Social education through travel

Through educational tours, Global Engagement Trips, and student internships, we bring together international travelers and local entrepreneurs across Latin America to share in cultural and personal exchange. Our programs foster cross-cultural relationships that are mutually beneficial and have lasting social impact.

PROGRESS, NOT POVERTY

We empower by recognizing the dignity and resourcefulness of our community members

RESPONSIBLE TOURISM MODEL

How can you take advantage of your travel to make a positive impact on the world?

AWARENESS IGNITES ACTION

Delve deeper into the social sphere with these books, TED Talks, podcasts, and other resources

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“As an educator in the field of microfinance, it is rare to find those opportunities that can bring your students closer to the action before they join the professional world. Human Connections provided a boots-on-the-ground experience that my students will be able to share with their peers and use as a stepping stone for their careers, regardless of the industry they choose.” -Adam Grenier, Tufts University, 2016 GET Faculty Leader

“I felt that my Human Connections internship this summer was designed specially for me. This experience has transformed me as a person. I was not only able to meet fascinating artisans and help them improve their businesses, but I was also able to have fun working with a team.” -Yale University Student, Summer Intern

“If you have ever wondered about the individuals who make the items we admire in the marketplace or the food we enjoy eating in the local restaurants, then this is the experience you have been waiting for. Human Connections simply provides the most worthwhile travel experience I have had in many years by affording you the opportunity to meet and interact with those individuals whose stories we would not otherwise hear. Anyone visiting Puerto Vallarta and Bucerias should make the tour a very high priority and not miss it.” -Jerry, 2016 Tour Guest

“Human Connections helped confirm different and new possibilities I had for my future. The experience was priceless and I enjoyed every minute of it. Every single person I met had an amazing story that inspired me, and will forever be in my heart. I feel like everyone should have an experience like what HC has to offer because it offers moments of self-reflection and the realization of the importance of giving. I definitely plan to go back!” -UCSD Student, 2016 GET Participant

EXPLORE OUR COMMUNITY

Our work starts with our clients — artisans, tradespeople, and food vendors in the Bucerias area. These are low-income but industrious people whose businesses represent rich local culture, economic growth, and personal achievement. Many clients have employed tools like microfinance or fair trade to meet their goals, making their experiences a testament to the power of these tools. Our clients have stories to share and we’re here to facilitate that conversation.

Meet the Artisans here to find out more about them and their businesses.

While we are beginning to offer Global Engagement Trips in new countries, our home community is Bucerias, Nayarit, Mexico. This is where our offices are, where we have our deepest connections, and where most of our programming takes place. Learn more about Bucerias and the region here!

$25,920

US DOLLARS
Channeled into local homes during our tours since Fall 2015

232

STUDENTS INVOLVED
In our Global Engagement Trips and Internship Programs since Summer 2014

1,317

TOUR GUESTS
Who have attended our Day Tours since we opened our doors in Summer 2014

EXPLORE OUR BLOG
Learn from the insights of our staff, community members and interns
RELEVANT READING
From cultural fiction to analytical articles, these resources enrich the reader
FAVORITE TED TALKS
Who doesn’t love a good TED Talk? These are our staff favorites
DOCUMENTARIES & CLIPS
Deepen your understanding of a particular topic and enjoy a good film at the same time