GoAbroad

Adventure Travel

What better way to add a serious helping of adventure to your life than by going abroad? Sure, you can find adventure at home, but the best adventure tours will exist far outside your comfort zone. Surfing at Bondi Beach? Ziplining through the rainforest canopy in Costa Rica? Hiking to Everest Base Camp? The ideal adventure will leave you smarter, more fulfilled, more worldly, and (of course) wanting more. Here’s everything you need to know to have the adventure of a lifetime abroad!
Adventure travel, volunteering and, conservation programmes since 1989.

Featured Adventure Program Provider of the Month

This Month’s Recommended Adventure Programs

mini adventure with Maximo Nivel
4.73313 reviews

MAXIMO NIVEL

MAXIMO NIVEL logo
Volunteer Adventure—2 weeks in Latin America

Maximo Nivel’s Volunteer Adventure program in Guatemala lets you experience this beautiful country from a whole new perspective! This is your chance to make an impact in local communities while exploring ancient ruins, colorful markets, volcanic landsc...

seamester
4.66131 reviews

Seamester Study Abroad at Sea

Seamester Study Abroad at Sea logo
Seamester Study Abroad and Gap Year Voyages

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to pro...

IVHQ - AT
4.72233 reviews

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] logo
World's #1 Affordable Volunteer Programs Trusted By 140,000+

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally fro...

Peru
4.46156 reviews

Gapforce

Gapforce logo
South America Explorer with Gapforce

Visit two of South America’s most iconic countries—Peru and Ecuador—and discover the lost lands of the Incas! Start your adventure in South America with intensive Spanish lessons, then step up the adventure with an epic trek across the Andes to Machu P...

Pacific Discovery
4.51295 reviews

Pacific Discovery

Pacific Discovery logo
New Zealand & Fiji Summer Program | Pacific Discovery

This program for individuals ages 17-22 has just the right balance of adventure and environmental service in New Zealand, followed by the laid-back island living in Fiji. In New Zealand, we'll mountain bike in Rotorua, raft over the world's highest com...

a guy standing next to a whiteboard
4.8936 reviews

Intercultura Costa Rica

Intercultura Costa Rica logo
Spanish + Cultural Immersion - Beautiful Beach & City Campus

Learn Spanish and immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture at one or both of our two unique locations – Samara Tropical Beach Campus and/or Heredia Historic City Campus.Study Spanish in small, dynamic groups with students of all ages and nationalities. ...

How to Adventure Travel Abroad

Overview

What is adventure travel?

Adventure travel is a type of meaningful travel that revolves around exploration, whether that be the adrenaline-junkie type (like bungee jumping and hang-gliding) or the slower, more intentional type (like homestays and cultural immersion).

Typically speaking, adventure tourism activities include a physically challenging element, cultural exchange, and/or the opportunity to get up close and personal with Mother Nature herself.

Getting Started

How to go on an adventure

Believe it or not, it’s actually not that difficult to go on an adventure tour. You just have to know where to want to go and when, and the rest will fall into place! Here’s how to find the best adventure travel for you:

  • Figure out what you want to do. Before you peruse adventure travel companies, decide what you want to do on your adventure—because there’s a lot of possibilities! Whether it’s an extended hiking trip, water sports, cultural heritage tours, or a spiritual retreat at an ecolodge, it’s important to set goals and intentions for your adventure.
  • Pick a destination. There are tons of destination options for many kinds of adventure tourism activities. For other kinds, like seeing glow worms or the Northern Lights, your options will be a bit more limited. Once you know what you want to do, you can choose your destination based on the best or safest location to do that activity, or you can throw caution to the wind and go wherever the wind blows you!
  • When do you want to go? Are you looking for summer adventures or winter wonders? Don’t forget that the seasons are different depending on what hemisphere you’re headed to, and that adventure activities get considerably more expensive during tourist seasons.
  • Solo or group travel? Maybe you want to pursue adventure in solitude, or maybe you’ll feel better having a group to share the experience with. Either way, going alone or with other people will shape your adventure travel experience, so it’s important to decide what the right choice is for you.
  • Apply for your program. After you’ve figured out all of the above, it’s time to start finding the perfect program for you! Of course, you can plan and take your trip without the help of adventure travel companies. However, if you’re a first-time traveler, or your intended destination is completely unfamiliar to you, it may be a good idea to go on an adventure through an organization that has experience in the activities you’re looking for. You don’t want to get in over your head, or have your trip ruined due to circumstances you may not have known to prepare for.

Locations

Where are the best places for adventure?

If you’re wondering where to go on an adventure, spin the globe and point! In other words, you can find adventure literally anywhere. However, if you really want an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life, it’s not a bad idea to push yourself as far out of your comfort zone as reasonably possible.

That could mean going somewhere where you don’t speak the language, confronting one of your phobias, or trying your hand at something you never thought you would. But if you really want names, some of the most renowned countries in the world for fun, reputable adventures include New Zealand, Australia, Costa Rica, Peru, Thailand, Kenya, and South Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is adventure travel?

Adventure travel is meaningful travel that takes you out into the world for active, hands-on experiences. Popular types of adventure travel include scuba diving, hiking, eco-tours, and white-water rafting.

What are the best adventure trips?

This depends on your goals and preferences. However, some of the most iconic adventure trips include trekking in New Zealand, surfing in Australia, cooking classes in Italy, and going on safari in South Africa.

How can I go on adventures abroad?

To go on an adventure trip, you need to think about where you want to go, what you want to do, and what your budget is. Once you've set some goals for yourself, it'll be easier to find and apply to adventure travel programs.

Latest Program Reviews

The real pirate life!

November 14, 2026by: Stella Pfefferkorn - United States

Program: Seamester: Mediterranean to Caribbean - 90 Days

4

Overall this was the experience of a lifetime. Every day was so different. Getting to have so many experiences, and visiting so many places within three months it’s absolutely amazing. At each port we had so many different activities and experiences to do, really getting to experience each place for where they are. The academics are hard, but doable, this program really forces you to work on time management, as you have to find time to fit your schoolwork in with all of the excursions.

Vela at sunrise.Hoisting the sails!

I had a wonderful experience

November 12, 2026by: channing kelley - United States

Program: Travel For Teens: Italy, Spain and France

5

Seeing Paris and other countries was an eye opening experience that allowed me to learn new things about how people live and how they experience things differently than the people I surround myself with every day. Making memories with people who are now my best friends is an experience worth a lifetime and I would not change it for the world. I can't wait to go back to other places with the awesome counselors and make more memories and friends!

I have the time of my life

November 12, 2026by: Lucy Rainwater - United States

Program: TFT Older Teens: Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland & Paris

5

This trip was fun for the people and the environment along with the itinerary that gave us multiple things to do a day. I really enjoyed getting to know people all around the world and hanging out with my future best friends.

A few sips in France

I made great memories!

November 10, 2026by: Skylar Fine - United States

Program: Travel For Teens: Australia and New Zealand Service

5

This was my third trip with travel for teens and my favorite part of these trips are the people I get to meet and the new experiences. On this trip I made lifelong friends and got to meet so many people all over Australia and New Zealand. Australia and New Zealand are both beautiful countries and the itinerary of the trip made it so I could see a good amount of both and truly immerse myself in the culture.

Such a life changing trip!

November 09, 2026by: Lily Metzger - United States

Program: Italy Adventure and Travel with Rustic Pathways

5

My trip to Northern Italy was more than I could ever put into words! From the moment I met my fellow students in the airport, we connected instantly. I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so hard! Rustic Pathways helped me experience the world at such a young age, and I never thought that was possible! The Rustic Team answered all of my questions and concerns and made the pre-trip process smooth! Not to mention the program leaders made the trip even better! There was never a moment where I wasn’t having fun or laughing. I would recommend Rustic Pathways to anyone and everyone who is looking to travel as a teen!

Gondola Ride!!Me and my new lifelong friends!

Until next time, 🇲🇦

November 09, 2026by: Karis Dunham - United States

Program: Morocco Travel Programs - Rustic Pathways

5

This trip was truly a wonderful time. I was originally supposed to go on this exact trip, but meant for college aged kids. That trip ended up getting canceled because there weren’t enough people signed up, so rustic pathways offered me to attend the trip meant for younger kids. I was originally very nervous about that, but I had the time of my life!! The trip was amazing. We started in the mountains where we did service and then eventually made our way to the city and spent lots of time shopping. Overall, the trip was organized so perfectly and I’m glad that I was able to go!!

Posing for a selfie after being taught how to make traditional bread!

Until next time, 🇲🇦

November 09, 2026by: Karis Dunham - United States

Program: Morocco Travel Programs - Rustic Pathways

5

This trip was truly a wonderful time. I was originally supposed to go on this exact trip, but meant for college aged kids. That trip ended up getting canceled because there weren’t enough people signed up, so rustic pathways offered me to attend the trip meant for younger kids. I was originally very nervous about that, but I had the time of my life!! The trip was amazing. We started in the mountains where we did service and then eventually made our way to the city and spent lots of time shopping. Overall, the trip was organized so perfectly and I’m glad that I was able to go!!

Posing for a selfie after being taught how to make traditional bread!

Until next time, 🇲🇦

November 09, 2026by: Karis Dunham - United States

Program: Morocco Travel Programs - Rustic Pathways

5

This trip was truly a wonderful time. I was originally supposed to go on this exact trip, but meant for college aged kids. That trip ended up getting canceled because there weren’t enough people signed up, so rustic pathways offered me to attend the trip meant for younger kids. I was originally very nervous about that, but I had the time of my life!! The trip was amazing. We started in the mountains where we did service and then eventually made our way to the city and spent lots of time shopping. Overall, the trip was organized so perfectly and I’m glad that I was able to go!!

Posing for a selfie after being taught how to make traditional bread!

Until next time, 🇲🇦

November 09, 2026by: Karis Dunham - United States

Program: Morocco Travel Programs - Rustic Pathways

5

This trip was truly a wonderful time. I was originally supposed to go on this exact trip, but meant for college aged kids. That trip ended up getting canceled because there weren’t enough people signed up, so rustic pathways offered me to attend the trip meant for younger kids. I was originally very nervous about that, but I had the time of my life!! The trip was amazing. We started in the mountains where we did service and then eventually made our way to the city and spent lots of time shopping. Overall, the trip was organized so perfectly and I’m glad that I was able to go!!

Posing for a selfie after being taught how to make traditional bread!Sunsets are different in the mountains ⛰️

Until next time, 🇲🇦

November 09, 2026by: Karis Dunham - United States

Program: Morocco Travel Programs - Rustic Pathways

5

This trip was truly a wonderful time. I was originally supposed to go on this exact trip, but meant for college aged kids. That trip ended up getting canceled because there weren’t enough people signed up, so rustic pathways offered me to attend the trip meant for younger kids. I was originally very nervous about that, but I had the time of my life!! The trip was amazing. We started in the mountains where we did service and then eventually made our way to the city and spent lots of time shopping. Overall, the trip was organized so perfectly and I’m glad that I was able to go!!

Posing for a selfie after being taught how to make traditional bread!

Beautiful time

November 07, 2026by: Chaturya K - India

Program: Glimpse of Bhutan this summer.

4

This trip was an absolute dream! Experiencing the local culture, tradition, and stunning natural beauty firsthand was so special. Every moment felt amazing, the vibe was unmatched, and the people were so welcoming. It was hands-down one of the best experiences I've had, and I would love to go back again!

My Euro Summer!

November 05, 2026by: Savanna Henry - United States

Program: TFT Older Teens: Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland & Paris

4

We first went To Florence, and we explored the city by visiting cathedrals, the Duomo, and the beautiful museums. We went to the Accademia Gallery and saw Michelangelo's famous statue of David. We had free time, and got to explore the city, while going on more gelato runs than ever in my life. Next, we took a train to Cinque Terre, where we spent most of our time at the beach, swimming in the gorgeous blue water. We visited another town, where the movie, Luca was based, and swam even more, cherishing the sun and the views. Next, we took a bus to Interlaken, Switzerland, which was my personal favorite. Here, we did fun activities, such as canyoning and paragliding, which is probably my favorite part of the whole trip. We took cable up into the alps, where we explored new towns, and went on a Cliffside Thrill Walk. After a few days here, we traveled into Paris for the last leg of the trip. Here, we took a shopping spree in the Galeries Lafayette, and visited museums, such as the Louvre, and the d'Orsay. WE also visited the major landmarks of the Eiffel Tower, and the Arc de Triomphe. We also went and visited the Palace of Versailles, and walked through the gorgeous gardens. On the last night, we all went to dinner and enjoyed one last night together before we all had to go back home.

Out for dinner in Cinque TerreParagliding in Interlaken

A Life changing Adventure

November 04, 2026by: Olivia Miles - United States

Program: St. Lucia: Advanced Scuba Voyage

5

Over 11 years later and I’m still dreaming of this trip: diving through an underwater fissure with bats flying above, the ridiculously blue waters of the Tobago cays, and the colorful streets of bequia reminiscent of how the Caribbean was before all-inclusive resort chains found their way to the region. This trip gives you the chance to experience the Caribbean how it was meant to be experienced, and let’s you see some of the most incredible natural wonders in the meantime, both above and below the ocean. There’s a reason why so many Pirates of the Caribbean scenes were filmed in places this trip visits. Some of my personal highlights included A once in a lifetime diving the underwater sculpture garden in Grenada, and sitting on the sand banks of rum island, wondering how a place so magical could exist in real life. There is no better place to earn your rescue diver certification, which will make you a more confident and well-rounded diver. I wish I could go back and experience this trip again as my 14-year old self, but I’m so grateful for the memories and friendships that have lived on with me long after the trip has ended.

No AI requiredSaying hi to the piratesPost dive vibes

Living on a sailboat? What more could you ask for?!

November 04, 2026by: Colbie Atlas - United States

Program: Caribbean: 24-Day Sailing Voyage

5

My first trip on Broadreach was a sailing a diving trip through the Caribbean. My staff were all absolutely incredible. I initially went for the sailing portion but fell in love with sailing while aboard. Since being on Broadreach I have actually continued my sailing adventures. Without this summer program, my entire career path and life would genuinely be so different. I met incredible people and saw incredible things and could not have asked for a better crew. Long Live Ormindo!!!

Nightly bed time set upSailing day 3

Best summer ever!!!!

November 01, 2026by: Kaia Jacoway - United States

Program: St. Lucia: Advanced Scuba Voyage

5

During my Broadreach trip, 21 day advanced scuba voyage, this past summer I had a blast! I had the opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people, and learn about new cultures. By far, it was a core memory that I will think about forever, and I recommend it to everybody! I enjoyed learning how to sail and earning numerous scuba certifications, my instructors and peers were absolutely fantastic as well and I could not ask for a better time!

Super fun trip

October 31, 2026by: Aaron Anders - United States

Program: Travel For Teens: Italy, Spain and France

5

I had an extremely fun time on this trip. I met a lot of really nice people and made lifelong friendships. The counselors took great care of us and always made sure we were safe. We went to a wide variety of super cool places and constantly did fun activites. This trip is truly one of the best experiences of my life.

Trip of a lifetime for my middleschooler

October 30, 2026by: Dr. Ewa Arnold - Canada

Program: Greece & Italy Middle School: History, Islands & Culture

5

As parents of a kid who has always loved camp, we thought we knew what a great summer experience looked like. Then our son went on Putney Student Travel’s Italy & Greece middle school program, and it changed our perspective entirely. He came home a different kid: more confident, independent, mature and excited about the world. He didn’t want it to end, and months later he’s still talking about the people he met. What makes Putney extraordinary is the people. The leaders were exceptional, and our son still keeps in close touch with them, along with the friends he made on the trip. I wouldn’t be surprised if they organize their own reunion over spring break! From the leaders to the directors, everyone at Putney makes you feel your child is genuinely known and cared for, as if he were one of their own. As parents, there is no greater reassurance. Putney gave our son far more than a trip. It gave him room to grow, lasting friendships, a new sense of independence and courage, and a real drive to learn about the world. We’ve even noticed a difference in his engagement at school this semester. We sent him hoping for a wonderful adventure; he came back with something far more meaningful. We can’t imagine sending our children anywhere else. Our son is already planning to return for the next four years, and we can’t wait for our daughter to experience Putney when she reaches middle school. Putney has earned our trust in a way very few organizations ever could, and we wholeheartedly recommend them to any family.

Enjoying the wonders of rome

What a time to be alive!

October 29, 2026by: Connor Randolph - United States

Program: TFT: Alpine Adventure - Switzerland, France and Italy

5

My trip to Italy, Switzerland, and France was an unforgettable experience filled with beautiful scenery, amazing food, and incredible memories. Italy was full of charm, from its historic landmarks and stunning architecture to its delicious pasta, pizza, and gelato. Switzerland was absolutely breathtaking, with its majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque towns. France was just as amazing, with its elegant streets, beautiful architecture, and famous landmarks. One of the best parts of the trip was the staff, who were absolutely amazing throughout the entire experience. They were friendly, supportive, and comforting, always making sure everyone felt safe, included, and taken care of. They remained calm, organized, and in control at all times, which made everything run smoothly and allowed us to fully enjoy every moment without stress. Their professionalism and positive attitudes truly made a difference and made the trip even more enjoyable. Overall, this trip exceeded my expectations and was the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. I am so grateful for the incredible memories and would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for an unforgettable trip!

What a time to be alive!

October 29, 2026by: Connor Randolph - United States

Program: TFT: Alpine Adventure - Switzerland, France and Italy

5

My trip to Italy, Switzerland, and France was an unforgettable experience filled with beautiful scenery, amazing food, and incredible memories. Italy was full of charm, from its historic landmarks and stunning architecture to its delicious pasta, pizza, and gelato. Switzerland was absolutely breathtaking, with its majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque towns. France was just as amazing, with its elegant streets, beautiful architecture, and famous landmarks. One of the best parts of the trip was the staff, who were absolutely amazing throughout the entire experience. They were friendly, supportive, and comforting, always making sure everyone felt safe, included, and taken care of. They remained calm, organized, and in control at all times, which made everything run smoothly and allowed us to fully enjoy every moment without stress. Their professionalism and positive attitudes truly made a difference and made the trip even more enjoyable. Overall, this trip exceeded my expectations and was the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. I am so grateful for the incredible memories and would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for an unforgettable trip!

What a time to be alive!

October 29, 2026by: Connor Randolph - United States

Program: TFT: Alpine Adventure - Switzerland, France and Italy

5

My trip to Italy, Switzerland, and France was an unforgettable experience filled with beautiful scenery, amazing food, and incredible memories. Italy was full of charm, from its historic landmarks and stunning architecture to its delicious pasta, pizza, and gelato. Switzerland was absolutely breathtaking, with its majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque towns. France was just as amazing, with its elegant streets, beautiful architecture, and famous landmarks. One of the best parts of the trip was the staff, who were absolutely amazing throughout the entire experience. They were friendly, supportive, and comforting, always making sure everyone felt safe, included, and taken care of. They remained calm, organized, and in control at all times, which made everything run smoothly and allowed us to fully enjoy every moment without stress. Their professionalism and positive attitudes truly made a difference and made the trip even more enjoyable. Overall, this trip exceeded my expectations and was the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. I am so grateful for the incredible memories and would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for an unforgettable trip!

Beautiful Switzerland!

Latest Interviews

CHARAF TAMARDOULT

CHARAF TAMARDOULT

Morocco Global Adventures

Alumni

I was inspired to go abroad by my passion for discovering new cultures, meeting people from around the world, and experiencing places beyond my everyd...

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Lilas Hampe

Lilas Hampe

RealStep

Alumni

I was inspired to go abroad by the idea of experiencing something completely different from my everyday routine. The thought of waking up just steps a...

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Olivia Haan 2018

Olivia Haan 2018

Travel For Teens

Alumni

I have been abroad a few times now but I was very drawn to China based on its history and culture. I have been to Thailand before but wanted to explor...

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Carmen Ruiz Ricca

Carmen Ruiz Ricca

Worldwide Friends Iceland

Alumni

I have always loved travelling around, so when I came across this program I thought it was such a great way to get to know this thrilling country. 

Read Full Interview
Savannah Petrelli

Savannah Petrelli

Travel For Teens

Alumni

Ever since I was young, I had an urge to travel. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to travel in their lifetime. Being able to see an...

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Rachel Lyon

Rachel Lyon

The Real Uganda

Alumni

My passion to work with children in childcare and my desire to travel whilst also volunteering

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Daan de Kraay

Daan de Kraay

Nullarbor Traveller

Alumni

I wanted to see the world and explore to see how Australia looked. I've heard many many stories about this country and they were all true!

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Kimberley Maessen

Kimberley Maessen

Nullarbor Traveller

Alumni

I always enjoyed traveling and exploring new countries, which was also the main reason for choosing to study tourism.

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Blake Powel

Blake Powel

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

Alumni

I love to travel and, specifically traveling abroad, as a way to broaden my cultural awareness. As I am usually traveling with friends or family, I wa...

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Ashley Allen

Ashley Allen

Travel For Teens

Alumni

Ultimately my love for adventure, cultural exploration, and stories. I wanted to experience life abroad before I went to university that would allow m...

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Michaela Rubenstein

Michaela Rubenstein

University Studies Abroad Consortium

Alumni

My parents really pushed me to go abroad because they knew it would make me a well-rounded individual and they regretted not doing it themselves. I al...

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Ivanya Johnson

Ivanya Johnson

Broadreach

Alumni

My Mom found Broadreach for me; she knew that I loved adventure, meeting new people, and learning more about the world we live in. Each year I choose ...

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Dallas Fawson

Dallas Fawson

Discover Corps

Alumni

This contrast can be seen in the beautiful church facade in San Andrés Xecul; though it is a Catholic church, it was constructed by Mayan slaves, and ...

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Matthew Ambrogi

Matthew Ambrogi

Where There Be Dragons

Alumni

First off, it wasn't an easy decision. But, for me, it was something I had to do. I was in my freshman year of college, working so hard everyday for a...

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Natalie Craun

Natalie Craun

Global Leadership Adventures

Alumni

I wanted to discover what life was like in a developing country, step outside of my comfort zone, and sharpen my social and leadership skills.

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Sydney Harned 2014

Sydney Harned 2014

Broadreach

Alumni

I’d always had a hunch that I wanted to go on to get my Divemaster certification, and after diving the past two summers with broadreach I knew that Sc...

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Sydney Harned 2011

Sydney Harned 2011

Broadreach

Alumni

I’d always been interested in traveling abroad, especially to study marine science. I thought it would be a great experience for me to learn more abou...

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Sally Short

Sally Short

Tropical Research and Conservation Centre

Alumni

I love to Travel and I love to dive, The UK is too cold!!!

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