"These were indeed experiences of a lifetime for our students and directors. I highly encourage bands to travel to Italy for the Rome New Year's Parade to experience the warmth of the Italian people and bask in the culture that we experienced."

Dr. Neal Schnoor, Director of Marching Band
Kearney, NE

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Featured Destinations

TOURNAMENT OF ROSES

When the invitation arrives, make Gateway YOUR second call!
We're ready to help make the most of your trip to the Rose Bowl.

INTERNATIONAL BOWL GAMES

Bowl Games in foreign countries generate the same enthusiastic crowds as in the U.S. For many, the only ingredient missing to complete this "American football experience" has been American bands.

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Staff Travel Tips

Take it from people who travel the most. Our staff has some quick tips to make your travel smoother.

#1 Travel Tip - PACK LIGHT!

Perhaps we’re stating the obvious here, but we can’t emphasize it enough! Here are ideas to keep your suitcase small and light.

Start with a smaller suitcase than you think you need. Lay out all your packing, then take out a third of it. If you think you need extra space on the return for souvenirs, pack a collapsible duffel or tote that you can carry on.
To help avoid over packing, skim your itinerary and pack your clothes by day.
Plan tops and bottoms that can mix with each other, and plan to wear everything twice. You can still have a ‘new outfit’ every day with the right planning.
Two pairs of shoes are all you need - plan your attire around that.
Roll clothes - they end up with less wrinkles and you end up with more space.
Use travel bottles for all liquids (bathroom products). Liquid is heavy!
Don’t pack bulky sweaters or jackets for cool climates, just dress in layers.
Check out: www.onebag.com

More tips...

Mark: Get Euros before you leave. Once you arrive, timing can be tight, and a convenient currency exchange may not be easily accessible once you’re traveling in a group. Having a stash of cash from the onset will mean one less thing to worry about upon arrival, putting your mind at ease. This may not ensure that you receive the best exchange rate. If that is a concern then we suggest using a cash card at an ATM when you arrive.
Stacy: Honor the hospitality of your destination. Bring small gifts from your home place to share with the hosts, tour guides, bus drivers, or groups with whom you will spend time. Simple things like peanut butter, chocolate chips with a recipe, maple syrup and a pancake mix are iconic of America and not often found in other parts of the world.
Kelly: Always, always, always pack a change of clothes & pajamas in your carry on. You’ll be so glad if/when your luggage is delayed or lost.
Charlie: Be the master of your time zone. Live in the time zone you are in, not by the time zone where you are from. When they eat, you eat. When they sleep, you sleep. You get the picture!
Lauren: Pack a couple of collapsible or plastic bags in case your luggage is overweight. You’ll be able to take a few heavy items out, such as shoes, and carry them with you instead of paying the fees.
Angie: Pack wet wipes in your carry-on to disinfect your area on the plane, and pack your own snacks.
Melissa: For international travel – skip the electronics. Converters add bulk and hassle. Most hotels have hair dryers, bring a battery alarm clock, pack extra camera batteries and leave your cell phone in your suitcase!
Marcy: For shorter trips, save money by not checking your suitcase and wait a bit to board the plane. They’ll gate check your bag so you don’t have to haul it onto the plane.

Need more information?

Contact Gateway now! (800) 331-8579 | gmf@musicfestivals.com

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University of Nebraska Kearney