Rotary Friendship Exchange - Outbounds

You are participating in a future RFE  but be aware a RFE is unlike a typical “vacation” experience. 

 

Imagine the RFE team coming to your town.  You plan 3 days in your town.  You line up details, volunteers, families,  tickets,  etc.    A typical day may be :

9 AM meet after host provide breakfast at Inner Harbour for walking tour.  

11 AM – go to museum.

Noon:  Lunch at Rotarians home.

2 PM:  Drive to local tourist attraction.

4 PM:  Rest,  maybe, at host home

6 PM :   Rotary weekly meeting.

9 PM  home for bed, finally!

Repeat next day.

 

The same thing will happen when you are there in THEIR country.    The difference between this and a regular holiday is:   You don’t really get “asked”,  you are “told” what is happening next.  The tours and schedules are not “optional”.  You are not expected to say “I don’t feel like it” or  “That doesn’t interest me”.  In fact – some may consider it as being less than an ideal guest if you back out of planned events without good reason such as illness.   Same with departing the tour early.   Book flights so you can attend the ENTIRE RFE.   The pace at times can be brisk.  Many RFE's have little "Down time".  See above typical schedule!

 

"A few years ago in Australia,  towards the end of an RFE,  the host said “Tomorrow we are going to an apple orchard and a sheep shearing farm”.    I was tired and grumpy.  “Ugh” I thought.    But I sucked it up and attended of course.  Well,  both were damned terrific.    Thank goodness I went – it was wonderful. "  Kevin Hilgers.  

 

As they say – We can rest when we get home.    

 

It’s like being a Rotary Youth Exchange student.   Some experiences are wonderful,  some you may question..  some host families you will love,  some you will be happy to never see again..   but looking back at the experience – it is priceless. 

 

Booking flights:  Each team member books their own flights, but please note there will be specific deadlines for booking so we know everyone is committed.   You will be asked to provide a copy of your flight to the Chair or team lead.  Those not booking flights by the prescribed date may be asked to step aside so others can commit and participate in the experience.  

 

Further fun ideas for items to take:

• Country pins (from your local  politician) are fun to hand out as well as maps of  your region. Shop for regional souvenirs, flags, etc. after Canada Day or July 4 celebrations when these items are clearance priced. Depending on the destination small items are fun give aways for kids.
• Many clubs budget for RFE to help make the visit memorable.  If your club budgets say $500 it could defray costs, hire local entertainment all Rotarians could enjoy in your community, etc.  Plan an event to honour the incoming guests, invite the whole club(s) in your area.  Make it an event.
• Rotarians love to swap Rotary banners. Make sure you take some if your club has a supply.
• Rotary business cards are highly recommended.
• Gifts go a long way to not only hosts but others who contribute to the RFE.  Take extras along with thank you cards.  Keep them light, and local themed when possible.