S2 Episode 54: Planning Meaningful Travel – Lessons from Reggio Emilia

About this episode

Amy and Cheryl discuss the intricacies of planning meaningful travel experiences, drawing from Cheryl's extensive experience in guiding study abroad trips to Reggio Emilia, Italy.

In this episode, Amy turns the microphone toward Cheryl to reflect on her most recent study abroad trip to Reggio Emilia, Italy—a place known around the world for its innovative approach to early childhood education. But this conversation goes far beyond travel stories. Instead, Amy invites Cheryl to unpack what it really means to design and lead a meaningful travel experience for others. Cheryl shares what it’s like to guide a group of university students through a place she has now visited more than a dozen times. From organizing school visits and cultural experiences to managing the emotional dynamics of a group traveling together in a foreign country, she describes the invisible work behind the scenes of a successful study trip. Planning travel for others, she explains, means balancing structure and flexibility, making thoughtful logistical decisions, and considering the needs and personalities of the entire group. One of the most unique aspects of Cheryl’s approach is her intentional focus on community building before the trip even begins. By using character strengths conversations and reflective practices, she helps participants understand one another and develop empathy…

People in this episode

Host: Amy

Guest: Cheryl

Topics covered

• travel
• education
• community building
• empathy
• study abroad

Keywords

• Reggio Emilia
• early childhood education
• cultural experiences
• group dynamics
• reflective practices

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Planning Meaningful Travel – Lessons

Places: Reggio Emilia, Italy

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