Traveling Independently

This was my first trip and I went knowing no one. Right when I got there, everyone was so welcoming and it gave me a sense of family.
Lilly Schlossberg, Atlanta, Georgia

Everything was incredible!!!! My daughter is forever changed in a wonderful way from this experience!!!! Time of her life!!!!! Amazing friends, amazing organization. From going solo to leaving with such wonderful bonds is incredible. We will be back!!!!
Stacy Zeid, Deerfield, Illinois

Hannah had an incredible experience. It was very helpful that so many of the kids on her trip were solo. We were also extremely appreciative of the middle school option! Hannah loved it all and said everyone got along so well and that there was no drama. This is our family’s 3rd WCC trip and we are consistently amazed and impressed by the level of detail that goes into the planning of each trip.
Jaime Ben, West Bloomfield, Michigan

This was Rebecca’s first time away from home and she did not know any of the other kids. From the moment we arrived at the airport to drop her off, any concern we may have had was alleviated by the sight of the staff there to greet her. They were smiling and very welcoming. The trip itself was amazing and just what she dreamed it would be. She made friends quickly because the staff and other kids were a wonderful group. We knew our daughter was in good hands. She came home with a new sense of confidence and is already talking about next summer!!!
Jennifer Arbitman, Roslyn, New York

Wonderful trip! Wonderful chaperones! My son had a wonderful time!!!! Great activities and excursions, staff on trip was phenomenal. My son went on the trip knowing no one but made some great friends!
Stephanie Forton, Middletown, Delaware

You will surely make connections with personable people. It is better to come solo and branch off. Be uncomfortable and find comfort within that. Never doubt your experience. Tignes was incredible. The whole itinerary for France, Switzerland and Italy were also incredible. I loved the physical activities given that it is an adventure trip. I would give the balance between the activities and attractions a perfect score.
Samuel Rappaport, Saint-Laurent, Quebec

Maddy had an amazing experience. She traveled alone and made great connections and felt very comfortable with her new friends very quickly.
Robin Hoffman, New City, New York

Westcoast was one of the best experiences of my life. I came on this trip alone however, by the second day it felt like I had known these people for a lifetime. I loved all the activities during the trip and felt everyone really wanted to have the best time. Additionally, the staff were so kind and supportive. I really had a blast on Westcoast and will remember this trip forever.
Mia Uster, Toronto, Ontario

I really enjoyed this experience! I made a lot of friends and meaningful connections that I see myself keeping in the future. I was nervous coming by myself but I met so many great people. I was at no point concerned for my safety knowing that Westcoast Connection was cautious and keeping us safe. I also really liked the freedom that they gave us. I would 100% recommend!!
Rayna Williams, San Diego, California

I came into this trip as a solo traveler and was immediately welcomed by the WCC staff and made friends by the first night. I learned so many new skills that I could not have learned at home or at school. WCC truly gave me the best summer ever.
Kathleen Hoppin, Arlington Virginia 

My son went on this trip solo and he made so many great friends. He gained confidence in his ability to meet people and pursue new adventures on his own. The trip was perfectly paced in terms of sightseeing, activities and relaxation. The kids had just the right amount of freedom so that they did not feel overly restricted and as a parent I felt they were safe.
Jill Abrams, Melville, New York 

Greece, the Islands & Italy will be something I remember for the rest of my life. I came alone and met 4 girls who are now some of my closest friends. The opportunity to travel to all new places in Italy and Europe was unforgettable and it wouldn’t have been so amazing without all the people on my trip.
Avery Zeidel, Highland Park, Illinois 

I was nervous at first to do this and go somewhere I’d never been to alone, but now that I did this I am so happy because I learned so much and had such a good time coming to a new place and meeting new people. Everyday was so fun!!
Logan Goldstein, Caldwell, New Jersey 

This was one of the coolest experiences of my life. I saw all parts of Europe that I haven’t ever seen before. I made new friends knowing no one on the trip before. The staff were awesome. They were always there and you could talk and have fun with them. One of the best summers ever.
Alex DeSantis-Baugh, Washington, District of Columbia 

This trip was so amazing and I loved every sight and thing we saw. Climbing around waterfalls was so amazing and rafting was even better. I made such a good group of friends even though I came all by myself. I would definitely do a WCC program again and recommend this amazing trip to everyone.
Ellory Becker, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 

I loved European Discovery!!! I came alone and immediately met so many new welcoming people. The places we went to were so cool and gave me a new perspective on things.
Rebecca Hirsh, Westfield New Jersey 

Hanna went on this trip not knowing anyone and came home with so many new best friends! She’s so sad it’s over. Marc was amazing, Hanna and the whole tour group loved him! Hanna had a fantastic time! Cannot wait for next summer!
Lisa & Marshall Kurtz, Redding, Connecticut

Every part of the trip was great. My daughter knew no one before the trip and now has many new friends. Her experience was phenomenal. The staff was amazing. They went above and beyond to ensure the kids were safe and had fun. The chaperones were amazing. My daughter had nothing but great things to say. The entire program was run like a well-oiled machine. Everyone I spoke to was helpful, competent and efficient. They went above and beyond to make sure all logistics were covered and accounted for. I would highly recommend the trip and entire Westcoast program to anyone based on the service we received and my daughter’s amazing experience.
Kimberly & Joshua Stern, Jenkintown, Pennsylvania

Westcoast Connection is such a special program because it gives a campy feel where you are always looked out for, but also introduces you to be more independent. Even if you come alone, you never feel alone because the staff do a great job of making you feel welcome and cared about.
Lucy Mann, South Orange, New Jersey 

This trip taught me to go out of my comfort zone, to be brave and try something new. Doing the community service was enjoyable and enlightening. The whole overall experience of coming all by myself and making so many friends was so impactful.
Ivy Slen, Clayton, Missouri

I’m beyond impressed with the staff, the program and the entire experience. Charlie took this trip on her own and from day one at the airport, the staff ensured that the group embraced everyone. The only thing Charlie would have changed about the trip would be the length – she would have added a few more weeks as she was not ready to come home! I was especially pleased with the great balance of safety and independence for the kids.
Ruth Hyman & Craig Gruber, Dix Hills, New York

I came on this trip alone and found a group of friends that I hope to stay in contact with for the rest of my life.
Morgan Faulkenberry, Charlotte, North Carolina

Westcoast Connections was a great time to learn and make new friends. I came here not knowing anybody and made tons of friends that I hang out with every day. I truly enjoyed my experience here and liked the real college feel of it.
Zach Izraeli, Chicago, Illinois

All the staff went above and beyond to make this a fabulous experience. The Program Director Mike was very enthusiastic and engaging. He was outgoing and the kids all loved him. The trip was first class with fun and memorable stops at each location. Abby came alone and left with an entire group of new friends.
Allison & Gary Chaiet, Weston, Florida

The Costa Rica Community Service Trip was an eye-opening, fulfilling experience. Although I went on the trip without knowing anyone, I was able to create meaningful, lifelong connections with not only the people we traveled with, but also the people we worked with on our service programs. All of the staff members continuously showed their care for us and motivated us throughout the entire trip. Rooming with people I’ve never met before was a great way to bond with each other and learn about our backgrounds, which made for an even richer experience.
Niko Yanai, New York, New York

Our expectations were exceeded. Our son went in this program without any friends and he came back with many new friends and a sense of independence.
Rebecca & Shimon Michael Abramson, Sharon, Massachusetts

I came alone and I was nervous about making friends. However, after just entering the airport, I had already found a group of people I loved and would spend the next three weeks with!
Sophie Jacobs, Montclair, New Jersey

Lola absolutely loved her trip. Her counselors were fun, comforting and caring. She felt very safe. Lola met a lot of new friends, and she hopes to see again. We were very nervous sending Lola on her first trip alone. We can’t say enough how much we appreciate the excellent communication we had with WCC before the trip and during. That calmed my nerves 100%! We hope we can send Lola again for another adventure. Thank you!!
Stefanie & David Allison, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

Lilly went alone and automatically made friends. She loved working at the camp and experienced Costa Rica’s fun activities.
Melissa & Tyler Green, Scottsdale, Arizona

We are so pleased with the program. My son went on this trip having never been to sleepaway camp and not knowing any of the kids. He came home and had the best time ever. He told us he rated the trip a 10+++ out of 10. He made friends and loved all the cities he visited. He loved the counselors and just really had the very best time. He shared that he and his friends definitely want to go on another, longer WCC teen tour next summer. Anytime I had to call the office, everyone was beyond pleasant and helpful. Overall, a great trip and would highly recommend to anyone who asked.
Gina & Mesa Whitehurst, Boca Raton, Florida

The Program Director Jess was wonderful! Lily was a solo traveler and Jess made her feel at ease. Very easy to talk to, made the trip truly enjoyable for Lily!
Bethany & Zac Jones, Wayne, Pennsylvania

This was an extraordinary experience for our daughter, who went on this trip independently, and left with lifelong friends and a deep appreciation for giving back. WCC’s programming, content, and careful mix of service and fun was the perfect way for our teenager to spend her summer.
Julie Brandon & Ian Brandon, Holliston, Massachusetts

Lilly had the trip of a lifetime. I am so thankful to this program and the company overall. We were very hesitant to let Lilly do this as she did all of the research on her own before bringing it to us. We had never heard of WCC, nor did we know anyone that has gone on a trip with WCC. Lilly traveled on her own but very quickly met friends and felt like she was part of a family. Communication was clear, transparent and very timely. Lilly loved her staff Bella and Sam. She felt safe, supported and learned so much from both. She even has asked Bella to be one of her college recommendation contacts for the college app process. They made a wonderful impression on her. I give WCC a 10+! If Lilly was not aged out of the program for next year, I would send her on another trip. She sent me a pic in tears on the plane after she said goodbye to “her new friends for life”.
Laura & Christopher Tourge, Newark, Delaware

Making new friends had a very positive impact on my experience since I traveled alone and still met so many new people from around the country that I never would’ve met otherwise. The staff was also very easygoing and friendly with all of the participants.
Abby Federbusch, Scarsdale, New York

Max had a great time!! He went alone, made friends and enjoyed the trip! THANK YOU.
Maggie & Robert Wasserman, Narberth, Pennsylvania

Isabel LOVED the trip. She was an independent traveler and found it easy to make friends and was happy with her assigned roommates. Isabel made a real connection with many of the people on the trip and feels like they will stay in touch and maintain their friendships. She is interested in pursuing sociology and psychology in college so found it very interesting to understand the culture of Ecuador and the need for medical assistance in less urban areas. She enjoyed the work during the clinic days and appreciated the rotations to try new things. We got a text from Isabel on the day when they did the zip lining and rafting that literally started off “I JUST HAD THE BEST DAY”. Isabel was never interested in doing an active teen tour so we were really happy to find a trip for her that was fun but also had a purpose and focus. It absolutely surpassed her expectations.
Stefanie & Norman Milner, New York, New York

Going into the trip alone, without knowing anyone, I was afraid that I wouldn’t find my people or a group of friends that would make me feel at home. It turned out that I found the most amazing group of people that are my new family. The friends I made along the trip truly made the experience the most fun summer I’ve ever had. I can’t imagine what I would be like if I hadn’t gone on the trip and met all new people.
Jocelyn Reed, Hollywood, Florida

Making the decision to come on this trip alone, not knowing anyone, was one of the scariest things I have ever done, but it was 100 percent the best experience of my entire life. I wish I could go back and relive every moment of it again, and I would highly recommend that everyone does the same thing!! I made so many amazing friends, everyone here was so friendly, and our group truly became my family. I loved every single place we went and every part of the trip!!
Cameron Spagna, West Bloomfield Township, Michigan

Before going on this trip I was really nervous. I didn’t know anybody, and I had never gone on a trip like this before. Looking back, I’m really glad I took the opportunity because of the new friends I made and the awesome activities we did.
Zac Mittleman, Dunwoody, Georgia

Making the decision to come on this trip alone, not knowing anyone, was one of the scariest things I have ever done, but it was 100 percent the best experience of my entire life. I wish I could go back and relive every moment of it again, and I would highly recommend that everyone does the same thing!! I made so many amazing friends, everyone here was so friendly, and our group truly became my family. I loved every single place we went and every part of the trip!!
Cameron Spagna, West Bloomfield Township, Michigan

This program was special to me in almost every way – the activities, staff, accommodations, everything exceeded my initial expectations. I had never done anything like this before and I came alone on this tour – I knew prior the goal was to make memories and friends that would last, and while I didn’t think that could happen easily, I stand corrected. I’ll have lots to remember about this incredible trip and am so glad to have spent the summer this way.
Owen Gurekian, Scarsdale, New York 

Jacob had an incredible time. Not only did he make new friends, he also came back with a new sense of confidence and independence. This really was a once in a lifetime experience for him!
Jodi & Kevin Wissel, Weston, Florida

This was my first Westcoast trip, and it went above and beyond expectations. I came alone and everyone was so incredible, and we all got along so, so well. I loved all of the sites, activities, and our amazing staff. I can’t wait to go on my next Westcoast trip.
Abby Siskind, Toronto, Ontario

Coming on a trip not knowing anyone, and leaving with people that will probably be some of my lifelong friends, is an experience that any teen would be so lucky to have!
Dalia Shaw, Atlanta, Georgia      

Camryn had a fabulous trip! She went nervously alone but said everyone was so nice and welcoming, she quickly made friends. She thought it was a special group as the entire group was together a lot and didn’t break off into cliques. She thought all the counselors were fantastic and enjoyed herself so much, she stayed an extra week. Honestly, I’ve never seen her so happy!
Tracy & Brian Fives, Lake Worth, Florida   

This program taught me so much about myself since I was traveling by myself! It was so much fun to meet new people and learn about super fun things! My favorite part of the program was the trips that we took into Santa Barbara and our catamaran cruise.
Elle Chavis, Dallas, Texas     

Leigh went on this trip not knowing a single person and came back with excellent memories, a dozen new friends and experiences she will remember for a lifetime!
Peri & Marc Caponi, Lynbrook, New York    

My first Westcoast Connection trip was absolutely amazing!! The staff was great and the group of people I was with was fantastic. Coming on this trip by myself, I never thought that I could become so close with a group of people in such a short amount of time.
Skylar Elbinger, Farmington Hills, Michigan    

Derek seemed to enjoy all aspects of the program. He particularly liked the interaction with the animals at the wildlife sanctuary. He learned a lot of life skills – how to travel independently, working with others, being part of a group, helping others/giving back to the community, and life in other countries/cultures. Thank you for your excellent program.
Meredith & Mark Flax, Arlington, VIrginia   

Coming to Greece this summer changed my life. I’ve grown as a person in ways I never could have imagined. I’ve explored a totally new country and culture surrounded by people I didn’t know before coming here. I got comfortable with these new situations and experiences and that’s what I will leave with coming home. I loved seeing so many different sites. I loved swimming in Sivota, climbing in Meteora, walking around Nafplio, and finally of course seeing Santorini and the beautiful islands. Being that we spent over 25 days in the country, I believe we saw all of the highlights and truly experienced Greece to the fullest. I’m so thankful for this experience and I will never forget it.
Maya Pollack, Rockville, Maryland      

Coming alone was one of the scariest experiences but WCC exceeded all my expectations and made this experience more memorable than I could have ever imagined! I loved all the experiences and will remember this trip forever!
Sloane Brodie, Oceanside, New York    

This has been the best summer of my entire life! Going on this program by myself not knowing anyone and leaving with my best friends truly shows how much this summer meant to me! I am so excited to now move on with my new friends from all over the country and to continue to make more on other WCC trips! Thank you Westcoast for making this the best summer yet!
Lauren Buchwald, Parkland, Florida    

Mya enjoyed the experience and was sad to see it end. She didn’t go in with any friends, but liked the people she met. She enjoyed surfing immensely and the different community service activities.
Barrie & Stephen Lieberman, Glencoe, Illinois   

The program was a perfect blend of work and adventure. Ella learned so much, gave back to the community, yet also got to enjoy adventure. She made friends for lifetime from all over the country and truly connected with the staff. She truly enjoyed seeing a place she had never seen, being on her own and sharing a room was all so meaningful at this age. The turtles were her favorite part – learning and experiencing the wildlife was truly fascinating. She tried new foods and got to experience so many cultural aspects of Hawaii which she will never forget.
Julene Stassou, Fort Lee, New Jersey      

When I came here at first I was a little nervous about not being able to make friends. However, as soon as I started talking to people we created such a deep connection. I think it is incredible how fast people can become friends, even if they’re completely different. I got to meet a lot of great people and share my culture with others. The most meaningful aspect of the whole trip was meeting new people! I also really enjoyed all the water activities, like kayaking, rafting, and tubing.
Victoria Korsakov, Moscow, Russia       

On this trip, I made so many new friends. Coming alone from a state on the opposite side of the country, this trip helped me learn skills for life. Going on a teen tour really showed me how independent I could be!
Evyn Firestone, Atlanta, Georgia    

WCC is a great way to come out of your shell. Coming into the trip, I was nervous because I came by myself. Throughout the trip I made so many new friends. I connected with the staff members as well. Going to all the locations in California made the connections so much better.
Elli Trager, Jacksonville, Florida      

I was very nervous about sending Isaac alone on this trip. He had incredible experiences and the kids all got along so well. It was an amazing learning and growing experience for him. The pace of the trip was perfect for teens with enough activities and down time.Isaac had only good things to say about both his staff Danny and Lindsey. He said they were “chill” which is about as big of a compliment as a teenager can give. He is already talking about what tour he wants to go on next summer! Thank you for organizing this wonderful adventure.
Jill & Lawrence Abrams, Melville, New York    

WCC was always looking out for our safety, which I appreciate, and created activities that are fun and engaging. The experience of traveling independently and making new connections is an important life skill. Creating friendships was the most meaningful part of the trip for me and anywhere we went I had so much fun making unforgettable memories!
Kylie Orenstein, Lower Gwynedd, Pennsylvania   

Kayla went alone and felt that all the other participants were very friendly and nice.
Fran & Larry Drucker, Norwood, New Jersey   

Westcoast Connection is the best decision I have ever made. At first, I was hesitant about coming with no friends but Westcoast really helps to guarantee you will never be alone. The staff really make sure you are comfortable and make you feel very safe. I 100% recommend Westcoast Connection for any teen looking for an amazing summer and wanting to meet friends you will have forever.
Lily Abel, Potomac, Maryland

Jason loved this trip. He was nervous about going alone and not knowing anyone, but within the first few hours, he said he felt very comfortable.
Lili Brillstein, Maplewood, New Jersey

This trip really helped me to step out of my comfort zone. I came by myself and left with a whole group of best friends, that I made so quickly. It was amazing and I would definitely recommend this trip to people.
Mackenzie Osher, Coconut Creek, Florida

Ethan had an amazing time on his trip this summer. He met some amazing friends and I am so proud of him for doing this all on his own. I think Westcoast Connection did a great job of fostering friendships and placing kids together who have similar interests.
Jennifer Taboh, Pleasantville, New York

Rayna traveled solo and she learned how to make friends and how to make decisions on her own. The staff was excellent at helping her facilitate her independence in a discreet manner. My child also felt safe enough to try new activities that she would never normally try. 
Marla & Jason Golnick, West Bloomfield, Michigan

Kayla says she had the best time in Costa Rica. She enjoyed all the community work and enjoyed being rewarded with incredible activities, her favourite being white water rafting. Kayla had some reservations about going on the trip and not knowing anyone, however she came back saying it was the best idea. She made sooo many new friends. She is talking/texting with them daily. She’s even planning to go back and try a new WCC trip next summer! Thank you WCC and Erin for an incredible 10 days. Kayla is still buzzing about it!
Robyn Feldman & Eldad Gal, London, England

We were very nervous sending Alexandra on this trip as she was going alone and this was her first away experience! Westcoast Connection handled all the arrangements from start to finish very professionally. It was an amazing trip for Alexandra. The activities were very well organized and fun! The kids got to really see and experience Costa Rica! Alexandra made such wonderful friendships that I know she will have for a lifetime. She is already planning her next teen tour!
Faith & Crane Gladding, Pompano Beach, Florida

Emily loved the Northwestern Odyssey. She went by herself and although she was nervous in the beginning, she built up her confidence each day and had the time of her life. The Director Brian was amazing, and the entire staff made her feel welcomed especially since she went on the trip by herself.
Sally & Andrew Zeiberg, Mount Laurel, New Jersey

Aidan had an incredible experience. He went knowing no one and came home so excited to share his trip with us and tell us all about the amazing friendships he made. Thank you for this opportunity.
Sari & Warren Alperstein, Reisterstown, Maryland

I went into the trip alone, not knowing anyone and I was scared that I wouldn’t make friends. At the airport, the counselors brought all of the girls together and we all instantly clicked and now I love everyone and made many new friends.
Hudson Greenfader, New York, New York

Henry had an amazing time! He loved the staff. He made lots of friends, boys and girls, and was not homesick at all! We really liked how roommates were rotated regularly, certainly helps prevent cliques and forces the kids to interact with everyone. We would definitely consider another trip with WCC for Henry in the future!
Stacey & Steven Gursten, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

Dani had the best time! Every time she called, she can barely speak from excitement!!! It was a great mix of boys and girls. She was an independent traveler and had no issues connecting with the other teens.
Elaine & Alex Korenkov, Tenafly, New Jersey

Alex went without knowing any other kids and had the time of his life! He had the most fun he has ever had, including the 8 years of sleepaway camp. He said the other kids were friendly and inclusive.
Eric & Andrea Sklar, Potomac, Maryland

Brandon signed up for this trip by himself. From the moment we got to the airport the staff made every effort to bring the kids together. Brandon had an amazing experience and easily made friends. Thank you to the amazing staff on this tour for helping Brandon have a summer to remember!!
Lisa Berkoff, Commack, New York

I was nervous to come without a friend on this trip, but everyone was very friendly and it was easy to make new friends. I learned a lot about myself and grew from stepping out of my comfort zone. The community service was meaningful, the activities were a lot of fun, and the locations were beautiful.
Ryan Levine, Franklin Lakes, New Jersey