TESTIMONIALS
TESTIMONIALS
In Pursuit of Happiness:
cultural currents: building classroom connections across culture and worldviews
This program focuses on the following components of happiness: Belonging, Empowerment, Tranquility
This South Pacific program offers a journey through the vibrant landscapes and rich cultural histories of Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji. Participants will explore iconic destinations like Sydney's Bondi Beach, the Blue Mountains, and Queenstown’s stunning vistas, while learning about the unique histories of these lands. From the indigenous sea-faring adventurers who first navigated the vast Pacific using the stars, to the later colonizers who introduced new societal systems, each destination carries layers of complex history. These stories of cultural convergence are particularly evident in the education systems, which are evolving to meet the needs of their diverse populations. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with local educators, experiencing firsthand how history and modernity intertwine in the classrooms of the South Pacific.
A highlight of the program will be learning about the Te Ao Māori (Māori worldview) and how it shapes the education system in Aotearoa (New Zealand). Participants will gain a behind-the-scenes look at the Te Mātaiaho curriculum refresh, which offers new approaches to integrating indigenous perspectives into the classroom. By exploring the rewards and challenges of this evolving educational model, this program provides a deeper understanding of how these Pacific nations reconcile traditional values with contemporary educational practices. Alongside cultural and educational experiences, the program also offers moments of tranquility, from Fiji’s idyllic beaches to the awe-inspiring fjords of New Zealand. This is an enriching journey for educators and travelers seeking meaningful connections with the diverse heritage of the South Pacific.
Discover the Details of
Your Next Journey
$2110
Sydney
Australia
July 18 - July 23, 2025 (6 days)
Join us on a pre-trip to New South Wales, and one of the metropoles of the Southern Pacific: Sydney. We explore the Australian experience through a hike to the Blue Mountains, a whale watching tour on the Tasmanian sea, a petting zoo with kangaroos and koalas and a Sunday morning market at the famous Rocks.
Learn about the importance of art as a vehicle for preservation and transmission of culture as we create our own art work under an aboriginal artist, visit the New South Wales Museum of Art and discuss the topic with local educators.
$2195
We then venture to New Zealand, examining the integration of the Māori language, culture, and values into various facets of education as schools work to recognize the important heritage of the original settlers of Aotearoa. New Zealand has long been integrating an indigenous Mãori worldview in its early childhood programs, with success. Learn how these programs have benefited many, not just a few, and what these advantages may be outside our classrooms.
The South Island offers a breathtaking setting for our program, with Lake Whakatipu and the beautiful vineyards of Central Otago nestled right next to mountain ranges familiar from the Lord of the Rings movies. We will also have time to enjoy the vibrant brewery and restaurant scene in Queenstown with live
queenstown
new zealand
July 23 - July 29, 2025 (7 days)
$2125
Finally, join us as we explore the islands of Fiji, and learn what the phrase “It takes a village” truly means in the holistic education of Fijians. Engage in dialogue with village elders, teachers, and students on topics such as access, and opportunity as well as the evolving paradigms of school discipline.
Participants will also get to experience Fiji the way it is best experienced: from the sea. We will have opportunities to responsibly snorkel some of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs and enjoy the white sandy beaches of Fiji's smaller islands.
the fiji experience
July 29 - August 3, 2025 (6 days)
Join us for all three
South Pacific adventures and save!
Experience the full journey with our packages, offering exclusive savings for those looking to explore everything the South Pacific has to offer. Don’t miss this chance to embark on all three unforgettable trips at a great value!
NEW ZEALAND
main program
$2195
Australia & New Zealand
$4150
SAVE $150!
Full package:
Australia, New Zealand AND Fiji
$6130
SAVE $300!
Note: GEA will fill out the Australia and New Zealand programs first.
Fiji will only be offered if there are enough applicants. Please do not buy airfare until you have been interviewed, accepted and confirmed the program.
See below how confident GEA is about asking for a fair price while providing you a quality product
cultural highlights
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Sydney Opera House tour
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Harbor cruise
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Petting zoo with kangaroos and koalas
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Three Sisters overlook and hike in the Blue Mountains
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Aboriginal art lesson
Add-on options:
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Concert performance at the opera house
queenstown, new zealand
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A Māori Welcome with the Haka
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Cruise on Milford Sound, a UNESCO world heritage site
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Visit to historic towns of Arrowtown and Glenorchy
Add-on options: -
Shotover river adventure boat ride
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Japanese onsen with overlook
post trip Fiji
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Fijian cultural village and performance
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A village home stay on one of the small islands and discussions with village elders
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Tour at Sri Siva Subramaniya Hindu temple in Nadi
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Snorkeling in the clear waters of the South Pacific
Add-on options:
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Snorkeling with sharks
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Sabeto mud pools
Note: Details on the itinerary may still change
Stories from the Global Classroom
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
who
All interested educators, administrators and community leaders are welcome to apply. Non-educator guests will be considered based on availability. An additional fee of $150 for non-educators will be charged to cover additional expenses.
when & where
Ready to explore the details? View the South Pacific Itinerary!
price
Pre-trip to Australia: $2110
Main Program in New Zealand: $2195
Post-trip to Nadi and Suva, Fiji: $2125
Total: $6430 BEFORE PACKAGE DEAL AND EARLY BIRD SPECIAL
package options
New Zealand & Australia package: $4155 (savings of $150)
Full package: New Zealand & Australia & Fiji package: $6130
(savings of $300)
early bird special
For applying before NOVEMBER 30th we will offer a special discount of 5% off the entire package.
*For people applying after the application deadline (if space is still available), we may need to add an additional 5-10% fee over the program cost, to offset the higher prices of late bookings.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
Shared accommodations
Most meals and program activities (including sightseeing and entrance fees)
All transportation while on program, including flights between countries.
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?
Airfare to the program location and back home, airport transportation to and from our meeting and ending locations, some meals, travel insurance, add-on or upgrade options.
APPLICATION TIMELINE
Early bird special: November 30th
Priority consideration: January 15th
Final deadline: March 1st (if spaces are still available)
Zoom interviews will be held starting mid-November and through mid March and all selection decisions will be made by March 15th. A program deposit of $250 for each leg of the program will be due upon acceptance. Program balance must be paid in full 2 weeks before departure.
At GEA, we believe happiness is not just an idea but something to be experienced. That’s why every program we offer is designed with special touches to create moments of connection, relaxation, and empowerment for our valued teachers. Here’s what’s included to ensure your well-being is prioritized throughout the experience:
Every full travel program includes:
A complimentary toast (alcoholic or nonalcoholic) during our 'GEA Happy Hour' before the welcome dinner, cultivating a space of belonging.
A Michelin Star meal (or similar level), offering a moment to connect with our senses and enjoy world-class cuisine.
A rejuvenating spa experience, providing moments of calm and relaxation.
An adventure challenge, empowering us by testing the boundaries of the familiar.
The GEA pledges:
Our Commitment to You
At GEA, we believe happiness is not just an idea but something to be experienced. That’s why every program we offer is designed with special touches to create moments of connection, relaxation, and empowerment for our valued teachers. Here’s what’s included to ensure your well-being is prioritized throughout the experience:
Every full travel program includes:
A complimentary toast (alcoholic or nonalcoholic) during our 'GEA Happy Hour' before the welcome dinner, cultivating a space of belonging.
A Michelin Star meal (or similar level), offering a moment to connect with our senses and enjoy world-class cuisine.
A rejuvenating spa experience, providing moments of calm and relaxation.
An adventure challenge, empowering us by testing the boundaries of the familiar.
Quick Links
Explore the program curriculum, designed to enhance your learning journey and give you context to the region’s culture and history as well as the education system.
Take a look at the frameworks we employ that add more substance to your reflective experience.
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GEA will be doing everything to help our participants feel secure and comfortable. There are also many ways you can personally manage a safe and happy travel experience and GEA will help remind you along the way.