FAQs

If you have any additional questions, please reach out to us at 336-317-7793 or email info@grandwesterntour.com

Room and seat assignments are rotated at each stop to encourage interaction among students. This has proven effective in helping them make new friends throughout the trip. We use a randomized system to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for everyone to get acquainted. This method contributes to an inclusive experience for all.

Students experience a variety of lodging during the trip, from bunk houses on the ranch to the comfort and luxury of a resort & spa in Arizona. Most accommodations allow for four students per room. To encourage interaction between all students, roommate assignments are rotated at each hotel so everyone has the chance to get to know each other!

In some locations, students are allowed to go shopping and explore in groups of three or more. They will not always be accompanied by a staff member. In these situations, the students are given a limited amount of time and specific instructions on where they can go and when they must return.

We do allow students to bring their cell phones but limit their use to encourage interaction between the students.

You will be placed upon the waitlist and notified if space becomes available.

When your student’s application is accepted and he or she is enrolled on the tour, a $1,000 non-refundable deposit and the premium for any travel insurance you have selected during enrollment is due. The balance of the trip cost is due January 2 of the year the tour departs.

Please contact us to discuss your child’s specific allergies and to make sure we can accommodate their needs during the trip.

Your child’s health and safety are our top priorities. If a student needs medical attention, a dedicated staff member will accompany the student to ensure he or she receives proper care. If necessary, this staff member will remain with the student until a parent or guardian arrives. While we hope such situations don’t arise, we want you to be aware that any medical expenses, along with costs related to the staff member's care and potential group rejoining, would be the family’s responsibility. For your peace of mind, most of our tour locations are within 30 minutes of medical facilities.

Yes, students can leave the group, however, to ensure everyone's safety and peace of mind, parents must provide written permission for such visits before the tour begins. While we appreciate the convenience of phone calls, we will only accept written documentation. This approach allows us to best support your child's experience while adhering to our safety protocols.

We suggest students bring a credit or debit card and expect to spend between $100 to $150 a week for meals not included, souvenirs, snacks and other miscellaneous expenses.

Since the first moment I sat on the bus, I realized just how much more there is to see in this world. For five weeks, I had the United States in the palm of my hand. That summer, my view of the country and world grew so massively that I now study International Politics and cannot wait to see every plot of land or ocean view that I am offered. In five short weeks, 51 perfect strangers became my best friends and impacted my life in every way possible. I am so grateful for the Grand Western Tour.
Ruthie Brady, Beaufort, NC