What is the Explorer Belt?
The Explorer Belt, or E.B. as it's often fondly referred to, is the challenge of a lifetime, open to Explorer Scouts aged 16 and over and members of the Scout Network. It is a chance to take part in a ten-day
expedition that brings a real understanding of a different country, its people and way
of life. Participants complete a main project and 10 surprise minor projects by
working as a small team. Teams will comprise of 3 or 4 people.
To complete the Explorer Belt Award, an Explorer Scout or Scout Network member
must:
• be over 16 years old (must be 16 by 1st August 2014)
• be a member of either Explorer or the Scout Network
• plan and train for an international expedition as part of a small team
• travel to another country and travel through that country over ten days
• complete a self selected major project
• complete about ten smaller projects
• keep a notebook or diary during the expedition
• take part in a debriefing after the expedition
• present a presentation about the expedition
Travel
Most Explorer Belt expeditions are undertaken on foot, some teams may wish to use local
public transport as part of their expedition and, as long as this provides real opportunities to
meet and talk with local people, then it is acceptable. Teams may wish to mix forms of travel.
Please note that hitchhiking is not permitted by The Scout Association.
Duration
The expedition should last for at least ten days. During this time, the team should spend at
least 30 hours travelling from place to place and visit at least four different towns or villages.
For a typical team travelling mainly on foot, this would suggest a route of about 100 miles
(160km). However, it is important that the route and distance take into account the local
geography, methods of transport, physical ability of the team members, daytime
temperatures and likely weather. Time spent travelling to and from the country of the
expedition should not be included.
Cost
The current estimate for the Expedition is £700 per person. This will include all transportation, food, accomodation and insurance. All you will be required to supply is your own equipment, Passport and spending money.
More information about the Explorer Belt can be found at:
http://www2.scouts.org.uk/explorers/resources/ExplorerBelt.htm
http://www2.scouts.org.uk/explorers/resources/ExplorerBelt.htm