Edutravel - Education, Recreation, Inspiration

Destinations and Courses

Vancouver (Day 6-8)

Vancouver has an endless supply of things to see and do. Visit the Fort Langley National Historic Site and explore the Hudson’s Bay Company Trading Post first built in 1827 where British Columbia began. You will be transported to a colourful time where First Nations, French Canadians, Scots and Hawaiians worked together trading furs, packing salmon and farming. See barrel making and blacksmithing, exchange stories with costumed interpreters and enjoy the relaxing setting.

Discover the natural wonders of this western city. Grouse Mountain, the peak of Vancouver, provides panoramic views of the lower mainland. The sky ride whisks you to the mountaintop where you will visit a refuge for endangered wildlife, see lumberjack shows, falconry demonstrations and trek along scenic hiking trails.

A world-class art encounter awaits students at the Vancouver Art Gallery. Through cutting edge exhibitions, the Gallery features the work of leaders in the field of contemporary art and Vancouver’s internationally renowned artists. The Gallery also houses the magnificent works of significant historical artists including the most extensive collection of the work of Canada’s beloved Emily Carr.

Vancouver is the home to the David Suzuki Foundation that works with government, business and individuals to conserve our environment by providing science-based education, advocacy and policy work, and acting as a catalyst for the social change that today’s situation demands.

Whistler and Squamish (Day 9-13)

There are few places in the world that can match the endless adventure and entertainment that Whistler Blackcomb squeezes into a summer. From a sight seeing gondola ride to an alpine hike with 360-degree views, from a bear viewing tour to a glacier walk, there is an activity with just the right amount of adventure to compliment a student’s course of study. Experience the wildlife, vegetation, glaciers and rainforests of the Whistler Blackcomb Mountains. Learn how conservation and enhancement initiatives help to sustain healthy populations. View one of the most spectacular alpine settings in the world while learning how mountain resorts are redesigning recreational experiences for a sustainable future.

Welcome to Squamish, British Columbia. Located half way between downtown Vancouver and Whistler’s high alpine, Squamish is where the ocean meets the mountains in Sea to Sky country. Squamish is becoming known for its vibrant and eclectic arts scene. Boasting the second highest number of residents who are artists by profession in all of Canada, Squamish is truly an art destination. There are also a number of talented musicians and performers who perform regularly at a number of local venues as well as afar. The Squamish Lil’ Wat Cultural Centre is an authentic cultural activity. It was created to celebrate the joint history of the Squamish and Lil’ Wat Nations. The art and exhibitions on display showcase their histories, creativeworks and culture. Take your taste buds on a journey of discovery while tasting indigenous food and savouring the flavours of the nation. 

Victoria (Day 14-15)

Victoria has something special for everyone. Whether you are strolling along the causeway of the inner harbour, enjoying a whale watching adventure, indulging in the distinct west coast cuisine or taking in a local theatre production, Victoria’s attractions add up to a trip that is nothing short of breathtaking. History buffs appreciate the city’s many outstanding museums, heritage sites and buildings. Some of these include Canada’s oldest Chinatown, the majestic Fairmont Empress Hotel, Emily Carr’s house and the Craigdarroch Castle. For a comprehensive account of human activity on Vancouver Island over thousands of years visit the Royal British Columbia Museum depicting Aboriginal, Asian, and European influences. As a nation with a long Pacific Coast, Canada has always had a cultural and economic relationship with the Pacific Rim.

Vancouver Island (Day 16-20)

Vancouver Island-Tofino

From a rich heritage of Native culture preserved for eternity in museums, to the contemporary bustle of festivals and local events, Tofino is a pretty fishing village at the tip of the Esowista Peninsula near the entrance to Clayoquot Sound on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Once a timber and fishing town, Tofina has become a favourite destination for travellers from around the world. Tofina boasts miles of sandy beaches to the south, islands of old growth cedar, migrating grey whales, hot springs, sea lions and a temperate climate.

Vancouver Island-Nanaimo

Famous for its varied landscapes and more than two dozen parks, the City of Nanaimo boasts one of the prettiest waterfronts in Canada. The Bastion which is the oldest remaining structure of its kind in North America and one of the few Hudson’s Bay Company bastions still standing. You can watch the cannon firing ceremony every day in the summer complete with Scottish bagpipes and highland dancing. Nanaimo

District Museum displays interesting exhibits covering the history of the region. The upper gallery features a social and economic timeline of Nanaimo’s history including the history of Chinatown, the harbour front, industry, retail, sports and education.

Vancouver Island-Duncan

 Native history and culture are apparent throughout Duncan, the city of Totems. The ancient practice of totem carving has been handed down through generations as a way of preserving the history of local native heritage as well as honouring tribal rituals and sacred spirits of people. Take a short stroll south from the museum where there are 41 intriguing totem poles to see. The Quw’utsun Cultural and Conference Centre in downtown Duncan recreates the history and traditions of the coastal people in its buildings, displays, and excellent presentations.

Vancouver (Day 21-22)

Toronto: Summative Evaluations (Day 23-25) 

These are only some of the sights that students will experience. Our learning model allows students to customize aspects of their itinerary to fit their course. 

  Some assessments may include: predict the major impacts of a selected resource management problem or environmental problem (e.g., deforestation, climate change) on both natural and human systems over the next century; participate in a First Nation’s cultural or spiritual ceremony and write a reflection; interview an artist from Squamish detailing the influence and focus for his works; prepare a photo exhibit with encounters from a nature perspective; create a short story about the Asian immigrant experience of the late 19^th and early 20^th century; design a specific tour of the region and take fellow students on a guided tour; write a letter home to Britain in the guise of an early employee of the Hudson’s Bay Company and detail your experiences in the fur trading business. These are only a few of the many opportunities you will have to demonstrate your knowledge, understanding and skill as you complete the requirements for the course of your choice.

Tuition Includes: Return airfare from Toronto's Pearson International Airport (including all taxes and applicable luggage allowance; Transportation by luxury Highway Motorcoach (W/C, DVD, A/C); $300 allowance for admission to course-specific sights as well as group activities; Course materials; Ontario Ministry-approved credit upon fulfilling course requirements; Accommodations (quad accomodation); Breakfast and Dinner daily; Overnight Security; All applicable taxes. 

Tuition Does Not Include:  Transportation to and from Toronto Pearson International Airport;  Medical and Trip Interruption Insurance; Lunches; Gratuities; Discretionary spending money; Admission to attractions and activities exceeding $300 allowance