Hawaii
Honolulu, the vibrant epicenter of Hawaii, is the hot spot for arts, culture, and entertainment. Home to the State Capitol, Honolulu has an extensive list of go-to iconic places including Hilo’s National Volcano Park, Aloha Tower, Iolani Palace, along with beautiful beaches and waterfalls. Whether you’re looking for nightlife, art galleries, or finest museums you will find it here in Honolulu
Japan
The second stop on our itinerary bring us to another Pacific archipelago, and the port of Kobe, Japan. With its blend of modern industry amidst preserved ancient culture, Japan presents a variety of options for experiential learning. Students often enjoy getting a glimpse into traditional Geisha culture, taking a train to Tokyo or the Harborland district in Kobe.
China
(Shanghai) China presents a spectacular array of historic traditions, stunning landscapes, and magnificent architecture including its vast and iconic Great Wall. Cultural opportunities are endless with the chance to meditate in a Tibetan monastery, converse with Buddhist monks, or practice the Chinese art of Tai Chi at sunrise while overlooking the bustling city of Shanghai.
Vietnam
Vietnam is known for its lush, emerald green mountains, outstanding cuisine, and welcoming citizens. Here you can explore the Cu Chi Tunnels where Viet Cong soldiers lived and fought, travel by boat through the Mekong Delta, sample world-class pho, or bike through small villages. Students often enjoy a three-day trip to Cambodia from Vietnam to interact with an NGO that educates and trains disadvantaged locals in rural areas for employment in the hospitality industry.
Myanmar
Burma, officially the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, has preserved its Buddhist traditions and predominantly rural culture. In many ways, Burma has remained unchanged since British colonial times. SAS students may partake in a visit to an elephant camp, engage with teachers and children at a local school, or participate in a meditation.
India
As one of the most populous nations in the world, India is bustling with a vibrant culture influenced by a variety of religions, including Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism. Explore the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s seven wonders, or travel to the holy city of Varanasi on the Ganges River. Get a taste of how 70% of Indians live by visiting the rural, traditional Chendamangalam village.
Mauritius
A small African island nation in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is a tropical paradise and the wealthiest African nation. The ship will dock in the capital city of Port Louis, home to the mountain known as Le Pouce, first summited by Charles Darwin and well worth the hike for great panoramic views of the island.
South Africa
Whether hiking Table Mountain for one of the world’s best views, riding horseback on safari, or engaging with local entrepreneurs in Cape Town, students always fall in love with South Africa. Full of adventure and captivating sights, Cape Town offers countless opportunities for cultural and natural exploration. Cape Town is also home to world-renowned social rights activist Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who students just may have the opportunity to meet as he is a member of the Institute for Shipboard Education Board of Trustees… and a big fan of Semester at Sea!
Ghana
Located in West Africa, the nation of Ghana is of rugged, sub-saharan beauty bursting with a unique and thriving culture. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy treks through the Accra plains and neighboring reserves, while those seeking an authentic village immersion experience can make homestay arrangements through SAS field programs. Tour the infamous Cape Coast Castle and Slave Dungeons for a historical African perspective on the 17th century slave trade.
Morocco
Morocco is an immensely rich cultural center point of north-western Africa that exudes influences of all of the proximal regions, including Spain and the Mediterranean, Egypt, the Sahara Desert, and the Atlas Mountains. The port of Casablanca, established in the 20th century, is a busy metropolis and home to the Hassan II Mosque, the second largest in the world after Mecca. Teeming with color bazaars and exotic culture, Casablanca and nearby Rabat and Marrakech will give voyagers a taste of a culture far different from any other place.