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Varsity Girls Soccer @ SFS for APAC Soccer 2025, taken from @aisgzram
By: Oasis T.
For many students, the Asia-Pacific Activities Conference, or APAC, is a highlight of the school year. It represents the culmination of a season’s hard work, offering a chance to compete, perform, and connect with peers from across the region.
The conference includes twelve schools: American International School of Guangzhou (AISG), Shanghai American School Pudong (SASPD), Shanghai American School Puxi (SASPX), Western Academy of Beijing (WAB), International School of Beijing (ISB), Concordia International School Shanghai (CISS), Seoul Foreign School (SFS), Canadian Academy (CA), Hong Kong International School (HKIS), United Nations International School of Hanoi (UNIS Hanoi), Brent International School Manila (BISM), and Taejon Christian International School (TCIS).
APAC events operate on a carefully designed rotational basis, with hosting responsibilities shared among member schools to ensure fairness and variety. Each school takes turns hosting different events, typically on a yearly rotation, giving students exposure to diverse campuses and cultures throughout their academic careers. This system allows for equitable distribution of the logistical and financial responsibilities of hosting while providing students with opportunities to experience various parts of Asia.
Additionally, the APAC conference features two distinct formats: regular APAC events, which typically include six schools (either from the Asia or Pacific pool), and “SUPERAPAC” events, which bring together all twelve member schools for larger-scale competitions in select sports and activities.
The membership pools themselves (Asia and Pacific) undergo periodic reorganization every few years to maintain competitive balance and accommodate any new member schools or changes in school circumstances. This thoughtful rotation system ensures that over a student’s high school career, they may have the opportunity to visit multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region while participating in their chosen activities.
Navigating the logistics of travel, packing, and competing, however, can be daunting for first-timers. This guide serves as a starter pack for new and returning participants to ensure a smooth and memorable APAC experience.
Knowing what to pack is the first step to a stress-free trip. While specific needs vary by activity, a core list of items is essential for any APAC traveler. Overpacking can be as problematic as underpacking, so focusing on the necessities is key.
“I totally forgot to pack a portable charger for my first trip, and my phone was dead the whole second day,” said Grade 11 student, Milli M. “It’s a small thing that makes a huge difference, especially for contacting your parents and peers.”
Additionally, you may want to consider the following if you’re travelling internationally:
- a SIM card (buy ahead of time, then you’ll have data when you land)
Varsity Girls Volleyball @ SASPX for SUPERAPAC Volleyball 2025, taken from @aisgzram
Mainland China
Shanghai American School Puxi (SASPX) – Shanghai, China
Located in the western part of Shanghai, SASPX boasts modern facilities and is easily accessible from the city center. Shanghai itself is a dynamic metropolis with excellent public transportation.
Pro tip: SASPX is known for their burrito bowl in the cafeteria — a must-try for visiting students!
Shanghai American School Pudong (SASPD) – Shanghai, China
Situated in the eastern part of Shanghai, SASPD offers extensive athletic and performing arts facilities. The campus is located in the Jinqiao area of Pudong, which has developed rapidly in recent years. Funny enough, SASPD and SASPX – known rivals – are situated on opposites ends of Shanghai.
Insider information: SASPD’s booster club offers a large assortment of highly enjoyable snacks – from your regular granola bars to imported goods that are hard to find.
Concordia International School Shanghai (CISS) – Shanghai, China
Located in the Jinqiao area of Pudong, CISS has a beautiful campus with excellent facilities. The school is situated in a residential area with good access to local amenities.
Note: CISS is a Christian school, so visitors should be respectful of religious practices and values during their stay. You might notice prayer before meals or other faith-based activities.
Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) – Beijing, China
WAB is located in the Shunyi district, approximately 30 minutes from central Beijing. The campus features impressive facilities including an indoor swimming pool, multiple playing fields, and cutting-edge performing arts centers.
Don’t miss: WAB has really good merch — their hoodies and team gear are popular purchases for visiting students.
International School of Beijing (ISB) – Beijing, China
Also located in Shunyi, ISB features a remarkable domed sports facility that allows for year-round training regardless of Beijing’s air quality. The school is about 30 minutes from downtown Beijing.
Weather note: Beijing winters can be extremely cold, so pack accordingly if traveling during colder months.
South Korea
Seoul Foreign School (SFS) – Seoul, South Korea
Located in Seodaemun-gu in central Seoul, SFS has a hillside campus with panoramic views of the city. Seoul’s efficient subway system makes exploring the city straightforward.
Special mention: SFS has an amazing PTA committee that makes delicious homemade delicacies for visiting teams — a true highlight for many students! It is important to note that SFS is also a Christian school.
Taejon Christian International School (TCIS) – Daejeon, South Korea
TCIS is located in Daejeon, South Korea’s fifth-largest city, about 90 minutes from Seoul by high-speed train. The campus is modern and well-equipped for sporting events.
Side note: Like CISS and SFS, TCIS is a Christian school, so visitors should be mindful of religious practices and values during their time spent.
Japan
Canadian Academy (CA) – Kobe, Japan
Perched on the hills overlooking Kobe, CA offers spectacular views of the city and bay. The campus is accessible via a combination of train and bus or taxi.
Local specialty: Kobe is famous for its beef but also offers many affordable food options near the Sannomiya station area.
Hong Kong S.A.R .
Hong Kong International School (HKIS) – Hong Kong
HKIS has two campuses — lower primary campus in Repulse Bay and an upper primary/secondary campus in Tai Tam. Both are located on Hong Kong Island, offering beautiful views of the South China Sea.
Note: Hong Kong, contrary to preconceived notions, still operates largely on cash transactions. Although WeChat Pay and other digital avenues are accepted in most stores, cash transactions are your safest bet.
Vietnam
United Nations International School of Hanoi (UNIS Hanoi) – Hanoi, Vietnam
Located in the Tay Ho district of Hanoi, UNIS has a sprawling campus with modern facilities. Hanoi offers a fascinating blend of traditional Vietnamese and colonial French influences.
Weather tip: Hanoi can be quite humid — breathable clothing is essential, especially if competing in outdoor sports.
Philippines
Brent International School Manila (BRENT) – Manila, Philippines
Situated in Mamplasan, Biñan, Laguna (south of Metro Manila), Brent’s campus spans 7 hectares.
Weather tip: The tropical climate means warm weather year-round — so, bring the right kinds of clothes!
Remember that weather conditions, cultural norms, and local transportation options vary significantly across these locations. Researching your specific destination before traveling will help you pack appropriately and navigate the local environment with confidence.
According to the coaches, adapting to the environment is part of the challenge. “Every gym feels different, every field has its quirks, and every city has its own rhythm,” “The best teams are the ones who can adapt quickly and focus on the game, not the distractions.”
This sentiment was also mirrored in the performance arts teachers. “APAC isn’t just about showcasing talent but about growing as artists and individuals. The students who gain the most are those who approach each performance as an opportunity to learn from others, adapt to new spaces, and push their creative boundaries beyond what’s comfortable.”
Ultimately, APAC is a platform for growth. It challenges students to perform at their best while managing the responsibilities of travel, representing their school, and building a larger community. Packing smart, being a gracious guest, and embracing the new environment are the keys to a successful and rewarding experience.
An alumni volleyball player once shared, “We can drill skills all season, but we can’t practice gratitude and respect on the court. That comes from within. Go into this trip aiming to be the kind of guest you’d want to host and the kind of competitor you’d respect. That’s the real win.”
Varsity Tennis @ ISB for APAC Tennis 2025, taken from @aisgzram
Now, your bags are (mostly) packed, your uniform is clean, and the excitement is building. Before you walk out the door, take a moment to run through this final checklist.
These reminders are less about what to pack and more about how to prepare for a successful and respectful trip.
- Double-Check Your Documents: Are your passport, visa (if needed), and flight details easily accessible? Take a photo of them and save it to your phone and/or send it to a parent. Don’t bury your passport at the bottom of your checked luggage!
- Charge Everything: Your phone, portable charger, headphones, and any other electronics should be at 100%. You’ll want them ready to go the moment you land, especially for that first call home.
- Confirm Communication Plans: Have you shared your itinerary with your parents? Do they know what’s going on? Let them know!
- Pack Your Carry-On Wisely: Your uniform, athletic gear, and essentials should be in your carry-on. In the rare case your checked bag is delayed, you’ll still be able to compete/perform and feel fresh.
- Handle Your Money: If you’re bringing cash, is it the correct local currency? Have you notified your bank that you’ll be traveling internationally to avoid any issues with your cards? Make sure you get this sorted — no one wants to wait for you at the airport ATM.
- Review the Code of Conduct: Remember, you are an ambassador for your school. Re-familiarize yourself with the APAC Code of Conduct regarding behavior, curfews, and sportsmanship. Your actions reflect on your entire community, and they do have consequences.
- Set Personal Goals: Beyond awards and achievements, what do you want to get out of this trip? Maybe it’s connecting with a player from another team, trying a new local food, or improving a specific skill. Having personal goals makes the experience richer.
- Prepare to be a Gracious Guest: Your host school is welcoming you to their campus. Be respectful of their facilities, staff, and students. Follow their rules, clean up after yourself, and represent your school with dignity. Remember that your behavior reflects on your entire school community.
- Embrace Flexibility: Travel rarely goes exactly as planned. Flights can be delayed, food might be different than what you’re used to, and events can have unexpected outcomes. A flexible, positive attitude is your most valuable asset.
With these final checks complete, you’re not just ready to travel — you’re prepared to make the most of every moment.
Now, from all of us at the Beacon, we wish you safe travels and memorable experiences. Go Rams!
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