International Travel
Mason City Schools is proud to partner with EF Travel to offer students exciting opportunities for international travel - allowing students to immerse themselves in diverse perspectives, cultural exchanges, and real-world challenges. These travel experiences broaden students' horizons and foster self-discovery, and strengthen their roles as learners, leaders, and citizens prepared to positively impact their community and the world.
Upcoming Experiences
One of history’s darkest moments takes on a poignant immediacy when you walk through the cities, towns, and buildings where the events occurred.At the Jewish Museum in Berlin, in the Warsaw Ghetto, in Prague’s Jewish Quarter, and at the camps of Auschwitz and Birkenau, you have the opportunity to recall the suffering, honor the victims, and celebrate the liberation.
Welcome to a country that’s so singular and environmentally diverse, you might as well be on a different planet.Experience stunning fjords and breathtaking waterfalls, then travel to a red mountain where mud boils and steam flows out of the earth. Journey through the Dimmuborgir lava formations, which some believe are trolls exposed to the sun, then walk along the gap separating two tectonic plates. This adventurous trip is not for the faint-of-heart or weak-of-limb; it will keep you moving, climbing, and hiking—and constantly questioning how your surroundings can possibly be real.
Classical and traditional music. Breathtaking mountain landscapes. Architecture that will leave you awed and charmed.If these are a few of your favorite things, The Sound of Europe tour will be music to your ears. Follow in the footsteps of famous musicians as you soak up Munich’s Bavarian charm, visit Mozart’s Birthplace, experience traditional Hungarian folk music, and—of course—burst into spontaneous song among rolling green hills.
Experience Europe’s most historically and culturally significant capital cities.Trace Western political tradition across the millennia, from the Roman Forum to London’s Houses of Parliament. Witness the development of artistic brilliance, from the Louvre to the Sistine Chapel. See awe-inspiring architectural achievements, from St. Paul’s Cathedral to Notre Dame.
From afar, New Zealand and Australia may appear similar, both Pacific nations shaped by a shared history of British colonization.But up close, each country reveals its own rich, distinct culture—from Māori traditions in Rotorua to Aboriginal roots along the Great Barrier Reef.
On mainland Ecuador, experience the local culture in Quito, where Independence Plaza and the Intiñan Museum Museum provide social context to the biological wonders of this fascinating country.Offshore, the Galápagos are home to an assortment of marine species—making it the perfect destination for viewing wildlife before you experience Mindo Cloud Forest’s otherworldly climate.
2025 Experiences and Opportunities
Enrollment Closed!
Experience Japan’s many identities and extensive history.From majestic temples and shrines to interactive and imaginative museums, journey from the past to the present through Japanese culture. Explore the bright streets of modern Tokyo and escape to the breathtaking natural beauty of Osaka and Kyoto. Japan’s playful technologies, savory staples, and ancient architecture paint a beautiful contrast across centuries.
Costa Rica: A Touch of the Tropics:
With well-protected national reserves and an unparalleled
diversity of wildlife, Costa Rica is the jewel of Central America.
The Arenal region showcases an active volcano, hot springs,
and a broad range of fl ora and fauna. In Monteverde, visit a local
school, and in Manuel Antonio National Park, keep your eyes
open for sloth, toucans and howler monkeys.
Experience four countries on this tour of southern Europe.Discover how Cinque Terre has retained its original charm, learn how the French Riviera became the place to be for generations of rich and famous, and see how Antoni Gaudí’s surreal architecture has turned the city of Barcelona into one big gallery.
Leadership Summit, Dublin & London:
Tomorrow’s workforce will need more skills than ever before.That’s why this tour will immerse you in real-world experiences where you can focus on skills like communication, teamwork, and financial literacy. Kick things off by exploring Future Readiness in a Changing World at our inspiring leadership conference in Berlin. Then, let your voice be heard at London’s iconic Speaker’s Corner, build a budget at Borough Market, and dive into the inner workings of different start-ups and traditional jobs throughout Dublin and London.
2026 Experiences and Opportunities
Enroll Now by clicking the links!
Classical and traditional music. Breathtaking mountain landscapes. Architecture that will leave you awed and charmed.If these are a few of your favorite things, The Sound of Europe tour will be music to your ears. Follow in the footsteps of famous musicians as you soak up Munich’s Bavarian charm, visit Mozart’s Birthplace, experience traditional Hungarian folk music, and—of course—burst into spontaneous song among rolling green hills.
Experience Europe’s most historically and culturally significant capital cities.Trace Western political tradition across the millennia, from the Roman Forum to London’s Houses of Parliament. Witness the development of artistic brilliance, from the Louvre to the Sistine Chapel. See awe-inspiring architectural achievements, from St. Paul’s Cathedral to Notre Dame.
Explore Iceland: North to South:
Welcome to a country that’s so singular and environmentally diverse, you might as well be on a different planet.Experience stunning fjords and breathtaking waterfalls, then travel to a red mountain where mud boils and steam flows out of the earth. Journey through the Dimmuborgir lava formations, which some believe are trolls exposed to the sun, then walk along the gap separating two tectonic plates. This adventurous trip is not for the faint-of-heart or weak-of-limb; it will keep you moving, climbing, and hiking—and constantly questioning how your surroundings can possibly be real.
Journey Through the Galapagos:
On mainland Ecuador, experience the local culture in Quito, where Independence Plaza and the Intiñan Museum Museum provide social context to the biological wonders of this fascinating country.Offshore, the Galápagos are home to an assortment of marine species—making it the perfect destination for viewing wildlife before you experience Mindo Cloud Forest’s otherworldly climate.
From afar, New Zealand and Australia may appear similar, both Pacific nations shaped by a shared history of British colonization.But up close, each country reveals its own rich, distinct culture—from Māori traditions in Rotorua to Aboriginal roots along the Great Barrier Reef.
Central Europe and the Holocaust:
One of history’s darkest moments takes on a poignant immediacy when you walk through the cities, towns, and buildings where the events occurred.At the Jewish Museum in Berlin, in the Warsaw Ghetto, in Prague’s Jewish Quarter, and at the camps of Auschwitz and Birkenau, you have the opportunity to recall the suffering, honor the victims, and celebrate the liberation.
Find Your Path
Traveling with us? Here's what you need...
- Mason City Schools International Travel Consent Form
- Emergency Medical Authorization Form (Sign in Here)
- Student Code of Conduct
Have Questions about MCS International Travel?
Feel free to reach out Dr. Robyn Jordan, our Learner and Family Engagement Administrator. She is always happy to help!
Email: jordanr@masonohioschools.com
Extension: 513.398.0474 Extension 20117