AAVE: China Program Overview & Recommendation

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Choice Camps Recommendation of AAVE: China

Since 1976, more than 10,000 students from 48 U.S. states and over 40 countries have enjoyed AAVE trips throughout the world. AAVE programs combine adventure travel with service work, language study, and wilderness skills through carefully-crafted itineraries. All AAVE programs include community service projects which contribute to the environment and communities visited.

The "All About Visiting Earth" community consists of teenagers who choose active participation, individual responsibility, and who respect and care about one another. AAVE trips are led by top-notch trip leaders who teach skills that lead to a lifetime of exploration, friendship, enjoyment, and personal growth. For families looking for a summer that will exceed their expectations for leadership, safety, adventure, fun, and depth of programming, AAVE may be the perfect choice.

Trip Description

This vibrant summer experience through China's fascinating past and brave future begins in Beijing, where students visit Tiananmen Square, Mao's resting place, the Forbidden City and work with a hutong charity for locals with learning disabilities. Next, travelers enjoy a two-day supported trek on the 2000-year-old Great Wall of China.

Students travel to Xi'an and visit the extraordinary Terracotta Warriors where thousands of statues face east in battle formation, protecting the emperor's tomb. The next stop is Chengdu, home of the Giant Panda, the world's largest stone Buddha and plenty of spicy Sichuan cuisine!

Emei Shan's serene subtropical rainforest is home to a remote Buddhist retreat where students enjoy a unique cultural experience amidst a natural mountain setting. Dali, in southwest China, is a backpacker's oasis and the kick-off point for trekking Tiger Leaping Gorge. Yangshuo on the Li River is an adventure sports mecca where students can enjoy caving, rock climbing, Tai Chi, biking and cooking classes.

The last stop is Hong Kong, a captivating and energetic international city. A visit to Victoria Peak provides fabulous views over Victoria Harbor and the neon jungle of Kowloon glows in the distance as travelers enjoy their final night together.

Staff Overview

AAVE trip leaders are highly motivated role models with extensive experience working with teenagers in adventure environments. All Trip Leaders are certified in the highest levels of first aid, CPR, and lifeguard training. AAVE Trip Leaders are at least 21 years old and are current college students or graduates.

Setting & Accommodations

AAVE China students enjoy stays in hotels, adventure lodges, and guest houses.

Safety Standards

AAVE Trip Leaders have a minimum certification of Wilderness First Responder or Advanced Wilderness First Aid. Many are certified Adult Wilderness EMTs and life guards.

AAVE is accredited by the American Camp Association and meets more than 300 safety standards set forth by the organization.