Explorer by Name, Explorer by Nature!

Beth, one our District’s Explorers, took the initiative to organise an expedition abroad to qualify for their Explorer Belt – a top scouting award. Here is her first-hand account:

“During August, I went to Bulgaria with a cohort of Explorers from across the country with the intention of completing the expedition needed for the Explorer Belt Award.

The Explorer Belt Award is a top scouting award available to Explorer or Network Scouts who are over 16. It is achieved by travelling in a foreign country for ten days and working as part of a small team. The purpose of the expedition is to gain a real understanding of a different country, its people, culture and way of life.

It has been in planning for a while. It was an opportunity I found through social media. I attended a training weekend in Gilwell Park in September 2023. I didn’t know anyone before I went. I formed a group and we were planning the trip for most of the year, sourcing accommodation and travel on a tight budget. In addition to this, my group met up in Bath on a weekend in March.

We travelled between several different towns, primarily by the local rail network. My group particularly enjoyed Plovdiv as it had a lot of interesting history which we learnt by going on a free walking tour.

Over the course of the 10-day expedition, we had to complete a major project (comparing Bath and Bulgarian architecture) and 10 minor projects that ranged from translating a newspaper page to meeting the mayor.

One of the highlights of the expedition for me was the fact that we had reached out and arranged to meet up with a group of local scouts which I enjoyed and it was very interesting.

Afterwards, we created a presentation detailing what we accomplished on the trip. Going forward I am really keen to engage more with the global community of scouts.

I believe this experience allowed me to have a deeper understanding of different cultures and would highly recommend doing something similar to anyone. At times it was difficult, especially when we had an issue with the accommodation in one town and needed to alter our route, but it was a good experience which allowed for an opportunity for growth. I would suggest going and searching out opportunities which allow you to connect with other, across the globe or just in your local community.”

Congratulations Beth on broadening your horizons and getting your Explorer Belt!