World Thinking Day began in 1926 and is celebrated on the 22nd February each year. It’s a day for Girl Guides and Girl Scouts from across the world to focus on global movements and international friendships tied together with a common theme. This important date brings together millions of members to celebrate the positive impacts and shared values of the international community.
To mark 100 years of World Thinking Day, the theme for 2026 is ‘Our Friendship’. Celebrated by over 10 million members, this day and theme aims to focus on worldwide connections within the Girlguiding community, make friends and participate in fun activities and badge collecting.
Building friendships across the globe
As 2026 is the year of ‘Our Friendship’, we reflect on what international travel can offer young Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. Exploring new destinations and cultures, developing life skills, and making memories are all key pillars of group travel; however, one of the most important is the formation of lasting friendships.
Activity holidays abroad are the perfect chance for group bonding, from creating packing lists and organising rooming, to arriving home with a camera and a mind full of magical memories. It’s about the anticipation and preparation for a trip of a lifetime, getting excited about sleepovers with friends, and trying new things in a wonderful new destination.
Growing together
International travel provides groups with an array of thrilling new experiences that allow them to grow and develop as individuals. It also gives them key skills that they can carry with them into adulthood, such as confidence and leadership. Whether they are travelling abroad for the first time, overcoming homesickness or embarking on a daring excursion, knowing their group has an encouraging and supportive network can help them overcome the challenges they may face throughout their trip.
Experiences like these are abundant on tour. Even girls who may lack self-confidence often blossom during these trips, as it’s all about inclusion and developing passions within the community. It’s a great opportunity for groups to come together – to cheer one another on, offer comfort to each other in times of need and to celebrate achievements.
Of course, it’s also time to have fun! If it’s thrilling and daring excursions or simply exploring the local area, you know you’ll be surrounded by laughter and pure joy that radiates from the group.
Read about Lancashire East Rangers’ eye-opening experiences in Sangam and 2nd and 3rd Hexham Guides’ Incredible Adventure to Switzerland.
WAGGGS World Centres
WAGGGS World Centres are the perfect place to meet new people and join others from the international community, while learning about their different cultural norms and traditions. From Our Chalet, nestled in the picturesque mountains of Adelboden, to Sangam in the bustling city of Pune or Nuestra Cabaña, situated in beautiful Cuernavaca, these World Centres are a place for Girl Guides and Girl Scouts to come together to learn, explore the amazing destinations and give back to the local community.
To learn more about the importance of visiting a world centre, read our blog.
International travel that aligns with core values
At Venture Abroad, some of our passionate and dedicated team members are involved in their own units and have been a part of the community since childhood; we know what it takes to create an unforgettable trip. One that’s fun, empowering, inspiring and inclusive. Our goal is to make international travel to our incredible destinations truly life-changing for young people, providing opportunities for self-development, friendship and an adventure of a lifetime.
Celebrate ‘Our Friendship’ with an international adventure of your own!
We work alongside International Advisors, Lead and Local Volunteers and County Commissioners to help create magical and meaningful trips for the Girlguiding community. Whether it’s a county-led expedition or a local unit adventure, we’re here every step of the way.
