural and interpersonal skills. Studying abroad in high school is challenging and rewarding at the same time. So, why not choose to go abroad with EF and...

• Learn a new language
• Discover a new culture
• Meet new people from all over the world
• Make international friends
• Gain valuable experiences

Where can I attend high school abroad?

Would you like to experience the high school spirit in France ? Or would you rather have paella with your host family in Spain ? Or are you curious about the beautiful nature of Korea ? Everything is possible with EF's study abroad high school programs !

A whole high school year abroad can be exciting, but at the same time very challenging. EF will guide you in every possible way. You'll learn a new language in no time, for example by practicing your Spanish language skills day in, day out with fellow students in Costa Rica or Barcelona, or with your host family, at the dinner table. 

How old do I have to be to study abroad in high school?

The age limits for high school study abroad programs are usually between 15 and 18 years old. Are you younger than 15? Or older than 18 years? EF offers language travel for all ages, from young children to teenagers, university students and adults. When you travel with us you will meet people your own age and enjoy an amazing experience both in and outside of the classroom together.

Can I study abroad in high school for a semester?

If you don't want to spend a whole year at a high school abroad , you can also choose to study abroad for a semester. This will give you the opportunity to high school travel abroad and improve your language skills, whether in French or Spanish, or perhaps in a subject you didn't really excel in the past high school year. Prepare for exams or improve your professional communication, social skills and entrepreneurship.

What are my accommodation options while studying at high school abroad?

• Homestay - When you become a high school student, you have a few options when it comes to accommodation. Feel at home by choosing to stay in our carefully selected EF Homestay, where you can immerse yourself in the culture by living amongst locals in a private home.
• Residence - If you prefer to live amongst your fellow classmates, consider living in a residence during your study abroad high school program. Our residences are comfortable, secure and conveniently located close to the city center.
• Hotel - You can also decide to enjoy the comfort, convenience and privacy of a full-service hotel.
• Apartment - Gain more independence by living in an EF-selected apartment with easy access to your school via public transportation.

Should I study abroad during the high school summer break?

Yes, studying abroad during the high school summer break is an exciting opportunity to expand your horizons in another country. Because EF's summer study abroad programs for high school students are shorter, you won't be away from home for too long, but still experience what's it like to live and study in another country, outside your comfort zone.

The high school summer break is also perfect if you don't want study abroad to interfere with your academic schedule in the US.

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• Spanish programs for high school students

International Student Exchange maintains a strong presence in Virginia through our South East Regional Office. Over the past ten years, our Virginia regional staff has enriched the lives of over 500 exchange students and countless American kids and families in communities across the state. Our students have attended more than 173 different public high schools in Virginia.

Opportunities to get involved throughout the state are available today!

Host an Exchange Student in Virginia

Join our network of over 554 host families in Virginia and make a difference in a teenager’s life today. When you host an exchange student, you will:

• Gain a new family member
• Experience a new culture
• Create lifelong friendships
• Make a positive impact

Work with Exchange Students in Virginia

Become an Area Representative in Virginia and join over 50 individuals who have made it their mission to bring student exchange to their communities. Our Area Representatives:

• Work with local high schools to secure placements for exchange students
• Recruit local families to host exchange students for 5, 10, or 12-month programs
• Provide supervision and guidance for exchange students throughout their stay

Welcome International Exchange Students To Your High School

There are many benefits of having foreign exchange students in your local high school. They help students and faculty learn new cultures, values and languages.

Here are some of the schools that our students have attended in Virginia:

• C.D. Hylton High School  – Woodbridge, VA
• Gloucester High School  – Gloucester, VA
• Hermitage High School  – Henrico, VA

Are you interested in having foreign exchange students in your local high school? Click the link below!

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Change the world, one family at a time. Apply to become an ISE Area Representative!

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Why Your Next Vacation Should Be a Language Class Abroad (Hint: It's Nothing Like High School)

IT’S 4 A.M. IN LIMA and I am in bed, half awake, mentally conjugating verbs in Spanish. Grammar hasn’t had such an insidious hold on my consciousness since high school, when my failure to learn French convinced me I was facing a monolingual future. Since then, a stint living in Miami, scattered trips to Spain and Latin America, and a few binges on Duolingo have rekindled my linguistic urges, this time for Spanish.

My breakthrough strategy: to combine my scholarship with a vacation. And so I signed up for a week of classes at Peruwayna, a language school located in the bustling Miraflores district of Peru’s capital. The curriculum’s rigor attracted me—each day of the roughly $223-per-week “super-intensive” program would start with four hours of small group classes. Then, after a lunch break, I’d spend another two hours with a private tutor. But just as importantly, the school bolsters its curriculum with activities (largely conducted in Spanish) such as dinners, market outings, surfing expeditions and even evenings spent mixing pisco sours and other cocktails using the country’s national spirit. This was, after all, a vacation, too.

Such a “vacation” might not sound relaxing. But in a 2021 YouGov survey of Americans’ bucket-list goals, learning a new language ranked eighth, right between getting married and having kids. Sure, “travel to an exotic location” clocked in six spots higher, but what if you could scratch those two profound itches simultaneously? That kind of immersive experience, where you’re constantly engaged with the language where it’s spoken, can speed up acquisition, says Aaron Aguilar, Peruwayna’s director of operations.

In Lima, I could put lessons to use almost immediately, allowing for previously unlikely interactions and insights. Returning from a lunch expedition to the restaurant La Picantería for some of the city’s best ceviche, I fell into a rambling conversation with my taxi driver about Chinese-made cars, like his SUV (“barato,” cheap), and the concert tickets he’d just bought to see the Cure with his daughter (“caro,” expensive.) After I told a pharmacist I was in town for Spanish classes, he invited me to come in and practice with him any time and shared his favorite place for pollo a la brasa, Peru’s ubiquitous rotisserie chicken, which I happily relayed to the class the next day.

Did I come away as eloquent as Mario Vargas Llosa, with a particular command of pharmaceutical phrases? Hardly, but I couldn’t expect that from one week of classes. I did make lasting, noticeable progress, however, and gained a deeper appreciation of Lima through what can be an occasionally awkward (but more often rewarding) learning process.

As Nathan Petrie, a serial language learner from London, describes it, in situ language classes breed confidence. “I’m very bullish now,” said Petrie, 39. “I like to throw myself into situations.” Or down mountains. He recently enrolled for the fourth time at the Alpine French School, in Morzine, France, for January, when classes start at about $317 per week, and are scheduled to give students maximum snow time. From the bottom of the ski lift, a scenic 15-minute walk will bring Petrie to the school, where he’ll replace his snowy boots with comfy slippers for two hours of classes. He’ll stay, as before, with a local host who will fuel him with both breakfast and conversation. (Peruwayna also arranges homestays, which about half of its students use.)

Most students at these schools tend to be in their 20s and 30s, but the young have no monopoly on the rewards of overseas language learning. Tom Anderson, a 79-year-old former New York City police officer, and his wife, Rose, 76, frequently sign up for trips arranged by the educational travel nonprofit Road Scholar, including 45-day “Living & Learning” programs, which start at around $8,000, in places like Seville and Florence.

While the couple didn’t apply themselves too strenuously in Spain, in Florence, a food cart slinging trippa alla Fiorentina (tripe simmered in tomato sauce) motivated Tom to study more rigorously. For weeks, he avoided the cart, worried he’d flub his order. But a week before they left, Rose insisted he put his newly acquired language to use. When the Andersons reached the front of the line, “I ordered in Italian. I didn’t think about it,” said Tom. “It was like I was a native, you know?”

These programs combine travel experiences with full-throttle language learning

For more than 30 years, Scuola Toscana has been teaching “La Bella Lingua” to visitors in Florence. Along with dedicated language programs, specialized packages incorporate photography, opera and even barista skills. From $300 a week. 

Learn to surf on the Costa Rican coast with the School of the World , a Spanish language academy that also teaches yoga and photography skills. Along with arranging homestays, the Jaco Beach school offers on-site lodging in both shared and private rooms. From $534 a week, including lodging.

On a hillside overlooking the sea into which Icarus mythologically plunged, the Ikarian Center offers Greek language courses, including sessions tied to the late-autumn olive  harvest, and springtime Easter celebrations. From around $938, including lodging.

While studying a language is undoubtedly an act of self-improvement, Corazón Cuba offers the chance to make things better for others, too. Its “Learn Spanish & Volunteer” program in Old Havana combines morning classes with afternoons spent lending a hand at community projects like after-school programs. Other offerings include dancing and adventuring farther afield in locations like Viñales and Trinidad. From $395 a week, including accommodation and some meals.

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6 Popular Types of High School Travel Programs

Raised in a multicultural family in the colorful Chicago suburbs, Raquel’s greatest joy is ...

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So, you want to travel overseas during high school, do you? Forget the summer family vacations and school field trips around the block, though. We know you’re craving high school travel programs that are off the beaten path, emancipating, extraordinarily unforgettable, and simply gratifying. Rather than coming away from your travels with just virtual piles of social media-worthy unfiltered photos, you can have countless more gigabytes of stories to tell behind each picture.

High school travel programs are a diverse lot. From learning Greek cuisine to Mandarin Chinese immersion , programs range in size, type, duration, and in just about every other component you can think of. Chances are you can’t catch ‘em all, but you still be the very best by choosing the program that fits just right. We’ve got all the inside deets on programs for everyone from the language buff to the outdoor adventure junkie.

To give an idea of all the juicy escapades you could be up to during your high school career, we’ve whipped up this cheat sheet for the most popular kinds of high school travel programs in Europe and beyond . You won’t be tested later, but we still suggest you take notes! 

Consider these types of high school travel programs

1. community service and volunteering.

Get drawn into the international world of philanthropy.

Community service programs for high school students abroad may have just fallen from the heavens themselves. Volunteer work coupled with international experience is the ultimate cherry on top of your college application, flashing your global prowess, goodwill, and development of additional skills such as medical care or service work. While your own high school and organizations back home may provide opportunities for local community service, volunteering abroad will expand your scope so you can start helping those outside your immediate area.

Pros: Volunteering high school travel programs can get you a substantial number of community service hours. Additionally, developing new skills abroad can introduce you to a potential career field. Working in a medical clinic, caring for orphans, or organizing financial workshops can be the stepping stone to your future profession. 

Cons: Research carefully into each volunteer program to make sure they know their stuff. If your program provider exists just to make sure participants have a good time and considers the volunteer mission secondary, that should be a red flag. When volunteers aren’t adequately prepared for or informed about the work they’ll be doing, they may not have any positive impact at all. 

Recommended community service trips & programs:

• Rustic Pathways
• See all international service trips for high school students  

2. Gap year

High school graduation is where the learning begins—on a gap year.

What’s the rush to go straight to college right after catching your graduation cap before it touches the ground? Join the spreading movement to savor your youth and slow life down before inevitably spending the rest of your years working an 8-5 in a cubicle. The dawning truth is that retirement is becoming more of an unknown rather than a given, and you never know when you’ll actually be able to take substantial time off to do something amazing abroad. Taking a gap year before college allow you to explore the world a bit before plunging back into the current of life and being swept away forever. Okay, a bit dramatic, but why not volunteer, study, or learn abroad for a year?

Pros: Let’s face it, very few incoming college freshmen know exactly what they “want to be when they grow up”. Even a good portion of graduating college seniors haven’t made much progress in that department. The diversity of opportunities in the job market are only growing, so how do you decide what you’ll dedicate your life to? A gap year abroad gives you some extra time to decide and can expose you to some options abroad that you never knew existed. 

Cons: If you’re college bound and have already accepted offered, you might not always be able to pull off a deferment to attend the following year. Be familiar with your preferred universities’ policies and what scholarships you might be able to secure after coming back from your gap year abroad. 

Recommended gap year programs for high schoolers:

• Carpe Diem Education
• See all gap year programs for high school students

3. Language immersion programs

Learn to barter like a pro with your new mad language skills.

We all start learning our first language (even second or third) through immersion, soaking in the words whizzing around us and unconsciously decoding grammar patterns that we pick up on over time as we grow. Why should learning a new language be any different? Being able to practice a language outside of class allows you to solidify your gains and gather a knowledge of slang and colloquial speech that you simply can’t learn in a classroom. Obtain a language from the source and use every opportunity to practice!

Pros: Regrettably, English speaking countries are, for the most part, not so big on bestowing the gift of foreign language fluency upon students starting at a young age. With a year or two of repeating verb conjugations in high school, there’s really no hope to become proficient in a language. High school travel programs for language immersion can catapult you into fluency and make up for lost time. 

Cons: In language immersion programs with many other English speaking participants, English could become a default crutch to communicate with your new friends. Look for programs that make a point out of immersion, such as ones that accommodate participants in homestays and have rules in place to only speak the target language. 

Recommended language immersion travel programs for teens:

Seville Abroad

• See all summer language immersion programs for high school students  

4. Adventure travel & wilderness programs for teens

Staying in shape while traveling has never been easier when you have to hike up mountains for a view.

...and we don’t mean go discover how you were raised by gorillas in a secluded jungle. Burning off some energy in nature in a remote corner of the world is definitely a tempting venture, and adventure high school travel programs can make all the magic happen in a safe environment. Learning to surf, white water rafting, and tearing up snow on the slopes are just some of the exhilarating activities you can do. Apart from a colorful spectrum of world cultures to explore, every earthly landscape is just begging to be appreciated. 

Pros: Many adventure programs involve overlapping components from other types of high school travel programs, such as language immersion and homestays. This double, triple, or even quadruple whammy of perks means that you’ll grow in tons of different ways. There’s no FOMO over not experiencing the other types of travel, because you can get a taste of it all.

Cons: A short-term program means a packed itinerary that will constantly have your body and mind entertained. There’s no time to feel under the weather or a little lazy, because you might end up missing out on half the fun.

Recommended adventure travel programs for teens:

• Travel for Teens
• Campus Education Australia
• See all adventure travel programs for high school students

5. Experiential learning

When in Rome…? Experience it for yourself.

Make your travel destination a living museum by seeing culture and decades-old traditions unfold first hand. Experiential learning is like sightseeing to the extreme, allowing you to learn through all five of your senses. Taste legendary Swiss chocolate for yourself or listen to the thumping beats of Japanese taiko drummers in village festivals as you take an in-person journey through a different way of life.

Pros: Experiential learning gives a huge blow of concentrated cultural enlightenment in a condensed few week period, leaving you shellshocked (in a good way) for life. This kind of high school travel program is perfect for those only having a limited amount to work with, but still wanting to experience a substantial part of a culture. 

Cons: A jam-packed, structured itinerary can be a double-edged sword. One the one hand, you are constantly involved in activities and learning something around every street corner and at every meal. However, not every thing on the menu may be to your liking. A strictly planned program can mean there are some activities that you quite frankly couldn’t care for at all. 

Suggested hands-on learning programs for high schoolers:

• Youth for Understanding
• Experiment in International Living
• See all experiential learning programs for high school students  

6. Homestays abroad

Stop wondering what it would have been like to have a different family and opt for a homestay.

The quickest way to immerse yourself in a new country and lay down roots that you’ll be able to nourish and revisit for life is to live with a host family. Not only do you get instant access to the inner workings of a culture through family life, you also get the added benefit of an entire network of extended family, neighbors, and friends of your homestay hosts. Take the jump straight into the heart of a new culture, and opt to be an honorary member of a family abroad that will inevitably become a second family. Who says you can’t choose family?

Pros: Learning about a culture through a homestay is about as organic as immersion comes. Participating in community events, family birthday parties, and everyday conversations at the dinner table are invaluable moments that will give you the insider’s perspective. Other housing options can be isolating or leave you feeling like you’re an outsider no matter what cultural activities you take part in. 

Cons: Homestay experiences vary dramatically between countries and individual host families. Even within the same community, families can function very differently so it’s nearly impossible to predict how your homestay experience will go. The bottom line is to remember a few ground rules for living with strangers , namely to always stay respectful and abide to the household’s rules, no matter how strict they may seem.

Suggested teen-friendly homestay programs abroad:

• Greenheart Travel
• See all homestay programs for high school students

There you have it! Our fave kinds of high school travel programs

Get out there, see the world, and meet a new version of yourself on teen travel programs abroad.

It’s never too early to kickstart your global career and forge international relationships left and right. High school travel programs facilitate experiences with the perfect recipe of fun, learning, and guidance to steer you in the direction of cross-cultural understanding and language acquisition. An adventure abroad will ripen you up for your next life chapter and equip you with valuable lessons to apply to the way you see the world. 

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Rising Sophomore Abroad Program takes flight once more

After a two-year hiatus, nearly 100 undergraduate engineering students traveled to six countries during the two-week global education experience.

• Niki Hazuda

13 Jun 2022

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Picture it: Sunsets in Morocco. Afternoon tea in the United Kingdom. Wooly sheep in Ireland. Decadent pasta in Italy. And nearly 100 engineering undergraduates traveling across Europe and North Africa for two weeks.

While not exactly a dream vacation, the award-winning Rising Sophomore Abroad Program (RSAP) is a tour de force of global engineering education and cultural experiences. Since 2014, the Department of Engineering Education (ENGE) has hosted over 800 Hokie engineers through RSAP, the two-week international May experience, and a semester-long course Global STEM Practice: Leadership and Culture.

After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this spring's travel was organized into four tracks: Spain and Morocco, Ireland and the United Kingdom, and two to Italy and Germany, with about 30 or students per track. While RSAP is targeted to first-year engineers, interested students who were unable to travel in 2020 and 2021 were also invited, adding diversity to the groups and creating an opportunity for students to develop mentorship relationships. 

Prior to any plane departures, the students explored their track’s destination countries, discussed planning, created poster presentations, and practiced their reflection skills.

RSAP program director and ENGE Assistant Professor Homero Murzi said the course was developed not only to help students prep for travel, but also to reflect on how their track will “impact their development as future engineers."

“The students bring a ‘jump right into problem-solving' mindset from high school,” Murzi said, “so we spend the first few weeks of the semester thinking about the world problems we’re facing as engineers, and how to work with other people to really understand first the scope of the problems we’re trying to solve.”

In addition to track meetings, the course blends thought-provoking activities with lectures from faculty with international experience and global engineers. Through Q&A sessions and one-on-one interviews, students can develop networking and critical-thinking skills in a range of engineering disciplines.

For electrical engineering major Yasser Hassan, a dual resident of Ashburn, Virginia, and Sudan, Africa, the Global STEM course is “by far my most fun class at Virginia Tech.”

For one interactive class, students were divided into three countries: the Starbursts, Milky Way, and Hersheys. Each of the nations had its own rules, traditions, and habits, and even a specific location in the classroom. Then, the students were tasked with figuring out how to collaborate and develop solid business partnerships.

“The course helped a lot in getting rid of our personal biases and be more open to change,” Hassan said. “One thing that really helped was Professor Murzi’s favorite quote, ‘It’s not wrong, it’s just different.’ That was probably the best advice to use in any global aspect.”

The saying emphasizes that differences, regardless of origin, are just that – differences. The future of work requires “global understanding,” said Murzi, so highlighting cultural contrasts and pushing students to explore their potential uncertainty or discomfort is woven into the Global STEM course.

Students also are trained to make meaningful reflections to help them actively engage in the two-week experience, going beyond surface-level insights as they travel the different countries. The RSAP itineraries are packed with tours of engineering companies, such as Harbauer , an environmental technology company in Berlin; visits with students from the local higher education institutions, such as the Center for Cross-Cultural Learning in Rabat, Morocco; and, of course, historical sightseeing to places such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin.

Software engineering major Jenny Li said the Global STEM course had already challenged her to examine unconscious biases and pay attention to global problems, especially those not covered by news outlets, but even her class research didn’t teach Li everything she wanted to know. Over a lunch with Center for Cross-Cultural Learning students in Morocco, she experienced Murzi’s favorite saying firsthand.

“Where I learned the most was when we just spent time listing out our differences and similarities,” she said. "The funniest part was the shared pain of being an engineer with sleepless nights and hard courses. Going forward at Virginia Tech, I think I’m encouraged to travel more and see how differences can work together.”

Fellow Spain and Morocco traveler Ameera Hossain, a Bengali American from Northern Virginia, said RSAP was a firm reminder of why she wants to be an engineer. As a rising senior and transfer student, she began the academic year concerned that engineering wasn’t the right path for her.

“I think when I transferred to Virginia Tech, I worried because I couldn’t see any care for people when it comes to STEM,” said Hossain, a computer engineering major focusing in networking and cybersecurity. “Our work is meant to help people and keep their safety in mind while doing so."

Through the Global STEM course and travel experience, Hossain was reminded that even disparate countries with unique problems and solutions share common goals.

“Engineers are meant to be for the people,” Hossain said, “and we can’t grow if we stay stagnant. There's a whole world of people there, and if we stay in our little box, we’ll never get to hear their stories.”

Interested in helping more aspiring Hokie engineers gain critical exposure to global perspectives, cultural differences, and international opportunities in engineering? Consider giving to the Virginia Tech Rising Sophomore Abroad Program crowdfunding campaign .

Emily Roediger

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5 Places to Travel Abroad With Your Kids This Year

London, lapland, and tanzania are on the cards in 2024..

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TAASA Lodge offers a walking safari among several other singular experiences.

Courtesy of Go2Africa

Is it worth traveling abroad with your kids, especially with so many great options in the United States? Short answer: yes. That’s especially true if you consider one of these family-friendly destinations our writers have visited in recent months. They’ve been roaming with their children in the United Kingdom, Japan, Tanzania, Greece, and Swedish Lapland and have unearthed some great spots for the whole fam for 2024. Just try not to think about the flight there (and especially the flight home) . . .

Osaka, Japan

Theme parks and enticing street food are among the highlights of a visit to Osaka.

Photo by Usa-Pyon/Shutterstock

Wandering through Osaka’s neon-clad neighborhood of Shinsekai with my son—a hard-to-impress tween with a thirst for photo-worthy culinary creations—we passed takoyaki stands advertising their octopus-based wares with 3D tentacle-covered displays and a conveyor belt sushi joint adorned with an enormous rotating nigiri platter. Ultimately, we were drawn into Jumbo Tsuribune Tsurikichi , a restaurant boasting expansive pools of fish that you can catch with provided bait and rods. Here, they’ll cook and serve whatever you reel in—which, in our case, was a beast large enough to feed a family twice our size.

Memory-making experiences like this are only the beginning here, where maximalist signage beckons hungry travelers at every turn. And despite rising food costs across the globe, affordable eats are still easy to find in Osaka, making it an enticing choice for anyone looking to test their taste buds without breaking the bank. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something to love in this dynamic destination, and fun-loving families will find a variety of singular eateries. Dine alongside Pikachu at the popular Pokemon Café or enjoy impossibly cute Mario-inspired meals at Super Nintendo World at Universal Japan , which will soon offer even more options in its new Donkey Kong–themed land , slated to open in 2024.

Where to stay

For an immersive experience, families can sleep on traditional tatami mats at Ukiyoe Ryokan . The Cross Hotel Osaka , meanwhile, provides comfy digs located steps from the bustling food stalls in the Dotonbori area.— Amanda Adler

“I spy” gets a whole lot more interesting when there are leopards, hippos, and warthogs to peep.

Taking a toddler on safari is not for the faint of heart; I knew if I was gonna do it, I needed serious help. Enter Go2Africa , a seasoned tour operator staffed by specialists who’ve traveled extensively with small children throughout East and Southern Africa. These experts knew exactly which camps were the family-friendliest and how to safely travel between them. They arranged private safari drives for us in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area , a UNESCO-protected World Heritage site with Africa’s densest population of large animals, and a quiet corner of Serengeti National Park. Over multiple game drives in the two regions, we spotted lions, leopards, hippos, ostriches, flamingos, warthogs, and roughly a gazillion wildebeest, but it was a dazzle of zebras lingering within arm’s reach of our 4x4 that really had my son clapping up a storm.

Check out TAASA Lodge , a boutique bush camp in a 15,000-acre concession north of the Serengeti, and Gibb’s Farm , an 80-acre organic farm and coffee plantation less than an hour from Ngorongoro Crater. Both properties hire guides, trackers, and staff who truly love children, as opposed to merely tolerate them. Both also have swimming pools—a fantastic way for kiddos to spend some time in between game drives. —Ashlea Halpern, contributing editor

Athens, Greece

Ancient history comes alive in Athens.

Photo by Sven Hansche/Shutterstock

While history and ancient ruins may seem boring for little ones at first, Athens is actually an entertaining and educational family destination. Before you even leave, get your kids into Greek mythology and history—there’s the graphic novel series Olympians that reinterprets the mythologies and a funny and engaging podcast by National Geographic called Greeking Out that my eight-year-old son loves. Once you land, kids will be eager to see the sites that otherwise might look like crumbling dirt. When I visited last summer with my husband and two young kids, I booked a private tour with Be a Greek specifically meant for families. Our guide kept both of my children (and my husband and I) engaged with a scavenger hunt, trivia, games, and dynamic storytelling as we traipsed around the city, ticking off sites like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Panathenaic Stadium, and Syntagma Square to see the changing of the presidential guard.

Visiting the Acropolis is a bit more challenging, so be sure to go in early morning or evening when it’s cooler and less crowded, and leave the stroller behind (way too many steps!). Kids will also enjoy the Acropolis Museum (request a “family backpack” for educational resources, puzzles, and more); riding the bright red Athens Happy Train ; going up Mount Lycabettus via cable car; and strolling around the picturesque Plaka neighborhood. When you need to escape the heat, head outside the city center to the Athens Riviera for some time at Astir Beach or to the still-in-progress Ellinikon , which already features an incredible playground and park, with more to come.

To be in the center, stay at the new boutique Apollo Palm Hotel , which offers triple rooms perfect for a family of three (or four if one child is in a crib, which can be provided) while still boasting a chic design, gorgeous rooftop bar, and delicious breakfast buffet. For a resort experience, complete with a kids club, beach, and pool, the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens has spacious rooms and an incredibly friendly and helpful staff who clearly love children.— Devorah Lev-Tov

The Jokkmokk market has been around for hundreds of years.

Photo by Tommy Alven/Shutterstock

Swedish Lapland

My kids were just toddlers when we visited Swedish Lapland’s Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, where I pushed them in strollers as they teetered across packed-snow floors in rooms carved out from river ice by artists from around the world. (We sanely slept in the warm accommodations on site.)

On a visit this past winter on my own, I found several other reasons to plot a trip back soon with my now-older crew. The best winter adventures in this part of Sweden come with experiential elements that go beyond chasing the northern lights. At Arctic Bath in the small hamlet of Harads, I watched a British family with elementary school–age kids brave cold plunges together following a sauna session, stepping down a metal ladder straight into the frozen Lule River and whooping it up before beelining it for the outdoor hot tubs.

Nearby, the whimsical variety of cabins on stilts at Treehotel —including one shaped like a bird’s nest and another like a UFO—were pure fantastical fun, with ice fishing and snowshoeing among the activities. Sapmi Nature Camp offers three-night packages to stay with Sámi hosts in private lavvu tents on the family’s grazing lands for reindeer while learning about their modern way of life. And if you’re here in early February, the excitement of the annual Jokkmokk Winter Market draws hundreds of Indigenous people from all over the Sápmi region of Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia for an outdoor festival with live music, shopping for silverwork and traditional clothing, and many more activities.

All of the aforementioned stays are a treat worth planning a trip around. But I’m dreaming of a multi-generational winter adventure at Fjellborg Arctic Lodge , where you can arrive via dogsled from nearby Jukkasjärvi. Families stay in a luxurious four-bedroom cabin with its own sauna and outdoor hot tub overlooking Lake Väkkärä. (Smaller cabins can accommodate more people right nearby.) The lodge’s wilderness guides lead all manner of excursions—including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.— Terry Ward

London, U.K.

With musicals, green spaces, and seemingly endless restaurants, no two days in London are the same.

Courtesy of One Aldwych

From a wickedly funny Yeoman Warder guide at the Tower to a bike tour with London Bicycle and a visit to the Harry Potter studios (where all eight movies were filmed), my family’s weeklong trip across the pond proved to be equal parts educational and fun. We also adored the Matilda musical, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, in the West End, with all four of us singing along to its catchy tunes as we left the theater. The city’s many green spaces (Hyde Park; Kensington Gardens, with the Princess Diana Memorial Playground; Battersea Park) also allow ample opportunity for little legs to stretch, run, and stop to smell the roses. With a food scene that’s the stuff of legend, eating at Indian street food chain Dishoom and plant-based Mallow in Borough Market were also musts and didn’t disappoint.

London has many great hotels . I liked the elegant 101-room One Aldwych in the heart of Covent Garden, within blocks of theaters, restaurants, and museums, such as the fantastic London Transport Museum (where kids can see double-decker buses and grown-ups can marvel at the history of the Tube). Along with spacious suites, thoughtful touches like the daily replenished complimentary mini-bar (with biscuits and chips to keep little ones happy) and a “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” themed afternoon tea make the hotel truly perfect for families.— Tanvi Chheda

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