Limon

Hola mismos, it has been a fun few days, we gave went from Sharaqupi to the Carribean Coast of In Limon. Tomorrow will will drive back to the central valley and the San Jose province. As for the past two days, we have been doing everything from a Canopy tour via sky trams, hiked through the forest at night and community service. Everyone has been working very hard to be the best rep of the program and being open minded! We are all completely sad our time here in Costa Rica is coming to a close as we have become really close friends and coleges, all is well here! Until next blog!

Justin

Nature walk!

Pura Vida everyone, today was overly exciting. Today we had the unique oppertunity to visit the Trimbina Wildlife Reserve. While there, we had to take soil samples, soil temp, the height of the tree and count groud coverage in certain areas. In the end we learned about the characteristics of the rain forest. While in the forest some delegates to see Toucans, sloth and Dart Frog. We later stoped in a community to help build a building to began a new. It rain during our visit it rained so we move to moved in side! We need up play for soccer. In the end another great day, Hasta Luego

Justin R
T

The Canopy and beyond

Hello everyone, pura vida from the forest floor. It has been a long busy week. It was hard to get intertnet access as well as keep our constant schedule.so with that, tuesday was pretty busy as we left Jaco for the mountains north of San Jose. At Palmichal did lots of work and slept in lodge type rooms. The next day we traveled from Palmichal to Heredia for the home stay. The homestays was very hospitable and thought about. During this week, we went to Ala Fortuna where the volcano Arenal is located, we also hiked up a volcane, celebrated a birthday and went zip lining. It is really a lot to say, Im glad you understand!

Justin

Rafting and Service

Pura Vida, today was an Awesome day as we took a bus from Jaco down to Quepos where we transfered to vans and a safari type vehicle to access the top of the river.
The entire adventure took us over class 3 & 4 Rapids over the course of about 2 hours. Along the adventure we saw snakes, native birds, flowers and more. After the rafting adventure we drove to a school that is known as the stadium. Upon arrival we were greeted by moms and staff members with fresh fruit, tea and water. At the school we painted, washed and scrubed walls  as well as cleaned up yard debries and interacted with the children. Today was a very rewarding day
Overall as the work we did was very needed. The next few days, Internet may not be accessable. So I will try to post as soon as I can!

Justin

Jaco and Harmosa

Buenos Tardes, today was an amazing day down in Costa Rica! Today we traveled from our overnight hotel near San Jose in the Valley de Central to the Coast de Pacifica and Jaco Beach. We we arrived in Jaco, the delegation was divided into two groups were one got to play first while the other worked anticipating a mid day swap. The surfing was pretty good. Most of the delegates atleast got to stand up once and ride the waves. The surf instructors were not only some of the best in Central America, but really encouraging. While hanging ten was a major part of todays activities, the helping hands the delegation provided to the Costa Rican People will never be forgot. Because as Costa Rica is not as ecconomically sound as others, the country cant afford to pay people to help keep the protected forest
Ptotected.  With that the delegation got a chance to help out the park rangers with protecting the nesting ground in which turtles lay their eggs. Other than that, the delegation had a really great time today! So Pura Vida until time.

Justin

Departure Day

Pura Vida, we have finally arrived in Costa Rica and are checked in to the hotel! We expirienced about a two hour delay back in Miami, other than that the delegation is bonding!

One Week Til Departure

I can not believe I'm only one week away from an tremendous journey in Costa Rica. One week to go and still a lot of preparations to go. I have to get things squared away to help make my logistics smooth as possible! I will keep you updated as the day approaches. Please subscribe!

Justin Robinson
Student Ambassador

Ambassadorial Focus and Departure

I'm really happy to say that I'm only 10 days out from this exciting adventure.  I can not wait until I'm on the plane at Hartsfield lining up for the runway. It has been a long road coming. I'm really proud to say that my program has the most service project than any of our other itineraries/programs. I'm so stoke can't wait to departure day!!!!!!!!

P.S. Go ahead and subscribe to my blog as I will be posting things all throughout the trip in Costa Rica.

Justin

Ambassadorial Preparations

I'm really getting excited about visiting the amazing and breath taking country of Costa Rica. While I prepare mentally and physically. Today brought preparations for the true Ambassador. Today I got some of the things I will be donating to the school and orphanage we will visit as part of our journey. Just 17 days and counting cant wait!
Justin Robinson
Student Ambassador

Orphanage and School Visits

On this particular itinerary, we are doing a lot of service projects. Some of our service projects will include a visit to both an Orphanage and School. The people of Costa Rica are at no economic state to afford and provide as much as we do in America despite the economic state of our own country. With that, I would like to solicit donations of any types of school supplies or athletic equipment such as soccer balls and jump ropes. These kids really can use a hand and I will be glad to provide them with that hand with this amazing opportunity. You can  shoot an email over to jqrp2p@gmail.com or drop by my websites contact me page to assist me in this. I look forward to your support in this endeavor.


Yours Truly,
Justin Robinson
Student Ambassador

Take A Look at our History

Travel Travel Travel

Well, 

Travel is practically right around the corner. I'm so excited about meeting my new delegation at the airport in Miami.  I'm really looking forward to Beautiful Costa Rica. I'm so excited about the opportunity to do this for the 2nd time. I really feel as if I ran for public office with all of the fundraisers and things I have done to put my self here. I really can not thank you all enough for helping me out in whatever way you did. It is truly a blessing getting to be an Ambassador. I have been blessed for the past two years with continuing my ambassadorial career and representing our local area. I still feel like my work is not done with these two years. There is a gut feeling that I will return to the program in the fall. But I don't know how this will go as I will be a senior. But only time will tell on what the man upstairs truly wants for me in the upcoming months. As for now I plan to do a good job this summer and have fun doing so!

Justin Robinson

Student Ambassador

2011 Supporters Annouced

Business Sponsors

Bruster's Ice Cream of Newnan

 

 138 Newnan Station Drive, Newnan, Georgia 30265

Visit them on the Web

Dairy Queen of Palmetto

 

9125 Roosevelt HWY, Palmetto, Georgia 30268

Visit them on the Web

  

 O' Charley's of Fayetteville

   

 1350 HWY 85 North, Fayetteville, Georgia 30214

Visit them on the Web 

Majestes Car Service & Repair Inc

4035 Great West Pkwy, Union City, GA 30291

 

Contact them by Phone at  (770) 969-3088

Metro Alloys, INC 

 

1024 Sampler Way East Point, Ga 30344 

Visit them on the Web 

RBC Bank Palmetto

 

9115 Roosevelt HWY, Palmetto, Georgia 30268

Visit them on the Web 

Personal Doners

  

• Mr. Jeff & Debbie Thompson
• Ms Rita Nicholson
• Mr. John Miller (Palmetto Mayor and Program Advocate)
• Ms. Kathy Berdan
• Ms. Laura Mullis 
• Mr. Randall & Mary Ballard
• Mr. Randy & Jenni Cunningham
• Ms. Sandra Rozes
• Ms. Bianca Hall
• Mr. Arthur & Linett Edgar
• Mrs. Barbra Lott
• Ms. Ariel Bishop
• Mrs. Beverly Simmons-Johnson
• Ms. Alice Redding 
• Mr. David & Maria Allgood
• Mrs. Marianne Cook
• Mr. Bradley Cook
• Mr. Richard Anthony
• Mr. Kevin Jones

 

 

 Other Support

 

 

 

 

• Mr. Bradley Cook- Leader Recommendations/Jr. Leader Mentor
• Ned Granville- Senior Leadership/Jr. Leader Mentor
• Jen Hohman- Senior Leadership/Jr. Leader Mentor
• Marianne Cook- Fundraising ideas/ Moral Support
• Pentrola Washington- Senior Travel Leadership/Jr. Leader supp
• Nancy Cook- Senior Travel Leadership/Jr. Leader Supp
• Peter Cook- Senior Travel Leadership/Jr. Leader Supp
• Ms. Ariel Bishop- Teacher/Personal Recommendations
• Mrs. Beverly Simmons-Johnson- Teacher/Personal Recommendations
• My Family- Moral and Financial support
• My Neighbors- Donations of Cans
• Mr. Donny & Rita Thomas- Donation of Ink Cartridges
• Community- Donation of Ink Cartridges
• First Baptist Church of Fairburn- Donation of Event Facilities 

 

Costa Rica Expedition Itinerary

Costa Rica Expedition 2011

San José, Costa Rica

• Greet your fellow Ambassadors in your gateway city before boarding your

international flight to Costa Rica.

• Welcome to Costa Rica! Upon arrival in into Juan Santamaria International

Airport in San José, you’ll be met by your Delegation Manager and motorcoach

driver who will accompany you to the hotel for dinner and a good night’s re

 DAY 1, July 23

San José, Costa Rica

• Greet your fellow Ambassadors in your gateway city before boarding your

international flight to Costa Rica.

• Welcome to Costa Rica! Upon arrival in into Juan Santamaria International

Airport in San José, you’ll be met by your Delegation Manager and motor coach

driver who will accompany you to the hotel for dinner and a good night’s rest.

DAY 2, July 24

Jacό, Costa Rica

• Depart this morning for the Jacó Area, where you will begin your surfing lessons.

• Surfs up! Work with experienced instructors to develop your surfing skills. You

will have a great experience!

• Jacó is world renowned for having consistent waves and an easy beach break,

which allows you to surf almost the entire beach.

• Enjoy the afternoon being part of a service project at Playa Hermosa Wildlife

Refuge. You will help with activities such as reforestation, beach cleaning, trail

maintenance, or a beach project where you learn how to prepare hatcheries for

turtles.

DAY 3, July 25

Jacό, Costa Rica

• Prepare to get wet when you board your raft for some of the world’s best white

water rafting in Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio Area.

• Experience Costa Rica’s beautiful rivers from a different perspective as you

plunge through dramatic and largely unexplored tropical wilderness.

• These rivers descend from the mountains above Quepos, through jungle gorges

to near sea level farmlands and palm oil plantations.

• Your rafting adventure will bring you to Rio Naranjo, where you will get out and

explore the area.

• Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Manuel Antonio Beach

• Note: Be sure to apply sunscreen and reapply it frequently to avoid

sunburn.

DAY 4, July 26

Palmichal de Acosta, Costa Rica

• Depart for the community of Palmichal de Acosta, which has one of the closest

cloud forest reserves to San José.

• At Nacientes de Palmichal, work with your fellow delegates on one of several

different projects ranging from maintenance of the reforested areas, repairing the

rural lodge, to making trash cans for recycling different materials.

• Learn about how earthworms help compost the waste from the Beneficio

Palmichal.

• Tonight, enjoy the rhythm of the music as you practice your Latin dancing.

DAY 5, July 27

Heredia, Costa Rica

• Travel back to San José, where you will visit an orphanage. This nongovernmental

organization is dedicated to providing orphans with a caring home

until they can be adopted by families or come of age to be on their own.

• You will have the opportunity to interact with the children and provide some

donations, or work directly in a service project.

• Continue your journey to Santa Barbara de Heredia, where you will spend the

next two nights in the home of your home stay family.

• Gather to enjoy a welcome dinner with your host family and participate in Latin

dance lessons.

Day 6, July 28

Heredia, Costa Rica

• Today, visit a Recreational Park in Heredia where you will experience traditional

recreational activities, such as sack-races and other games.

• Make new friends and spend time with Costa Rican students while enjoying a

picnic lunch.

• Spend time with your host family and enjoy this truly unique opportunity to

experience the daily life and customs of a real Costa Rican family.

• Remember to thank your home stay family, as this will be your last night with

them.

• Be sure to bring your pictures of friends and family back home, as your host

family will enjoy seeing them.

DAY 7, July 29

Arenal, Costa Rica

• Don’t forget to exchange address information with your host family so you can

keep in touch!

• Continue your journey to the Arenal Area and stop along the way at the town of

La Fortuna, located in the valley of the Arenal Volcano. Bordering the Rio Burio,

La Fortuna is the closest town to Arenal Volcano.

• Participate in a service project which allows you to work alongside community

members to make a difference within their communities. Examples of

social/cultural projects include painting or light construction/maintenance at local

schools or community institutions, building a sidewalk or a bus stop.

• In the afternoon, visit a local school where you have the opportunity to interact

with children and bring donations, such as school supplies. Time permitting, you

can read to the school children before they perform traditional folkloric dances

for you.

• After your hard work reward yourself with as you relax in the Ecotermales Hot

Springs. Here you will find several different pools filled with warm mineral water.

Volcanic hot springs are the result of rainwater heated by magma in the Earth’s

interior and are a natural wonder of the area.

DAY 8, July 30

Arenal, Costa Rica

• Begin a hike through the tropical rainforest of the Tenorio Volcano National Park.

You will arrive at the “Los Teñíderos” of the Rio Celeste, the site where two

streams of crystalline water come together and form a heavenly color blue that

gives the river its name. Along the river you’ll find hot springs, varied flora and

fauna, and a pristine waterfall.

• Ecological trails lead you to the “OLLAS” openings in the earth where you can

excavate healing mud to take a mud bath. Dip into the natural hot springs while

observing the wonders of Tenorio Volcano.

• Continue your hike through the jungle to seek out the volcano’s furnace vents

that expel gases of extreme high temperatures. Enjoy the heat from a safe

distance and marvel at one of Earth’s natural wonders.

• Note: For the hike please bring - long pants, swim suits, towel, hiking

shoes, camera, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent and a raincoat.

DAY 9, July 31

Sarapiqui , Costa Rica

• Continue your journey to the Sarapiqui Area

• Enjoy a canopy tour over the verdant rainforest and canyon, traversing cables

and platforms over 90 feet high! Your unique experience will take you through a

canyon where you start from the edge at the ground and after several tree and

ground platforms you end up at a landing platform on the ground, having crossed

the canyon 2 or 3 times.

• learn how to make traditional Costa Rican dishes in a cooking class lead by a

local community leader. Learn about the history, botanical names and cultivation

of each fresh ingredient.

• Your menu may consist of guacamole (avocado dip), batidos (milkshakes),

empanadas (turnovers), Costa Rican tortillas, or patacones (fried green

plantains). Enjoy sampling all of your culinary creations at the end of the class.

• Note: Bring comfortable shoes, long pants, sun block and camera for your

canopy tour.

DAY 10, August 01

Sarapiqui, Costa Rica

• Later today you will explore the Tirimbina Biological Reserve, one of the most

protected areas in the country.

• Take part in an exclusive People to People experience when you learn what it

takes to be an environmental scientist for a day! Learn about cutting edge

research and how scientists around the world are looking at the rainforest

ecosystems to solve complex questions.

• Fall asleep to the harmonious lullaby of the jungle´s night sounds during an

overnight stay in a tent suite. Each suite has its own deck, surrounded by lush

rainforest foliage. What animals do you imagine you’ll hear tonight?

DAY 11, August 02

Limόn, Costa Rica

• After breakfast, travel to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica and arrive in Brisas,

near the historic Port of Limόn.

• Begin your discovery of the reserve with an aerial tram ride through the tropical

rainforest canopy to explore trails found in this unique rainforest habitat.

• View Costa Rica’s National Institute of Biodiversity (INBio) biological station.

Here, researchers are actively working to discover and catalog new species.

• Wind your way through walking trails full of interactive live exhibits including

snakes, butterflies and the world’s largest nocturnal frog exhibit.

• Participate in an environmental research project involving rainforest butterfly

catch and release, and insect identification. After your identification and data

collection project, enjoy dinner at the Veragua Rainforest camp.

Take a night hike down the main road of the Veragua Rainforest property and

listen to night sounds. Keep your eyes open for nocturnal mammals including

kinkajous, opossum and the five different species of owls found in Veragua. You

might also spot some interesting nocturnal insects

DAY 12, August 03

Limόn, Costa Rica

• Participate in a school service project! Enjoy a true People to People day of

activities as you help with projects such as painting the local school, planting

trees and interacting with the local school children.

• Continue your journey to EARTH University..

• Tonight you will enjoy a barbeque dinner with a special folkloric activity.

Note: Please come prepared for your service project with insect repellant,

rain gear, and comfortable shoes. Be ready to help the community, make

new friends and have fun!

DAY 13, August 04

San Jose, Costa Rica

• Learn about Costa Rican agriculture when you visit EARTH University’s banana

farm. Banana farms in the area are managed under the principles of sustainable

production and utilization of human resources. Follow the entire production from

fruit harvesting, handling and packaging to markets in the U.S. and Europe.

• After lunch, depart for San José.

DAY 14, August 05

Depart for the U.S.

• After packing your suitcase for the last time, make sure you have everything you

need for the flight in your carry-on.

• Depart for the San José International Airport.

• Don’t forget to thank your motorcoach driver and delegation manager before you

step off the motorcoach for the final time.

• Welcome back to the United States!

Costa Rica Expedition

Hello everyone,

This has been a long week dealing with the program office and the various travel departments within it. With that being said, I have some good news and some bad news. BAD NEWS: I will no longer be apart of the Atlanta based Journey through the South Pacific Program/Tour. GOOD NEWS: I have been reassigned to a National People to People Delegation (with myself representing the Atlanta area) on the Costa Rica Expedition program! What this pretty much means is that I 'm now part of an Alumni only delegation that is set to depart for the beautiful country of Costa Rica in Late July. I know this news comes at the very last minute as travel was set for Sunday. This happened because of some financial and scheduling issues between the program office, my self and other third parties. I'm sadden to leave my Atlanta based delegation, but I'm pleased to join this National Delegation as a Jr. Leader. I will be editing all of my online People to People sites to convert them over to Costa Rica information. Therefore, somethings may not be available when accessing my sites. Thanks again everyone for your tremendous support and understanding! 

Sincerely,
Justin Robinson
Student Ambassador

2012 Reassignment

Dear Friends & Supporters,

It has been a very long road these past few months as we both prepared for this years journey. Unfortunately, yesterday I was notified by the program office about some financial conflicts as well as scheduling issues that have caused me to terminate my 2011 ambassadorial tour. What this means, is I will not be traveling this summer to the South Pacific.It was very heart breaking news with just 8 days until departure and so much invested in this years trip. What I can say now is that everyone who has donated money towards my 2011 journey will not go to waste as I have put in for 2012 reassignment. This will place me on a 2012 delegation where as it looks now, I will be traveling to the Mediterranean (France, Italy and Greece). But only time will tell and I will keep everyone posted on what will be happen in the next few weeks as far as 2012 assignments. Sorry to be the barer of bad news, thanks for your understanding!


Sincerely,
Justin Robinson
Student Ambassador

Spring is In the Air, Departure is Around the Corner!

Dear Friends & Supporters,

In past few weeks I have launched more funding initiatives to help raise the remaining balance of $3,900.00. I will be hosting a Spirit Night this evening as well as making an appearance at the local Spring Festival in Palmetto on May 21. I also have many other funding oppertunities for you to take part in, such as I'm still collecting cans and ink cartridges to recycle as well as selling graduation mementos/inspirational plaques, and a really big online fundraiser I'm doing with another local delegation (funding link below). As travel gets closer, I get more and more excited about the journey me and my delegation will embark on in few days. With that I have even been featured in a local community spotlight for the month of May. We are 31 days away from another fantastic adventure and I look forward to blogging throughout and after my journey. See you guys next blog, stay in touch!

Funding: Click Here

Community Spotlight: Click Here

Sincerely,

Justin Robinson
Student Ambassador

Official Itinerary Released

Dear Friends and Supporters,




As of today the official program/tour itinerary has been released for my trip. I have posted it below; I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did. Please note that this itinerary is can change without notice!



Justin Robinson

Student Ambassador





2011 SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES



FH: JOURNEY THROUGH THE SOUTH PACIFIC






FH 06/19-1






JUNE 19. JULY 10, 2011





SUNDAY, JUNE 19



Depart for Fiji



• Greet your fellow Ambassadors before boarding your international flight to Nadi, Fiji.



MONDAY, JUNE 20



En route



• Lose a day as you cross the International Date Line en route to Fiji.





TUESDAY, JUNE 21



Sigatoka, Fiji Islands



• Bula! Welcome to Fiji!



• Upon arrival in Nadi, you will be welcomed by your People to People Delegation Manager with a traditional Fijian lei garland.



• Board your motor coach for an orientation of the villages along the coast.



• Visit the Kula Bird Eco Park and immerse yourself in a microcosm of Fijifs natural wildlife. Relax as you wander through acres of lush rainforest, while you encounter some of Fiji’s indigenous flora and fauna.



• After clearing customs, you will have the opportunity to convert your U.S. dollars to Fijian currency at the airport.





WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22



Sigatoka, Fiji Islands



• Have you ever wondered what school is like in other parts of the world? You will have the unique opportunity to spend the day with local Fijian students, interacting and exchanging ideas.



• This is the opportunity of a lifetime, so be sure to have your Friendship Cards handy so you can stay in touch with your new friends.



• Don’t forget to pack your day bag for tomorrow with a sarong (sulu), swimsuit, sun hat, sunglasses (with strap), sunscreen, water bottle, water shoes, and a change of dry clothes as you will be sure to get wet. You will also have the opportunity to buy some handicraft items from the local villagers, it is recommended to come prepared with some smaller change in Fijian currency.









THURSDAY, JUNE 23



Navua, Fiji Islands



• Be welcomed into a Fijian community and learn how Fijians survive on a subsistence lifestyle in a rural village.



• You will receive an introduction to Fijian culture and traditions by participating in village activities, a Kava Ceremony, and enjoy a traditional Fijian meal with the villagers.



• Journey upriver on traditional longboats. Be amazed by the natural beauty of the rainforests and waterfalls that will be your constant view upstream.



• Enjoy a swim at a natural waterfall pond.



• Don’t forget to pack your day bag for tomorrow with a water bottle, sun hat, good walking shoes, sunscreen, and a camera.





FRIDAY, JUNE 24



Sigatoka, Fiji Islands



• Take a scenic drive eastward through the Coral Coast, pass local villages and arrive at Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park. Get ready to explore the dunes.



• Have a tour of Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park and meet an enthusiastic team of park rangers, who will exclusively join your delegation for the day.



• Experience the natural beauty of the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park with its walking trails and spectacular views from Juvonulevu (Turtle) Lookout. As you walk the trails, enjoy bird watching and see evidence of Fijian history scattered on the dunes.



• Help make an impact in the reforestation of the area, hug a tree and search for soles. This is a unique opportunity to give back to the local community through your environmental service project.





SATURDAY, JUNE 25



Nadi, Fiji Islands



• Journey to Denarau Marina and meet local Fijian students, who will be travelling with you to Mystery (Tivua) Island.



• Set sail on the 110-foot yacht from the Governor General’s Brigantine RaMarama for an all-day island and cruise adventure!



• Sunbathe in the bowsprit and enjoy the music and entertainment as you sail to Tivua Island.



• Enjoy your island paradise with activities including glass bottom boat tours, snorkeling the coral reefs and local games.






SUNDAY, JUNE 26



Nadi, Fiji Islands



• Enjoy a light breakfast before your early morning pickup from the hotel to Nadi International Airport.



• Bid farewell to your Fiji team and board your flight to New Zealand.



• Welcome to Auckland, the city of sails!



• On arrival at the Auckland International Airport, meet your New Zealand Delegation Manager.



• Auckland’s suburbs spread generously over a narrow isthmus between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea.



• Travel south through to the Bay of Plenty.



• This evening spend the night in a Marae . an authentic Maori meeting house and the focal point of the Maori culture.



• Dinner this evening is in the style of a Hangi, prepared using steam or hot rocks in a pit oven.



• Explore Maori culture through songs, stories and dances.





MONDAY, JUNE 27



Full On - Rotorua, New Zealand



• Take part in Full On, a day long program specially designed for People to People Student Ambassadors to help achieve new levels of self-awareness and personal development.



• Today is about challenge excitement and energy! Get ready for a full day packed with adventure and personal growth with your Full On team. Experience activities such as leadership and personal development activities.



• Conquer an outdoor adventure course!





TUESDAY, JUNE 28



Rotorua, New Zealand.



• Your delegation will receive a civic welcome at the Rotorua Council Chambers by a member of the Rotorua City Council.



• Learn about the local government and community in the area.



• Discover the essence of Rotorua at the Historical Rotorua Museum of Art & History, located in the historic Rotorua Bath House building.



• Visit Mount Ngongotaha via a gondola and enjoy a bird’s eye view of Rotorua. Hang on tight during your exciting and fun luge ride to the bottom of the mountain.



• Explore Waimangu Thermal Valley, an amazing series of thermal pools and craters created by the volcanic environment.







WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29



Waikato Region Home Stay - Waikato, New Zealand



• Board a vessel and take a short trip out across Rotorua Lake to the sacred Mokoia Island.



• Discover how ancient traditions may be part of the solution for preserving the natural balance between man and the environment.



• Take a step back in time and enjoy an English style tea lunch at the beautiful Blue Baths.



• Continue through the beautiful farmlands of the Waikato to your home stay location.



• Meet your home stay family and be welcomed into their home for the next three nights. Enjoy this unique opportunity to be immersed in local culture and learn about life in New Zealand.



• Be sure to bring your pictures of friends and family back home, as your host family will enjoy seeing them.





THURSDAY, JUNE 30



Waikato Region Home Stay - Waikato, New Zealand



• Today, if school is in session, you will have the opportunity to attend school with local students and experience life as a student in New Zealand.





FRIDAY, JULY 01



Waikato Region Home Stay - Waikato, New Zealand



• Your home stay continues with a chance to experience everyday life in New Zealand and meet the locals.



• Remember to thank your home stay family, as this will be your last night with them.





SATURDAY, JULY 02



Auckland, New Zealand



• Don’t forget to exchange address information with your host family so you can keep in touch!



• Bid farewell to your home stay family.



• Enjoy highlights of the city of Auckland.





SUNDAY, JULY 03



Depart for Sydney, Australia



•  This morning breakfast is not included in the hotel, but served on your flight.



• Board your coach and transfer to the Auckland International Airport and check-in for your flight to Australia.



• G'day, mate! Welcome to Australia, the land down under!



• Meet your Australian Delegation Manager upon arrival at Sydney Airport, who willwelcome you to Sydney!





• The largest city in Australia and the capital of New South Wales, Sydney is uniquely set on the natural harbor of Port Jackson.



• Explore the Olympic Park Grounds with an orientation of ANZ Stadium, the siteof the Sydney 2000 Olympics’ opening and closing ceremonies.



• Try your hand at cricket as you learn about Australiafs most popular summer sport.



• May we suggest comfortable walking shoes for your time in Sydney?



MONDAY, JULY 04



Sydney, Australia



• Leave the city behind and discover the scenic Blue Mountains.



• Ride on the world's steepest incline railway and take a guided orientation along the valley.



• Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Harbor with Sydneyfs skyline as your spectacular backdrop.





TUESDAY, JULY 05



Sydney, Australia



• Learn about Australia’s national gemstone, the opal, at an opal establishment.



• Enjoy a guided orientation of the majestic Sydney Opera House complex as you go behind the scenes. You’ll have a backstage pass to experience areas that are not accessible to the public and exclusive for People to People Student Ambassadors.



• Surfs up! Take to the water at the famous Bondi Beach and try your hand at surfing. You will have exclusive use of the historic Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club.



• Dine at a Sydney restaurant overlooking Darling Harbor.





WEDNESDAY, JULY 06



Cairns, Australia



• This morning, board your flight for Cairns.



• This coastal cosmopolitan city is nestled in northern Queensland amid two of Australia’s most treasured World Heritage destinations, the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.



• Travel north along the scenic coastal road to the picturesque township of Port Douglas, situated between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree National Park.



• Encounter Australia’s unique fauna, such as koalas, kangaroos, and emus at a wildlife sanctuary.



• Cuddle a koala and have your photo taken!



• Don't forget to pack your day bag for tomorrow with sunscreen, sun hat, swimsuit, and towel. An underwater camera will capture those magical moments on the Reef!









THURSDAY, JULY 07



Cairns, Australia



• Cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef across pristine waters.



• Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef and see brightly colored tropical fish, giant clams, and different types of soft and hard coral.



• Any questions that may arise out of your exploration of the Reef, talk to the Marine Biologist that exclusively joins your delegation for this experience.





FRIDAY, JULY 08



Cairns, Australia



• Take a bird’s eye view above the rainforest canopy on an elevated walkway above the Wooroonooran National Park.



• Participate in a community service project by making scones, then sharing them with the elderly citizens of Malanda. Many of these citizens were early pioneers in the development and settlement of this area. Learn a great deal about Australian history during this cultural exchange, while enjoying your culinary talent with the residents.



• Explore the Cairns Night Markets, a lively emporium for all things unique and Australian for those last minute souvenirs.





SATURDAY, JULY 09



Cairns, Australia



• Learn how to throw a boomerang and a spear as you interact with local Aboriginal people.



• Learn different forms of Aboriginal art, whilst painting your own boomerang to keep.



• Go walkabout! Discover how Aboriginal People utilize the local environment to sustain life during a river walk.



• May we suggest water shoes, as the creek bed is rocky.







SUNDAY, JULY 10



Depart for home



• After packing your suitcase for the last time, make sure you have everything you need for the flight, in your carry-on.



• Board the motor coach to the airport for your return flight to the United States.

•  Board the motor coach to the airport for your return flight to the United States.

Support, Support, Support!

Dear Friends and Supporters,

I hope you all have been enjoying your private lifes. As of today I'm 59 days away from departure and about $4,200.00 short of my tuition. I really need your help over the next couple of weeks as we are in what I like to call fundraising overdrive. Please promote and spread the word of my cause and determination to represent our local area in Fiji, New Zealand and Australia. I look forward to seeing what you all have to bring forth in support of my cause. Before I forget, I will be hosting another Spirit Night @ DQ on May 18th. Go ahead and mark that date on your calendars. I will be releasing all of the details by the end of the week. Thanks for your support and time!

Yours Truly,

Justin Robinson
Student Ambassador

Spirit Night

Wednesday April 6, 2011 5-8pm

Join Justin for a night full of Ambassadorial Sprit! Justin will receive a portion of the proceeds of every purchase made. You will also get a chance to mingle and meet with some of the local People to People family and city officials. This is truly a night you don’t want to miss. For the night only Dairy Queen will be offering a 4 piece Chicken Tender Basket Combo for just $3.99! So don't just bring one, bring the entire gang for this community involved event!

Where: Dairy Queen of Palmetto

9125 ROOSEVELT HWY

PALMETTO, GA 30268-1849

Flight Information

Ok, my flight information has been released by the program office and I'm forwarding you the information!



AirLine Flight Number Departure Airport Arrival Airport Departure Time Arrival Time


American Airlines 565 Atlanta Dallas - Ft Worth 6/19/2011 3:35:00 PM 6/19/2011 4:55:00 PM

American Airlines 2479 Dallas - Ft Worth Los Angeles 6/19/2011 7:45:00 PM 6/19/2011 8:50:00 PM

Qantas Airways 3838 Los Angeles Nadi 6/19/2011 11:30:00 PM 6/21/2011 5:10:00 AM

Qantas Airways 3842 Nadi Auckland 6/26/2011 8:45:00 AM 6/26/2011 11:55:00 AM

Qantas Airways 142 Auckland Sydney 7/3/2011 8:00:00 AM 7/3/2011 9:40:00 AM

Qantas Airways 924 Sydney Cairns 7/6/2011 9:15:00 AM 7/6/2011 12:25:00 PM

Qantas Airways 799 Cairns Brisbane 7/10/2011 5:30:00 AM 7/10/2011 7:30:00 AM

Qantas Airways 015 Brisbane Los Angeles 7/10/2011 10:55:00 AM 7/10/2011 7:00:00 AM

US Airways 051 Los Angeles Phoenix 7/10/2011 9:50:00 AM 7/10/2011 11:09:00 AM

US Airways 569 Los Angeles Phoenix 7/10/2011 9:50:00 AM 7/10/2011 11:09:00 AM

US Airways 614 Phoenix Atlanta 7/10/2011 3:10:00 PM 7/10/2011 9:42:00 PM

US Airways 614 Phoenix Atlanta 7/10/2011 3:15:00 PM 7/10/2011 10:00:00 PM

My 2011 Travel Goals

                                                                  Hello everyone,

I know a lot of people have been puzzled about why I really like doing this sort of thing. A lot of say I'm nuts or your not making a difference in our world. All those things maybe in your own opinion, but to me I feel that this program has a purpose and would have not been started by President Eisenhower back in 1956 if it didn't serve such a purpose. This year, I plan to serve a huge purpose in the education of student back here on the home front as well as the students in countries like Fiji where they have little to no education at all. I'm really looking forward to doing the service project in Fiji and seeing the appreciative faces of people that have so little but yet a lot "if that makes any sense to you". I can not describe how excited I get inside when I think about the people I will have to opportunity to meet and impact their lives this summer. This type of trip is what I live for, as I am always interested in how other people live their lives. I really want to just be able to go out this summer and positively represent our country and it's future as I am a beacon of World Peace with People to People and the Ambassador Program! All-in-All my departure day is in T minus 103 days and counting and I need your support financially, mentally, and physically as I prepare to change my and others lives FOREVER!

Yours truly,

Justin Robinson

Student Ambassador

Whats New!

Hello Everyone,

This past week has been a very busy one over here on my end. To start of the week I had a meeting with my Delegation as well as a lot of other stuff at school! But on top of that I have launched to new major pieces to my 2011 campaign! Today I'm proud to say that my website is now completely accessible on any mobile device as this week I have just released my mobile beta. It can be viewed by visiting http://m.jqrp2p.com/ or just by logging on using a mobile device. Although the mobile site will play a major role in my financial success in 2011, another key aspect to success was released yesterday. This weekend I also released my new approach to getting people active and donating. Yesterday I released 10 x 250 = Success! This campaign will enable community support to the max as I drive my twitter and facebook with encouragements to donate to my amazing cause. This campaign encourages 250 people to donate just $10.00 to my 2011 program tuition via my website leaving me with $2,500.00 to put towards my trip. I must say thus far it has proven to grab people's attention and makes them want to support me as their local student representative!

Justin Robinson
Student Ambassador

The Ambassadorial Dinner

Hey everyone,

The Ambassadorial Dinner is almost here! After months of preparations, the big day is two weeks away! Please come out to this very special dinner event that is set to take place on March 19th at 6pm at the First Baptist Church of Fairburns Fellowship Building! The evenings menu include Spaghetti with a Meat Sauce, Bread, Salad, Dessert, and a Beverage.The cost for adults is $5.00, children $3.00 and groups of 5 $15. We ask that everyone at least make a make a reservation. These can be made by contacting us directly by email at jqrp2p@gmail.com or by phone at 770-463-9624. This is definitely an evening you will not want to forget, see you there!

Justin Robinson

Student Ambassador

It's Getting out of Hand

Ok, over the past several months I have been giving my all to get ready and ensure my communities representation on this program in 2011. But unfortunetly my funding efforts have been getting sabatoashed. My funding flyer's have been getting removed from locations, my school does not support it, and some people just brush off the fact that this is not just some high school trip! I really don't know what to say, but I can say this I will keep pushing on and pulling through. After all I really want to represent the community in the South Pacific this summer. I really love the Ambassador program with all of my heart and soul, I would have never accepted the request for me to return or applied for a Jr. Leadership Position if I didn't see the need to forward the worlds education of one another outside of the traditional school setting. WE CAN NOT LEARN ABOUT EACH OTHER IN A BOOK! I enjoy learning about the people and places in a one on one relationship to gain my own perspectives and friendships with people and nations our government can't. I enjoying giving back to the people in places we visit that don't have as much as I do, I enjoy working with the antcious students that we visit in each country to develop an understanding of American customs, government and  way of life. With that being said I really need your help in backing me, without your support there wouldn't be great programs like People to People International or People to People Ambassador Programs. So please if you see anyone trying to harm my fundraising campaign I encourage you to tell them how they are only hurting themselves by cutting off global connections with people our government may never reach.

P.S. I'm really in a lost for words on the issues of the middle east. What I can say is that it's great to see a country standing up for their voice to be heard in the process of selecting their leaders. But let's hope this upraisings don't cause for any wars or violent ways of protest. As for the attacts in Germany, I feel that it's really sad the people of alkida have not came to understand the beliefs of America and it's People as well as the rest of the democratic nations around the world.

Justin Robinson
Student Ambassador

NYLF

Justin pictured in front of the U.S. Capital Building (Washington, D.C.)

What an Amazing week! A lot of you may or may not know about my reccent trip to Washington D.C.  Last September I was invited to travel to D.C for 6 days because of my international knowledge and good academic standing by Major General Stanley Hyman, to dicuss National Security and National Security Strategy. While In D.C. I had the unique oppertunity to meet with some of the nations top officials in the field of National Security. During the week I had the oppertunity to visit with members of the House and Senate, the Ambassador of Israel, Intel officers from the CIA, and a lot of other things that are rarely open to the civilian population. What an exprience the staff of the National Youth Leadership Forum offered during that week. I truly have gained even more respect for our nations policy makers, and can't wait until I get the oppertunity to possibly be in their shoes one day!

Justin Robinson

Student Ambassador