Wonderful experience! I arranged my own tours to France for years. I'm fluent in French and lived there during college, so I just worked with a former Air France travel agent to book flights, hotels and sightseeing tours. The base price was cheap, but we needed to budget for all our excursions and additional activities as well as meals. Several years ago I decided (for liability reasons) it was time to use a tour company. I tried several budget tour operators and had various negative experiences: poor quality hotels, low-quality food and tour "managers" who were no better than translators who checked us in to hotels. I finally found ACIS. At first I was uncomfortable with the price, but when I considered all that is included, found it to be actually a better value than the budget carriers. I've now been on 5 tours with them and will continue to use them. Customer service: From the time we book the tour, to the time we depart, the company has been nothing but professional. We've had problems at the airport - wrong names for booked tickets (not the company's fault, but our own) and it was handled promptly with no disruption of our plans. The company also has a representative that checks in while "on tour" in Paris - no other company does that! Hotels: always centrally located and we usually have one super upgraded hotel per trip. Good neighborhoods in Paris - close to everything. Never more than 2 metro stops away from sightseeing attractions. Flights: we usually get direct flights to Paris from LAX on Air France. Always pleased with the quality and service Tour Managers: energetic, engaging and knowledgeable. I have been disappointed in only one of the managers, and he was the exception. For the most part, they have great personalities and know how to engage students. Though I've gone the cities on our tours several times, I always learn something new from the guides - either a new street, shortcut or attraction. Our tour managers have also gone out of their way to accommodate special requests (include an extra stop for seeing the Bayeaux tapestries), and planned impromptu food tastings (oysters in Normandy and provincal specialities at the Pont du Gard). Food: Full buffet breakfast each day and dinners are always in local restaurants. Good variety of food (beef, chicken, fish) and always 3-courses. It was a good way for my students to experience food they would otherwise have not tried. When on their own, students tend to stick to the tried and true pizza, crepes and sandwiches. Itineraries: Good mixture of sightseeing and free time. I always have several parents travel with our group and they have a great time. In all, I would highly recommend anyone try ACIS just once. You'll wonder why you ever went with the budget companies. read more

If you're looking for a top-notch experience for your students, travel with ACIS. I have traveled with ACIS seven times and I am currently enrolling participants for my 8th and 9th trips. I have taken students to Costa Rica, Spain, France, Ecuador, and Mexico. Next I'm going to Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Planning a trip with ACIS is easy from start to finish because of the travel experts who help me every step of the way - from deciding on an itinerary and tweaking it to my desires to departure day. While traveling, the ACIS tour managers are amazing. They are incredibly knowledgeable and professional, and they're also super fun and engaging! They know the history and culture so well that every stop becomes a real lesson. I love how they handle the details and logistics of the trip so that I can focus 100% on my students and their needs. They are true partners in education! The quality of the accommodations and meals provided by ACIS is consistently excellent, which is so important for keeping a group of travelers happy and energized. ACIS always uses hotels that are centrally located. We stay close to the action and all the major sights, which saves us travel time and allows for more time exploring. The hotels are clean, comfortable, and safe. Trying the local cuisine is one of my favorite parts of traveling. The food on all of my trips has been wonderful! The students and I love the variety at the breakfast buffets in the hotels and we enjoy authentic local cuisine at great restaurants in the evenings. The food is a fantastic way for students to experience the culture and it's a highlight of every trip. ACIS trips are always full and well-planned. The itineraries are truly educational, mixing site visits with unique local experiences. My students see so much and come back with an amazing new perspective. I love how the price of the tour includes everything so that families can budget. Students only need to bring money for lunch and souvenirs. For any educator or parent considering an international trip for high schoolers, I give ACIS my highest recommendation. It's an investment in a memorable, safe, and truly educational experience. read more

While a bit more expensive than other travel companies, ACIS is exceptional in the quality of service and tours that they offer. As an AP World History and AP European History teacher, I have traveled with both Passports and EF, both of which were far from enjoyable experiences, before trying ACIS, and the difference in quality was readily apparent. Our tour manager, Luiza, works part-time for the UN, so she was an incredibly fascinating guide for myself and my students through Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic. She was also always on top of things, and was able and willing to accommodate our special requests, especially when they enhanced the experience of the trip for my students. Every tour guide we had was not only knowledgeable and passionate about their cities, but typically worked in the field either as a professional or as a graduate student, which provide an extra layer of authenticity and scholarship. The tour flawlessly balanced excursions with free time so students got to spend additional time exploring the culture of the cities that we were visiting. On that note, we ate every night at authentic local restaurants, not chains as I had done with the other tour companies. It was by far the best educational trip that I have every been on, and I have already booked trips for 2026 (Italy) and am working on putting together a trip to Turkey in 2027. I would highly encourage every teacher to go with ACIS - it will be an enriching and enlightening experience for your students, allowing them to get up close and personal with a lot of the things that you likely discuss in your courses. read more

As an educator who has had the privilege of leading four tours with ACIS and traveling once as a student, I can wholeheartedly say that ACIS is outstanding. They offer incredible itineraries, and their team expertly guides teachers through the entire planning process, providing 24/7 support throughout the trips. No matter the time or situation, their staff is always ready to assist, giving peace of mind at every step. The level of expertise ACIS demonstrates in planning and organizing each trip is truly impressive. Every detail is thoughtfully managed, including centrally located 3 and 4 star hotels that make exploring the cities easy and convenient for both students and teachers. This allows us to focus on what matters most: our students. Watching my students thrive and grow in confidence while exploring new cultures is the most rewarding part of these experiences. Our fabulous tour guides are another highlight. The ACIS tour guides and the local guides are knowledgeable, engaging, and multilingual, bringing each destination to life for our students. The delicious food experiences also add a wonderful layer, exposing everyone to local flavors that enrich the journey. Seeing students have the time of their lives while developing valuable life skills truly reaffirms that #travelchangeslives. I highly recommend ACIS to fellow educators and travelers seeking an enriching, well-supported, and expertly crafted educational adventure. read more

If I could give a ZERO I would. This company is trying to PROFIT over cancellations due to the Coronavirus pandemic. We had a trip to Italy scheduled for April. We were FORCED to cancel due to the travel ban. This company is penalizing my 16 year old daughter (who paid for this trip on her own!!!!) for cancelling within their 30 day cancellation policy. We didn't cancel!!!! We were forced to not be able to go. They are holding us accountable. They are offering us a chance to reschedule the trip- but that isn't possible and everyone knows it!! Unbelievable how they are trying to make a profit during these circumstances. I am a single mother and this was a trip of a lifetime that is forever tainted due to this company. My daughter worked her ASS off to be able to go and to see a company taking advantage of that is BEYOND DISGUSTING. If you belive in right from wrong and honest business- NEVER USE THIS COMPANY. It's funny, because if you read the reviews - from even before the corona virus hit- it is often mentioned of this companies greediness and unjust practices. Wish I had read YELP before agreeing to this trip. This company should be ashamed. They have ruined my daughter's thirst for travel. Please reach out to me if you would like to join a group chat with other unhappy families that were ripped off by ACIS. read more

As a French teacher, I've had the incredible privilege of traveling with my students on three summer tours with ACIS, and each one has been nothing short of life-changing--for them and for me. From start to finish, ACIS provides a seamless, thoughtfully organized experience that makes travel abroad both educational and unforgettable. Every detail is handled with care: the itineraries are rich with culture and authentic experiences, the tour managers are passionate and knowledgeable, and the accommodations and meals are consistently excellent (centrally-located hotels are the best!). But what stands out most is how ACIS makes language and culture come alive for my students. Watching them order their first croissant in French, navigate the Métro, or stand in awe beneath the stained glass at Notre Dame is something I'll never forget. Personally, leading these tours has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my teaching career. ACIS takes care of the logistics so that I can focus on what matters most: helping my students connect with the world. I can't recommend ACIS highly enough. If you're an educator considering travel with your students, this is the company you can trust to turn your classroom lessons into lifelong memories. read more

I have been a loyal client of ACIS since 1992 when I started traveling with students as a young Spanish teacher. I have taken over 10 trips with them and I can attest that EVERY trip I've ever taken with this company has been of the highest quality. They truly care about their teachers and students! Every detail has always been taken care of before our arrival and up to the moment of departure back to the United States. The quality of food is always varied and student-friendly, yet typical of the local cuisine. The location of hotels are within walking distance of many tourist attractions and centrally located. Perhaps one of the greatest aspects of this company is the quality of their Tour Managers. Every tour manager that has accompanied my groups has been informative, fun, patient, and professional. They literally are like walking encyclopedias! The entire ACIS staff both stateside and in the countries in which I travel continue to do their very best to make our tours the most memorable, trouble-free, fun, and educational. I can't ever imagine traveling with another student travel company...ever. I can't thank ACIS enough for opening the world to travel for so many of my students in Oregon and Washington. read more

I have been a group leader with ACIS for over 15 years, and I have led tours with other companies. I will never use any one other than ACIS. On every trip involving teenagers, things are going to happen that are beyond anyone's control - lost passports, sick students, delayed or missed flights, chaperones who need a doctor, global pandemics (yes, I've had all of these happen on my personal trips) - and ACIS has always been there to solve those issues in the most professional and kind manner possible. Our tour guides in the individual countries have been beyond professional each and every time, and I have had students go back to those countries during college and beyond and seek out our city guides and tour managers just to take their tours again. For most of my students, this is their first chance to see another country, and ACIS has helped inspire them to make global travel a part of their future. Yes, you can travel for cheaper and sleep in beds far outside the city or drive by the Colosseum instead of going inside, but that's what makes ACIS different. You truly get what you pay for, and when it comes to student safety and security, ACIS is worth every penny. read more

I just returned from a ten day tour of Paris and Normandy with ACIS. My small group was all adults, but we traveled on a bus with both students and adults. Everything about the trip was excellent! The customer service and response to questions while organizing was prompt, accurate, and very helpful. We received our documents and all trip information in a timely manner. The trip itself was great, with a tour guide, Ben, who stayed with us around the clock during the trip, taking care of any problems or questions and adding value to the trip with his knowledgeable commentary on the places we visited. The hotels were typical for the areas we visited, comfortable, close to transportation when we wanted it and walkable to some sights. All had a nice breakfast. The meals were outstanding, better than I expected. Our bus driver was friendly and helpful. We had a cooking lesson in Paris that was so much fun for the adults as well as the students. I have traveled with ACIS for several years and will continue to do so. The tours just keep getting better! read more

This is an amazing company! I have been an educator for 25 years and have taken about 14 trips with ACIS and I have always had a great experience and excellent customer service! The cost is a bit more, because you get more! Hotels are in the center of town, the food is authentic (NOT pasta and chicken every night!) and the itinerary is always well planned, educational and fun for the kids! - The tour guides have always been excellent and there has always been an ACIS rep who comes to check in with me during the trip. If I have ever had a problem, the guides have been very helpful and efficient. - With OTHER companies, I have had travelers stranded at the airports, poor food, "green" guides (I knew so much more about the history and the language than they did) and hotels that were so far out of the city center, we would have to add in an extra 2 hours for transportation, just to get in and out of the city! This has never been the case with ACIS! - Also, all of the pre-departure help, the people on the west coast, the website, etc. have been excellent! read more

I've traveled with ACIS to Greece and Turkey, and previously to Barcelona, and both trips were among the best I've ever taken. The organization was flawless, the tour guides were exceptional, and the food was absolutely delicious--authentic and local to each area. I loved the balance of guided tours and free time, which allowed us to explore at our own pace. The hotels were wonderful, conveniently located in the heart of each city within walking distance to major attractions. Unlike other travel companies I've used, ACIS truly delivers immersive experiences. For example, if you were in Rome, instead of just taking a picture in front of the Colosseum, you actually go inside and tour it. Even when unexpected issues arose--like a canceled flight in Amsterdam--ACIS handled everything seamlessly. Within 30 minutes, we had new flights, a hotel for the night, and transportation arranged. I can honestly say there's no comparison--ACIS makes international travel smooth, enriching, and unforgettable. Highly recommend! read more

ACIS is the best educational travel company! I traveled with them as a student many years ago, and I knew it was the only company I would consider as a teacher. ACIS is constantly improving to deliver the best travel experience for students and teachers. Their tours offer the perfect balance of planned activities and free time. The quality of the centrally located, clean, and safe hotels, direct flights on major airlines, and high-quality and fresh meals truly enhance the travel experience. The tour managers are so personable and fun and have an excellent rapport with teenagers and adults. The program consultants make the planning process a breeze. I have led 4 trips with them and and planning my 5th. Many of my students have enjoyed their travel experience with ACIS so much that they have gone on a 2nd or 3rd trip with us even after they have graduated from high school! If you are looking for an educational travel company that will make your travel dreams come true, ACIS is the company for you. read more

ACIS truly takes care of everything--from the moment you sign up to the moment you return home. All you have to do on the trip is look, listen, and enjoy! Every day brings opportunities to learn while soaking in the beauty of international cities and the countryside in between. The tour guides are exceptional--knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about the places they share. Whether you're traveling solo, with a friend, family, or a small group, ACIS makes it easy and stress-free. The hotels are excellent and centrally located, the meals are delicious and included, and the itineraries strike a perfect balance between planned activities and free time to explore. Every detail is well-organized, and you'll come home with new friendships, unforgettable memories, and a deeper appreciation for the world. With so many inclusions, the value is unbeatable. ACIS is the perfect way to experience travel that's inspiring, effortless, and extraordinary! read more

I've traveled with my high school students several times using ACIS Educational Tours, and every trip has been amazing! They're super organized and really pay attention to every detail, which makes a huge difference when you're traveling with a group of teenagers. The tour managers have consistently gone above and beyond for our students, making sure everyone feels safe, engaged, and excited about every part of the journey. The hotels are always comfortable and centrally located, making it easier to explore each destination. Every time we visit major tourist sites, we truly feel like VIPs thanks to ACIS's excellent planning and connections. Traveling with them gives me total peace of mind as a teacher, knowing my students are getting a high-quality, memorable, and enriching experience. If you're a teacher considering planning a trip with your students, I highly recommend ACIS! read more

I have traveled with this company as a leader and as an assistant. I have also traveled with other companies. By far ACIS is better than the rest and I will never travel with anyone else! Our group's (2023) flight was canceled on the way home not once, but twice! ACIS not only took care of us for TWO extra days (hotel, bus to beach for kiddos including towels and chairs, money for icecream, meals), but they even placed us in a better hotel in town when the airline said they would have covered us to stay the extra nights in another town over an hour away! And, we had about 40 kiddos and 6 chaperones! They truly went above and beyond my expectations. Their customer service and support folks are amazing, their guides are amazing, and their tours are amazing. They are just good people! Centrally located, hand on fun, and the kids have loved every minute! read more

ACIS is the best group travel company we have found! We have travelled with over 65 students in the past 3 years to Costa Rica and Spain. We are returning to Costa Rica with ACIS this Spring! We love our tour managers, who stay with us 24/7 on our trips. ACIS also finds amazing, specialized tour guides to teach us about La Sagrada Familia, El Prado, Toledo, or Tortuguero, Costa Rica. We fly non-stop to our destinations and stay in hotels with the best locations, to walk downtown or to our next restaurant. We receive the best reviews and appreciation from the students and families as they feel safe, comfortable, and excited to travel with us through ACIS. What an amazing way for students to learn outside of the classroom, to engage and socialize with friends, and gain a greater understanding and curiosity about the world around them. read more

I have taken three trips with ACIS so far and each one has been amazing, organized, and well thought out. The tour managers are quite knowledgeable and show incredible flexiblilty when working with the students and teachers. I appreciate the fact that the hotels are always centrally located and clean. The local guides also continue to impress showing a wonderful balance of insight and a fun spirit. I recently experienced some flight delays on my way back from one of the school trips and ACIS took care of arranging everything to make the situation better. My ACIS representative, Brita, is always available with answers to any questions I may have which helps me get answers for the travelers going on my trip. ACIS makes lifetime memories possible, no doubt about it! read more

Traveled with my High Schoolers for the first time through ACIS to Paris. My co-workers other teachers have used ACIS many times and were always successful and happy with the tours. The hotel was amazing, the airlines too. Our tour guide had three small groups because we didn't have many traveling. She was amazing planning special things for each group. My group wanted to see the first Deaf School which was in Paris and is the foundation for our American sign language. It was great to walk there and take pictures etc. She kept us informed each night of the next days activities and expectations. We did not have to worry about what is next, about lines, tickets...NOTHING. IT was wonderful. I will travel with them again. Staycee- Berean Christian High School read more

I have been traveling with students for the last 21 year, I have used multiple companies and ACIS is the best by far. My favorite thing with ACIS is that we stay in the heart of every city. Other companies would end the day shortly after dinner because there were busses and trains that we needed to catch before they stopped running for the day, when you added up all of the hours of traveling into and out of the city it was close to a whole day. With ACIS my high school students and I are still able to enjoy gelato and the culture in the Piazza Navona well into the evening, close to midnight. The tour managers are amazing and knowledgeable, the accommodations are clean and close, the food is outstanding and the organization is top notch. read more