Taste of Southern California: July 24–August 1, 2023

From the mountains to the sea, enjoy the foods, sights, and sounds of SoCal.

About the Trip

Southern California is a unique part of the country with a diversity of foods, cultures, socioeconomics, and ecosystems. Spend just over a week visiting amusement parks and beaches and experiencing local cuisines and “SoCal” culture.

The trip will include a deep dive into our Girl Scout “Humans and the Earth” program, which is all about the impact humans have on the physical environment, such as triggering climate change, soil erosion, poor air quality, and more. Girls will become SoCalGas Climate Change Champions and environmental stewards as they discover what Southern California has to offer.

You will try Indian, Pakistani, Haitian, and Cuban cuisine, plus several varieties of Mexican food. You will also get to create a meal with a local chef and enjoy both the tastes and fun of Knott’s Berry Farm. Knott’s is a local berry farm that turned into an amusement park, but it still honors its heritage with boysenberry pies and other berry-based treats.

You will visit at least one beach, learn about the La Brea Tar Pits, and experience some Hollywood magic by visiting the Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, and perhaps even the backlot of one of our movie studios.

This brings us to the best part of this trip—it is girl planned. Prior to your arrival in California, you will have a chance to help plan your itinerary through two Zoom sessions. During these meetings, you will get to know the other Girl Scouts on your trip and edit your itinerary. You are encouraged to do your own research and bring your ideas to help make your trip reflect your interests.

In addition to the fun of the Destination, you can add on to your experience with either a local California camp experience or a Disneyland Resort weekend.

Who Should Apply?

• Age: Girl Scouts entering grades 6–9 in summer 2023

• Interests: Climate studies, culture, cuisine

• Requirements: Ability to walk outdoors for extended periods

• Equipment: Packing list will be provided after acceptance

• Ignite Your Passion! This trip is great for Girl Scouts who are interested in climate change.

The Cost

Program fee: $2,350

The program fee does not include airfare. Girl Scouts will need to arrange transportation to Los Angeles International Airport.

Deposit due upon acceptance: $300. (This deposit is already included in your program fee.)

A nonrefundable deposit will be due once selected. Payment due dates will be provided in the acceptance letter (the balance is due about eight weeks prior to the trip). Once excursions are booked, fees cannot be refunded unless we can get the funds back from the vendor.

Financial aid may be available. Check with your local council.

Host and Contact Info

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio | https://www.gssgc.org/

Joyce Knoll, customercare@gssgc.org. (714) 614-2699