2026 Study Abroad Programs

Student Information, Logistics & Travel Guide

This guide provides travel and logistics details for students participating in the Taiwan program, the China program, or the combined multi-city route.

Part 1: Taiwan Trip Guide (June 28 – July 18)

Payment Options

• Mail-in: Send a check to Rio Hondo College, Attn: Dr. Adam Wetsman.
• In-Person: Pay at the Cashier’s Office via credit card, check, or cash.
• Proof of Payment: Email a copy of your receipt to sliu@riohondo.edu or drop it off at the Behavioral and Social Sciences Division (A221).

Logistics

• Flight Arrival: Group bus departs Taipei (TPE) Airport at 8:00 AM sharp on June 28. Arrive by 6:00 AM for immigration.
• Budgeting: $600–$900 USD. Taiwan is cash-heavy; use 7-Eleven ATMs for New Taiwan Dollars (NTD).
• Highlights: Mandarin classes at Chihlee University, National Palace Museum, and a Hot Spring Retreat in Jinshan (July 9–10).

Part 2: China Trip Guide (June 17 – June 28)

Visa Application

1. Complete the online form to receive a QR code.
2. Visit the Chinese Consulate in LA (500 Shatto Place, 3rd Floor) with your passport and code.
3. Fee: The 5-year visa fee is waived for our participants.

Logistics

• Arrival: Airport pick-up provided at Shanghai Pudong (PVG) on June 17.
• Budgeting: $300–$500 USD. Alipay or WeChat Pay is required; link your U.S. card before departure.
• Highlights: Sword forging, pottery workshops, and Oujiang River tours.

Part 3: Multi-City Trip (June 17 – July 18)

For students attending both programs, follow this travel plan:

Key Transitions

• June 28: Fly from Shanghai (PVG) to Taipei Songshan (TSA).
• July 18: Return to LAX from Taiwan Taoyuan (TPE).
• Combined Budget: Approx. $900–$1,400 USD for personal expenses.

Part 4: Support & Essentials

Travel & Visa Assistance

• Kirk Vacation (May Huang): May.huang@kirkvacation.net
• J & C Travel (Tracy Wang): Tracy999w@gmail.com | 626-226-7392 (Text Only)
• Visa Help (Mr. Hank Lee): 626-777-8666 | Hanklee7@gmail.com ($50 service fee)

Packing Essentials

• Clothing: Breathable fabrics for humidity.
• The “AC Layer”: A light hoodie for cold air-conditioned classrooms/trains.
• Modesty: One outfit covering shoulders and knees for temple visits.
• Health: Pack antacids, anti-diarrheal meds, and insect repellent.

Gift Etiquette (Budget: $30–$50)

It is tradition to bring tokens for our hosts:

• Faculty (1 gift): University polo or a quality book.
• General (5 gifts): LA-themed keychains or local snacks.