2026 International Culture × Volunteer Travel × Technology Exploration 9-Day Itinerary

The trip is scheduled for 9 days, from March 14 – March 22, 2026.

This trip is open to The Meadows School students in grades 9–12. No prior Chinese language proficiency is required, but participants must possess an open, respectful mindset towards cultural exchange.

In a safe and nurturing environment, students will immerse themselves in Taiwan's rich cultural traditions, developing focus through tea ceremony practices, fostering creativity through hands-on craftsmanship, building environmental awareness through ecological exploration, and establishing the foundation to become future leaders with global perspectives.

U.S. passport holders do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days in Taiwan. However, the passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry.

Yes, it is highly recommended to renew the passport early if your child's current appearance significantly differs from their passport photo, even if the passport has not yet expired.

Yes, teachers will accompany the group throughout the entire trip, from the initial departure until the return.

Parents are responsible for rebooking the flight and covering any associated costs. The program staff will provide assistance to help the student rejoin the group in Taiwan.

For minor issues, teachers will provide first aid. For serious conditions, the student will be immediately taken to a hospital, with a teacher accompanying them. Parents will be contacted immediately, and travel insurance will help support the necessary care. Taiwan has an excellent healthcare system, and English-speaking doctors are available.

Yes, accommodations can be made if informed in advance. Dining venues will be notified, an allergy badge can be prepared for the student, and extra care will be taken, especially in high-risk environments like night markets.

Yes, Taiwan is consistently ranked among the world’s safest regions, known for its low crime rates and well-organized public areas. Safety measures implemented for the trip include a buddy system, daily roll calls, curfews, emergency cards, continuous teacher supervision, and coordination with the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT).

The KICC coordinator’s phone number (directly dialable from the U.S.) and Taiwan emergency numbers will be provided. All hotels offer Wi-Fi access. Students also have the option to use international roaming or purchase a local Taiwan SIM card/eSIM for personal communication. There will be daily scheduled contact times.

The total cost is approximately USD --. This includes international airfare, in-country transportation, lodging, all meals, comprehensive insurance, entrance fees for activities, preparatory materials, and souvenirs. It excludes passport fees, personal shopping, and personal pocket money.

1. Deposit (First Payment): An initial deposit of USD -- is due on or before October 30, 2025 to secure a reservation.

2. Second Payment: A payment of USD -- is due on or before November 30, 2025.

3. Final Balance (Third Payment): The remaining balance of USD -- is due on or before January 31, 2026. (Note: If the number of participants exceeds 21, the remaining balance required will be USD --.)

4. Late Enrollment: For enrollments made after January 31, 2026, the full program fee shall be payable in full at the time of enrollment.

5. Airfare and Airline Policies: Airfare is included in the program fee. All airline-related cancellation fees and conditions are governed by the respective airline's policies and shall be the responsibility of the participant. For enrollments made after October 30, 2025, airfare prices are subject to change. Any increase in airfare shall be borne by the participant.

Zelle: No processing fee. Payments can be sent to Email jekicc2020@gmail.com.
PayPal (credit card): A +7% processing fee applies. A link will be provided upon request.
Wire transfer: The full amount, including any intermediary bank fees, must be remitted.
Venmo: Not accepted.

Any extra amount paid will be credited towards your final payment.

You will receive an electronic receipt via email within 72 hours of payment.

To ensure proper crediting, please include the student’s full name, the program name (The Meadows School Taiwan 2026), and the payment purpose (deposit/final payment) in your transfer details. Additionally, email a screenshot of the transfer confirmation.

No. Only students’ names are shared; addresses are not disclosed, in accordance with our updated privacy policy.

You will receive a confirmation email and a receipt after payment. You may also email your bank or PayPal proof of transaction for verification.

Students will be assigned to rooms by gender, with 2 students per room at designated safe hotels (e.g., Kuva Chateau, ShanShun Hotel, Fushin Hotel). Rooming lists will be sent out before departure. Teachers will be on the same floor as students.

Daily meals are included, comprising hotel breakfasts, local restaurant lunches, and specialty dinners. With advance notice, we can accommodate vegetarian, halal, gluten-free diets, and specific allergies.

March temperatures in Taiwan are around 15–23°C, with average relative humidity of about 75–80%. Northern and eastern regions still see frequent light rain under the northeast monsoon, with daily rain chances of around 40–60%; central and southern areas are relatively drier but can still have occasional showers. Recommended items to bring:
- Layered clothing (long sleeves and light sweaters for cooler mornings/evenings)
- Light to medium-weight jacket or windbreaker
- Rain gear (umbrella or light raincoat, especially for northern and eastern regions)
- Comfortable walking shoes (closed-toe, suitable for occasionally wet surfaces)
- One set of formal attire (for formal meetings or special events)
- Personal medications and basic sun protection (UV intensity gradually increasing in early spring)

Yes, there is a dress code. Students are required to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting temples and schools.

Students will participate in hands-on cultural workshops (tea ceremony, indigo dyeing, woodcarving, mochi making), visit historical sites and temples, explore natural attractions, and engage in cultural exchange activities with local schools.

Students will experience traditional Taiwanese tea culture, religious practices at temples and monasteries, traditional crafts like woodcarving and dyeing, Hakka culture, night market traditions, and regional culinary heritage.

Yes, students will have limited supervised free time. This includes 1–2 hours after dinner daily, some group exploration time in markets and night markets, and optional activities. All free time will be under teacher supervision in safe areas.

Yes, the itinerary includes several shopping opportunities at locations such as Dihua Street, Global Mall, night markets, and cultural & creative street.

To facilitate communication, the trip surpport from Local guide teacher assistance from local Taiwanese student buddies, access to translation apps, and visual aids.

🌏 Patriot Lite Travel Medical Insurance

- Coverage for unexpected illnesses and accidents

- COVID-19 treated the same as any other illness

- Policy limits: US$50,000 – US$1,000,000

- Emergency Medical The Meadows Schoolcuation: up to US$1,000,000

🌏 Taiwan Group Travel Insurance (Per Traveler)

- Accidental Death Benefit – NTD 3,000,000

- Accidental Disability Benefit (max) – NTD 3,000,000

- Accidental Medical Expenses – NTD 200,000

- Travel Document Loss/Replacement – NTD 2,000

- Family Member / Insured Expenses – NTD 100,000 (included above)

- Max Benefit per Accident – NTD 100,000

🌏 Trip Cancellation & Add-On Coverage

Trip Cancellation & Add-On Coverage

Additional insurance options such as Trip Cancellation, Medical, or Extra Coverage are available upon request.

Contact for Assistance:

Charlene Yeh – Insurance Agent

(510) 364-2726

📩cy.socal@gmail.com

🌐Add-on insurance (optional)
such as trip cancellation or medical coverage — can be purchased separately.  Here, you can enter your information and get an instant quote.

Trip cancellation insurance is not included in the total travel cost.
It must be purchased separately if desired.

Yes, KICC can assist in arranging various post-trip opportunities:
- Short-term or long-term internship opportunities in Taiwan (e.g., in education, cultural exchange, non-profit organizations, or creative industries).
- Mandarin language learning programs (private one-on-one or small group classes, suitable for all proficiency levels).
- Extended exchange projects with local Taiwanese schools or communities (ideal for summer or pre-college cultural experiences).

Beyond organizing this Taiwan immersion trip, KICC is dedicated to:
- Promoting Mandarin learning and international educational exchanges.
- Arranging Chinese cultural exploration activities (such as calligraphy, tea ceremonies, and traditional crafts).
- Building a long-term bridge between students and Asian cultures, with the goal of preparing youth to become global citizens.