TFT: Hawaii Sea Trurtle Service and Adventure

The trip started off with a few delays in flights, but our counselors and group just took the opportunity to bond even closer! When we made it to Waikiki we started the trip off with a nice, relaxing walk around the area and some great food. The next few days were filled with surfing, beach time, Pearl Harbor, and bonding. Then, we left for Maui. In Maui we stayed at an amazing hotel, about a 5 minute walk from the beach. Our service leaders were so kind, and we got to help clean up beaches, learn about wildlife in the area, go snorkeling with turtles and fish, learn about coral reefs, and even visit an aquarium with a sea turtle rehabilitation area. The food on this trip was amazing, we got to try hawaiian poke, acai bowls, shave ice, and more. Plus, the people and counselors that made up our group made it even better. From working together on our service trips to hanging out at the hotel pool after dinner, our group was so tightly knit, even with how different we all are. Going on this trip brought me so amazing friends from all around the globe. The counselors on this trip were amazing as well. Even though they are older than all of us teens on the trip, they felt like friends throughout the two weeks. They hung out with us by the pool and beach, and took pictures with us by the sunsets. Overall, this trip was absolutely amazing and I loved my experience so much!

This summer was my first time going on a teen tour. I had so many fun experiences like zip lining, seeing and helping sea turtles and making new friends throughout the entire trip. Everyday was so much fun learning about the culture and seeing things that you don’t have back at your home. We learned how to adapt to the culture that is all around us.The foods you try you will want to bring back to your family and friends to spread the experience. I liked that the tour allows you to have your phones but you really never want to be on your phone while away. The only times are to talk to your family and to take photos. The counselors are so outgoing, positive and fun to be with and talk to. They take such good care of you trying to make sure you have the best trip possible. There’s so many to choose from that your kids will have an amazing time making many memories.

This was my first trip with TFT and I’m so glad it was. Hawaii is an absolutely beautiful state and throughout our trip we were able to visit tourist spots, stay active, immerse ourselves in Hawaiian culture, do meaningful community service, and even help set a turtle free! I couldn’t have asked for a better first experience, thank you so much!