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SLOCA COMMUNITY. 4TH EDITION. BIRTH OF A MODERN NATION An American Story Washington DC • Williamsburg • Monticello • And more April 12-19, 2025 a Family Learning Journey by meal choices Dear DC Crew, Please make your selections for your meals on the trip. Fill out the form for each person traveling in your group. You will see that although there is dinner included every day, you aren’t making a choice at this point each night. Some places will be a buffet or served family style. If you have developed any new food allergies, please let us know ASAP. If we do not hear back from you, we will be ordering the menu item that is listed as the default in each case (it will be the safest option in each case). Thanks for your help in pre-ordering by April 6th, 2025 (11.59pm:). This will help our trip run smoother and we’ll spend less time sitting and waiting in restaurants. Thank you! START If at any moment, you encounter difficulties, let us know and we'll be happy to assit you. First Name* Last Name* E‑mail* Meals Choice for: Day 2 (Sunday) DINNER in Williamsburg, VA Chicken Tenders & Fries [KIDS ONLY] Chicken Alfred Pasta with Garlic Crostini [DEFAULT CHOICE] Shrimp Over Ham Grany with Potato & Vegetable Chesapeake Crab Cakes with Potato and Vegetable Day 4 (Tuesday) LUNCH BOX in Monticello, VA Turkey & Cheddar [KIDS ONLY] Virginia Ham & Cheese [DEFAULT CHOICE] Heirloom Tomato Caprese Sandwich Chicken Salad Croissant Day 4 (Tuesday) DINNER (Arlington) RAGTIME Classic Burger with waffle fries [DEFAULT OR KID CHOICE] Ahi Tuna with Grain Blend and Spinach & Mushroom Jambalaya with Chicken and Andouille Sausage Shrimp Po'Boy with Garden SALAD Day 6 (Thursday) DINNER in Gettysburg, PA Chicken Tenders with Salad & Baked Potato [KID CHOICE] Fine Fowl (chicken) with Shrimp [DEFAULT CHOICE] Shrimp Stuffed with Crabmeat & Cream Medley of Scallops, Shrimp & Crab over Pasta Pork Tenderloin & Raspberry Sauce Chicken Breast Topped with Onions, Tomatoes & Mushroom Comments SEND If you're travelling as a family, please fill out this form for each person traveling in your group! START AGAIN

BlueStoneBlueOcean specializes in Cultural Immersion Trips: small group, friends & family-style, getting off the beaten track, meeting people, and experiencing the authentic side of a foreign land. Each of these trips are absolutely unique! Contact To receive full information about our trips or experience, or schedule a call/video-call, or register or ask us any question: First Name Last Name E-mail Country code Phone Mailing address Which trip(s) are you interested in? Birth of a Modern Nation 2025 • USA My France By Cédric 2025 Near and Dear to My Heart • Argentina + Chile Along the Mediterranean • Spain + France + Italy Behind & Beyond • France + Germany My California By Cindy Other: Potential number of travelers I would like to * Required Receive more information Set up a (video)call about the trip Register for the trip Subscribe to BlueStoneBlueOcean's newsletter Send You can also just send us a Whatsapp message directly from your mobile by clicking on the button down below (toolbar)! NEWSLETTR

In search for the real art de vivre, BlueStoneBlueOcean specializes in Cultural Immersion Trips: small group, friends & family-style, getting off the beaten track, meeting people, and experiencing the authentic side of a foreign land. Each of these trips are absolutely unique. © 2023, Memories from Rome (Italy) © 2017, Memories from Washington DC (USA) Family Journey. Essential. Birth of a Modern Nation Family Learning Journey - picture: © GypsySoul • thedensecompany © 2022, Memories from Rome (Italy) The art of preparing fresh pasta. Italia! Italia! Italia! Cultural Immersion Trip - picture: © Simon D. Webb • thedensecompany © 2023, Memories from Rome (Italy) 1/17 HOME Nouvelle page Nouvelle page Nouvelle page Nouvelle page Nouvelle page WE ARE WE ARE THIS IS HOW WE TRAVEL THIS IS HOW WE TRAVEL Nouvelle page Blog Nouvelle page WE ARE Résultats de recherche Nouvelle page Nouvelle page Formules et tarifs Nouvelle page Nouvelle page More Ancre 1 “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” Mark Twain BlueStoneBlueOcean specializes in Cultural Immersion Journeys : small group, friends & family -style, getting off the beaten track, meeting people, and experiencing the authentic side of a foreign land. Each of these trips is absolutely unique! Additionally we offer Family Learning Journeys for larger groups of students and their families. While these trips focus on history, they also feature unique itineraries designed to enrich students' understanding of both the past and the present. We also design On-Demand Customized Trips . Simply reach out to us and we'll create and lead a customized experience just for you and your group. SPRING 2025. 5TH EDITION. AN ESSENTIAL. Birth of a Modern Nation Historic East Coast Sites. An American Story. BOOKING CLOSING FEB 14, 2023 BOOKING CLOSING FEB 14, 2023 OVERVIEW ASK FOR A REMOTE OR IN-PERSON PRESENTATION Ancre 2 Our Offer Discover A Selection of Our Upcoming Trips! MORE Blog What's New. What's Going On. What's Coming. MORE We Are. Learn A Little Bit About Us! MORE This is How We Travel Our Travelling Philosophy! MORE Calendar Tell Us About You! And Join Us for Our Special Events! MORE • CONTACT phone/whatsapp: +1 (805) 448 2364 mail: weare@bluestoneblueocean.com Follow our adventure on • CST License #2107350 © 2012-2023, bluestoneblueocean , all rights reserved. © All pictures by Simon D. Webb & Isabela Bela, Artistes Personnes Morales • thedensecompany © Design by noname.studio

Our Travelers Say THEY TRAVEL WITH US. Here is what they say. "Fantastic Washington DC school trip. " Chuck New Traveller San Luis Obispo, CA right after being part of BIRTH OF A MODERN NATION (AN AMERICAN STORY part I) a Family Learning Journey 2014 "Such an amazing experience. We learned so much and had our eyes opened in necessary ways." Joy N. Repeat Traveller Arroyo Grande, CA 2 years after being part of BLACK HISTORY IN AMERICA (An American Story, part III) a Family Learning Journey 2021 "Cindy & Cédric are the absolute best. If you're interested in small group travel you MUST connect with them. Amazing itineraries with access to experiences you could not get on your own." Jen M. New Traveller San Luis Obispo, CA 5 years after being part of ARGENTINA & CHILE, NEAR AND DEAR TO MY HEART a Cultural Immersion Trip 2021 "Cindy had a wonderful itinerary and was not only a great planner but a great translator, allowing us to get more out of the experience than we would have if we had gone on our own." Tracey C. New Traveller Atascadero, CA 3 weeks after being part of ARGENTINA & CHILE, NEAR AND DEAR TO MY HEART a Cultural Immersion Trip 2018 "Our family attended the Europe Through the Ages trip with Cindy this past summer. This is the second trip we joined Cindy on so we knew we were going to be so well taken care of and that the trip would surpass all expectations. (...) Thank you Cindy for discovering your true gift and sharing it." Julie S. Repeat Traveller Arroyo Grande, CA 1 month after being part of EUROPE THROUGH THE AGES (An American History part II) a Family Learning Journey 2019 "I am so excited about the oportunity to travel with your company. I have heard nothing but rave reviews from those who have traveled with you." Deena E. Future Traveller Santa Maria, CA 6 months before being part of EUROPE THROUGH THE AGES (An American History part II) a Family Learning Journey 2023 "What a wonderful way to see and enjoy the culture of France by traveling as friends and family! Our small group allowed us to be flexible and go with the flow." Carol S. Repeat Traveller Paso Robles, CA 1 year after being part of FRANCE FOR FOODIES a Cultural Immersion Trip 2022 "What a beautiful small town that Argentinians visit but most international visitors don’t. (...) I loved this trip!" Carol S. New Traveller Paso Robles, CA 4 years after being part of ARGENTINA & CHILE, NEAR AND DEAR TO MY HEART a Cultural Immersion Trip 2019 "In 2021, my daughter Lucy and I joined on Cindy and Cédric's Black History in the American South. It was powerful and transformational. I will never forget Lucy learning from Joanne - a young child who participated in the Bloody March over the Selma Bridge. Cindy and Cédric get to the heart and soul of why we travel - to learn about ourselves, learn about others and bring connection to this fragmented world." Wendy L. New Traveller San Luis Obispo, CA 2 years after being part of BLACK HISTORY IN AMERICA (An American Story, part III) a Family Learning Journey 2021 "We had the pleasure and honor of hosting Cindy and Cédric's group in Pianella in Abruzzo. They were days full of cultural exchanges and fun. They gave us a magnificent artistic performance on our farm among olive trees and horses. and I will never forget the dinner we had together which turned into a beautiful party with folk dances. I can't wait to host them again." Rebecca O. Partner Pianella, Italia a year after being part of ITALIA! ITALIA! ITALIA! a Cultural Immersion Trip 2022 "LOVE the cultural aspect of Cindy and Cedric's tours and I'd feel very comfortable now traveling back to France on my own for another adventure." Dianne Repeat Traveller Paso Robles, CA 9 months after being part of FRANCE FOR FOODIES a Cultural Immersion Trip 2022 " I am still amazed at all we saw and did and how we really got to know the people and their lifestyles and still have time for ourselves and enjoying all the sights and sounds of each country. " Ingrid H. New Traveller Arroyo Grande, CA 3 weeks after being part of ARGENTINA & CHILE, NEAR AND DEAR TO MY HEART a Cultural Immersion Trip 2018

SLOCA COMMUNITY. 4TH EDITION. BIRTH OF A MODERN NATION An American Story Washington DC • Williamsburg • Monticello • And more April 12-19, 2025 a Family Learning Journey by Registration To register it's easy! Just follow the steps: STEP 1 trip terms STEP 2 travelers' information STEP 3 liability release STEP 4 deposit START If at any moment, you encounter difficulties, let us know and we'll be happy to assit you. STEP 1 trip terms and conditions Please Read Carefully: This is a Legally Enforceable Contract. Travel Date: April 12-19, 2025 DUE DATE AMOUNT DUE PER TRAVELER Deposit Due at time of Registration $450 October 10, 2024 $1,500 January 10, 2025 Outstanding Balance You may pay a monthly payment of your choice. If final payment is not paid by January 10; 2025, BlueStoneBlueOcean reserves the right to treat the client’s booking as cancelled and all cancellation charges will apply. Cancellation Policy All cancellations must be made in writing. The date when the letter is received will be the cancellation date. Cancellation Date before October 10, 2024: $450 per traveler non-refundable Cancellation Date before January 10, 2025: $1,950 per traveler non-refundable Cancellation Date on or after January 10, 2025: No Refund Not Included Please note that the following items are not included as part of the trip cost: Flight; Airport Transfer; Trip Insurance; Lunches (other than the lunch at Monticello); Laundry and other Items of a personal nature. Trip Insurance Trip medical coverage and trip interruption or cancellation insurance is highly recommended. BlueStoneBlueOcean will not make refunds as per the above cancellation schedule. If you do make a cancellation, and it is for a covered reason, this must be handled directly by you with the insurance company. All insurance claims must be handled directly by the traveler. BlueStoneBlueOcean does not file insurance claims. Cancellation by BlueStoneBlueOcean BlueStoneBlueOcean reserves the right to cancel this departure due to a natural disaster, act of God, act of terrorism, sickness or disease outbreak, or other causes beyond our control. In such a case a refund is given which equals the total payments received less all non-refundable expenditures paid for tour. Trips may also be cancelled due to consolidation. Consolidation refers to the fact that this trip is dependent upon a minimum number of 20 persons participating. Cancellation due to consolidation will result in a full refund. In all cases, BlueStoneBlueOcean is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by customers. Flexibility The itinerary stated for this trip must be taken only as an indication of what each group may accomplish and not a contractual obligation. The client acknowledges that the nature of travel requires significant flexibility and should allow for changes. The client understands that the amenities, type of transport, route, schedule, and itinerary may change without prior notice due to local circumstances or events, which may include mechanical breakdown, illness, strikes, political disputes, weather, and other unforeseeable factors. A good faith attempt to operate the trip as advertised will be made. Student Behavior Students will be expected to sign a student contract before travel. Participants who fail to abide by the guidelines and policies may be sent home at his/her own expense and waive the right to a refund for any part of their tour fee. Registration for the trip, as an Independent Student Traveler, under the supervision of SLOCA Chaperones, is at the discretion of the school who will take into consideration student behavior, citizenship, and ability to safely participate in group travel. Informed Consent – Release of Information I grant permission for BlueStoneBlueOcean and thedensecompany to use my and/or my minor child’s name, any photos, films or videos, or sound recordings of me and my minor child(ren) or my likeness on this trip in both printed and online forms. STEP 2 traveler information Please fill out one Traveler Information form PER TRAVELER (adult, accompanied minor, independent minor). Fill in the information for the first traveler and submit. Then come back here and fill it out for each additional traveler. FIRST NAME LAST NAME PREFERRED NAME SELECT YOUR ADDRESS PHONE E-mail DATE OF BIRTH GENDER MEDICAL CONDITIONS ALLERGIES DIET OTHER This section is only for a minor* traveling WITHOUT A PARENT. *who has not turned 18 as of April 12, 2025 (beginning of the trip) PARENT/GUARDIAN FIRST NAME PARENT/GUARDIAN LAST NAME PARENT/GUARDIAN PHONE PARENT/GUARDIAN EMAIL EMERGENCY CONTACT FIRST NAME EMERGENCY CONTACT LAST NAME EMERGENCY CONTACT PHONE IF TRAVELLING WITH ANOTHER FAMILY, NAME OF THE SUPERVISING ADULT PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE Effacer SEND Thanks for sending! If you have additional traveler(s), please go back to the beginning of Step 2 TRAVELER INFORMATION and register them. If you have registered everyone in your group, please proceed to Step 3 LIABILITY RELEASE below. STEP 3 liability release PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE READ CAREFULLY THE LIABILITY RELEASE AND FILLED UP AND SUBMITTED THE INFORMATION REQUESTED BELOW. I Agree that I/we and my/our minor child(ren) voluntarily plan to participate on a trip arranged by BlueStoneBlueOcean with knowledge that travel involves numerous risks, including, but not limited to risks of physical exertion for which I am not prepared; forces of nature; transportation failures whether by plane, train, auto, boat, by foot, or by any other conveyance; risks associated with food or impure water; risks associated with food allergies and/or medical conditions including, without limitation, the failure of any supplier to adhere to my dietary, medical or allergy related protocols; terrorism or the threat thereof; criminal activity; dangers associated with wild or other animals; breakdown or faulty maintenance of equipment; epidemics or the threat thereof; and stolen, lost, or misplaced luggage or property. In addition, I accept all risk of and release BlueStoneBlueOcean from errors and omissions. I acknowledge that the enjoyment and excitement of travel is derived in part from the inherent risks incurred by travel and activity beyond the accepted safety of life at home or work and that these risks contribute to such enjoyment and excitement, being a reason for my participation. I hereby agree to be responsible for my own welfare and that of my family and accept any and all risks of delay, unanticipated events, inconvenience, illness, injury, loss, emotional trauma or death. I acknowledge that the cost of this BlueStoneBlueOcean trip is based upon trip participants executing this Release of Liability, Assumption of All Risk, and Arbitration Agreement. Therefore, I HERBY RELEASE AND DISCHARGE FOREVER BLUESTONEBLUEOCEAN, CYNTHIA MCKINNEY HILTON, CÉDRIC JACQUEMONT AND SAN LUIS OBISPO CLASSICAL ACADEMY FROM AND AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITY ARISING FROM OUR PARTICIPATION IN THIS TRIP. I agree that this release shall be legally binding upon me personally, all members of my family and all minors traveling with me, my and their heirs, successors, assigns, and legal representatives, it being my intention full to assume all the risks associated with this trip and to release BlueStoneBlueOcean, Cynthia McKinney Hilton, Cédric Jacquemont and San Luis Obispo Classical Academy from any and all liabilities to the maximum extent permitted by law. Medical Proxy I hereby give BlueStoneBlueOcean and San Luis Obispo Classical Academy and their contractors permission to arrange emergency medical treatment for my minor child if necessary, and I agree to hold BlueStoneBlueOcean and San Luis Obispo Classical Academy harmless for the provision or nonprovision of such services. Binding Arbitration I agree that in the unlikely event of a dispute concerning, relating, or referring to this contract, the terms and conditions, the brochure, itinerary, or any other literature concerning my trip itself shall be resolved exclusively by binding arbitration according to the then existing rules of the American Arbitration Association. These proceedings will be governed by substantive California law. I agree that the maximum amount of recovery to which I will be entitled from BlueStoneBlueOcean under any and all circumstances shall not exceed the amount of its fee for professional services, less actual expenses incurred in arranging my travel. Should any part of this contract be found invalid or not enforceable by a court of law, then the remaining portion shall continue to be valid and in force. Knowing and Voluntary Execution I have carefully read and fully understand the contents of this document, including those regarding cancellation and refund policies, trip terms and conditions, limitation of liability, and responsibility born by trip participants. I understand that this is a legally binding and enforceable contract and sign it of my own free will. I, TRAVELING ADULT (OR PARENT/GUARDIAN) ONE, HAVE CAREFULLY READ, AGREE AND ATTEST THAT ALL INFORMATION ON THIS REGISTRATION FORM IS TRUE AND COMPLETE I, TRAVELING ADULT (OR PARENT/GUARDIAN) TWO, HAVE CAREFULLY READ, AGREE AND ATTEST THAT ALL INFORMATION ON THIS REGISTRATION FORM IS TRUE AND COMPLETE NAME OF MINOR #1 NAME OF MINOR #2 NAME OF MINOR #3 NAME OF MINOR #4 SIGNATURE TRAVELING ADULT OR PARENT/GUARDIAN ONE Erase SIGNATURE TRAVELING ADULT OR PARENT/GUARDIAN TWO Erase DATE SEND Thanks for send your Liability Release! Last, in order to complete your registration, please request a payment link below. STEP 4 finalization To secure your registration, you need to make a $450 non-refundable deposit per registered traveler. Click below to receive our payment link: REQUEST A PAYMENT LINK

Be part of the adventure. Join the Club! BlueStoneBlueOcean specializes in Cultural Immersion Trips: small group, friends & family-style, getting off the beaten track, meeting people, and experiencing the authentic side of a foreign land. Each of these trips are absolutely unique! Member's Club MEMBER MEMBER MEMBER There are a thousand reasons to be a Blue Member. Here are the first four. 1 Be the first The first to be informed about our future trips. The first to choose. The first to travel. Period. 3 Get -10% on our classes and experiences Before, after a trip or even whenever you want, dig deeper and sign up for our very unique experiences... 5 Benefit from special discounts on our special products Books, ... 2 Enjoy -5% on your next trip with us! Yes, being a loyal customer deserves a special treatment... 4 Receive invitations for special events Customers' appreciation soirées, happenings, artistic events,... Join the community. Become a member: Log In

We Are Cindy McKinney Hilton California PARTNER Cindy has a background in food and agriculture and a true passion for people. She is interested in the world and how the people in it are more similar than different. Intrigued by the way languages and experience affect who we are and how we interact, she is an eternal student with a warm heart and desire to connect and understand people. For the past twelve years, she has been leading group trips, both small and intimate and large (up to 70) for people who want to learn about the world, while also creating and working on Jonas Shares Joy, bringing people from around the world to California to learn about growing food and growing compassion for people with special needs. Cindy speaks English, Spanish & French. Of particular interest: hiking, anything on or near the ocean, plants, art, music and food & wine. Cédric Jacquemont France PARTNER Cédric has a background as an executive in the corporate world, but left that world to pursue his true passions: art & travel. He is a multi-faceted artist who has an eye for the hidden detail and thought-provoking. He is a traveler who seeks out the unique and immersive and is eager to share his world with travellers who also seek to understand the places they visit at a deeper level. He is a profound thinker who designs unusual experiences to help people encounter their world and see things from a different perspective. A charismatic student, he has a mind that is critical of injustices while glittering eyes reveal a heart that loves to play and experiment. Cédric speaks French, English, Spanish & Portuguese. Of particular interest: poetry, Brazil, music, India, photography, Africa, dance, California, architecture, Mexico, hiking, Italia, the ocean.

Et voilà ! Here we go! ¡Ya está! É isso! Questo è quanto! Jetzt ist es soweit! Si on te demande... We have some questions for you... Si te preguntamos... Se perguntarmos a você... Se ti chiediamo... Wenn man dich fragt... We're delighted to announce that on July 4th, 2024 we'll be starting our World Wedding Tour ! The first ceremony will be in a secret location for the time being (you'll soon know) and other will follow, overtime, in the locations that have meant so much to us in our relationship. It aims to be generous and authentic, reflecting a certain humanity. It will be creative and audacious too. In short, we want it to be unique, meaningful and memorable! That's the first piece of good news:) The second piece of good news is that you're invited to take part. To take part in one or more chapters of this funny story. Because this is indeed a story we're writing... It's a story we want to write together, and we're curious and impatient to know if you'll take part! A little, a lot, passionately, madly... or not at all, tell us! Give us your opinion, your position, now, frankly and simply. And... you even have the right to think about it again and again, and to change your mind. Today's answers are just an indication. They offer us a first trend, a first glimpse of what it might be like. That's what a survey is... Is getting married a good idea? Bad idea Fair Good Very Good Excellent Si oui, veux-tu faire partie de l'aventure ? Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Si tu es intéressé.e, à combien de Chapitres (étapes) de l'Histoire, imaginerais-tu participer ? •• If you're interested, how many Chapters (stages) of the Story, would you like to take part in? Zero! Sorry... Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Un! C'est déjà bien... || One is enough? Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Two maybe... || Deux ! Pourquoi pas ?... Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Plus ? Allez !... || More? Let's go! Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Among the following destinations, which one.s appeal.s to you •• Parmi les destinations suivantes lesquelles t'attirent ? France Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent California Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Mexico Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Italia Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Deutschland Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent España Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Brasil Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Argentina Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Chile Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Autre Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Quand serais-tu disponible ? •• When would you be availabe? This year! || Dès cette année ! Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent L'année prochaine ! || Next year! Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent 2026 for sure! || 2026 pour sûr ! Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Au-delà... Oui, au-delà ! || Beyond, way beyond... Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Are you ready for something potentially ... •• Es-tu prêt.e à vivre quelque chose de potentiellement... unique Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent meaningful || porteur de sens Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent memorable Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Comment pourrais-tu contribuer ? •• How could you participate? Tell Stories •• Raconter une histoire Jouer de la musique, Chanter •• Play music, sing Take Photographies or Videos •• Prendre des photos ou des vidéos Boire du vin •• Drink wine Host guests •• Héberger des invités Offrir un support émotionnel •• Offer emotional support Bring flowers •• Apporter des fleurs Apporter de la nourriture •• Bring food Bring drinks •• Apporter des boissons Make jokes • Faire des blagues Prepare the place •• Préparer les lieux Nettoyer •• Clean up after Animer •• Facilitate Smile •• Sourire Danser •• Dance Pleurer •• Cry Send good vibes •• Envoyer des bonnes vibes Partager un autre de vos talents : •• Share another of your talents: What would stop you from joining us? •• Qu'est-ce qui t'empêcherait de nous rejoindre ? Au contraire, qu'est-ce qui favoriserait ta présence ? •• On the contrary what would help you be with us? Would you like to be kept in the loop? •• Tu en veux plus? oui •• yes Mauvais Passable Bien Très bien Excellent Tell us more! First Name Last Name E-mail Country Code Phone Select an Address Number of Potential Participants Comment, Question •• Questions, Commentaires Tell us Alors demain on fait quoi, ensemble ?... So tomorrow what do we do, together?...

Our Trips We offer both OnOffer trips , open to the public, as well as OnDemand trips . The latter provide you with an opportunity to schedule a private trip with your group, tailored to your tastes and interests. A SELECTION OF OUR UPCOMING TRIPS: On Offer Trips A FAMILY LEARNING JOURNEY Birth of a Modern Nation American history springs to life on a trip to the east coast! Our learning journeys complement the curriculum of San Luis Obispo Classical Academy, taking students and families to see first-hand the places they have... DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP Mexico City, The Delightful Surprise Mexico City really, truly does surprise us and up-end all those stereotypes and fears we may have had or have been told. Mexico is a country with a ... DISCOVER UN VOYAGE D'IMMERSION CULTURELLE My California By Cindy Venez découvrir le mode de vie californien avec une habitante de la côte centrale. Visitez les endroits où elle a grandi (hors des sentiers battus, bien sûr !) et ceux où elle... DISCOVER A CULTURAL IMMERSION JOURNEY Along the Mediterranean Barcelona and its costa brava , Nice and its arrière-pays , Naples and its baia di Napoli : salt in the air, fresh catch of the day on the table, the vibrant... DISCOVER FAMILY LEARNING JOURNEY Europe Through The Ages Students and their families are invited to Europe Through the Ages, an Family Learning Journey! This trip offers a fast-paced and hands-on learning adventure, traveling to... DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP Italia! Italia! Italia! Why do we say Italia! three times? Because on this Cultural Immersion Trip, we visit what seems like three different facets of that fascinating ... DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP Burgundy at Heart DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP Colors of Guanajuato DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP Searching for the Whale In a protected lagoon, whales come to give birth to their babies. These intelligent and gentle creatures often greet human visitors in one of the most sublimely beautiful and spiritual experiences on the planet. Come experience the magic! DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP California for Teens DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP France for Foodies (Winter Tour) DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP My France By Cédric To truly understand another place, you need to know the people. It is only by getting close that you are able to see the beauty and challenges of... DISCOVER A CULTURAL IMMERSION JOURNEY Near & Dear to My Heart Experience the beauty and rich culture of Argentina and Chile on a one-of-a-kind adventure that will immerse you in the local way of... DISCOVER A CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP France for Festival Lovers Festivals are celebrations showcasing the high culture of a country! Throughout France hundreds of communities promote festivals each year, sharing art in all its... DISCOVER A FAMILY LEARNING JOURNEY Behind & Beyond Join us on a poignant exploration through the annals of history, delving into the chapters of World War I, World War II, the Cold War, and the unprecedented era of... DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP France for Foodies Using all things food as a vehicle for exploring a new culture and country, we taste our way through three regions of France: Paris, Burgundy and Provence. We’ll visit museums, important landmarks, and take in some beautiful walks while also taking food hopping tours, cooking workshops, and visiting farms, bakers, and other food producers. DISCOVER FAMILY LEARNING JOURNEY Black History in America Walk with us in the footsteps of the great social justice movement leaders, listen to the stories of people who literally walked in the march from Selma to Montgomery, hear the spirituals, jazz music of Memphis, and blues of Nina Simone, visit a plantation hearing the stories of the enslaved and walk with us through the important changes that were made in our world as legislation changed and segregation slowly ended. This moving trip is an important step in acknowledgement and change for a more just future. DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP Brasil! Brasil! DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP Yucatecan Mysteries From jungle wrapped Mayan ruins to ethereal cenotes, portals to the underworld, Merida holds us in its spell. A cultural capital, weekend evenings vibrate with music and energy in the heart of the city, while peaceful tropical beaches and pink flamingoes in their wetland home are never far away. DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP Italia for Adults with Special Needs DISCOVER CULTURAL IMMERSION TRIP France for Teens This trip is for teens and the adults who love them. Teens are eager to learn, eager to explore, eager to move, and eager to play! We will play our way through France, wrapping each day in a theme and a hands-on workshop to make travel and learning a new culture come to life for teens and adults alike! DISCOVER CUSTOMIZED JOURNEY On Demand Trips We can design the perfect trip for your group. Daunting to design from top to bottom? We have... DISCOVER

Be part of one of our exclusive Experiences! Join, participate, learn and have fun! BlueStoneBlueOcean specializes in Cultural Immersion Trips: small group, friends & family-style, getting off the beaten track, meeting people, and experiencing the authentic side of a foreign land. Each of these trips are absolutely unique! Our Experiences We're not just another sight-seeing travel business. We are a travel & art de vivre company. We focus on what makes a place and people unique and worth discovering and reflecting on. We pay close attention to their environment, their context - the geography, the history, the architecture and so many hidden elements and relationships. We're obsessed about what makes their daily existence similar to ours or totally different from what we already know and how it affects their vision of the world and their mission in life. On what makes it unique and worth discovering and reflecting on. Experience n°1 Introduction to Art de Vivre (TM) We'd be glad to share our Introduction to Art de Vivre(TM) series . These are special events that we bring to our community in order to for you to experience first hand a taste of another culture. Learn while having fun and gathering your friends and family and meeting new people too. Some of our offers: > OUR BESTSELLER! French Art de Vivre (in English) > NEW! Mediterranean Art de Vivre (in English) > NEW! French Art & Culture Obsession (in English) > L'Art de Vivre Américain (Special Thanksgiving) (en français) > NEW! L'Art de Vivre Californien (en français) Would you like to set up your private session with your friends&family? We'd be happy to discuss the opportunity! BOOK A SESSION ASK US Experience n°2 Learning and Fun We're not just another sight-seeing travel business. We are a travel & art de vivre company. We focus on how people live . We're obsessed about what makes their daily existence similar or different from what we already know and how it affects their vision of the world and their mission in life. On what makes it unique and worth discovering and reflecting on. In that regard, we have created the Introduction to Art de Vivre (TM) series . These are special events that we bring to our community in order to for you to experience first hand a taste of another culture. Learn while having fun and gathering your friends and family and meeting new people too. BOOK A SESSION ASK US Experience n°3 Language & Cultural Dive You want to get the most of your upcoming trip or just want to learn a new language while having fun and discovering a bunch of things about another culture? Join one of our group or one-on-one sessions. We do both in-person and remote. > Bonjour. J'ai dit bonjour... (French Language & Cultural Dive) ASK US ASK US

BESTSELLER! 4TH EDITION! BIRTH OF A MODERN NATION An American Story Washington DC • And more April 12-19, 2025 a Family Learning Journey by Welcome to our dedicated page. Here you'll find all the information about the trip as well as the registration path. Enjoy! FULL PROGRAM REGISTRATION If at any moment, you encounter difficulties, let us know and we'll be happy to assit you. introduction American history springs to life on a trip to the East Coast! Our Family Learning Journeys complement the curriculum of San Luis Obispo Classical Academy, taking students and families to see firsthand the places they have studied . Whether through hands-on immersive experiences in Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg, an inspirational walk through the monuments on the Mall, illuminated against the backdrop of our nation’s capital, or marching and then charging in the footsteps of the soldiers at Pickett’s Charge in Gettysburg, learning comes to life and becomes deeply rooted in the minds and hearts of those who experience the journey. New friendships are forged, both for students and their parents , as we discover and learn together on Birth of A Modern Nation, a Family Learning Journey by BlueStoneBlueOcean . highlights • Step into the 17th century at Jamestown Settlement, the first permanent English settlement . Engage in hands-on activities at the Powhatan village, learn about a transatlantic trek on the replicas of the very ships that made that voyage, and explore the fort’s reconstructed homes and workshops. • Colonial Williamsburg offers a fully immersive experience into a town on the cusp of the American Revolution . Costumed interpreters bring history to life while you might even catch sight of Paul Revere blazing through town stirring up revolutionary fervor. • Admire the beauty of this hillside mansion and stand in awe at the multi-faceted legacy of Thomas Jefferson at Monticello. Reflect on the paradox of this founding father , a slaveholder who penned the Declaration of Independence. • Be inspired and moved as you honor the trail-blazers who shaped our nation and championed freedom , while also contemplating the gravity of war as we visit the illuminated WWII Memorial, Vietnam Wall and Korean War Memorial of Washington DC's Mall. • Explore Civil War history at Gettysburg with a battlefield tour, an excellent museum and an immersive painting in the round. Discover soldier life and the harsh realities of warfare as you participate in our recreation of Pickett’s Charge, stepping into the footsteps of history. • Explore the institutions that drive the USA today. Whether standing on the steps of the Supreme Court, touring the US Capitol Building, or seeing the White House, discover that DC is the place where legislation, enforcement, and global and national politics unfold. • Celebrate this week of learning and friendship with a Potomac River Cruise. Enjoy dining and dancing as we glide along, taking in the buildings and monuments that line the Potomac River. itinerary DAY 1 (Saturday) Travelers fly independently and meet at Ronald Regan National Airport (DCA) in the afternoon, where a private coach will collect the group and transfer them south to Colonial Williamsburg. We’ll begin with a welcome dinner and group introductions. DAY 2 Visit Jamestown Settlement where the history and lives of the first permanent English settlers and the Powhatan nation come to life. Re-creations of a Powhatan village, James Fort and the 1607 ships that brought colonists are all available for exploration, complete with costumed interpreters. Enjoy a hands-on, inquiry-based guided tour, followed by an afternoon guided visit to Colonial Williamsburg , including hands-on experiences, dinner, and a “musical tour” of the 18th century capital (may be substituted for similar experience, depending on evening program schedule). DAY 3 The morning will be spent exploring Colonial Williamsburg with an educator who will guide the travelers’ participation in hands-on, experiential learning. Your students will watch re-enactments of important historical events as well as discuss techniques with tradesmen as they work at their crafts employing the same techniques used in the colonial era. Free time in the afternoon allows the group to explore buildings, trade shops, homes, Governor’s Palace, museums, and time to watch the shows, parades, mock battles, and other demonstrations. After dinner we’ll load up on the coach and head north to Charlottesville, North Carolina where Thomas Jefferson built his estate, Monticello. DAY 4 Today we explore Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello . This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the life of Thomas Jefferson, as well as slave life, gardening, and architecture. Your will discover Monticello with a guided tour of the mansion. Lunch is included today. After the visit, we will travel to Washington DC , where we'll drop our luggage and get ready for a special evening. We will enjoy an Illuminated Monuments tour, an especially magical and moving experience. Private guides will lead us through many of the important monuments around the Mall area, including the WWII Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and FDR Monument if time allows. It’ll be a late night getting back to the hotel! DAY 5 Private Charter to Gettysburg National Battlefield . This is an especially fun day for students! Start off with a guide who will hop on the bus for a tour of the battlefield, where you can still spot damage from the Civil War in the walls of buildings around town. The battlefield guide will explain the war as you ride through the battlefield, stopping at different monuments and important sites. After getting a feel for the war and the where it was fought, students will participate in a Battlefield Footsteps program where each student is assigned an identity of one of the soldiers in Pickett’s Charge. Students get into formation and follow drill commands while walking in the footsteps of the soldiers. At the end, the student soldiers make the charge up and over the hill and discover their fate at the end of the re-enactment. After the charge, the group will go to the Museum, Visitor’s Center and experience the Cyclorama, a circular painting of a battlefield scene, accompanied by lights, sounds, and a narration. It is a somber experience that brings home the reality of that war. We return to Washington DC for dinner and an early evening in to catch up on rest! DAY 6 Washington DC – Pillars of Government : Start the day with a tour of the US Capitol Building by the “Red Coats.” Following the tour, meet up with your group’s private guide who is a historical expert and will teach as they lead. We’ll visit the following sights: The Library of Congress , one of the most beautiful buildings in the US; Steps of the U.S. Supreme Court ; National Archives, Charters of Freedom ; Visit in front of the White House . We’ll end our day with our private guides at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History where everyone will have an opportunity to explore independently before meeting up again for dinner in the city. DAY 7 Private charter bus to George Washington’s Mount Vernon . We explore this interactive learning center and enjoy a guided tour of his home. Early afternoon we return to Washington D.C. where you will have free time to prepare for our evening grand finale! We celebrate all we’ve learned and experienced by enjoying time with our new friends on a Potomac River Dinner Dance Cruise , with views of the monuments and city of DC, a memorable and spectacular end to a meaningful week! DAY 8 (Saturday) Fly back to California! *Itinerary is tentative until confirmed, and may change based on schedule availability, weather, or other factors. who is the trip for? In 2025, we will welcome both families and individual student travelers on the Birth of a Modern Nation trip. The trip is ideal for students between the ages of 11-18 , but open to eager, mature learners who have the energy for a full itinerary, at the discretion of their family. First and foremost, this trip is specially suited to SLOCA students, their friends & families, designed to complement the rich curriculum of the school . From October 1, 2024, you can also invite your cousins, aunts, uncles, aunts, grand-parents, and close friends! Family Style Travelers These travelers are families traveling together, one or more parent(s) taking their child(ren) or perhaps bringing along a friend from school . Family style travel means that there is a parent or family friend/member who assumes the supervision and responsibility for their children (or other children traveling under their care). We have different rooming options to fit diverse needs of family travelers, but all rooms must have an adult lodging with the students. NEW! FOR SLOCA FAMILIES ONLY Independent Student Travelers These are students between the ages of 13-18 who are traveling without a parent and under the supervision and responsibility of a SLOCA chaperone . Minimum: 8 Independent Travelers. They will sleep in a quadruple room with at least one other student rooming decided on by SLOCA chaperone. Families and students can also choose to send their child with a close friend and they can share a bed for a discounted price if the family and students are comfortable with this arrangement. Families will sign a contract agreeing to cover the price of a last minute unaccompanied minor ticket if their child breaks the rules while on the trip. price Family Style Travelers Base price $3,500 per person (quadruple room occupancy) $3,650 per person (triple room occupancy) $3,900 per person (double room occupancy) Adults additional $100 per person FOR SLOCA FAMILIES ONLY Independent Student Travelers Base price $4,200 per person (based on students staying in a double room, each with their own bed) Discounts AVAILABLE TO FAMILY AND INDEPENDENT TRAVELERS $100 off if you have traveled with BlueStoneBlueOcean (formerly Simply Culture Boutique Travel ) in the past. AVAILABLE TO INDEPENDENT TRAVELERS $150 off if your child would like to travel with a close friend with whom they feel comfortable sharing a bed for two people (double or queen) Trip Minimum 20 travelers Validity Early bird prices are valid until June 30, 2024, then increase by $100 per person from July 1 to December 1 , the registration deadline. what is included. what is not. Included this Learning Journey 7 Nights Mid-Range Hotel Breakfast Daily Dinner Daily Boxed Lunch at Monticello Tour transportation on private charter bus A digital Learning Journey Trip Guidebook (detailed itinerary and educational workbook) All entrance tickets Hands-on Educational workshops, experiences, and re-enactments Private, licensed tour-guide when indicated Evening Activities and programs as indicated Travelers are free to make monthly payments to spread expense over several months Gratuities for bus driver and tour guides Daily debrief discussion Daily Review Questions Daily Super Trooper Traveler* Award Introduction to DiariosTM** Trip Training Meetings for travelers Coordinated Safety Plan for hotel and outings Full-time trip coordinator, accompanying you on entire trip once group arrives in Washington DC *What is a Super Trooper Traveler Award? Exactly as it sounds, it’s a fun way to teach traits of a responsible group member who aims to contribute and consider those around them. We also encourage traits that help to open students up to the world and instill a sense of curiosity and observation. Each day the program facilitators and trip leaders will be on the lookout for a student who exemplifies the trait of the day and they will be rewarded with a prize at the daily debrief. **What is Introduction to DiariosTM ? During this trip, participants will be introduced to DiariosTM , a multi-faceted diary experience created by thedensecompany. Each diario uses a different artistic technique (photography, movie, poetry, music and others). Some days, they will be invited to practice and create their own diarios and then share it with the rest of the group. Not Included Transportation to and from Washington DC (flights) Airport transfers Insurance Laundry Lunches, except 1 boxed lunch Personal Items next steps 2024 May 6 & 7 & 8 Information Meetings at Lower Campus + SLOCA High School May 10 Trip Registration opens, secured with $450 non-refundable deposit July 1 End of early bird pricing Sept 16 & 17 & 18 Information Meetings at Lower Campus + S LOCA High School October 1 Trip opens to friends & family Oct 9 & 10 Information Meetings at SLOCA Grand Campus To attend the information meetings register here ! December 1 Registration Deadline 2025 March Trip training meeting & flag making activity with students April Trip Fall Get together ... and maybe a surprise? Registration To register it's easy! Just click below: REGISTRATION

This is How We Travel Cultural Immersion Trips Travelling with a Special Twist. UNIQUE SMALL-SIZED GROUP TRIPS # HIGHLIGHTS & OFF THE BEATEN PATH. We like to take you to the places that your friends have never heard of and where you can be one of the few foreign tourists to get an up close and authentic peek at what life is like as a local. While we also include some of the not-to-be missed, iconic sights, we like to focus on the more unique , meaningful and memorable . # EXPERIENCE FOCUSED. We consider the overall experience of any stop on our trip. We believe art and culture are more accessible when the entire setting is an ingredient in the mix. We try to avoid the hoards, visit museums that are human-sized and approachable, engage in activities that contribute to understanding the culture by engaging with people, and we look for the true, the beautiful, and the meaningful in all of our choices. # SMALL GROUPS. Our groups consist of 6-12 travelers, allowing you the opportunity for up close and personal travel. We find that many of our travelers are introverts and appreciate traveling with a small group. Small groups also allow us the opportunity to engage more easily with locals and have those unique experiences that we aim for. # FRIENDS & FAMILY STLE. All of our Cultural Immersion Trips are done in “friends & family” style. You may not know everyone to begin with, but by the end, we will have all become good friends. As friends & family (having a small group helps), we are invited to engage with locals and sometimes even invited into homes or special events. We also have the flexibility to accommodate all of the travelers in our “family,” adapting to special interests or needs along the way. We travel by car, not by bus, allowing us to enter the small and special spaces and not stand out as a large tourist group. And, we like to keep things casual and comfortable! # FLEXIBLE ITINERARY. We design days that we believe are full of magic and important experiences, but we also know that some of the best surprises while traveling are the unexpected opportunities that pop up. Someone invites the group into their workshop, a friend invites the group to join at the celebration of their new child, or you discover a local band is playing in the park. We value that these unique opportunities may be more important than what we happened to have planned, so we adjust. We don’t miss the magic in an attempt to rigidly stick to our plan. And we love travelers who love this logic! We also love surprises and we aim to delight you and surprise you along the way. You won’t always know what to expect in advance, but we’ll always make sure that you are prepared with information in order to be properly prepared. # ETHICAL TRAVEL. We aim to utilize private and locally owned businesses as often as possible. Our goal is to stay at charming, locally owned inns, farms, cabins, hotels or houses. We like to dine where we can meet the family who owns the restaurant and prepares the food. We want to use small businesses rather than large corporate entities. We want to connect with kind, knowledgeable, and interesting local guides and we seek to find the way to support the local community with our travel dollars whenever possible. Come and be delighted! Come and experience something different! Come to understand and deeply know a new country! Come, travel with us and enjoy the unique , meaningful and memorable ! Family Learning Journeys Immerse. Learn. And Understand. MID-SIZED GROUP TRIPS # LEARNING. BlueStoneBlueOcean values educational and unique experiences. Our educational learning journeys offer an overview of important historical sites and events as well as some special off the beaten path encounters. We love to connect with locals and learn about the culture of each place whenever possible. Travel learning is a hands-on discovery of what students have read about and studied. It is experiential, rich and deeply meaningful. # FAMILY TRIP. These trips may be set up for a particular group such as a school, homeschool group, group of friends, or community, but what sets them apart from other school trips is that our trips are for families. We adapt the trip for a range of ages and find that parents love learning too! Research has shown that students have a significant positive outcome when their parents are highly involved in their education, and what more enjoyable way to be involved than to travel and learn together? # FULL DAYS. Our trips are packed and fast-paced. We cover a lot of ground and try to fully take advantage of our time. However, every trip also has some free time to explore the city and see what interests you that isn’t on the itinerary, go shopping, or just relax and rest. You’ll do a lot of walking, so these restful afternoons are sometimes very necessary! # STRUCTURED. You will receive a highly organized and detailed trip itinerary that tells you exactly where we’ll be and when. This allows us to stay on track, but also offers you the chance to choose what you may want to skip and then reunite with the group at the next activity. We try to stick to the plan as closely as possible! # FUN EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES. We aim to make the trips educational and fun! We include silly awards, scavenger hunts, and educational review sessions and debriefs of the day before. Reading lists, movie lists, and ideas to prepare for the trip are provided to help you get the most out of the trip as possible!