FAQs about the Ecuador trip

Who is going on the trip?

Students at Bethel University and other participating liberal arts institutions who are enrolled in GES318K Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands: Natural History and Future Prospects. The trip is taught by Dr. Jeff Port of the Dept of Biological Sciences at Bethel University.

How can I participate?

Interested students should contact the Office of International Studies for specific information. All participating students must enroll in GES318K at Bethel University. Students interested in the 4 credit option for Biology must enroll in BIO318K or ENS318K.

How much does it cost?

While fixed prices have not yet been set for the January 2008 trip, costs are expected to run between $4000 and $4100, including all airfare to and from Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

How many students can participate?

Up to 18 students may participate. Enrollment starts in the spring prior to the course and typically spots fill up quickly. Look for applications forms available at the Off-Campus Programs Interim Fair or through the Off-Campus Programs office (CC320). Contact Dr. Jeff Port for further information.

How long will we be in the Galapagos?

We plan on spending about 5 days on and around the Galapagos Islands. This should provide us with the opportunity to visit between 5 and 8 islands in the chain. We will spend several nights on a boat traveling between islands and others in a hotel on one of the larger islands.

When do I have to decide by?

Airline and lodging reservations will need to be made by early fall (typically October 1). Until that time spots are available on a first come, first serve basis. However, typically not many spots remain available as of mid-summer. If you are interested, a $100 deposit with the International Studies office will hold your reservation. If you are unable to participate, the $100 is refundable until airline reservations are made in the fall

Sign me up! Where do I send my money?

Registration and payments are to be made through the Office of International Studies. There are payment deadlines in October, November and December and payment must be received in full by mid-December in order to participate. Financial aid is available so check with the Financial Aid office for more information.

What if my schedule changes and I am unable to go?

The $100 deposit is fully refundable until October 1, 2007. Once airline seats have been arranged, the deposit will no longer be fully refundable. Late (December/January) cancellations will forfeit the deposit and as well as forfeit additional non-refundable fees.

Are there any special arrangements I need to make before traveling?

There are two important things that need to be taken care of before going to Ecuador. First, make sure your passport is up-to-date. It takes approximately six to eight weeks to go through the application process. If you have not applied for your passport by October 1, you will need to pay the additional fee to expedite the application. See the US Department of state website for more information. You do not need a visa to enter Ecuador from the United States. You can check on the status of your passport application online at http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/status/status_2567.html
Second, schedule a meeting with a travel nurse. Check out http://www.travelersvaccines.com/EN/Clinics/Clinic_locator.cfm for information on travel clinics and vaccines or check with your health insurance provider. At a minimum you will need malaria pills and a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

My passport expires less than 6 months after I am scheduled to return. Should I worry?

Worry, no. Act, yes. Ecuador requires that anyone entering the country have a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months after the schedule departure date. If your passport expires before August of the year you are traveling, you will need to renew your passport in order to participate in this class. Check http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1229.html for the entry requirements of foreign countries including Ecuador.