Trip Preparation
How exactly did I end up in Ely, Minnesota for the best experience in my life? It's
hard to think of how, but when it all comes down to it, it is rather simple.
 Signing
up
In January, I signed up for the trip by sending the
OA Voyage Application along
with a fifty dollar deposit to the National Order of the Arrow Office. A few weeks later, I received an acceptance letter from the National Office. Along
with this letter was a packet of information, including a medical form, Voyageur
Handbook to Adventure, Tips for Fishing By Canoe and Canoe County Nature
Guide Book. These two books provided loads of information that I needed before
I even arrived on the base, including what to pack and what to leave at home.
Travel Planning
Northern Tier wanted to ensure that I arrived well and on time. Since I had to
fly to the base, I sent them my flight information by filling out an index card
provided in the information packet I received. I sent the base my flight numbers
and arrival/departure times so that someone would meet me at the airport. I found
that the further in advanced I purchased my airline tickets, the cheaper the rates
were. Northern Tier provided the five-hour bus transportation to and from the airport
to the base for 75 dollars.
Medical Check
In order to make sure I was fit to attend the High Adventure Trek, I went to
the doctors about one month before my trip. After my doctor signed my medical form
provided in my informational packet, I made two copies. I mailed one copy to the
Northern Tier Base and kept the other copy for my records.
Time to Leave
Before I knew it, I found it almost time to leave for my trip to Ely, Minnesota.
I had my bags packed, read my books provided by Northern Tier, and held on tight
to my airline tickets. I kissed my parents good-bye and headed off to the airport
where little did I know, my life would change greatly.
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