AAVE Trip BLOG » 2008 » January
January 26, 2008
Costa Rica Summer Camp-Pura Vida!
Posted by AAVE Camper in : Costa Rica Clasica, General AAVE Trip BLOG , add a comment
SUCCESSFUL: EVERY THING!!!!!!!!!!! I greatly enjoyed both the educational and recreational aspect of the trip! I know everyone says this but I mean it….. there is not ONE thing I would have changed or was unhappy with. Our leaders Annemarie and Johnny were amazing and helpful:-)
-Camper, Inbar Millo, CRC
Overall Luc liked it and had a very enjoyable summer. It was the kind of balance we expected - lots of fun group activities and a chance to get to know more about Tico culture and practice Spanish. It was an important summer for Luc to learn independence and he grew a lot from this experience. The Spanish language class was better than we anticipated; he really praised the class and teacher.
-Parent, Rochelle Cohen, CRC
From a parent perspective, the Costa Rica Clasica trip was very successful in many ways. Both Johnny and Nicole were terrific leaders and very knowledgeable and responsible. The trip lived up to its promise for Spanish immersion and adventure; Julia’s homestay experiences were excellent, she enjoyed her Spanish schooling, and she felt that she understood their culture and their country. She also had a blast doing all the adventurous stuff! Once again, great job AAVE!!!
-Parent, Finkel, CRC
Calvin not only had an amazing experience but he came back with increased maturity and confidence in himself. It was a true growth process. Thank you for everything!
-Parent, Michele Atlan, CRC
The trip was well-organized and run. All our questions and concerns were answered promptly. The lists of suggested clothing and accessories was spot-on. Our son returned excited about everything he experienced and the new friends he made. His self-confidence has grown and he is already talking about a future trip. We would have liked more timely and frequent reports from the group leader, as well as photos. Overall, a great program and we would be glad to talk to other parents who are considering sending their kids next year.
-Parent, Mark Wiznitzer, CRC
The whole trip was amazing! The group was perfect. Everyone contributed something unique to the experience and Costa Rica was an exciting country that we grew to know together.
-Camper, Zachary Wiznitzer, CRC
The guides and the people really sounded extraordinary. The array of kids on this trip was just what Abbott predicted: a varied group, almost all of whom were up for an adventure and for team-building. The families Abbie stayed with were so different. The first one very much took her in and made her part of their lives; the second, not so much. The language element did not sound particularly challenging (classroom), whereas the push to use Spanish in a family and everyday setting was terrific. Abbie was dreaming in Spanish by the end of the trip. The social service element was oddly dispiriting — the kids were told that the locals would steal the turtle eggs for their own purposes. Yet, this was an insight into the needs and lives of people in the affected communities. The experience of putting together and decorating a local playground was a great undertaking and one that has left a positive impression. Most of all, Abbie made wonderful friends from across the country, some of whom she will likely remain close to all her life. This shared experience will be a bond that they will likely build upon as they go to college and beyond.
-Parent, Lola Grueskin, CRC
I had my best summer yet. I had a great time, made great friends, challenged myself, and faced my fears. I came out of this summer tons more confident and with great stories too!
-Camper, Abbie Grueskin, CRC
This was a GREAT experience for Erica. We felt she was challenged both intellectually and, physically, and in terms of social consciousness. She loved the kids she met, and we felt the trip leadership was responsible, caring as well as fun. Thanks for an unforgettable experience.
-Parent, Ronnie Bower, CRC
Most amazing thing I have ever done. I felt like we truly helped out the communities and made new lifelong friends!
-Camper, Mariel Tygenhof, CRC
My son’s trip to Costa Rica was everything we could have hoped for and more! Tel was able to see how another language is applied to daily life. He learned new skills in Spanish and he was enthusiastic about his learning. The collection of service, adventure, and language was a perfect mixture for teenagers. The home stays were also fantastic.
-Parent, Connie White, CRC
Everything was sucessfull. I had a great time in all shape and way. The trips were very well planned but at the same time the trip was good for just unexpected relaxing and activites.
-Camper, Brian Aucsmith, CRC
The fact that Will came home able to comfortably converse in Spanish was beyond any expectations - more importantly, his growth and independence was obvious, and the kids he met sounded fun, upbeat, and equally enthusiastic (not a common occurance at 16 years old). He loved both his American and Costa Rican counselors, and learned a tremendous amount about the culture from his Costa Rican Counselor. My only negative was that I believe that the kids should of been required to at least once a week make contact with home…maybe 2x/week. And if logistics made this difficult, than more communication from the counselor. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING! I give the program a BIG TEN!!! I wish we could all go on another AAVE trip right now - high school just seems a bit boring for all of us in light of his trip. We are interested in checking out some kind of Spanish immersion program for Will this next summer…AGAIN, THANKS TO ALL FOR giving my son a memory that he will never forget!
-Parent, Jan Thomas, CRC
My experience was more successful than I could have imagined. Without trying to sound corny, I met people from across America that I feel strongly connected to, and since then, we have tried to remain in contact frequently. Other than a lively and energetic group that all truly felt comfortable with each other, I feel like the trip had the perfect balance of Spanish immersion, community service, and touristy fun activities. I had a wonderful summer!
-Camper, Zach Bornstein, CRC
Extraordinary experience for Zack! Somehow this particular mix of 12 kids blended perfectly; they appear to be a close-knit group, staying in touch and planning reunions. These new relationships are probably the highlight for him. He thoroughly enjoyed the homestays, the service projects, and all the activities- sounds like he would have liked to have had more community service opportunities (although the floods limited the turtle habitat work). He adored his Spanish teacher and improved his fluency. Overall, I think the program allows the right balance of freedom and responsibility- this was important to us, not too rigid, but structured (with a sense of humor). Zack enjoyed the leaders, and especially appreciated his interactions with Johnny. Larry and I appreciated the level of communication from the AAVE office - our last minute registration, the Panama diversion, the arrival call, the mid-way call…all our emails were responded to quickly and effectively-thanks. For Zack, your program was truly the right combination of language, local community experiences, exciting activities, trust, fun, small groups, right length of time, all topped by the luck of bonding with a great group of kids. Cheers!
-Parent, Larry Bornstein, CRC
Summer Colorado Camp; Best Summer Ever!
Posted by admin in : Colorado Discovery, General AAVE Trip BLOG , add a comment
Jenna had a wonderful time - really liked everyone in the group and her trip leaders - I thought the communication from the trip leaders was excellent - would love for you to add a Costa Rica younger program.
-Parent, Berkencamp, CD
I loved my time with AAVE. I made a ton of new friends and I loved all of the activities and learned so many new things!
-Camper, Marla Smith, CD
Carley loved everything about her trip–the leaders were amazing and she just had a great time! It sounds like the trip was highly supervised. It was a great learning experience and she can’t wait to go again next summer!
-Parent, Ed Stein, CD
Matthew’s summer trip with AAVE was phenomenal. He loved being in the mountains of Colorado with like minded kids that were ready for adventures and challenges, guided by enthusiastic and well qualified counselors. From the phone call home from the airport on the very first day we knew that he had landed with the right kind of organization: one that allowed him to experience a slightly wilder world than his September to June life affords. Alice, Greg, and John were remarkable in the seemingly effortless way they combined fun, challenge, and routine while maintaining top flight safety. Each activity afforded thrills and challenges that were capable of being met and therefore affording Matthew a real sense of accomlishment. Matthew’s last words from the airport before returning home were, “This trip was fantastic: way too short but perfect. Next summer I want to find out which trips Alice, Greg, and John are running and sign up right away.” Congratulations to an extremely well run organization with wonderful counselors who both love the outdoors and know how to share that love with kids.
-Parent, Sabina Soloway, CD
The most successful thing about AAVE was the councelors and kids. The councelors were all friendly and helpful; the kids were nice to each other and from diverse cultures which was cool. There wasn’t anything unsuccessful about anything on the trip. I loved my summer with AAVE.
-Camper, Mathew Soloway, CD
It was a wonderful experience. From the first moment when I spoke to Nate about AAVE and it’s philosophies before we even commited to when Michael’s plane was delayed to Colorado I found your staff to be professional, caring and trustworthy. I would and do recommend AAVE to other families.
-Parent, Colleen Hodge, CD
I really like the Colorado Discovery Trip. I got to meet new people coming from all over the country. I also discovered Colorado and its magnificent sceneries. Every day, new activities and new challenges! The counselors were amazing and very nice to everybody.
-Camper, Chloe Vadot, CD
By all accounts Keegan seemed to have had a very good time. She had good things to say about the guides, the activities, the structure and the group dynamic. It was very nice that Alice so quickly sent the kids her photos from the trip as it gave us a great basis for Keegan to elaborate on her experiences.
-Parent, Leslie Henshaw, CD
I enjoyed the entire trip. I enjoyed all of the activities and thought that the amount of time that we did each one of them was just right.
-Camper, Keegan Mendez, CD
Annemarie and Chris, who answered my 101 questions, were excellent on the phone. I liked that they were also trip leaders, and not just office staff. Great PR personalities.
-Parent, Zoe Winters, CD
It was relly cool! I learned I can do things without my parents around even though I missed them.
-Camper, William Lucas, CD
I enjoyed everything very much. It was definetly something that I would do again. I made soooo many new friends and learned many valuable lessons that I will keep with me for the rest of my life. I had a blast!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 
-Camper, Keane Robinson, CD
China Summer Camp is Unforgettable!
Posted by AAVE Camper in : China, General AAVE Trip BLOG , add a comment
It was good to know that we were dealing with a professional company with years of experience facilitating trips like this. Our son had a truly wonderful trip that will give him much to remember.
-Parent, Kate Cooper, CH
Everything was great, there wasn’t anything unsccessful about the trip.
-Camper, Adam Cooper, CH
We were extremely happy with Jonny’s experience in China 1. His trip was booked in early May as a last minute attempt to expose him to a totally new experience. Just before he left, he stated that ‘everyone else thinks I am going to have a better time on this trip than I do.’ It was with great relief we listened to Jonny’s feedback on his first phone call from China — he was having a FANTASTIC time. And, unlike certain other programs, my husband and I were confident that AAVE’s program was well-supervised with the right balance of activities and learning experiences to keep the kids interested and on-track. So thank you, Abbott, for once again providing one of my sons with an adventure he will remember for a lifetime.
-Parent, Jan Black, CH
The activities kept us busy and interested and really allowed us to explore the country and the culture. China is an amazing place!
-Camper, Sarah Probber, CH
The Ultimate Big West Adventure Camp!
Posted by AAVE Camper in : Boot Saddle Paddle, General AAVE Trip BLOG , add a comment
I acheived all the goals that i made at the beggining of this trip. I made sooo many new friends, and experianced many new things that I had never encountered before. I loved this trip, and I have to say that its been, I think, the best summer of my life.
-Camper, Eliza DeHass, BSP
Our daughter rated the trip a “12″ on a scale of 1 to 10. That pretty much says it all!
-Parent, Jim Nagel, BSP
My trip was fantastic. Everything was successful, they were nice, we did cool things and we were safe too. Awesomeness!
-Camper, Ryan Becker, BSP
Good group and good leaders resulted in noticable personal growth in self confidence, social and leadership skills!
-Parent, Melinda Kinnard, BSP
I liked everything! It was fun and the places where we went were great (havasu falls ect.)!
-Camper, Joe Tyan, BSP
Michael had a wonderful experience. I think it was very helpful for him to be on his own and to be able to work as a team to help everyone suceed. I had only wished that he was one of the groups that had a blog or two within in their travels, however I realize they were not always able to get to a computer. Thanks for everything!
-Parent, Nancy McErlean, BSP
My daughter came back so enthusiastic that she wants to join you again every year,try to work for you in the future and get the American citizenship! Three weeks are not enough!
-Parent, Sabina Pianon, BSP
Everything was great!!!!! Great people, great places, great things!!!!
-Camper, Ludovica Pianon, BSP
It was the best 3 weeks ever and I was really sad to come home!!
-Camper, Marcie Pisciotta, BSP
Marcie had a wonderful, wonderful time, lots of fun with her new friends (who she misses terribly), and loved being free of “authority figures”. I think she handled her independence well (from what she has told us) and she wished the trip was longer. Thanks for a great experience for our daughter!
-Parent, Marion Pisciotta, BSP
Colorado Classic #2A Photo
Posted by AAVE Leader in : General AAVE Trip BLOG, Ultimate Colorado , add a comment
European Teen Summer Camp; Trip of a Lifetime!
Posted by AAVE Camper in : Bold Europe, General AAVE Trip BLOG , add a comment
Everything was successful. Every aspect of the trip, the people, the cities, the camp sites and the activities were so amazing it is still hard to believe that I spent the summer in Europe with people who have become some of my best friends. On the very first day all 15 of us instantly bonded. The second we were all together at the campsite, we started to play games and talk to each other while the leaders were off cooking dinner. It was absolutely amazing how all of us were so similar and so outgoing, ready to make the person sitting next to them their best friend. Honestly, I expected that there would be a few people who didn’t really want to open up to new friendships and would kind of be off by themselves, but there was not one person with whom I could not talk about anything, personal or humorous. The activities and places we went would not have been the same without the people on the trips. When it came to the hostels and campsites, we all were very impressed with the quality and class of each place. The campsites were in beautiful locations, and in charming towns. I believe that my first experience in Europe was so special because of the small towns we went to and the long car trips through the countries. I know several people who have been to France or Spain or Italy, who have only been to the major cities and don’t understand the true beauty in a foreign country because they have not experienced the old towns with small grocery stores in which you can only speak the Spanish or French. I am grateful that for my first time overseas I was able to really experience the culture and the history of Europe with the most amazing people I have ever met.
-Camper, Genevieve Stack, BE
Peter had a ball. He loved the kids and he loved his leaders. This trip was not something I would have expected him to choose because in the past, he has insisted on doing things with a friend. And, he is a boy who likes his creature comforts so to choose such a rugged trip was a shocker. That’s why the fact that he got along so well is all the more important. He has described his AAVE experience as “the best summer of my life.” So thank you and I look forward to sending Peter on another AAVE trip next summer!
-Parent, Amy Barr, BE
Absolutly successful, it was my most amazing summer and I can’t wait to do another one, it met my every expectation and i had an amazing time!!
-Camper, Peter Barr, BE
Aaron LOVED his trip to Europe. He didn’t have anything negative to say.
-Parent, Judy Felder, BE
Andrew had a great overall time this summer. He said he really felt he got to connect with everybody in his group in addition to the trip leaders. He enjoyed the camping and being active all the time and felt that this really helped the group come together even more. This trip was extremely successful and I would recommend it to anybody.
-Parent, Eileen Eisbrouch, BE
I really loved this trip and thought it was extremely successful. I thought the group was really cohesive and we really got to know each other well. The leaders were very responsible and we were always active 24/7.
-Camper, Andrew Eisbrouch, BE
John was responsible for identifying AAVE, selecting the trip he wanted, and persuading us that this would be a great thing for him to do. We were impressed by the way AAVE is set up, the thoroughness of organization, and the level of contacts. As for the trip - I envied him the opportunity, and would have liked to join him!
The contact from the airport in Paris gave us further confidence - and because John has always displayed his own self-confidence and demonstrated his ability to deal with things, we knew that he would do well.
His reports of the trip have been glowing ones - all of his expectations appear to have been met or exceeded, and it is clear that he had a wonderful time. He is now primed to repeat some of his experiences, and has developed further confidence in his own ability to organize and travel by himself or with friends - perhaps some day he would be a good candidate for an AAVE leader.
-Parent, John Hammond, BAP
The whole trip was a success. I had doubts before we left about how the group would come together to function but all of that was lost within the first day. The organization was top notch and I can’t think of any way to improve the Bold Europe trip.
-Camper, John Hammond, BAP
The trip was well organized but not to the point of being inflexible. The counselors seemed to be able to balance friendship with the needed amount of authority. I loved that the campers had to plan, shop & prepare their meals. The CO office was also clearly well run as evidenced by the really helpful, frequent & informative emails.
-Parent, BOokman
Nicholas talked about his leaders with such joy and respect!! The activities were exciting but the counselors and kids made it a wonderful memory! Nicholas would love to go on another adventure with Nate.
-Parent, Nic Rubel, BE
I had such an amazing summer with AAVE. What was successful about my trip was the learning and bonding experiences. I learned so much about Europe’s culture and language. I thank you so much for the opportunity. It was defiantly a successful trip.
-Camper, Cyndi Ruebel, BE
AAVE fulfilled every positive expectation we had, and then some. It was impeccably organized and supervised, with intelligence, energy and wit from beginning to end. We are proud, pleased and privileged to be part of the AAVE family. Thank you so much.
-Parent, Ari Mygatt, BE
Nothing was unsuccessful. I was surrounded by great people and got to see a zillion sights that I otherwise would have had to wait years and years to see on my own. I also got to take part in activities I could easily have gone my whole life without having even heard of (IE: Via Ferrata) which were always ALWAYS enjoyable.
-Camper, Pamela Viscomi-Yates, BE
European Bike Trip for Teens
Posted by AAVE Camper in : Bike Amsterdam Paris, General AAVE Trip BLOG , add a comment
Celebrating our Success!
My son had a great time on his BAP2 trip! He really enjoyed the leaders as well as the other participants. He seemed to gain a lot from the experience, and adored everyplace he went. I appreciate the fact that you gave us information on other participants before the trip, so that they could contact each other. Your packing advice (the list) was great–I don’t think there was anything my son was missing, and he used just about everything, even the long underwear was needed though it was summer. I felt I could call your office when I had questions, and the staff was receptive and helpful. We were very happy that a blog was posted about mid-way through the trip! This is very important to parents! Since this was his first trip, we didn’t know what to expect, but when we saw the photo posted and read the blog, we absolutely knew he was having fun. I like the fact that your trips have a limited number of participants–this way the kids can really bond, I think; they can have some flexibility and not feel herded around by the leaders. Thank you for giving my son such a wonderful experience.
-Parent, Paul Flood, BAP
I think almost everything about the trip was successful, a little more freedom would be nice, but other than that the whole trip was a success, I met amazing people and saw some fantastic places; overall a great trip!
-Camper, Tim Flood, BAP
Ruth came home from the Bike Amesterdam Paris Trip filled with stories about her thoroughly enjoyable experience she had on AAVE. I was very happy with the care and attention each camper was given and would most definatley send her on a trip again.
-Parent, Jane Thompson, BAP
My summer with AAVE had so many highlights, too many to mention!
-Camper, Ruth Thompson, BAP
I think the trip was a wonderful experience for Micah. He developed confidence in the physical requirements (i.e. he could keep up with the biking each day) and he enjoyed the social aspects. The destinations, particularly Holland and Belgium were spectacular. I think Paris was a little disappointing (maybe because Micah was a little young and the big city felt too dirty and expensive for him to fully enjoy in only a couple days). The leaders were great - even though Micah and Henry were the youngest of the group, the leaders did a good job integrating them in. They didn’t make them feel like little kids, so Micah was able to rise to the occasion and be more grown up. In fact, he noticeably matured over the few weeks. Also, he had a lot of just plain fun during the down times. The people in the office were very helpful as we prepared for the trip, always willing to answer my neurotic questions! The weather could have been better, but I can’t blame AAVE for that. Overall a very successful experience!!
- Parent, Linda Loewinger, Bap
It was great! Totally successful. From the first phone calls we knew that we were dealing with experienced and serious people whic was crucial when we made the decision on which camp to choose for our son. We will for sure use you in the future, Holden is the oldest of three brothers and we will be planing our future summer vacations around the camp dates.
-Parent, Celina Benon, BAP
Wonderful biking trip. I wanted to stay another 2 weeks! Great program!!
-Camper, Brett Glosser, BAP
My summer with AAVE was super successful. From the biking, camping and cooking to meeting new people and visiting sights, I had a blast! I made great new friends from all over the world, many of whom I hope to keep up with. I enjoyed pushing myself on the really hard days, and then appreciated the more relaxed times. I grew a lot this summer with AAVE. I saw how much I was capable of doing on my own and the trip forced me — in a good way — to go outside my comfort zone. It was so much fun — I’m sad it’s over. I really can’t think of anything that was unsuccessful about my summer with AAVE except that I didn’t really like the way the t-shirt fit!
-Camper, Cory Berg, BAP
Our experience with AAVE was incredibly wonderful. AAVE is a very well run organization and I felt secure sending my child to Europe with it. Between the website and the staff, all my questions — of which I had many — were answered completely and honestly. I found the staff very responsive. My only suggestion to improve communication would be to make sure that something is posted on the blog within a day or two of the kids’ arrival to relieve parents’ anxiety. While I realize it was difficult for the group to find the time and place to get on the internet, a more active blog would have been nice. Cory’s experience on Bike Amsterdam exceeded our expectations. She loved the biking, the camping, Europe, the way things were organized (with responsibilities rotating through the kids), the leaders, and her group. Cory has had many great summer experiences, from 4-weeks at overnight camps and weekly sport camps to college programs; nevertheless, Bike Amsterdam was by far the one she has enjoyed the most. As parents, we appreciate not only the good time she had, but what this experience has meant for Cory’s development. Cory came back a more independent and confident kid. We couldn’t be happier!
-Parent, Ellen Berg, BAP
Australian Teen Summer Camp THE BEST
Posted by AAVE Parent in : Australia, General AAVE Trip BLOG , 2 comments
We feel it was a very successful trip for Will. He returned after an all-day flight full of enthusiasm and positive. We haven’t heard anything described negatively. He immediately went on your website to pick a trip for next year so that has to be the best recommendation. Our daughter is interested in going on an AAVE trip as well.
-Parent, Joel Ulster, AUS
The kids and activities were fun….I really enjoyed scuba diving. There was nothing I didn’t like!
-Camper, Will Hertzman, AUS
David had a great time. As soon as he got off the plane he thanked us for letting him go to Australia. He loved seeing the animals and the scenery. He is doing a presentation of his summer experience for his Boy Scout Court of Honor in September.
-Parent, Sandra Daniel, AUS
Olusina had a memorable time in Australia. Olusina expressed that it was great to have an Australian guide and the AAVE counselor combination. He felt that driving through Australia was a great way to see more remote parts. I was surprised that he felt the highlight of the trip was the outback ranch. The mixture of activities was excellent.
-Parent, Oluseyi Senu-Oke, AUS
AAVE was successful at getting me a better image of the world around me, and helping me build my self confidence!
-Camper, Olusina Senu-Oke, AUS
I thought the whole trip was really amazing! I loved the freedom we got when we could just walk around and go shoppping! I thought that all the activiities were really awesome as well. Our leader Jenny was entirely wonderful in every way. She was just a cool person to hang out with and she made the trip really great. If we needed something done, Jenny took care of it. She provided the perfect balance of leadership and fun.
-Camper, Cori Storb, AUS
I had a vacation to remember. I was able to have my dream come true by traveling and exploring Australia. Not to mention I made some really great friends! AAVE made it possible for me to not only do what I wanted like scuba dive the Great Barrier Reef or visit Australia Zoo, but try things I had never done before like surfing!
-Camper, Page Potter, AUS
The trip was amazing, and the people were fun, however the bus rides were long, but with the people on board it made the time fly by.
-Camper, Dan Kalinowski, AUS
Dan enjoyed himself very much, last year he went to Peru with AAVE , the experience was great, that is why he went to Australia, and next year maybe somewhere else. Your teen programs are first class.
-Grandparent, John Kalinowski, AUS
West Coast Summer Camp Rocks!
Posted by AAVE Camper in : Bold West, General AAVE Trip BLOG , add a comment
Each day I face situations that I feel may be difficult to overcome, but when I think back to all that I overcame this summer it gives me the confidence that I need. Whenever an obstacle comes my way I picture myself making the next step in a rock climb, standing on a surfboard, or standing at the top of Angel’s Landing. Although it is now Decemeber, five months after I began my trip, I still cannot believe the opportunity I had this summer to do such incredible things. Before the trip I read the website and saw that the main goals were to improve self esteem and character building and I thought to myself, this is never going to happen, I will never gain confidence from this trip. I have never been more wrong in my life! This trip honestly changed me so much, and I live such a better life now after my trip. AAVE truly helped to improve so many aspects of my character, feelings, and attitude. Thank you so much!
-Camper, Melissa Blum, BW
My daughter had a wonderful experience which to me is the most important thing. My conversations with the group leaders were very satisfactory and I felt confident at all times that my daughter was safe and in good hands.
-Parent, Susan Larin, BW
Jen had an outstanding summer with Bold West. She enjoyed her leaders, Sheila and Lawson, and felt that they did a great job leading the group. It was very cohesive, from what Jen told us, with everyone getting along and enjoying each other. As a parent, I was thrilled that she was so happy and I was a little freaked when I heard about how difficult some of the hikes were (the chains on the side of the mountain at Zion). It was good I learned about that afterward. That’s not a complaint, just an honest response. There was not one thing that Jen did not love about her trip. She really couldn’t name a favorite part of the trip because she loved it all. She is very interested in another AAVE trip next summer, which we will need to discuss with her, but chances are good she’ll try another one of your trips. Could you please send us Sheila and Lawson’s address so Jen can write and we can send them tips. Thanks.
-Parent, Joy Chuck, BW
Overall, a HUGE success. Wonderful leaders and great group dynamics. Rock climbing, river rafting, surfing & hiking all seemed to go well. Meal shopping & preparation was impressive- she learned alot about being self-sufficient. Also, leaders encouraged healthy eating and limited junk food- great. Communication home was very smooth & exactly according to schedule. This was a wonderful experience for Madelaine and I thank you!
-Parent, David Gold, BW
They had the trip of their life!! They really loved it and we recommended it to many of our Belgian friends!! When my youngest sun turns 16 in 3 years we definitely will contact you!!!
-Parent, Ciska Dubaere, BW
It was an incredible trip, I really loved it!!
-Camper, William, Dubaere, BW
I had an amazing time! The adventures we went on were so much fun and changed my outlook on life and taking chances.
-Camper, Amanda Fox, BW
I think AAVE did a great job. I am very pleased with the trip, the leaders, the company, and Amandas experience.
Parent, Louis Fox, BW
I enjoyed so much rock climbing, it was so cool and I learned how to push my limits and trust myself! But the most successfull thing was friendship, everybody was so funny and friendly and I liked meeting people from other countries!
Camper, Giulia Steidl, BW
January 24, 2008
THAILAND TRIP CHANGED MY LIFE!
Posted by AAVE Camper in : General AAVE Trip BLOG, Thailand , add a comment
I want to thank you for an amazing time. This was my first experience with AAVE and I loved it. I have many fabulous memories from the Thailand trip and I’ve made 12 new friends.
This next bit is going to sound cheesy but it’s true: I’ve had a chance to think about life and how this trip changed me. I came into the trip as the quiet one and I was quiet most of the trip. But being around people I never knew before the trip and who lead totally different lifestyles back home compared to mine, I realized that I need to change a little. At home during the school year I am always studying and am really worried about school. The other kids on the trip were much more relaxed and outgoing. This trip showed me that I need to enjoy life a little more. I am not going to slack off in school, but I’m going to try and enjoy things a little more, go out with friends more, and be more outgoing. I can tell that I have a new confidence in me and I am more outgoing already (I think it was the crazy Canadians on the trip that did it to me : )
Again, thanks sooo much for an amazing experience.
CO