<p>I realize this thread is about 6 years old, but for all those curious about music Ambassador programs, experiences, safety issues, etc. for the future, I wanted to share my own experiences:
I traveled to Europe in 2002 with the Missouri Ambassadors of Music, and it was by far the most fun and educational experience of my (then) young life. For all of those concerned with safety issues, I went in the immediately post -911 era, and I was never concerned for my safety, nor did I ever feel uneasy about my travels. The Ambassadors travel to countries that have excellent relations with the United States, and nearly every foreigner I encountered was thrilled to share their city and culture with us. My program (as I assume they all do) had adequate chaperones and took care to ensure that students were not alone in the larger cities of Paris and London. In other countries, we stayed in smaller towns and villages, all of whom were acutely aware of our presence, and these places felt immensely safe. I could go hiking or shopping on my own and felt comfortable, welcomed, and at ease.<br>
As far as the experience of traveling abroad as a teenager, there is no greater experience. The citizens of the countries we visited were very welcoming, accommodating, and happy to have us there. I saw sights I had only ever dreamed of or seen in movies, and walked (literally) up the Eiffel Tower- how many 17 year olds can say they have done that? The trip costs a pretty penny, but it was the best money I ever spent, and almost ten years later, still is my favorite experience.</p>