Program Guidelines
Participants in the program are members of one large delegation that represents the University of Louisville and the United States of America. How individuals behave or react to situations as they arrive will often reflect upon all members of the delegation. For this reason, several participant guidelines are provided for all participants of the program. Although these are limited in number, common courtesies and respect for others should always be displayed.
1. Being on time is essential to smooth operations of the program since one individual being tardy can detain the entire group.
2. Individuals are not permitted to leave the hotel compound unless they have the permission of their faculty member and are accompanied by both their “buddy” and their faculty.
3. Alcoholic gift packages may be purchased at the duty free shops at the airport upon the return flight to the United States.
4. Participants are not permitted to operate motor vehicles or golf carts while in Belize.
5. Snorkeling is permitted in designated areas only. Ask if you are not sure of the designated areas.
6. Scuba diving may not always be permitted. Additional information will be provided at the orientation session.
7. It is important to maintain one’s professional distance with the people in the communities. This includes personal commitments and promises such as inviting individuals to the U.S.
8. Under no circumstances is smoking permitted in or near the hotel or the worksites. Many structures are constructed of wood and the communities have limited fire fighting resources. As a courtesy, please do not smoke when near others participating in the program.
9. You are strongly advised to keep money and all valuables in a safe place. Always have your passport with you and safely secured at all times.
10. Life vests must be worn at all times while in water craft.
11. Please never forget that this is a developing country and an educational experience. Accommodations will not be perfect, schedules will be changed, dining will be unique, travel schedules will be modified, and many other possible inconveniences will challenge you. Be positive and respectful.
12. Be mindful that you are a guest in the country and that you are an ambassador of the University of Louisville and the United States of America. Always respect and adhere to the local customs of the country and the communities.
The Eight Commandments of Travel
- Thou shalt not expect to find things as thou hast at home, for thou has left home to find things different.
- Thou shalt not take anything too seriously, for a relaxed mind is the start of a good experience.
- Thou shalt not let thy fellow travelers get on thy nerves, for thou hast toiled greatly for this noble and deserved adventure.
- Remember to take half as many clothes as thou thinkest and twice the money.
- Know at all times where thy passport is, for a person without a passport is a person without a country.
- Remember that if we had been expected to stay in one place we would have been created with roots.
- Thou shalt not worry for he/she that worrieth hath no pleasure and few things are that fatal.
- When in Rome be prepared to do somewhat as the Romans do, for thou is not in thine own house.
