14 Kenya Expedition Planner Working-JKcincinnatizoo.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/14_Kenya_Expedition... · 14-05-2014 · HTH Worldwide: Miami University Blanket Student Accident

© Earth Expeditions 2014

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Expedition Planner – Kenya

The Expedition Planner is probably the most important document you will receive in preparation for your Earth Expeditions experience. Print out a copy and read it, highlighting important points. Take it with you when you shop for the trip and visit your doctor, and take it with you on the trip itself.

Table of Contents Kenya 2

Map: Kenya 3

Passports/Visas 4

Health Insurance and Your Health 6

Travel Details 9

Reference Itinerary 10 Packing List 12

Food, Lodging, Electricity, Phones 16

Tips for Travelers 19

Helpful Hints from Past Participants 23

Emergency Contact Information – Kenya 25

Embassy Travel Registration – Kenya 27

Course Costs 28

Useful Websites: Kenya 30

Miami University Code of Student Conduct - Excerpts 32

HTH Insurance Policy Information 33 Please note that information in this document is private, intended for use only by students and instructors in Earth Expeditions courses. Do not distribute, copy or otherwise share. Before you contact our office with questions about how to prepare for the course, please read through the Expedition Planner. We’ve worked hard to anticipate what you will need to know and to be as thorough as possible. You will be responsible for knowing this information and preparing yourself for travel. If you still have questions after reading the planner, please contact us at [email protected]. General Frequently Asked Questions about the program and the course can be found at: http://www.earthexpeditions.org/faq-page Welcome to Earth Expeditions! © 2014 Earth Expeditions. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, transmitted or distributed in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of Earth Expeditions. All information in this Planner is updated and accurate as of February 2014.


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Kenya Kenya gained independence from Britain in 1963, and is situated on the equator along Africa’s east coast. First inhabited by humans about 2 million years ago, Kenya is described as “the cradle of humanity”. Its long history has created a land of incredible ethnic diversity with more than 40 ethnic groups currently residing in Kenya. This ethnic diversity is a source of conflict and a source of vibrant culture and beauty. In Kenya, there are many unique traditional lifestyles still thriving today. Agriculture is a mainstay of the economy, employing 75% of the labor force. Tourism is another important economic contributor. Kenya’s scenic beauty makes this country one of Africa’s major safari destinations. Northern Kenya is arid and the southwest corner lies in the fertile Lake Victoria Basin. A length of the eastern depression of the Great Rift Valley separates western highlands from those rising from the lowland coastal strip. The South Rift Valley of Kenya, stretching from the Maasai Mara National Reserve through Amboseli National Park, is one of the most spectacular wildlife areas on the planet. For this Earth Expeditions course, we have partnered with the African Conservation Centre (ACC) to advance community-based conservation in this dynamic landscape. This effort builds on the decades-long research of Dr. David Western, former head of the Kenya Wildlife Service, and the centuries-long research of the Maasai pastoralists, who have long co-existed with wildlife in an open grassland ecosystem populated by elephants, lions, giraffes, zebra, wildebeests, and a remarkable diversity of other species. Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is headquarters for the ACC. With the rise of nontraditional lifestyles, private ranches, and fenced lands that prevent needed wildlife migrations, communities of the South Rift have recognized the need to understand the impact of these changes and to work together for a better future. We will also visit Amboseli National Park, which covers 392 square kilometers beneath the snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro towering to the south. The park's wetlands, plains, woodlands and bush country support a diversity of wildlife unrivalled in East Africa for a park of its size. Over 80 different mammals and 400 bird species reside in the park. Elephants play a key role in the changing ecosystem and their populations have been the subject of long-term research projects on the secrets of elephant family life, communication, and migration patterns. Long before the park boundaries were set, the local Maasai were custodians of Amboseli's wildlife; Maasai do not ordinarily kill wild animals for food as their domestic cattle and goats meet nearly all their requirements. We will also visit the Olkiramatian Research Center located in the communally-owned land between the boundaries of Ambesoli National Park in the south and Maasai Mara in the west. This is a vital wildlife dispersal area; in fact, this land, owned primarily by the Maasai, supports a greater diversity of wildlife than the national parks. We will work with the African Conservation Centre and the South Rift Association of Landowners (SORALO) to create a unique community-based Research Center in Olkiramatian, the heart of the South Rift ecosystem. This area teems with wildlife and lies outside the tourist-dominated park environments. Situated on Maasai communal land, the new Research Center is designed to advance new approaches to understanding integrated landscapes through local initiatives and shared objectives for conservation and education.


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Map: Kenya The map below shows the places we will be going in Kenya.

Magadi and Olkiramatian


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Passports/Visas Passports All participants for all international Earth Expeditions will need a valid passport. Be sure to start this process early as it can take several weeks to obtain your passport. Travelers should insure that passports are valid for at least six months beyond their date of travel and that their passport contains three to four blank pages for visas and immigration stamps (see following). First-time Passports: To obtain a passport for the first time, you need to go in person to one of the passport acceptance facilities with two photographs of yourself, proof of U.S. citizenship, and a valid form of photo identification such as a driver’s license. You can find additional details including fees, necessary forms, and locations of approved passport facilities at: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html Renewal of a U.S. Passport You will need to renew in person if:

• you are under age 16; • your previous U.S. passport was issued when you were under age 16; • your previous U.S. passport was lost, stolen, or damaged; • your previous U.S. passport was issued more than 15 years ago; or • your name has changed since your U.S. passport was issued and you are unable to legally document

your name change.

You can renew by mail if:

• your most recent passport is available to submit and it is not damaged; • you received the passport within the past 15 years; • you were over age 16 when it was issued; or • you still have the same name or can legally document your name change.

For more information on how to renew a passport, please visit: http://travel.state.gov/passport/renew/renew_833.html Adding pages to a valid passport: Check how many blank visa pages remain in your passport. The authorities will not use the amendment pages for visa stamps. To be on the safe side, you should have at least three to four blank visa pages (unless you intend to travel to other countries before or after the class, in which case you will need more). Passports must be valid for 6 months beyond date of travel. If you have fewer than three to four blank visa pages, you will need to have visa pages added to your passport or you will not be permitted to leave the United States – we know this from painful experience! To add pages, download form DS-4085 and follow the instructions on the website to apply. Allow six weeks for this process. Please see http://travel.state.gov/passport/correcting/add/add_850.html Visas A passport and visa are required for all U.S. travelers (non-U.S citizens, please check http://www.kenyaembassy.com/visa.html to see what is required for your entry). Although visas can be obtained at the airport upon arrival, there are often long lines that may delay the class's departure; in order to stick to our tight schedule, we are requiring that all Kenya participants apply for a single entry visa prior to their trip.


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Options for Obtaining Visas 1. Visas can be obtained from any Kenyan Embassy or High Commission. To download a visa application form, visit http://www.kenyaembassy.com/visa.html. Best to obtain your visa before arriving in Kenya via this process. If you are planning to arrive in Nairobi several days in advance of the course, you may choose to obtain your visa upon arrival but will need to check into these in-person requirements. Because we recommend you obtaining your visa in advance of your flight, those details are outlined below. Visas are usually valid for six months from the date of issue. From the U.S. Department of State Consular Information, the Single Journey Visa fee is $50 payable in cashiers check or money order ONLY (payable to Kenya Embassy). The website states this process takes 14 days on average. Last year, some participants were able to call the embassy and for an additional $10 charge rush the process, but this is NOT advertised on the website and not a guarantee, so please plan early. Note: a valid passport must be submitted with the application so if you are getting a first-time passport or renewing a passport, you must start that process very early in order to have your passport on hand to send with the visa application. 2. Briggs Visa and Passport Expeditor, a service provider with its head office/operation center in Washington DC but with a local Cincinnati office, can assist Earth Expeditions students in expediting visas for study abroad (please note: visas are only needed for travel to some countries). The visa services of A. Briggs include expedited international travel visas and business visas for entry and exit to international destinations. They can assist both US students and international students as long as those international students are in the US legally on a permanent resident card or on an extended visa such as a student visa. The cost of expediting a visa ranges from $55.00 - $175.00, depending on if the participant wants it non-rush, rush, or emergency. For more information, visit their website at: http://www.abriggs.com.

For a 10% discount on the service charge, login as “miamiu” with password “international” The contact information for the Cincinnati office is: Contact person: Evelyn Bellman Phone: 513-898-0084 Address: 11305 Reed Hartman, Suite 127 Cincinnati, OH 45241 Hours: 8-5:30pm, Monday to Friday, including the lunch hour Email: [email protected] <http://[email protected]> Customs & Immigration You will be asked to fill out entry forms to Kenya while on the plane. You should report that the purpose of your trip is vacation or holiday. If you indicate that you are taking a course, it may cause some confusion at immigration and lead to a delay in entering the country.


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Health Insurance and Your Health HTH Worldwide: Miami University Blanket Student Accident and Sickness Insurance Miami University requires that all students participating in study abroad programs purchase Blanket Student Accident and Sickness Insurance from HTH Worldwide, regardless of whether they have other health insurance. However, participants 50 years of age or older who can provide proof of valid insurance are not required by Miami University to purchase HTH insurance. If you fall into this category, please visit Miami’s Study Abroad website to provide your personal insurance information at http://www.studyabroad.miamioh.edu/ Miami requires that you purchase insurance covering the days you are abroad with your class, including travel days. This typically totals around $22.00. However, if you will be doing additional traveling, you may want to extend the coverage—it’s entirely up to you. You can enroll online by visiting http://www.hthstudents.com Group access code CNX-4745 Payment online is via credit card only. If you want to pay by some other means, download the enrollment form from the site and follow the directions. On the forms, when asked for Student ID, simply use your Social Security number. Once you have submitted your form online, HTH will send you your insurance information and identification card; please allow 5 to 7 business days to receive your card. In addition, if you are a registered user of the HTH Students website, you may print out an online ID card at any time for current or upcoming coverage once you have been enrolled. This is available in the “My Benefits” section of the site. As soon as you receive your new HTH identification card, please submit your HTH information to Miami’s Study Abroad and Away website. See your To Dos in DragonflyWorkshops if you have questions about where to submit the information. More information on HTH Insurance appears at the end of this planner. Vaccinations Medical decisions are your responsibility. Health conditions around the world are constantly changing. To determine what vaccinations you should take, you must check with your doctor or local travel health clinic. You can view up-to-date, country-specific information at the websites below. Be sure to check recommendations for malaria prevention on the websites and discuss those recommendations with your doctor. Centers for Disease Control: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/kenya.aspx World Health Organization: http://www.who.int/en/ ASTMH Tropical Medicine and Hygiene: http://www.astmh.org/ See your doctor as soon as possible before your trip to allow time for vaccines to take effect. Some vaccinations require a series of shots over several weeks. Be sure to check recommendations for malaria prevention on the websites and discuss those recommendations with your doctor. We will be spending most of our time in Amboseli National Park and Olkiramatian, near Lake Magadi. You may want to bring the enclosed map showing where you’ll be in Kenya with you to the doctor. Many vaccination recommendations are region-specific and may not apply to the places you will be in Kenya – it is worth determining this with a medical professional. Medical decisions are your responsibility. Yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. For details on yellow fever, visit: http://www.cdc.gov/yellowfever/ .


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Jet Lag and Time Differences Jet lag, also called time zone change syndrome, is a sleep disorder (not life-threatening) caused by crossing multiple time zones. Jet lag puts your internal clock, which regulates your sleep-wake cycle, out of sync with the time in your new location. It can take a few days for your body to adjust; your sleep-wake cycle, mealtime hunger cycle, and bowel habits will need a bit of time to adjust. Tips for dealing with jet lag:

• Jump right into it! Get used to your new time zone by going along with the local meal and sleep schedules;

• Get plenty of sleep before you leave and try to sleep on the plane; • Avoid alcohol on the airplane; • Eat well-balanced meals but avoid over eating; • Use sleep medications only if necessary.

More information can be found at http://mayoclinic.com/health/jet-lag/DS01085 Deep Vein Thrombosis Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) can be a concern when flying long distances. DVT is the development of blood clots, typically in the legs, brought on by prolonged immobility, particularly when seated, that lead to the pooling of blood in the legs. Tips for prevention:

• Perform simple exercises at frequent intervals during the flight (leg/body stretches, walking airplane aisles, changing position in your seat)

• Drink plenty of fluids • Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol • Avoid crossing legs for long periods of time when seated • Wear loose fitting comfortable clothes when traveling • Avoid taking sleeping tablets • After arrival, perform gentle exercise to stimulate circulation

Visit http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Dvt/DVT_WhatIs.html for more information. Malaria Since you are traveling to a country that has a risk of malaria, it is important to be aware of this risk and how to prevent it. Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is widespread in many tropical and subtropical countries. Malaria is contracted through an infected mosquito carrying the malaria parasites in its saliva. Do not be too alarmed though because there are many things you can do to help prevent contracting the disease! Here are some basic tips when traveling to countries at risk: • Be aware of the risk of malaria if you are traveling to a foreign country. • Avoid mosquito bites by taking appropriate measures. Reducing the number of bites reduces the

chances of getting malaria. • If you have decided to take malaria medication, be careful to follow the directions. Avoiding mosquito bites: • Mosquitoes bite any time of day but the Anopheles (the species of mosquito that carries the

malaria parasites) bite at night with most activity at dawn and dusk. If you are out at night, wear long-sleeved clothing and long pants.

• Mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing, so spray an insecticide or repellent on your clothing. Insect repellents can also be used on exposed skin.

For more information on malaria, visit http://www.traveldoctor.co.uk/malaria.htm or http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2014/chapter-3-infectious-diseases-related-to-travel/travel-vaccines-and-malaria-information-by-country/kenya#seldyfm533


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Physical Fitness Walking and spending many hours outside should be expected during your field experience. If you have been living a somewhat sedentary lifestyle, we suggest that you begin regular moderate exercise at least two months before departing on your Earth Expedition. Walking or hiking is perfect; include a range of flat and hilly terrain in your training. It’s a good idea to walk with a daypack as you will almost always have daily supplies with you. Be prepared to be hiking in hot and humid conditions. Lifestyle Keep in mind that the daily routines you follow at home may not work on an Earth Expedition. For instance, you will need to be cognizant of your use of resources such as water and electricity; many places will have a much more limited supply than you are used to. And although there will be running water everywhere we stay, the availability of hot water may be limited. Most of our lodging will be sufficient but not luxurious. Keep in mind that you will be sharing rooms with one or more other participants in a dorm-style setting with multiple bunk beds to a room. Travel Safety For up-to-date, country-specific information on travel warnings, public announcements, and consular information, visit the U.S. Department of State website at http://www.travel.state.gov/. Miami University also monitors information from all Earth Expeditions sites. Air Travel Health Tips Most people don't have any problems when they fly, but it's possible to make airplane travel more comfortable. Here are some tips: • The air in airplanes is very dry, so drink water and nonalcoholic, decaffeinated beverages to

remain as hydrated as possible. • Try to walk occasionally during your flight to keep your blood circulating (unless the crew tells you

not to). • Carry your prescription medications in your carry-on baggage. • Have the name and phone number of your doctor with you in case of an emergency. Remember

to bring along the names and dosages of all of your medicines. Visit http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/healthy/travel/455.html for more information. Motion Sickness Even if you’ve never experienced motion sickness before, you should bring along a non-drowsy remedy for it (tablets or bracelets). We will be traveling by bus and by boat on rivers, and many participants are affected by motion sickness. Eating lightly before the ride can help you avoid it; remedies should be taken before the ride starts. Some students have used a prescription travel patch, but please consult your doctor and note that they can cause drowsiness.


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Travel Details Meeting the Group All Kenya Field Expedition students are responsible for meeting the course instructors on July 1, 2014, at 10:00 AM at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya (NBO). The group will meet outside at the airport baggage claim. You will receive several yellow baggage tags that include the Earth Expeditions logo. Placing one of these on your carry-on is a great way to spot other members of your class while in transit. Placing one on your checked baggage will help others in our group spot your bags and help you retrieve them as they come off the baggage carousel. If you are already traveling in advance of this course and prefer to meet your instructors at the first meeting location, request this to see if it is an option. Instructors need to be informed where to meet each student and will presume you will all meet at the designated time and place above if not agreed upon otherwise. Purchasing Your Tickets ! As a tip, travel experts recommend purchasing airline tickets on Tuesdays after 3:00, as most airlines tend to post their airfare deals on Monday evenings. The competition starts attempting to match the bargains on the following Tuesday morning. By waiting until Tuesday afternoon, all the best airfare deals are in the system and waiting to be purchased. You will be asked to share your flight itinerary details in the Dragonfly Workshops course To Dos.


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Reference Itinerary – FROM 2013 COURSE A previous year’s itinerary for this course is included to give you an idea of how you will likely be spending your time in the field. Specific details may change from year to year. A finalized version of this year’s itinerary will be provided at www.dragonflyworkshops.org

Before course begins Wildebeest Eco Camp Day 1 Arrive Nairobi airport; meet group at 10 AM Overnight: Wildebeest Eco Camp Day 2 - A changing landscape Morning: Transfer to Amboseli National Park Afternoon: First day orientation (EE instructors) Overnight: Amboseli Game Scouts campground Day 3 – Conservation in action: Game scouts and field inquiries Morning: Walk with game scouts focused on conservation goals Game drive to overlook; Overview to Amboseli Afternoon: Group field inquiry – Amboseli Elephant Research project work Evening: Group discussion #1: African Savanna Ecology Overnight: Amboseli Game Scouts campground Day 4 – Methods in community-based conservation Morning: Pack up; Fly to Magadi; Drive to Olkiramatian Afternoon: Overview of Olkiramatian land and communities and African Conservation Centre priorities;

Field methods walk Evening: Group discussion #2: Community-based Conservation Overnight: Olkiramatian Resource Center (Lale’enok) Day 5 – Applications of inquiry Morning: Early morning game drive; Open Inquiry (EE Instructors) Afternoon: Group Discussion #3: Inquiry and Participatory Education Field Methods I Overnight: Olkiramatian Resource Center (Lale’enok) Day 6 – Community connections All day: Community conservation project; Reflection on day’s experience Evening: Group discussion #4: Balancing Human Land Use and Conservation Evening game drive Overnight: Olkiramatian Resource Center (Lale’enok) Day 7 – Field methods and inquiry Morning: Game drive Field Methods II Afternoon: Guided inquiry during game drive Evening: Master Plan discussion Overnight: Olkiramatian Resource Center (Lale’enok)


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Day 8 – How does it all tie together? Morning: Game drive Discussion on resource center; Brainstorming on IAPs Afternoon: Field Methods III Evening: Last night’s festivities Overnight: Olkiramatian Resource Center (Lale’enok) Day 9 – Travel day Morning: Course wrap up and final questions

Depart to Nairobi; stop to clean up before drive to airport Afternoon: Farewell and departure


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Packing List Keep it simple and pack lightly! Space is at a premium. Many past participants have over-packed and spent a lot of energy hauling luggage around. It is a very good idea to pack a carry-on bag with an extra set of clothing and personal essentials (e.g. medications, basic toiletries) in case your luggage is lost and/or takes several days to reach you. Currently, passengers are not allowed to carry on any containers with liquids, gels, etc. greater than 3oz, and all containers with liquid must fit into a 1-qt. Ziploc bag. For more details, see http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm. Don’t take anything you really care about because it might get lost or ruined. The flight to Africa does not give out much food on-board, and it’s a long flight. We recommend bringing enough snacks to keep yourself (and maybe some friends!) comfortable on the flight. Temperatures over much of Kenya are subtropical or temperate because of the reduction of temperature with altitude, and are similar to those in California. June, July, and August are the winter months in Kenya. The average temperatures are 49° to 72° F with some fluctuation. It may get down to freezing at night, so dress accordingly. Olkiramatian, where we will be spending most of our time, is warmer than Amboseli. It is best to dress in layers so you can peel off or add clothes as needed. For instance, if we go out early in the morning it will be chilly and you’ll be happy for a sweater, jacket, or sweatshirt, but as the day warms up, you can peel down to a short-sleeved shirt. The sun rises around 6:30 am and sets around 6:30 pm. Don't take anything you really care about, because it may be lost or ruined. Lastly, while you may be someone who rarely gets sick or has never been motion sick, things can be different in a foreign environment. We require that you each bring along a small personal first aid kit with several doses of each of the following: cold medication (whatever you are used to taking), a motion sickness remedy, rehydration packets, an anti-diarrheal, and a fiber/laxative to be sure you have peace of mind and what you need while away from home. Bag Suggestions Pack one piece of soft-sided luggage and 1 daypack because they pack easily into vans and buses. And remember to leave space in your bag for purchases you make during the trip. We suggest you line your luggage with plastic garbage bags and pack smaller items in Ziplocs to help keep the contents dry. Suggested dimensions for your soft-sided checked luggage are approximately 14.5” X 21.5” X 8” (an example is pictured below). This is the maximum legal carry-on size and should fit all the necessities for an Earth Expeditions course.


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Annotated Packing List REQUIRED ITEMS Passport (suggest carry in money belt or pouch) Photocopies of your passport and credit cards (packed separately from originals; leave copies with

people at home, too) HTH Health insurance card (or photocopy of front/back of personal insurance card if you are over 50) Course Reader Expedition Planner Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) Two water bottles – both at least 20 oz. (we will fill water bottles from large jugs every morning; each

person will need two water bottles each day) Sunglasses and hat Field notebook (We will use this daily. You can use a regular notebook and keep it in a zip-close bag to

keep it out of the elements or you can consider a water-resistant “Rite in the Rain” notebook at http://www.riteintherain.com/ or Forestry Suppliers Inc. at http://www.forestry-suppliers.com).

Pencils, ballpoint pens Small daypack or rucksack (you will pack this every day) Two flashlights or headlamps with extra batteries Spending money in small denominations (newer bills are recommended) Credit/debit card, traveler’s checks (See ‘Money’ below) Personal toiletries. Biodegradable soap, shampoo, etc. Toothpaste, toothbrush, etc. Personal first aid kit (Try not to overdo it; full packages of each of these will probably not be necessary.

Your instructors will also carry an all-purpose first aid kit for group use.) Your kit might include:

anti-diarrhea meds motion-sickness meds antihistamine throat lozenges antibiotic ointment anti-fungal powder or ointment itch relief pain reliever bandages moleskin talcum or baby powder/rash cream (these will help to relieve heat rash and chaffing) cold medication fiber pills/packets or laxative

Travel alarm clock (battery) – Do not plan to use your phone as your alarm (we have little access to electricity)

Light bath/quick dry towel (or piece of sheet, it dries faster) Light-weight, quick-drying long-sleeved shirts Light-weight, quick-drying long pants or conversion pants (pants that zip into shorts) Light-weight, quick-dry, shorts Light hiking boots or high-top tennis shoes with strong soles (there are many tough seedpods) Jacket or sweater and warm hat (for cool morning and evening temperatures) Shower shoes such as flip-flops/sandals (for field showers) Windbreaker or light raincoat (increases insulating ability of jackets/sweaters) Pajamas Socks

NOTE: Food will not be provided until lunch on the first full day of the course and the last meal on the last day will be lunch, so please plan accordingly to accommodate these additional expenses.


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Optional Recommended Items Binoculars (see ‘Binoculars’ below) Hand lens (for the botanically inclined) Watch that can count seconds (digital or second hand) Antibacterial wipes or lotions (good for cleaning hands in the field and much, much more!) Prescription antibiotics (We strongly recommend getting a prescription from your travel or family doctor for

Cipro or another antibiotic to be used in the case of traveler’s diarrhea. You should get the prescription filled and bring the medication in a container with the original pharmacy labels on it. It is a worthwhile investment!)

An additional set of nicer, clean clothes and another comfortable outfit (Just in case; you may want to keep it in its own re-sealable baggie)

Feminine hygiene products (Tampons can be difficult to find, so take all that you will need. It is also a good idea to bring a few of these items even if you are not scheduled to need them, just in case.)

A few sets of earplugs (for the plane and/or sleeping in case roommates snore) Personal journal (or you can keep personal notes in your field notebook) Prescription medications (Be sure you have enough to last the whole trip. If your insurance limits the

amount you can get per month, ask your pharmacist about a vacation override. Prescriptions must be in original bottles/containers and clearly labeled and should be packed in your carry-on.)

Caffeine addition? Bring single serving tea or coffee packets. Camera and equipment (polarizing filter, film, extra camera battery, lens cleaner and tissue, silica gel

packets that remove moisture from shoe boxes in re-sealable plastic bags can be great at keeping small amounts of moisture from your camera)

Lots of re-sealable plastic bags in various sizes (for protecting equipment, such as cameras, from dirt/humidity/water)

Plastic garbage bags (for wet or dirty clothes and protection from rain) Travel-sized package of laundry detergent (biodegradable is best) Lightweight cord/rope (to hang wet clothing) (An “Inquiry Bag” containing supplies and tools for conducting field research will be available for your use.) Money It is difficult to give advice about how much money to bring; everyone has different needs/styles. Some people buy gifts for everyone they know and others are happy with just one souvenir t-shirt. All lodging, meals, and ground transportation are covered in the course cost. Souvenirs, tips (see ‘Tipping’ below), and extra snacks or beverages are at your own expense. In case of emergencies, it is a good idea to have access to a bit more money (in the form of debit, cash, or credit cards) than you expect to spend. You will likely need to have $50 U.S. set aside for a potential exit tax and in country flight tax. To learn more visit: http://www.iatatravelcentre.com/home.htm Credit Cards – If you intend to bring a credit card, contact your credit card company to let them know where you might be using it – some companies will cut the card off if they suspect fraud. When you call, you should also find out if there are extra charges for international purchases or cash withdrawals. You may want to keep this card packed separately from your other money, and give the credit card number and phone number of the company to someone at home. If the card gets stolen, it will be much easier for the person back home to deal with it than you trying to do it in the field. Cash – It is a good idea to bring smaller denominations of new US currency for exchange. Many times, for example, foreign banks will not take hundred dollar bills. Again, the amount of cash you bring is up to you. Think about storing cash in several different locations, so in the rare event that you baggage is lost, you will still have some money with you. Debit Cards — Notify your bank if you intend to bring a debit card. Ask whether you have a PIN number that will work internationally and about any fees that may be applied. Most of our time will be spent in rural areas without access to banks or ATMs.


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Visa TravelMoney — Another option for money – you fill up this account and use it as a debit card. More information about Visa TravelMoney is available at: http://usa.visa.com/personal/cards/prepaid/visa_travel_money.html Traveler’s Checks – One more option for payment - though some vendors don’t always accept these. If you do bring traveler’s checks, best to also bring some cash just in case a vendor won’t accept your traveler’s checks. Currency — The basic unit of currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). To check on the current exchange rate, visit the XE Universal Currency Converter at http://www.xe.com/ucc/full.shtml. Count on only Kenyan shillings being accepted at most local vendors, but you can exchange US dollars and traveler’s checks in big towns. Tipping Earth Expeditions does not require or expect students to tip. In some situations, you might feel that a tip is appropriate. But whether or not you tip should be based on your own experiences, thoughts, and finances. It is entirely up to you. Earth Expeditions is committed to helping ensure the continued financial viability of our partners. To that end, the program pays generously for all activities and services. Each of our partners, from bus drivers to community-based conservation organizations, has been paid amply for their services. In some situations, Earth Expeditions students, on their own initiative, have collected extra money for folks who have provided services above and beyond. In these instances, peer pressure to contribute can be significant. Please be aware of the potential for requests like this and be prepared to contribute or not contribute based on your own experiences, thoughts, and finances. And please remember that Earth Expeditions does not require or expect students to tip. If you have a question about tipping while in Kenya, please feel free to discuss it with your instructors. Wish List Items Sometimes our partners are in need of particular “wish list” items that can be easier for Earth Expeditions students to obtain. See Dragonfly Workshops on if there are current needs for this course. Binoculars It is highly recommended that everyone bring a decent pair of binoculars while on the field component of the course. They bring faraway objects up close, help you see in the dim light under the canopy of the forest and (if you turn them around) they function as a field microscope or hand lens. If you don’t want to buy a pair, it is worth borrowing some from friends or family. If you are interested in buying a pair, please check out the website below for the best way to select a pair. People have lots of questions about how to choose a “decent pair of binoculars," so we have referenced this website as a starting point. While this site focuses on birding binoculars, the recommendations are pretty much universal when it comes to selecting good binoculars. To learn more, visit: http://www.binoculars101.com/ One last piece of advice - once you have selected a pair, look for them on eBay/other discount websites. Some of us have shaved $200 or more dollars off the price by shopping here.


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Food, Lodging, Electricity, Phones Food If there is any food that you would desperately miss or if you’re a picky eater, take some food with you (although if you want to take fruits and vegetables, first check customs information). Vegetarians are generally well accommodated by our partners. In general, it would not hurt for everyone to take individually wrapped snacks, such as granola bars, fruit bars, or crackers and a jar of peanut butter. Foods that do not spoil, are easily transportable, and are not messy to eat are good to carry with you into the field and have on hand if you want a snack. Do not count on waiting till you arrive to stock up on snacks. Quite often it is difficult for the bus to stop in traffic to accommodate trips to the neighborhood grocery store. Also, our schedule usually does not permit unscheduled stops along the way. Water Generally, it is safest to drink bottled water or water provided by our hosts. You will be able to fill your own bottle from a larger container of bottled water. Use bottled water to brush your teeth, just to be safe. Kenya is an extremely arid nation and water conservation is an on-going concern. Please be very, very mindful of your water consumption -- keep showers as short as possible and consider bathing every other day. Electricity Electricity in Kenya is 220V AC. You may need an adapter from the standard American three-pronged round plug to Type G electrical plug, which is a British three-pin rectangular blade plug. We generally recommend against bringing electronic items with you, although you may need a recharger for camera batteries. For more information on Kenya’s electricity, visit: http://electricaloutlet.org/type-g http://www.adaptelec.com/index.php?main_page=document_general_info&products_id=213

nine220volts.com Laundry The availability of laundry service is spotty; it is best not to count on it. Plan to hand wash clothes in a sink or bucket and hang to dry. If laundry service is available, it will be at your own expense; laundry service is not included in course costs. Bringing a small rope or laundry line may be of great use as the dryness in Kenya allows for easy hand-washing and air drying clothes. Lodging Lodging will be sufficient but not luxurious. Keep in mind that you will be sharing a standard canvas tent with one other participant at both of the locations that we will be visiting during the trip.


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International Phone Calls and Internet Connectivity Phones are available but are rarely accessible to us while in Kenya. Don’t count on being able to use any phone during the course. While many cell phone companies offer international calling plans, we don’t recommend this as coverage can be unpredictable. Do not schedule phone calls home, because there is no guarantee that you will actually be able to access a phone at a scheduled time. Such missed calls can generate lots of unnecessary worry for your friends and family at home. Your family can access the Earth Expeditions Trip Status website at http://www.earthexpeditions.org/trip_status to check that your class has arrived safely. For the most part, there is no internet connectivity at our Kenya course locations. In the rare event that connectivity is present, know that it may not be working. And if it’s working, the service is so intermittent and sketchy, we leave that connectivity reserved for our partners and for emergencies. Again, simply plan to not have access to the internet and be sure and tell your family and friends that you will likely not have access. Roving Merchants There will likely be opportunities to interact with local people, including children, who are selling crafts or other items to make money for their families. For example, they may approach your table in a restaurant, on the street or at the entrance to a park. Some participants enjoy engaging in conversations or taking photographs with these locals. (It is also okay to politely decline to interact.) Out of respect for their time, if you engage in conversation or take photographs, please consider purchasing something from these roving merchants. Cancellation Insurance We highly recommend trip cancellation insurance, which can help cover your airfare if you are unable to travel or if the expedition is canceled. Earth Expeditions does not reimburse airfare. You can compare rates at http://www.insuremytrip.com. HTH Insurance, from whom Miami requires you buy travel health insurance, also offers trip cancellation insurance (http://www.hthtravelinsurance.com). If you buy tickets through a travel agency, they will likely offer insurance at an additional cost as well. You can also learn more, at: http://www.travelguard.com/ Foreign Entry Requirements From the U.S. Department of State Consular Information Sheet (http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1151.html): A passport and visa are required for all U.S. travelers (non-U.S citizens, please check the website listed above). Although visas can be obtained at the airport upon arrival, there are often long lines that may delay the class's departure; in order to stick to our tight schedule, we are requiring that all Kenya participants apply for a single entry visa prior to their trip. Visas can be obtained from any Kenyan Embassy or High Commission. To download a visa application form, visit: http://www.kenyaembassy.com/visa.html Visas are usually valid for six months from the date of issue. At the time of writing, the price for a single entry visa is USD $25, payable in cashiers check or money order ONLY (payable to Kenya Embassy). If you call and need faster service, you might ask the representative about faster service. Some students were surprised to find out that for an additional fee, they were able to speed this service (but we do not suggest counting on this). Note: a valid passport must be submitted with the application so if you are getting a first-time passport or renewing a passport, you must start the passport process very early in order to have your passport on hand to send with the visa application. There are no mandatory immunizations required for U.S. residents wishing to visit Kenya. However, immunization against yellow fever is recommended. Travelers to Kenya and neighboring African countries should ensure that the validity of their passports is at least six months beyond


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their date of travel, and that their passport contains sufficient blank pages for visas and immigration stamps. Consult the Embassy of Kenya, 2249 R Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20008, telephone (202) 387-6101, or the Kenyan Consulates General in Los Angeles and New York City for further information. (Information taken from U.S. Department of State website at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1151.html)


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Tips for Travelers While traveling, you are subject to the laws of the country where you are traveling and not U.S. laws. Tourists who commit illegal acts have no special privileges and are subject to full prosecution under the local judicial system. If you find yourself in serious difficulty while abroad, contact a consular officer at the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate. U.S. consuls cannot serve as attorneys or give legal assistance, and they cannot get you out of jail. They can, however, provide lists of local attorneys and advise you of your rights under local law. If you are detained, a consul can monitor your case to assure your treatment is in accordance with local law. Environmental Responsibility: No handling of vertebrates, no collecting & minimizing seed transfer As students and representatives of Miami University, we are required to follow university policies and protocols related to animal welfare and in our interactions with wildlife. In accordance with Miami University policy and federal laws regulating the welfare of animals in captivity and in the wild, Earth Expeditions conducts only observational studies on vertebrate animals and, therefore, neither instructors nor students should touch or hold vertebrates. With all of our activities a priority is placed on reducing our impacts on the ecosystems we visit and placing the needs of the wildlife we are studying first. We work with our partners to set clear parameters for proximity while observing wildlife, as our presence not only affects whether or not we will see wildlife but can also negatively affect the viability and survival of a species should we be too close. Instructors and students must respect all barriers and maintain all posted, printed and verbally explained distances; that distance must always be at least 0.5 meters from all vertebrates. Instructors and students may not touch vertebrates with their hands or with their equipment, in the land or in the sea. Additionally, we may break into smaller groups to minimize our impacts and noise levels. Overall, it is important that all Earth Expeditions participants stay on trails and abide by the rules and regulations of our host; doing so will not only ensure you have the best possible wildlife viewing experiences, but will also ensure that we do our part to support local conservation efforts and the viability of the local species we have the opportunity to see. Viewing research in the field On occasion, research, teaching, and educational opportunities and demonstrations exist wherein a class may observe someone else’s research project on vertebrates. Typically this event/research is part of an established educational institution outside of Miami University, and Miami instructors and students are present to observe these activities. Miami University instructors and students must maintain the minimum 0.5-meter distance and may not touch vertebrate animals in these kinds of research situations. When it’s OK to touch vertebrates On occasion, students visit a zoo, aquarium, or other learning institution that has an established practice of allowing visitors to touch or hold an animal, irrespective of the Miami class’ presence. These institutions present all visitors with an opportunity to touch/hold an animal that has been designated for educational purposes; therefore, additional risk posed by our students to these educational animals is minimal. Only in these situations that are controlled by learning institutions may Miami University instructors and students touch a vertebrate animal. While invertebrates and plants are not covered in the observation protocol, Earth Expeditions students and instructors should be mindful about interfering with inverts, plants and habitats and be sure any interaction is minimal and not disruptive. Earth Expeditions students and instructors may not collect specimens to take home.


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The Earth Expeditions itinerary will include opportunities to visit and explore a variety of different locations. Throughout the course we will work as a community of travelers to ensure that we leave no signs or impacts from our visit in each location. Additionally we will work to ensure protection of the local ecosystems and not introduce new organisms, pathogens or seeds from one ecosystem to another. When changing locations, students should be diligent in checking boots and shoes and washing them as needed to ensure we are not transporting unwanted “hitch-hikers.” Animal studies back at home These same observation-only rules apply to studies about vertebrates that you conduct as part of this course back at home. As part of all Dragonfly courses, you have IACUC approval for observational studies of vertebrates. Observation-only studies are also the only studies that Dragonfly students have approval to conduct at zoos and aquaria and with animals in their natural environments. However, if you are interested in conducted a study that involves handling or manipulating living or non-living vertebrates in any way (even in minor ways and even with your own pets!), you need to go through AALAS training and receive approval for your study from Miami’s IACUC before you conduct the study. Shopping: Avoid Wildlife Products Beware of purchasing a live animal or plant or an item made from one. Many such items are prohibited from international traffic. You risk confiscation and a possible fine by U.S. Customs if you attempt to import certain wildlife or wildlife products. In particular, watch out for and avoid: • All products made from sea turtles, including turtle leather boots, tortoiseshell jewelry, and sea

turtle oil cosmetics. • Fur from spotted cats. • Feathers and feather products from wild birds. • Birds, stuffed or alive, such as parrots or parakeets. • Crocodile and caiman leather. • Black coral and most other coral, whether in chunks or in jewelry. Shopping: Avoid Purchasing Artifacts Most countries control the export of objects, relics, and/or reproductions of antiques. Some countries claim ownership of all such material and consider the export of antiques, without the permission of the government, to be an act of theft. In addition, under U.S. law, importers of all pre-Columbian monumental and architectural sculpture, murals and certain archaeological and ethnological materials are required to provide proof to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection that these artifacts are legally exported from the country of origin. Beware of purchasing artifacts without an export permit issued by the government of origin. Weather and Dress We recommend wearing sun block at all times. Bring a hat and sunglasses – Kenya has sunshine through out the year. Temperatures over much of Kenya are subtropical or temperate because of the reduction of temperature with altitude, and are similar to those in California. June, July, and August are the winter months in Kenya. The average temperatures are 49° to 72° F with some fluctuation. Layering and versatility are the most important things to remember with clothing due to the warm temperatures during the day and close to freezing temperatures at night. Photography Please do not photograph the president, police, soldiers, military installations, prisons, prisoners and airports – you may get into big trouble. Please always enlist the cooperation of your subject before photographing strangers; people do not like to be regarded as exhibits and many may not understand that your photos are merely a personal record of your trip.


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The Sun The most prevalent health hazard is one you can avoid: overexposure to the sun. It is important to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and take a light long-sleeved shirt to protect you from the elements. Wear a wide-brim hat, and shield as much skin as possible from the sun. Some folks may want to get a bit of a tan while they’re in the tropics, but wearing little or no sunscreen this close to the equator is not the way to go. Even with SPF 30, you will likely get sun. Prescription Drugs As a student in this program, you will be asked to provide personal medication information. Please remember to include all your current medications and prescriptions. This information is for your instructor’s eyes only. Full disclosure is for your safety and well-being. If you carry prescription drugs, keep them in their original container, clearly labeled with the doctor’s name, pharmacy, and contents. If you must take prescription drugs that contain narcotics, carry a letter from your doctor explaining the need for these prescription medications. If your medication gets lost, having a list of the generic names of all the drugs you take will help you replace them, as brand names can differ from country to country. General Safety and Crime Information Most visitors to Kenya have a relatively safe trip; however, thievery, purse snatching, and pick pocketing do happen, particularly in cities and town markets. Travelers are most easily targeted during their initial arrival or during transit periods, when exhaustion lowers alertness, baggage is difficult to manage, and surroundings are unfamiliar. There has also been an increase in violent crimes, such as rape and assault against tourists. In some places, U.S. passports and identity documents are especially attractive to thieves. Here are some precautions to keep in mind: • Carry your photo identification and the name of a person to contact with you in the event of

serious illness or other emergency. • Keep photocopies of your airline or other tickets and your list of traveler’s checks with you in a

separate location from the originals and leave copies with someone at home. • Leave things like unnecessary credit cards and expensive jewelry at home. • Take a combination of credit/debit cards and some cash. • Dress conservatively; a flashy wardrobe can mark you as a tourist. • Use a money belt or a concealed money neck pouch for passports, cash and other valuables.

These can be tucked under clothing. • When walking, avoid marginal areas of cities, dark alleys and crowds. Do not stop if you are

approached on the street by strangers, including street vendors and beggars. Be aware that women and small children, as well as men, can be pickpockets or purse snatchers. Keep your billfold in an inner front pocket, carry your purse tucked securely under your arm, and wear the shoulder strap of your camera or bag across your chest. To guard against thieves on motorcycles, walk away from the curb, carrying your purse away from the street.

• Do not take valuables to the markets. • Keep electronics, credit cards, other valuables inside your baggage/concealed whenever possible

(e.g., during departure from baggage claim, exiting a taxi). • Pets may not look as well fed and healthy as they do in the U.S. However, please avoid feeding

animals that you encounter and DO NOT PET THEM. You may be exposed to unnecessary health risks.

• Do not leave the group without getting the go-ahead from your instructor. Also, try not to leave the group alone – take one or more buddies with you.

Drug Penalties Drug laws are severe and strictly enforced. The penalty for carrying marijuana or narcotics into or out of the country is imprisonment. Frequent Flyer Miles If you want to earn points on the tickets you use for the course, keep track of your receipt and travel itinerary; some companies need to see them in order to give credit for them.


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Carbon Offsetting Although we work hard to mitigate the environmental impact of our programs in the various places we go, travel, especially air travel, has a large environmental impact in the form of carbon dioxide and other pollutants being released into the air. A round trip between Cincinnati to Belize City, for example, releases about 1,300 pounds of carbon dioxide, and between Cincinnati and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia releases close to 5,000 pounds. Below are links to several organizations through which carbon credits can be purchased. This information is provided for your informational purposes only. Earth Expeditions does not require participants to purchase carbon credits. To learn more about the practice of carbon offsetting, see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_offset http://www.terrapass.com http://www.terrapass.com/individuals-families/carbon-footprint-calculator/#air TerraPass is independently audited by the non-profit Center for Resource Solutions (CRS). CRS is the leading certification agency in the renewable energy market. http://www.carbonfund.org/ Carbonfund.org is a nonprofit organization that is reducing the threat of climate change by promoting low-cost carbon reductions and supporting renewable energy, energy efficiency and reforestation projects that reduce and offset carbon dioxide emissions.


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Helpful Hints from Past Participants These quotations come directly from our past participants, giving you a bit more insight into the course from a student’s perspective. READ YOUR READER. The information it provides will give you further insight and background into the country you are visiting. Read up on the country you are traveling to. Having some idea of the animals, plants, and people allows (you) to learn more when you are actually there. Embrace all your online colleagues! Their ideas are so valuable and the connections you make are life changing! Make sure you are checking the class web page often. Changes do occur and this is the best way of making sure you stay abreast of them, especially leading up to traveling out-of-country. You can survive with less material things and showers than you think you can! As you complete IAPs and you know that they relate to your Master Plan, start marking them as "favorites" so that next fall when we need to access these same projects again, they are all the much easier to find! Even though it may seem tedious...read the course reader before going to the country and then look at it upon coming back. You can make great connections! Be open for the full experience. The reward is so much greater than you can imagine before and even during the trip. Make the best use of the time you have. It is priceless. Be prepared to be dirty in Kenya. Baby wipes, hand sanitizer and toilet paper is a requirement to survive! Do not drink the water! Only from the bottles! Plum jam is amazing. If you are out of a nighttime adventure, do not sleep - use every ounce of energy and adrenaline you have, every minute is worth it. Bring binoculars with you! You may find a wildlife treasure with your in a safari truck and will need them to spot it - that may be your only chance! Don't get caught up in things you can't control - just enjoy where you are and who you are with. Discover the "Sense of Wonder" within yourself. Try to have a focus for your program early on, but also realize it may change and evolve as your experiences and knowledge grow. Be prompt with your postings. Life happens to everyone, but when you are not current with assignments or comments, then it creates a hardship for others who need to review or comment on your work. Extend your trip! Use this opportunity to see and experience things beyond just the trip. This may be your only chance! Wake up early, catch the sunrise, and catch up on journaling. Stay up late with new friends and share some laughs and stories. Journal, journal, journal. You will be on sensory overload and the only way to remember half of it is to journal. Take advantage of every opportunity. I only missed out going on one optional thing and I regret it!! Don’t waste a minute of your downtime sitting and resting, go out there and explore. It’s okay to be a little smelly and you can sleep later!


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Get used to questioning everything, and looking at things from different perspectives. Use the flexibility (of this program) as an opportunity… While on your trip, put down the phone and the computer and anything else that ties you to the States and just LIVE your trip. Don't worry about the stuff back at home. Enjoy the simplicity and the experience of the EE opportunity. Definitely PARTICIPATE – this means taking risks like eating food you wouldn’t normally eat, spending time with people you don’t know, taking (calculated) risks. Buy a travel guide to your country. Learn a few greetings and words of etiquette before going on your expedition Be sensitive to the feelings of your hosts. Americans tend to say what they are thinking. Not every country is so consumer-driven and used to demands and criticisms. Always check the seasonal weather potential for your location. It does snow in Africa! Three words: zip off pants! What a great invention for traveling! Pack a nice outfit in a sealed plastic bag. We went to a nice dinner, but everything I had was wet and gross. FLASHLIGHT FLASHLIGHT FLASHLIGHT! My free promotional Spiderman flashlight did not cut it! Bring something from home, like pictures, to show the people you meet. Costa Rican phone cards were a real bargain. They were available at the airport and at shops. [True for most EE countries] Hey... you are going to have some bad days when heat, schedule, illness, or whatever is going to knock you down. Get back up!! You may never be in this place again. The experience is what YOU make of it. Do not count on others to do your learning for you or to make sure that you are having a good time. THAT is your responsibility. Be a positive force!


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Emergency Contact Information – Kenya Please give a copy of this information to relatives, and keep a copy with you on the trip in case you become separated from the group. You should also give a friend or relative a copy of your passport, your itinerary, your credit cards, and your flight information. African Conservation Centre (ACC) P O Box 15289-00509 Nairobi, KENYA Africa ACC Telephones ~ mobile: 0724-441677 wireless: 020-251 2439. ACC Fax: 011 254 20 891751 ACC Website: http://www.conservationafrica.org ACC Email: [email protected] Individual contact information: Samantha Russell, ACC researcher and Earth Expeditions Kenya contact: [email protected] Time information: Worldwide time: http://www.worldtimeserver.com/ Kenyan time: http://www.worldtimeserver.com/current_time_in_KE.aspx There is a 7-hour difference between U.S. Eastern Daylight Time and the time in Kenya, who does not observe daylight savings time. So, when it is 12 noon in New York during summer, it is 7 p.m. in Kenya. Other Possible Contacts Debbie Shelley, Project Dragonfly/Earth Expeditions, Miami University Telephone: (513) 529-8576 Home: (513) 280-5009 Fax: 513-529-8574 E-mail: [email protected] Miami University’s Department of Public Safety (Will have itinerary and contact information for Earth Expeditions) (Open 24 hours a day/7 days a week) Telephone: (513) 529-2222 Miami University’s Office of Global Initiatives (Will have itinerary and contact information for Earth Expeditions) Telephone: (513) 529-8600 Email: [email protected] Contact Person: Cheryl Young E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (513) 529-8607 Embassy information U.S. embassies and consulates help to locate U.S. citizens overseas when relatives or friends are concerned about their welfare or need to notify them of emergencies at home.


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In Kenya Embassy of the United States United Nations Avenue, Nairobi P. O. Box 606 Village Market 00621 Nairobi, Kenya Telephone: (254) (20) 363-6000 Fax: (254) (20) 363-6157 Embassy Emergency during business hours: (254) (20) 363-6451 Embassy Emergency After-Hours Line: (254) (20) 363-6170 Website: http://nairobi.usembassy.gov/ In the US Embassy of the Republic of Kenya 2249 R Street, NW Washington, DC 20008 U.S.A. Telephone: (202) 387-6101 Fax: (202) 462-3829 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.kenyaembassy.com/ Hotline: From the United States, the State Department has set up a toll-free hotline at (888) 407-4747. The Office of American Citizens Services: (202) 647-5225/5226. For information about locating U.S. citizens abroad in the event of an emergency see the Welfare/Whereabouts Services at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/emergencies/emergencies_1212.html In order to assist U.S. embassies and consulates in locating the U.S. citizen abroad, it is helpful to have the following information available:

• Caller's full name, address, phone number and relationship • Name of the person abroad • Date and place of birth of the person abroad • Passport number (if known) • Last known address and phone number; itinerary • Reason for their travel/residence abroad (business, tourism, etc.) • Date of last contact • Other points of contact abroad (friends, business associates, hotel, etc.) • If ill, where hospitalized and, if relevant to current hospitalization, the name and phone number

of attending physician in the U.S. • You may also be asked to provide a photo of the missing person • It may also be useful for you to contact credit card companies, telephone companies, etc. to

try to determine if the missing individual’s accounts have been used recently and where those transactions occurred.

For Emergency Family Messages also include:

• Nature of the emergency • What you want the person told about the emergency • Name, address and telephone number and relationship of person you wish subject to call after

the emergency family message is relayed to them by the U.S. embassy or consulate.


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Embassy Travel Registration – Kenya The Department of State maintains an online Travel Registration website for American citizens traveling or residing abroad. The website allows U.S. citizens to provide and maintain registration information about themselves, their travel companions and family members, emergency contacts, their travel itinerary, and overseas residence via the Internet. This information will be used by the Department of State to better assist you in the case of an emergency. We strongly recommend that everyone take the time to register.

• Access the Travel Registration website at https://step.state.gov/STEP/ • Click on “Create Account” • Click on “Create Individual Account” • Fill out the information fields • You will need the following information to register a trip: Itinerary/Residence information,

Travel Companion Information, Information about people traveling with you, and information about members of your household

• In the “Travel Companion Section,” complete the following information: First Name: Scott Last Name: Wingate Date of Birth: 01/17/1983 Relationship: Other Phone #: 513-529-8576 Phone Type: Other ***If you are traveling to additional locations before or after the trip, include that information in this registration.*** If you have any questions, please contact Debbie Shelley at: Telephone: 513-529-8576 Email: [email protected].


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Course Costs When you are accepted to Earth Expeditions, you become the recipient of tuition waivers through Project Dragonfly and Miami University. Your course costs are a fraction of the actual amount Earth Expeditions expends on each student. If you decide you cannot participate in an Earth Expeditions course for which you have paid, in order to receive a tuition refund you must drop the course by submitting your request to https://prototype.wufoo.com/forms/request-to-dragonfly-graduate-committee no later than 4:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on the last business day before the first day of the course. This year, that date is April 14, 2014. Administrative and program fees are non-refundable. The first course day for Earth Expeditions is annually established by Miami University. This date, and not the start of the field portion of the course (which can occur months later), is the cutoff date for tuition refunds. Required Costs Course Fee: This includes the cost of your course reader, meals, lodging, field station fees and

equipment, ground transportation, and park entrance and guide fees, among other things. Look for this specific Earth Expedition’s course costs at http://earthexpeditions.org

Airfare: Airfare is not included in the course costs. Don’t forget the cost of getting yourself to the

city from which your international flight will depart. Additional texts: Some classes may have an additional required text, usually in the $10-$20

range. Your syllabus will list the texts for your class. Passport: If you already have a valid passport with 4 or more blank visa pages in it, you do not

need to take additional steps. (If your passport does not have 4 or more blank visa pages, see http://travel.state.gov/passport/correcting/add/add_850.html)

If you need to renew your passport, download DS-82 form from http://travel.state.gov/passport/renew/renew_833.html and follow the instructions there about how and where to mail it.

If you have never had a passport before, you need to apply for one in person. See “How to Apply in Person for a Passport.”

http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/get/first/first_830.html To find the passport agency closest to you, see: http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/

Vaccinations: You are required to see a doctor about how to prepare for a trip abroad. Medical decisions are your responsibility, and the cost of vaccinations will be dependent on your decisions.

Health insurance: Miami University requires that all participants in study abroad programs

purchase health insurance from HTH Worldwide, regardless of whether they have other health insurance. Earth Expeditions recommends checking with your own health insurance plan to see what kinds of coverage it will offer to you overseas. Participants 50 years or older who can provide proof of insurance are not required to purchase HTH Insurance. (www.hthstudents.com)

Exit taxes vary by country and requirements change periodically. Please bring an extra $50

(USD) in case exit taxes are required.


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Voluntary Extra Costs In-transit overnight accommodations: You may need to book personal lodging accommodations as

a part of your trip. Arriving a day early can sometimes help cut the price of your airline flight. Laundry services: Laundry service may be available; laundry is not included in the course costs

and will be at your expense. Trip cancelation insurance: We recommend that you buy trip cancelation insurance, in case the

course is canceled or you cannot participate. Earth Expeditions does not reimburse airfare. See Important Information for more details.

Antibiotics. All students are required to purchase and bring a prescription for Cipro or another

antibiotic for traveler’s diarrhea. It’s a worthwhile investment. Gifts and souvenirs Additional snacks and drinks Carbon offsetting (see Tips for Travelers)


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Useful Websites: Kenya DISCLAIMER: When you access the sites below, you will leave the Earth Expeditions web site. This link has been provided because the destination pages may have information that is of interest to you. Project Dragonfly does not necessarily endorse the views expressed, or the data and the facts presented on this site. Conservation, Environment and Natural Resources African Conservation Center provides information on the ACC’s conservation strategy, program areas and publications, as well as a database of over 100 community-based conservation organizations. http://www.conservationafrica.org/en/ African Conservation Fund works in conjunction with the ACC to raise funds and build awareness for science- and community-based conservation projects in East Africa. http://www.africanconservationfund.org African Conservation Foundation is a national organization linking people and conservation. Its Website includes information on field projects in Kenya, including “EcoKids” (environmental education for school children) and community-based forest conservation in Kenya’s Mau Forest Complex. http://www.africanconservation.org East African Wild Life Society provides information on advocacy; farm, forest and water conservation initiatives; marine and wetlands initiatives; society projects; and conservation education. http://www.eawildlife.org Nature Kenya (known also as the East Africa Natural History Society) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1909. Its Website includes, in part, a list of organization publications and other recommended readings. http://www.naturekenya.org Kenya Wildlife Service includes information on Kenya’s parks and reserves, including the Amboseli National Park (http://www.kws.org/parks/parks_reserves/AMNP.html), as well as information on a variety of the KWS’s conservation and education initiatives. http://www.kws.org/ NEMA Kenya (National Environment Management Authority for Kenya) provides links to a variety of governmental/environmental offices and agencies. Included is information on biodiversity in Kenya, environmental agreements and environmental legislation. http://www.nema.go.ke/ Youth for Conservation is a grassroots wildlife conservation organization established in Kenya by youth concerned about their wildlife heritage. http://www.youthforconservation.org/ Culture, History and Tradition National Museums of Kenya is a multi-disciplinary institution whose role is to collect, preserve, study, document and present Kenya's past and present cultural and natural heritage for the purposes of enhancing knowledge, appreciation, respect and sustainable utilization of these resources for the benefit of Kenya and the world. http://www.museums.or.ke


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Maasai Environmental Resource Coalition (MERC) is a grassroots network of Maasai organizations advocating for the protection of traditional land rights of the Maasai people, and for conservation, management, and sustainable use of the great ecosystems of East Africa. http://www.maasaierc.org/ Maasai Association is an all-Maasai organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating Maasai cultural heritage. Their Website includes information on the history and culture of the Maasai people, their ceremonies and their rituals. http://www.maasai-association.org/ Government and Embassies Government of Kenya includes information for residents of and visitors to Kenya including a link to the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife (http://www.tourism.go.ke/). Embassy of the United States, Nairobi, Kenya includes U.S. citizen services, information for travelers, consular services, visa services and more. http://nairobi.usembassy.gov/ Embassy of Kenya, Washington D.C. provides general information about Kenya. http://www.kenyaembassy.com Tourist Information Magical Kenya, “The official destination website of the Kenya Tourist Board”, provides general information on touring Kenya. http://www.magicalkenya.com


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Miami University Code of Student Conduct - Excerpts All Earth Expeditions participants are Miami University students and are subject to the Code of Conduct. Miami requires that all students read the Code of Student Conduct; below are some excerpts pertaining to study abroad. We recommend that you read the document in its entirety, which can be found at: http://miamioh.edu/_files/documents/secretary/Student_Handbook.pdf#page=35 Rules: Students in a travel program conducted by or sponsored by Miami University whether credit or non-credit are bound by the applicable rules of Miami University, by rules of the foreign institutions as disseminated during orientation sessions, and by laws of the foreign country. 1. Students may be bound by expectations or regulations as specified in writing by the director as

deemed necessary for the proper functioning of the program. 2. The Miami University regulations in The Student Handbook, the proscriptions stated in the Academic

Misconduct Policy and Code One of the Code of Student Conduct are fully applicable, and violations will not be tolerated.

3. The disposition disciplinary matter by a host institution, or the lack of a disciplinary matter by a host

institution, does not in any way preclude Miami University’s ability to pursue or not pursue its own disciplinary action regarding the same matter.

Procedures: If there is reason to believe that a student may have violated University regulations, the rules of a foreign institution, the laws of the foreign country or expectations or regulations specified by the director or if a student’s conduct poses a risk of harm to the health or safety of the student, to others, to the stability or continuance of the travel program or to property, the director will attempt to meet with the student. 1. It is advisable that the director has an additional person present at the conference. A written and

dated record of the conference must be kept. 2. The director will advise the student in advance of the conduct that precipitated the meeting. If the

director determines that the seriousness of the incident is such that it warrants a possible dismissal of the student from the program, the director must confer with the Dean of Students or other appropriate administrator at Miami University as to what action should be taken.

3. Students should also be aware that they are subject to the rules and penalties of the host institution

and of the respective foreign country. Dismissal from the Program: The desired outcome of the conference with a student is that the student will be permitted to complete the program. If the director determines, however, that the student's continued association with the program poses a risk of harm to the student or imperils the health or safety of other program participants, the academic integrity of the program, or the relationship with the foreign institution or country, the student will be immediately dismissed from the program. 1. In the event of dismissal from the program, the student must vacate the facilities provided by the

program and withdraw from all course work associated with the program. In the event of dismissal, the student remains responsible for all costs associated with program enrollment, without recourse to a refund.

Further Action: Faculty have the option of dismissing a student from the travel program. 1. If the director determines that the student's conduct may have violated academic conduct standards

or rules as stated in "The Code of Student Conduct” in The Student Handbook, the reporting requirements stated therein will be followed, and the accused student will have recourse to the appropriate procedures upon return to the University.

What is not covered? Unless specifically provided for elsewhere under the Plan, the Plan does not cover loss caused by or resulting from, nor is any premium charged for, any of the following:

1. Expenses incurred in excess of Reasonable Expenses. 2. Services or supplies that the Insurer considers to be Experimental or Investigative. 3. Expenses incurred for Injury resulting from the Covered Person’s being legally intoxicated or under the

influence of alcohol as defined by the jurisdiction in which the Accident occurs. This exclusion does not apply to the Medical Evacuation Benefit, to the Repatriation of Remains Benefit and to the Bedside Visit Benefit.

4. Voluntarily using any drug, narcotic or controlled substance, unless as prescribed by a Physician. This exclusion does not apply to the Medical Evacuation Benefit, to the Repatriation of Remains Benefit and to the Bedside Visit Benefit.

5. Self-inflicted Injuries while sane or insane; suicide, or any attempt thereat while sane or insane. This exclusion does not apply to the Medical Evacuation Benefit, to the Repatriation of Remains Benefit and to the Bedside Visit Benefit.

6. Preventative medicines, routine physical examinations, or any other examination where there are no objective indications of impairment in normal health.

7. Services and supplies not Medically Necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of a Sickness or Injury. 8. Surgery for the correction of refractive error and services and prescriptions for eye examinations, eye

glasses or contact lenses or hearing aids, except when Medically Necessary for the Treatment of an Injury.

9. Plastic or cosmetic surgery, unless they result directly from an Injury which necessitated medical treatment within 24 hours of the Accident.

10. Elective termination of pregnancy. 11. Expenses incurred as a result of pregnancy that is not covered. 12. For diagnostic investigation or medical treatment for infertility, fertility, or birth control. 13. Organ or tissue transplant. 14. Participating in an illegal occupation or committing or attempting to commit a felony. 15. While traveling against the advice of a Physician, while on a waiting list for a specific treatment, or when

traveling for the purpose of obtaining medical treatment. 16. The diagnosis or treatment of Congenital Conditions, except for a newborn child insured under the Plan. 17. Expenses incurred within the Covered Person’s Home Country. 18. Treatment to the teeth, gums, jaw or structures directly supporting the teeth, including surgical

extraction’s of teeth, TMJ dysfunction or skeletal irregularities of one or both jaws including orthognathia and mandibular retrognathia.

19. Expenses incurred in connection with weak, strained or flat feet, corns or calluses. 20. Diagnosis and treatment of acne and sebaceous cyst. 21. Outpatient treatment for specified therapies including, but not limited to, Physiotherapy and acupuncture

which does not follow a covered Hospital Confinement or surgery. 22. Deviated nasal septum, including submucous resection and/or surgical correction, unless treatment is

due to or arises from an Injury. 23. Loss due to an act of war; service in the armed forces of any country or international authority and

participation in a: riot; or civil commotion. 24. Riding in any aircraft, except as a passenger on a regularly scheduled airline or charter flight. 25. Loss arising from: a) participating in any professional sport, contest or competition; b) skin/scuba diving,

sky diving, hang gliding, or bungee jumping. 26. Medical Treatment Benefits provision for loss due to or arising from a motor vehicle Accident if the

Covered Person operated the vehicle without a proper license in the jurisdiction where the Accident occurred.

27. Under the Accidental Death and Dismemberment provision, for loss of life or dismemberment for or arising from an Accident in the Covered Person’s Home Country.

100 Matsonford Road

One Radnor Corporate Center

Suite 100

Radnor, PA 19087 USA

Call: 610.254.8700

Fax: 610.293.3529

Email: [email protected]

This pamphlet contains a brief summary of the features and benefits for insured participants covered under Policy No.BCS-3042-A-13. This is not a contract of insurance. Coverage is governed by an insurance policy issued to the Trustee of the HTH Student Group Insurance Trust, which Miami University has agreed to participate in. The policy is underwritten by BCS Insurance Company, Oakbrook Terrace, IL, NAIC # 38245, under policy Form 28.302. Complete information on the insurance is contained in the Certificate of Insurance on file with the school. If there is a difference between this program description and the certificate wording, the certificate controls.

Miami University

Study Abroad Plan

2013 – 2014

Blanket Student Accident and Sickness Insurance

ENROLL ONLINE by Using a Credit Card at www.hthstudents.com. Enter your

Group Access Code CNX-4745 in the box on the left side of the home page to sign

up for coverage!

http://www.hthstudents.com/

Who is eligible for coverage? All regular, full-time and part-time Eligible Participants and their Eligible Dependents of the educational organization or institution who: 1. Are engaged in international educational activities; and 2. Are temporarily located outside his/her Home Country as a non-resident alien; and 3. Have not obtained permanent residency status.

When does coverage start? Coverage for an Eligible Participant starts at 12:00:01 a.m. on the latest of the following: 1) The Coverage Start Date shown on the Insurance Identification Card; 2) The date the requirements in Section 1 – Eligible Classes are met; or 3) The date the premium and completed enrollment form, if any, are received by the Insurer or the Administrator.

Thereafter, the insurance is effective 24 hours a day, worldwide except whenever the Covered Person is in his/her Home Country. In no event, however, will insurance start prior to the date the premium is received by the Insurer.

When does coverage end? Coverage for an Eligible Participant will automatically terminate on the earliest of the following dates: 1.) The date the Policy terminates; 2) The Organization’s or Institution’s Termination Date; 3) The date of which the Eligible Participant ceases to meet the Individual Eligibility Requirements: 4) The end of the term of coverage specified in the Eligible Participant’s enrollment form; 5) The date the Eligible Person permanently leaves the Country of Assignment for his/her or her Home Country; 6) The date the Eligible Participant requests cancellation of coverage (the request must be in writing); or 7) The premium due date for which the required premium has not been paid, subject to the Grace Period provision. 8) The end of any Period of Coverage.

What to do in the event of an emergency All Eligible Participants are entitled to Global Assistance Services while traveling outside of the United States. In the event of an emergency, they should go immediately to the nearest physician or hospital without delay and then contact HTH Worldwide. HTH Worldwide will then take the appropriate action to assist and monitor the medical care until the situation is resolved. To contact HTH Worldwide in the event of an emergency, call 1.800.257.4823 or collect to +1.610.254.8771.

Coordination of Benefits Some people have health care coverage through more than one medical insurance plan at the same time. COB allows these plans to work together so the total amount of all benefits will never be more than 100 percent of the allowable expenses during any policy year. This helps to hold down the costs of health coverage. COB does not apply to life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, or disability benefits. The Coordination of Benefits (COB) provision applies when a person has health care coverage under more than one Plan.

hthstudents.com Once Eligible Participants receive their Medical Insurance ID card from HTH Worldwide, they should visit hthstudents.com, and using the certificate number on the front of the card, sign in to the site for comprehensive information and services relating to this plan. Participants can track claims, search for a doctor, view plan information, download claim forms and read health and security information.

Limitations Pre-existing conditions are covered under this plan. The Plan does not pay benefits for maternity coverage unless conception occurred while the Covered Person was insured under the Plan

Claims Submission Claims are to be submitted to HTH Worldwide, Attn: International Claims, One Radnor Corporate Center, Suite 100, Radnor PA 19087, USA. See the hthstudents.com website for claim forms and instructions on how to file.

What is covered by the plan?

Schedule of Benefits – Table 1

Limits – Covered Person

MEDICAL EXPENSES

Period of Coverage Maximum Benefits $250,000

Maximum Benefit per Injury or Sicknesses $250,000

Period of Coverage Deductible $0 per Injury or Sickness

ACCIDENTAL DEATH AND DISMEMBERMENT

Maximum Benefit: Principal Sum up to $10,000 for Participant; up to $5,000 for Spouse; up to $1,000 per Child(ren)

REPATRIATION OF REMAINS Maximum Benefit up to $25,000

MEDICAL EVACUATION Maximum Lifetime Benefit up to $75,000

BEDSIDE VISIT Up to a maximum benefit of $1,500

Schedule of Benefits – Table 2 – Medical Expenses

Indemnity Plan Limits

Physician Office Visits, Inpatient Hospital Services, Emergency Hospital Services, Hospital and Physician Outpatient Services

100% of Reasonable Expenses

Schedule of Benefits – Table 3 – Medical Expense Benefits

Benefits listed below are subject to Lifetime Maximums, Annual Maximums, Maximums per Injury and Sickness, Co-Insurance, Deductibles, Out-of-Pocket Maximums; and Table 2 Plan Type Limits

MEDICAL EXPENSE Limits – Covered Person

Maternity Care for a Covered Pregnancy Reasonable Expenses. Conception must have occurred while the Covered Person was insured under the Plan

Inpatient treatment of mental and nervous disorders including drug or alcohol abuse

Reasonable Expenses up to $5,000 Maximum per Period of Coverage for a maximum period of 30 days per Period of Coverage.

Outpatient treatment of mental and nervous disorders including drug or alcohol abuse

Reasonable Expenses up to $1,000 Maximum per Period of Coverage

Treatment of specified therapies, including acupuncture and Physiotherapy

Reasonable Expenses up to $10,000 Maximum combined total for Inpatient and Outpatient care, up to 30 days immediately following the attending Physician’s release for rehabilitation following a covered Hospital confinement or surgery per Period of Coverage.

Routine nursery care of a newborn child of a covered pregnancy

Reasonable Expenses up to $500 Maximum per Period of Coverage

Repairs to sound, natural teeth required due to an Injury

100% of Reasonable Expenses up to $500 per Period of Coverage

Outpatient prescription drugs 100% of actual charge

Hearing Services 100% of Reasonable Expenses up to $1,000 per individual hearing aid per ear every 3 years for covered Dependent Children under age 24.

Documents

14 Kenya Expedition Planner Working-JKcincinnatizoo.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/14_Kenya_Expedition... · 14-05-2014 · HTH Worldwide: Miami University Blanket Student Accident