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French Polynesia and the Cook Islands: the Pearls of Polynesia

Embark on a journey across five unique islands of Polynesia, discovering the vibrant cultures, complex international histories, and spectacular natural worlds of these nations. Cultural practitioners and local academics will guide participants to a delve deeper beyond the iconic islands widely known for honeymooners to reach the spirit of these islands and their peoples.

Explore the mythology of lush, projecting mountains, the interconnection between native peoples, land, food, and art, and the ecological diversity that lies beyond their brilliant aquamarine lagoons. Explore the lush uplands and deep valley and delve into the ancient chiefly political system through the examination of sacred sites and cultural artifacts.

Learn how the historical and contemporary connections between native people, other pacific nations, former colonial powers, and new international influences shape life and culture today, from politics and education to language and food. This is a program that aims to provide travelers with a comprehensive understanding of one of the most iconic and remote parts of the world.

Defining Experiences

Keep your eyes peeled for the kākerōri or Fly-Catcher, an endemic bird species brought back from the brink of extinction, and other unique flora and fauna indigenous to Rarotonga alongside your expert guide at the Takitumu Conservation Area.
Taste the savory flavors of the Pacific from sweet fresh fruits to coconut-steeped ika mata and learn about the transmission of plants and agricultural knowledge by Polynesian voyagers through hands-on harvesting of foods and preparation of a meal cooked in an umu underground oven.
Visit a local elementary school on Rarotonga and learn about education, language and the Cook Islands’ international connections

Itinerary Highlights

These samples are from an 14-day program.

Our itineraries are fully customizable to best suit clients’ needs and interests. For the complete itinerary or more information, contact us!

Day 4: European Historic Sites and Sacred Valley Exploration

Discover Tahiti’s colonial history through visits to Matavai Bay and Pointe Venus, the anchoring site of explorers Samuel Wallis, Louis-Antoine de Bougainville, and James Cook. Then, venture deep into a sacred valley, tracing the Papenoʻo river to the ancient seat of Tahitian ariʻi chieftains nestled in the mountains. The archaeological site of Fare Hape is an open-air museum that nurtures ancient traditional culture, boasting the foundations of extensive village grounds and sacred marae ritual sites as well as housing an artisanal craft house, medicinal garden, and other living culture to perpetuate traditional knowledge for future generations.

Day 13: Aitutaki Lagoon Cruise and Island Night

Cruise the atoll’s large aquamarine lagoon, landing briefly at different islets, or motu, along the perimeter to explore. Enjoy a local lunch on the boat or on one of the islets and snorkel in the ecologically rich waters. In the evening, enjoy traditional Cook Islands drums, music, and dance alongside a buffet of local culinary specialties.

Day 15: Local School Visit and the Cook Islands Voyaging Society

In the morning, visit a local school and learn about the Cook Islands international connections shape and influence education and opportunities for local young people. Then, in the afternoon, learn about the resurgence of traditional marine navigation in Oceania with a visit to the Cook Islands Voyaging society to view their seafaring canoes.

… and more!

Contact us for a complete itinerary!

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The Evolution of ʻUkulele

Explore Hawai’i, the birthplace of the ‘ukulele. Learn with masters and meet and strum along with local ‘ukulele talent. Listen to local music played throughout Waikiki and discover how the ‘ukulele, a non-traditional Hawaiian instrument, became an important element of modern Hawaiian music and how it has expanded across the world. Enjoy ‘ukulele workshops, kanikapila jam sessions, and meet-and-greets with rising ‘ukulele stars bringing new techniques to this classic instrument. When you’re not jamming out, take advantage of free time to explore Waikiki, relax on the white sands of Kuhio beach, or snorkel in the clear Hawaiian waters.

Defining Experiences

Visit a modern ʻukulele factory to learn about the techniques and materials that go into instrument making today.
Have a Q&A and kanikapila jam session with a local rising star of the ʻukulele scene.
Discover the historical influences on Hawaiian music through visits to the Bishop Museum and historical sites.

Itinerary Highlights

These samples are from an 9-day program.

Our itineraries are fully customizable to best suit clients’ needs and interests. For the complete itinerary or more information, contact us!

Day 2: ʻUkulele Factory Visit, Hawaiian Music Lecture

Day 4: Bishop Museum, Arizona Memorial, Local Cultural Group kanikapila jam

Day 8: Meet an ʻUkulele Rising Star, Free Time to Explore Waikīkī, Lūʻau Farewell Dinner

… and more!

Contact us for a complete itinerary!

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Hawaiʻi Alternative Spring Break: Inclusive Cultural & Service Learning

Universities students and professors explore beyond the classroom, connecting with Hawaiʻi’s native communities during this immersive and unforgettable spring break. With an emphasis on inclusion and regenerative travel, students learn directly from Hawaiian cultural leaders while engaged in distinctive service projects that support the communities they visit.

Ancient Hawaiians developed an intimate relationship with their natural environment, characterized by a deep love, respect and knowledge of the environment.  Discover how Hawaii’s remote location, tropical climate, and diverse climactic zones create a unique setting not found elsewhere.  Discover how the history, legends, and spirituality of the islands weave into the tapestry of life today while engaging in service projects that benefit the environment and preservation of Hawaiʻi’s culture.

Defining Experiences

Participate in a sunrise Kapu Kai cleansing ceremony at a sacred site, guided by a Hawaiian spiritual leader
Get your hands dirty and contribute to the preservation of Hawaii’s deep valley ecosystems and ancient fishponds through service learning experiences
Discover the active Kīlauea Volcano and Hawaiʻi’s unique astronomical setting in Volcanoes National Park

These samples are from a 6-day itinerary designed and implemented for the University of Arizona.

Our itineraries are fully customizable to best suit clients’ needs and interests. For the complete itinerary or more information, contact us!

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Snorkel in Fiji: Marine Life and Culture

Bula! Welcome to Fiji, where tropical beauty meets warm Fijian hospitality. Hop on to this special interest snorkeling program where you will dive into the vibrant coral reefs with marine experts, exploring the island’s rich biodiversity, from colorful fish to thriving ecosystems. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner, the pristine waters offer unforgettable underwater adventures.

After your water explorations, step onto land to experience Fijian culture — learn about community-driven conservation efforts that protect these natural treasures. Meet locals, visit schools, and enjoy evenings filled with traditional song and dance.

Fiji promises an immersive experience that blends nature, culture, and local hospitality.

Defining Experiences

Snorkel alongside marine experts to explore the vibrant biodiversity of Fiji’s stunning ecosystems, including Bligh Waters, Vatu-i-Ra Seascape, and Beqa Island on 7 full or half day excursions.
Discover how Fiji’s seascapes support the local community through field trips to nearby villages and schools and expert classes taught by the people leading cultural and environmental initiatives.
Take part in a traditional kava ceremony, sipping the spiritual pepper-root beverage from a bilo coconut cup, and enjoy lively evenings of Fijian meke music and dance.
patch coral near beautiful desert island beach
Fijian cultural practices
tropical botanical education

Itinerary Highlights

These samples are from a 12-day program.

Our itineraries are fully customizable to best suit clients’ needs and interests. For the complete itinerary or more information, contact us!

Day 3: Arrive in Fiji, Orientation, Snorkel Refresh

Upon arrival in Nadi, board a bus and drive along Viti Levu’s southwest coast, to take a boat across the lagoon to Beqa Island, a serene, six-square-mile island, known for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lack of roads. After lunch with drinks included, enjoy free time or join a snorkeling refresher at the resort pool to test your equipment and refresh your skills. Later, gather for the program orientation.

Day 5: Beqa Half-Day Snorkel, Class: Fijian Plants and Marine Projects, Meke

Slather on your reef safe sunscreen and start the day with a half-day boat-based snorkel trip to explore Beqa Lagoon. After lunch, attend afternoon lectures on Fijian plants and marine-based projects. Dinner at the resort follows, accompanied by a traditional Fijian meke dance and song performance.

Day 7: Full-Day Snorkel, Picnic, Class

Start the day with a boat trip into the Vatu-i-Ra Seascape, a stunning marine region between Viti Levu and Vanua Levu islands, home to over 300 coral species and diverse marine life, including dolphins, sharks, and sea turtles. Weather permitting, relax on a sandbar or on the boat with a picnic lunch and explore the on-site coral nursery. In the evening, attend a lecture on the environment and culture of Viti Levu’s north side.

Day 10: Half-Day Snorkel, Village Visit, Wrap Up Class, Farewell Dinner and Meke

In the morning, take a final boat-based snorkel to savor Fijiʻs vibrant waters before returning home. In the afternoon, visit a nearby village to learn about traditional Fijian life, including its unique system of collective land ownership and Fijian values. This is followed by a wrap-up class with your Group Leader and a Farewell Dinner where you can share favorite experiences with new friends, with drinks provided. The evening concludes with a Farewell Meke.

… and more!

Contact us for a complete itinerary!

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Easter Island: The Majesty of Rapa Nui Archaeology and Living Culture

Join an experienced archaeologist on a journey to unravel one of the world’s greatest mysteries as you explore Easter Island, its iconic moai statues, and vibrant Polynesian culture today.

At the turn of the millennium, the island of Rapa Nui — later named Easter Island by a Dutch explorer — was a thriving hub for early Polynesian communities. Dive into their rich legacy and history with an experienced archaeologist as your guide as you explore the island, marveling at the monolithic moai that continue to stand as powerful symbols of this ancient culture. Meet archaeologists and historians dedicated to studying the island’s past, as well as the local Rapa Nui residents who still call this sub-tropical paradise their home.

Defining Experiences

Share a traditional meal with a local family and connect with the islands living culture and people.
Walk through the quarry where nearly 400 massive moai were carved, including unfinished giants and remarkable petroglyphs that offer a glimpse into the island’s spiritual world.
Explore the island’s most significant archaeological sites — including Ahu Tongariki, Orongo Ceremonial Village, and Ahu Vinapu — and delve into the mysteries surrounding the creation and toppling of the moai statues, as well as the rise of the Birdman Cult.

Itinerary Highlights

These samples are from a 12-day program including transfer days from Chile to Rapa Nui.

Our itineraries are fully customizable to best suit clients’ needs and interests. For the complete itinerary or more information, contact us!

Day 1: Santiago Arrival

Arrive in Santiago and explore this iconic city through a bus excursion through its historical districts. Prepare for your flight to Rapa Nui the next day!

Day 4: Ahu Vaihu, Rano Raraku & Tongariki, Cultural Event

Explore Ahu Vaihu, where 11 toppled moai and their pukao lie scattered, along with a ceremonial circle of rocks. Continuing along the South Coast, we’ll reach Rano Raraku, the volcanic quarry where the moai were carved. After hiking up to explore the quarry, we’ll head to Tongariki, the island’s largest ahu. Destroyed by a 1960 tsunami, it was restored and now proudly displays its 15 moai. Finish the day with a performance of Rapa Nui traditional dance and music.

Day 6: Free Time, Parque Nacional Rapa Nui, Rano Kao, Orongo

Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace, perhaps attending Sunday mass at the historic Rapa Nui Roman Catholic church to experience Rapa Nui language and song. In the afternoon, visit Parque Nacional Rapa Nui, offering panoramic views of the island. Explore Rano Kao’s volcanic crater and Orongo Ceremonial Village, site of the ancient Birdman Festival. Our final stop is Ana Kai Tangata, a mysterious cave with ancient paintings of terns.

… and more!

Contact us for a complete itinerary!

Inquire about this tour

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