A fitting capstone to the Yinghua immersion experience is a two-week learning trip to a Mandarin speaking country for 7th and 8th graders. Students jointly plan and complete a focused project during travel. The details of the trip change each year based on many factors. Due to the pandemic, the 2023 trip to Taiwan will include 7th and 8th graders, as well as Yinghua graduates from the past three years.
Trip Objectives
- Be a traveler, not a tourist
- Learn about the culture
- Immerse yourself in language and culture
- Use the Chinese language in practical application
- Make friends
For those participating on this summer’s trip, please visit the 2023 Taiwan Trip page (link opens in a new tab).
FAQ from Parents
What does the trip cost?
The cost to the students is expected to be between $3,000 and $5,000. The 2023 trip to Taiwan has a cost of $5,000 per student. The cost includes airfare, transportation, local lodging, chaperones, local tour guides, museum admittance, etc. Spending money is extra. We have received grants many years to help defray the costs, but we do not know about this very far in advance, so use the full amount for planning purposes.
Where does the trip go?
It is not the same trip every year! The itinerary generally rotates – one year northern China, one year southern China or Taiwan. It is usually in the summer just after the school year ends, but occasionally trips may be taken during the school year (i.e., over spring break).
What is the adult to student ratio?
One Yinghua instructor per ten students (1:10 ratio)
Where do students stay?
We usually use hotels but also try to plan homestays for a few nights with families of a sister school.
May I serve as one of the trip chaperones?
No. This is a full immersion educational trip led by instructors. There are occasional exceptions, so if your child has a medical condition or if you speak Mandarin, contact Dr. Lien to discuss further.
Who is eligible to go?
Students are eligible to apply for the trip during their 7th or 8th grade year. Sixth graders may apply but will only be selected if extra space is available. Each student must submit a written application with a deposit by the deadline (look for an announcement in December).
How many students can go on the trip?
We need a minimum of 10 students and a maximum of 20 students to conduct the trip. For years in which there are groups larger than 20 who apply, we will consider adding additional groups or trips.