Travel Opportunities

When you travel with us, you are an ambassador of Springfield in fulfillment of our mission of “Peace through People.” We have fostered relationships with our friends in Isesaki, Japan for more than 30 years and Tlaquepaque, Mexico for more than 15 years. Your adventure with us will be unlike any other; you will experience rich traditions and meaningful friendships beyond the reach of ordinary travelers. Appreciation, goodwill, patience, and love are essential qualities in our ambassadors.

General Travel Meetings

General travel meetings cover information about all upcoming trips. Anyone curious about traveling with Sister Cities is welcome to attend. RSVPs are not required but are appreciated; please e-mail lbakerink@springfieldmo.gov. These meetings last at least 30 minutes and are immediately followed with information about hosting visiting delegates in Springfield. Student ambassadors have separate information meetings.

To receive information about SSCA travel opportunities, please sign up on this Travel Interest Form.

Upcoming Trips

Isesaki:

Sept. 18-29, 2026: Travel with the annual SSCA citizen delegation to the annual city festival in Isesaki. The trip includes visits to Tokyo and Kyoto along with Isesaki.  For more information, contact Lisa Bakerink. ($4,300-$4,800/person)

This trip is currently full. If you would like to join the waitlist, please submit the short form below.

JAPAN WAIT LIST

Tlaquepaque:

Oct. 29-Nov. 4, 2026: Experience Dia de Los Muertos, Mexico’s ancient custom of celebrating and paying respect to ancestors, with this bi-annual Citizen Trip to Tlaquepaque. ($2,600-$2,800/person).

Two informational meetings are scheduled. Both will take place in person at the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., or via Zoom. No registration is required.

Trip Fees

Trip fees include airfare, lodging, most meals, ground transportation and admission for group excursions, and on-site guidance and translation support from SSCA representatives. A deposit is required to hold your place. The remainder of the fee is paid in three installments.

Financial Aid

Please click here to learn more about our general scholarship opportunities. Student ambassadors have a separate scholarship application.

Next Steps

TRAVEL INTEREST

Fill out our travel interest form to let us know you are interested in traveling with us and to receive future e-mails about our travel opportunities.

TRAVEL INTEREST FORM

TRAVEL APPLICATION

When you’re ready to officially apply to participate in one of our trips, please fill out our travel application! Student ambassadors have a separate travel application.

TRAVEL APPLICATION

MAKE A PAYMENT

After you’ve been accepted to travel with us, visit our payment form to place your deposit and make remaining payments. Student ambassadors have a separate payment form.

MAKE A PAYMENT

Having trouble? Questions?
 Please feel free to contact Lisa Bakerink, Executive Director, at lbakerink@springfieldmo.gov.