Inspired Adventures?

Compassion Australia has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 20 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $47 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and Compassion Australia, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Compassion Australia?

Compassion is a Christian international holistic child development organisation. Through our Child Sponsorship Program, more than 2 million children are currently being released from poverty in Jesus’ name. With over six decades of experience, Compassion’s unique approach to solving poverty works: research proves it.

AstroKidd (ground operator in the Philippines)?

Astrokidd Travel and Tours, established in 2013, has rapidly grown into a reputable travel agency offering a wide array of services including ticketing, tour packages, and travel insurance, with a strong partnership with airlines like Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific. Recognized for their expertise in the travel industry and exceptional risk management, they have expanded their reach with plans to open new branches in Alabang and the Metro Manila area. Their commitment to providing cost-effective travel solutions and comprehensive services has made them a preferred choice for travellers.

How do I prepare for this program? 

In the months leading up to the trip, students will participate in six "preparing to go" sessions where they’ll learn about global poverty, the Philippines, effective and responsible aid and development, as well as cultural sensitivities. Parents are also encouraged to attend the sessions before departure.
Additionally, students will be empowered to move with compassion, advocating for and fundraising for those who’re most affected by natural disasters like cyclone Odette/Rai, children living in poverty. Inspired Adventures will walk alongside students as fundraising coaches to ensure that their fundraising efforts are maximised for impact, where it’s needed most.

What do I need to pack?

Once you’ve registered for the adventure, you’ll be provided with a comprehensive destination guide which will include your packing list.

What is the accommodation like? 

Students will be staying in comfortable 3-star hotels in both Manila and Cebu. In Manila, the team will be staying at Hotel Kimberly and in Cebu, the team will be staying in Castle Peak Hotel. 

Hotel Kimberly offers spacious rooms, easy access to Manila Bay and has a restaurant located inside. 

Castle Peak Hotel has both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, hot tub/spa, fitness centre and restaurant. The rooms offer all the usual amenities expected in a hotel.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this trip is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a classmate of the same gender. 

How are we transported to our locations each day?

We are transported to and from our activities each day by bus. There are Higer and Toyota buses, both equipped with seatbelts.

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, you will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also be holding 4 fundraising workshop sessions from terms 2 - 3. You will be sent lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we believe in you! In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined.

By registering for this program, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact and help to support the Philippines in the aftermath of cyclone Odette. The goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target 2 weeks before departure.

Can I fundraise in a team?

Fundraising in a team is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. If you choose to fundraise in a team - your workshop activities will reflect that.

Do we have a fundraising coach?

Yes, Inspired Adventures’ dedicated fundraising team will equip students to help maximise your impact. They will support and encourage students to think creatively and broaden their approach to their fundraising efforts.

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure? 

The total cost to participate in this adventure is $4,337 (inclusive of a $600 non-refundable deposit). *Total cost is subject to change dependent on activities chosen and date flights are booked.

In addition, you are also committing to raising $2,500+ (per person) for Compassion Australia.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify SPCC as soon as possible.

Cancellation within 5 days of registration will result in a full refund of the deposit.

Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Prior to dates and names being locked in for flights, if a replacement can be secured we are able transfer the place over. In extenuating circumstances, please contact your school to discuss options. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.

Can I set up a payment plan?

Yes, you can set up a payment plan - please contact SPCC to discuss options further. Please note that you will need to be fully paid up at least 3 months prior to departure. 

Is my flight covered, and is travel insurance included?

Yes, travel insurance and all flights both international and domestic are included in the travel cost, and when you register and lock in your place, travel insurance is secured.  

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. Our Inspired Adventures Team Leader for this trek will be a fully qualified medical doctor. The guides are DOT (Department of Tourism) accredited, which means they must undergo proper First Aid training before being issued with their licenses. 

Should a medical emergency arise, your guide on the ground will work together with the attending doctor to give immediate assistance and liaise with local medical facilities for the best treatment possible. They will be able to provide support and advice to the St Philip’s and Compassion staff attending to ensure the best outcome for your child.

What happens if there is adverse weather?

The Philippines can be prone to experiencing adverse weather, including cyclone and typhoons. The typical season for this kind of weather is July to September, peaking usually around August. Should an event like this arise prior to or during this trip, Compassion Australia and Inspired Adventures will be in constant communication with students, parents and schools, ensuring safety for all in attendance. 

Do I need a visa to travel to the Philippines?

Australian passport holders do not require a visa for stays of 30 days or less in the Philippines. Passports are required to be valid for at least six months after the date you return to your home country.

Do I need specific vaccinations to travel to the Philippines?

Approximately two months prior to departure, we recommend that you consult your local GP regarding any health concerns and vaccinations, as they will be able to advise. Commonly recommended vaccines for travel to the Philippines include Hepatitis A, polio, cholera, typhoid and ensuring you are up to date on all childhood vaccines.

• Prior to deposit - please communicate with your school to discuss the selection process, payment plans and school related enquiries. The trip website can help answer your program/trip related questions - if your question isn’t addressed in the FAQ’s, please submit an enquiry to have your question answered. 

• Preparing to Go Sessions - Compassion Australia will facilitate a series of ‘Preparing to Go’ sessions with students throughout the year to best prepare them for their experience. These sessions will discuss what effective aid and development looks like, what they can expect to see and experience whilst in country, Philippines culture and expectations. 

• Fundraising Coaching - Inspired Adventures will facilitate a series of sessions designed to equip students to fundraise effectively. The dates for these will be:
• Term 2 - Week 2
• Term 2 - Week 7 or 8
• Term 3 - Week 2
• Term 3 - Week 8 or 9

• Phones - Compassion Encourages students to not have phones on Project Visits to ensure they are able to engage fully and respectfully with the Compassion staff and beneficiaries in Compassion’s Child Development Centres. 

• Photography - please see Compassion Terms & Conditions and Code of Conduct regarding travel to Compassion partnerships here https://www.compassion.com.au/trips. This will include guidelines on appropriate photography of children, Compassion staff and volunteers and other landmarks/government buildings. 

• Post-Trip De-brief - A comprehensive debrief discussion is an essential part of any Compassion trip. Students and teachers will be exposed to the complexities of poverty and taking time to unpack what they have experienced will help to begin to make sense of the difference in their own lived experience and how to reconcile the two with empathy. Guidance will be provided in partnership between Compassion Australia and SPCC staff to ensure students are able to get the most out of the program, address any reverse culture shock, and turn what they see into advocacy.