Spend a Summer Abroad as a Teenager

Everyone should have the opportunity to see more of the world than just their hometown, and even though summer is dwindling, there's no better time to start researching an amazing summer abroad for 2011! Now more than ever there are hundreds of opportunities for teens to volunteer abroad with adventure camps that encompass the most exotic locations the world has to offer, as well as ones here in the states (which can possibly run cheaper depending on the company you choose).

Seeing how other cultures live is important for everyone, including teenagers, and the links I've included at the bottom of this hub include camps that provide not only a pleasure experience but, teens will be able to help other cultures through service projects and other forms of volunteer work.

There are hundreds of reputable adventure companies out there to choose from. The best way to choose one is to put together your own list of criteria based on your budget, how long of a trip your teen wants to go on, the destination, etc. and apply that to the companies you find. The length of the average trip is about two weeks, and costs anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 although the cost varies based on the kind of trip. However, if you live in the US and you want your teen to experience an exotic location, without a budget-busting price tag, there is a tip that I've learned. While you can find hidden bargains with companies that travel to the depths of Asia, or high into the mountains, the best way to find a cheaper but still exotic destination is to focus on companies that offer adventures in the Caribbean, the Hawaiian or Galapagos Islands, or South America. the reason being is that for American-based companies, it costs less to travel to these destinations than to Europe or Asia. You will often find that the price for a service trip within the US is pretty comparable, if not identical to a trip to Costa Rica for example.

When you do find a company and a trip that fits your budget and your own teens' wish-list, the next thing is to dig deeper and find out what is included in the adventure package. Some companies include plane flights etc. others may have additional expenses or gear that may have to be purchased, all these things have to be checked into or you could be stuck with extra expenses.

An adventure trip for your teen is a great and life-changing experience that will give them great new opportunities to make friends, and to learn more about themselves as well as other cultures.