From unforgettable surprises to incredible student creativity, our 2026 GLP Tour was one for the books!

Just last month, our group of 29 passionate travelers came together in Guatemala for eight inspiring days filled with connection, learning, and laughter. Each stop on the way brought fresh moments of joy and discovery.

While it’s tough to pick favorites, here are our top four highlights from this year’s trip:

FOUR: Celebrating cultural traditions

Above: Students at Escuela Oficial Rural Mixta Aldea Paraxaj, Chimaltenango.

 

One of our Spark schools gave a presentation on how their town celebrates the birth of Jesus. Their stories, combined with beautifully decorated altars glowing with candles and flowers, offered us a wonderful glimpse into the local culture and community spirit.

THREE: A “sweet” surprise for Dr. Burns

Somewhere between school visits and mountain drives, Dr. Burns saw something that made everyone laugh: a local soda brand with her exact same name!

Right: Dr. Janet Burns, Rotary Club of Livingston Sunrise (Brighton), Michigan, United States of America.

TWO: A market day like no other

At a different Spark school, the students’ Market Day was truly remarkable. It showcased handmade crafts and even live chickens wandering among the booths, emphasizing a vibrant and creative aspect of their everyday experience.

Left: Simon Hinshelwood, Rotary Club of Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.

 

ONE: Clubs unite for a common cause

This year, 11 Rotary Clubs from Canada, the Cayman Islands, and the US came together to support students and teachers, demonstrating the power of collaboration. Watching Rotarians from different districts unite to create a lasting impact reminded us of how strong this global community truly is.

From unexpected laughter to powerful cultural moments, this year’s GLP Tour captured the heart of why we return to Guatemala year after year: to learn, to connect, and to celebrate the hope education creates.