July 2025 marked a proud and unforgettable moment for Octatravel—our very first school group and parent tour abroad, and what a journey it was! Our destination: the beautiful and welcoming country of Denmark, where our girls represented not only their school but their country at the world-renowned Dana Cup Soccer Tournament.
🛬 First Stop: Copenhagen
We landed in Copenhagen, Denmark’s vibrant capital, ready to take on the adventure ahead. It was a beautiful introduction to Danish life—bike-friendly streets, crisp air, and charming sights set the tone for the week.
🎢 Second Stop: Billund – LEGOLAND Magic
Next, we travelled to Billund, the home of LEGO, where the team (and parents!) spent a full day at LEGOLAND. It was the perfect way to settle in, laugh together, and let the excitement build before the tournament. The memories made here set the tone for the strong bond we carried throughout the tour.
⚽ Hjørring: Dana Cup Dreams
From there, we made our way to Hjørring, where the real action began at the Dana Cup. Our girls gave their all on the field—showing heart, resilience, and unity in every match. And their efforts did not go unnoticed.
Not only did they make it to the Winners Round, but they also returned home with the prestigious Fair Play Trophy—a true reflection of their sportsmanship, spirit, and grace both on and off the field. What an honor!
They played with pride, represented with dignity, and reminded us of all that success isn’t just about the scoreboard—it’s about character.
🌇 Final Stop: Aalborg
After the final whistle blew, we wrapped up the tour in the beautiful city of Aalborg, where we took time to reflect, relax, and celebrate all that had been achieved. The city gave us the perfect space to come together one last time before heading back home, full of gratitude and pride.
💙 What This Tour Meant
This trip was a milestone for Octatravel, but also for every family who placed their trust in us. It was more than travel—it was a story of courage, growth, and unforgettable moments. From the coach’s encouragement to the tireless support of our two amazing teachers, and the unwavering enthusiasm of the parents—this journey was a shared triumph.
✈️ Things I’ve Learned as a Travel Agent on This Trip
As the founder of Octatravel and the lead on this journey, I didn’t just guide a group—I grew with them. Here are a few lessons that stood out.
Planning is everything—but flexibility is key.
Despite months of preparation, travel always brings surprises. From delayed transfers to sudden schedule changes, I learned that adaptability and a calm mindset are just as important as a solid itinerary.
Communication is the heartbeat of group travel.
From late-night updates to pep talks before matches, clear and consistent communication with parents, teachers, and the girls was essential. It builds trust—and it keeps things running smoothly.
It takes a village.
Behind every successful tour is a support team. I’m grateful for the coach, the teachers, the parents, and even the airline partners who played their part. No one leads a trip alone.
Young travelers need more than logistics—they need leadership.
Being present for these girls meant more than booking flights and hotels. It meant listening, cheering, comforting, encouraging. This was personal.
Small wins mean the most.
Yes, the Fair Play Trophy and the Winners Round spot were amazing—but so were the little moments: a shy girl making a new friend, a parent beaming with pride, or a team singing together on the bus.
This is what I was meant to do.
This trip reminded me why I started Octatravel. To create experiences that change lives. To help people see the world—and themselves—in a new way. I walked away not just proud, but more passionate than ever.
💡 Travel Tip: Important Documents When Traveling with Minors
As this was Octatravel’s first school and parent group tour, I quickly saw how crucial it is to have all the correct documentation in place when traveling with minors—especially internationally.
Before departure, we ensured every child had the required documents. Let me share this list for anyone planning a school tour, family vacation, or sending their child abroad—it can save you a lot of stress at the airport!
✅ Essential Travel Documents for Minors:
- Valid Passport
Make sure it has enough validity (usually 6 months) and matches the name on all bookings. - Visa (if applicable)
Depending on the country, children may need a separate visa even if traveling with a parent. - Unabridged Birth Certificate
Especially important for South African minors, this must show the names of both parents. - Parental Consent Affidavit
If a child is traveling with only one parent, a school group, or a guardian, a certified affidavit from the non-traveling parent(s) is required. It should include:- Permission to travel
- Contact details
- A certified copy of the consenting parent’s ID or passport
- Court Orders or Guardianship Documents (if applicable)
If one parent has full custody or is deceased, or if the child is under legal guardianship, relevant official documents are a must. - Letter from the School
For group tours like ours, a letter on school letterhead confirming the trip details (dates, destination, and staff) is often requested at border control. - Travel Insurance
A must-have! Covers unexpected events like illness, injury, or delays. - Medical Notes or Vaccination Certificates
If a child has health needs or requires specific vaccinations, carry proof and prescriptions.
Having these documents properly prepared and organized made our airport check-in and border control process smooth and stress-free. It’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from leading this trip: preparation is everything when it comes to traveling with minors.
A Special Thank You
To Wynberg Girls’ Junior School and the incredible parents—thank you for trusting me and Octatravel with your daughters’ first international soccer tour experience. Your belief in me and your support throughout the journey meant the world.
It was more than just planning a trip—it was about creating a safe, meaningful, and empowering experience for young girls to see the world and discover just how capable they are. I’m so grateful to have walked this journey with you all.
Here’s to many more tours, shared memories, and passports filled with stamps!
To our girls: You made history.
To our team: You made it possible.
To future dreamers: This is just the beginning.
“Travel is not just about the places we go—it’s about the people we become along the way.”
— Candice October, Founder of Octatravel
With heartfelt thanks,
Candice October
Founder, Octatravel