What is sustainable development?
Sustainable Development is positive change that does not undermine the environment or social systems on which we depend. It requires a coordinated approach to planning and policy making that involves public participation. Its success depends upon widespread understanding of the critical relationship between people and their environment and the will to make necessary changes.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, every participant must have a valid passport to travel internationally. For many destinations, passports must be valid for six months after arrival. If your passport is going to expire, please make arrangements to renew as soon as possible. If you do not already have a passport, we recommend you begin the application process as soon as you begin registering for your program More information about passports

Do I need a Visa?
No, visas are not required for US citizens. Non-US citizens should check with the embassy of the destination country for visa requirements.

Do I need vaccinations/inoculations?
See the final page of your itinerary for your program specific answer and refer to the CDC’s website for destination specific recommendations. More information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Do I need to know Spanish?
No, although if you do know some Spanish there will be plenty of opportunities to practice it. All of our Sustainable Horizon Group Leaders are bilingual.

What does the program cost? What is included?
See the final page of your itinerary for your program specific answer. Our programs are all-inclusive with the exception of international airfare and airport exit taxes. We provide a knowledgeable and bilingual Group Leader, all meals, lodging, in-country transportation, materials needed for your service project and all activities.

Do I need health insurance?
Yes, health insurance is required. Most family insurance plans will cover your student for international travel; consult with your insurance provider. If your student is not covered, Sustainable Horizon can help you purchase health insurance before your program.

Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is not required, but it is recommended. Travel insurance covers such travel related incidences as lost luggage and travel cancellation refunds. Sustainable Horizon can provide travel insurance recommendations upon request.

Do we fly as a group?
Yes, Sustainable Horizon will make all flight reservations for the group. Flight costs will be added to the total trip cost and will be paid to Sustainable Horizon once reservations have been made. A teacher will accompany each flight and you will be a met by your Sustainable Horizon Group Leader at the arrival airport.

What will our service project be?
Service projects are determined by the community hosting the program. Instead of dictating projects to the community, we consult with community leaders once your group has been finalized. You will learn the details of your project 2-4 weeks before your program. Some project examples include painting and restoring schools and community centers, monitoring animal and plant species, teaching English, riverbed and beach clean-up, organic gardening and reforestation.

How many adults will be on the program?
Each group of 8-18 students will be lead by a Sustainable Horizon Group Leader and accompanied by 1-2 chaperones from the school. Additional responsible adults often accompany the group during the program, including the group’s driver, community members leading service projects, professional recreation leaders, etc.

What are the accommodations? What exactly is a homestay?
All accommodations are modest, yet comfortable. Student groups of 2-3 will share rooms in both hotels and homestays. Homestays are an excellent way to become immersed in the culture, rather than observing it from a distance as a tourist. During many Sustainable Horizon programs, students may spend several days working on a community service project while also living with a family within the community. Days will be spent on the projects and nights will be spent getting to know their hosts. From this experience, students will gain a better perspective on the similarities and differences of living in a new culture.

What do I do if I’m interested?
For students: Talk to a teacher or community service coordinator who you think would like to get involved and have them contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

For teachers or administrators: Contact Sustainable Horizon at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it