Lunar New Year 2026: The Year of the Horse

Get ready to welcome the 2026 Lunar New Year, the Year of the Horse! The Lunar New Year is a 15-day celebration of the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar.  In 2026 the Year of the Horse celebrations begin on Tuesday 17 February.  Let's find out some interesting facts about this year's Lunar New Year.

Take advantage of the increased PACER rebate for Canberra Tours in 2026

The Australian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to civics and citizenship education by continuing to support school excursions to Canberra through its Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) program. The initiative provides financial assistance to help students in Years 4 to 12 experience the nation’s capital and engage directly with Australia’s key democratic, historical and cultural institutions.

Under the scheme, schools receive a per‑student rebate, with funding amounts determined by the distance travelled to Canberra. Payments are made directly to schools to help offset the cost of educational tours.

To qualify for the rebate, school itineraries must include visits to at least three of the four mandatory PACER institutions, ensuring students gain meaningful, curriculum‑aligned learning experiences during their time in Canberra:

• Australian Parliament House Guided Tour – 1 hour program
• Museum of Australian Democracy – 1 hour program
• National Electoral Education Centre – 90 minute program
• Australian War Memorial – 45 minute program

G.E.T Educational Tours does it all for you. We design tours that meet with the government regulations and can assist with your PACER applications. Get in touch with our Program Specialists and start planning your educational school trip to Canberra today!

Visit PACER for eligibility and requirements.

Kickstarting the School Year: Fun Icebreaker Activities for Classrooms

A new school year brings fresh faces, new routines and endless opportunities to build a strong classroom community. Whether you’re welcoming a brand‑new cohort or reuniting with familiar students, the first few days set the tone for the months ahead. Icebreakers are a simple, powerful way to help students feel comfortable, connected and ready to learn. 

Here’s some fun, low‑prep activities perfect for classrooms across primary and secondary settings. They’re designed to spark conversation, build confidence and create a sense of belonging from day one.

Welcome Back to the 2026 School Year

It’s time to ease out of holiday mode and step confidently back into the school routine. Let’s share a series of blogs designed to support you and your students as you transition into the new year feeling focused, energised, and motivated.

We’re kicking things off with a topic that sets the foundation for everything that follows: Prioritising Teacher Wellness.

Wrapping Up 2025 with G.E.T Educational Tours

Wow, what a year it’s been! From across Australia, thousands of students joined us on unforgettable learning adventures. Curious to see which destinations topped the list and what’s trending for 2026? Read the full story…

Christmas Around The World: 7 Unique Holiday Traditions To Try At Home

Christmas is celebrated in countless ways across the globe – some heartwarming, some hilarious, and some downright surprising! From Iceland to Japan, holiday traditions show us the joy of celebrating in different cultures. Here are 7 unique Christmas traditions that will inspire your festive spirit – and maybe even give you some ideas to try at home.

Travel Update: Extension of Visa-Free Travel to China

Beijing has announced an extension of its visa-free entry scheme for Australians (and other nations) until 31 December 2026 to help boost tourism and encourage foreign engagement. 

• Eligible Australian travellers can now enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits or transit.
• The scheme includes 45 nations covering Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, 32 European countries, and many South American and Gulf nations.
• Countries not included are the UK, US and Canada.
• This extension is expected to strengthen confidence in travel to China.

Now's the time to book your 2026 visa-free educational tour to China. Call us now to start planning!

Travel Update: USA Electronic Entry Requirement Price Change

Travellers to the USA are required to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to arrival. Australia is part of the USA's Visa Waiver Program so it is mandatory for Australian passport holders to apply for an ESTA for trips under 90 days for business or leisure. Starting 1st October 2025 the cost of an ESTA will increase to US$40 (approximately AUD$60).  

Click here to find out more.

2026 School Term & Holiday Dates

We've compiled this comprehensive list of the 2026 school term and holiday dates throughout Australia, ensuring you're all set to blend learning with unforgettable experiences.

Travel Update: New Entry Requirement for Indonesia “All Indonesia” Digital Declaration

Starting 18 August 2025 all travelers arriving into Indonesia must complete the “All Indonesia” digital declaration prior to entry. This new system streamlines immigration, customs, and health declarations into a single online form—making the arrival process faster and more efficient. Currently, the declaration is available for arrivals into Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali airports, with expansion to all international airports and ports coming soon.

What you need to do:

• Submit your declaration via allindonesia.imigrasi.co.id or by scanning the “All Indonesia” QR code.
• Complete the form within 3 days before arrival—ideally before departing for Indonesia.
• After submission, you’ll receive a QR code to present at immigration and customs.
• You’ll also get a link to pre-purchase your Visa on Arrival (VoA).

Planning ahead will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Indonesia.