This wasn’t my first time traveling internationally; however, it was my first time visiting a European country. Upon arriving at the airport in France, we loaded up the bus and immediately began exploring. We explored Paris, the city of light and visited the Notre Dame Cathedral in its reconstruction phase. We saw the new Olympic Stadium being constructed, were given a couple hours to enjoy the shops and malls, and ended the evening by taking Bateaux mouche, an excursion boat down the river Seine, in which we saw the city, its architecture, and the Eifel tower. Although I was tired by all the traveling, I was amazed at the architecture, cultural diversity, and way of life in Paris. Everything was so aesthetic, like it came straight out of a picture book.
After lots of rest, we went to Versailles, Champs Elysées, and Sacré-Coeur, a beautiful Catholic Basilica that sits on the highest hill in Paris. I enjoyed visiting the Palace of Versailles and learning more about the treaty and its history. It was fascinating see the beautiful French Baroque architecture, and the elegance of the gold painted palace.
One of my favorite places was Saint Malo and its beautiful water. For lunch I had a delicious crepe with egg, tuna, and tomatoes and then enjoyed a chocolate crepe on the beach. I enjoyed being able to start off the trip in the city, but also being able to visit the villages and beaches. The view throughout the country was beautiful and the French people were nice and hospitable.
I enjoyed visiting the Mémorial des Martyrs de la Déportation, a memorial for the 200,000 people who were sent to the Nazi concentration camps. I was able to learn a lot about world war II and its impact on all the countries involved. We visited the D-day Landing beaches and I was so intrigued by the area in which many people lost their lives. You always learn about this stuff in history class, but it was interesting to see it in real life and see some of the remains many years later.
Starting off the trip viewing the Eifel tower, we ended it, attempting to see it sparkling at night. This was an amazing opportunity I was able to participate in, and if I get the chance to study abroad again, I will definitely take it. France was beautiful, diverse, and rich in culture.
– Kenzy, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023
My experience on the France study abroad trip is something that I will never forget. I learened so much from just one week of travel. This trip offered numerous opportunities to explore a different culture, language, and encounter a different way of life.
There were many things I will never forget, like the Louvre, Normandy Beach, and of course the iconic Eiffel Tower. But the thing I enjoyed the most was the free time. We were able to break off into small groups or pairs to get lunch and shop. I was able to try a lot of new foods like sweet and savory crepes, and we had fresh, authentic fish and chips on Normandy Beach.
Our tour guide was also amazing and very knowledgeable. He always told stories that included the French culture and maybe a different perspective that you wouldn’t think of. The Professors and chaperones on the trip also made it great. They were always making sure that everyone was safe and that we had everything we needed.
If you have an opportunity to go on a study abroad with SPC, I would say do not hesitate! You will have unforgettable experiences and make lifelong friends.
– Emily, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023
Going on the study abroad France trip has changed my life and my perspective on how I view Europe. EF did a great job preparing us for our trip, as all of the suggested items I packed were necessary. Since we would be moving from the hotel to the bus to a new hotel each day I took the guide’s advice and packed light, making sure to have my clothes and other items organized and ready to grab each day to get breakfast and get on the bus in time. This tour was very educational; not only did we learn about the history of Paris, but our tour guide went in-depth into the history of each city we visited, such as what the French went through during World War II. Most people who visit France stay in Paris but miss out on so much as other cities like Mon Salo, Chartres, and Mont Saint Michel, which are some of the most beautiful places I have ever been. They are all so rich in history and have a such archaic architecture that I would have liked to stay in each town for an entire week to explore.
The cultural interactions between American tourists and the French were very interesting. While in Paris, it seemed like the Parisians did not like us tourists and often were frustrated when we did not follow their customs, however, they spoke English very well, which made it easier to order food with my very limited French. Once we left the city, fewer people spoke English but were a lot more patient and respectful towards us students who tried to order with simple French words and lots of gesturing, and were much more inviting into their establishments and their town.
The food would be the only thing that could compete with the architecture. EF planned amazing dinners in restaurants with authentic French foods. They were also very accommodating with foods that I can eat since I am vegetarian. I got to try so many amazing delicacies provided by EF and when we went to have lunch on our own, crepes, seafood, pastas, ratatouille, omelets, soups, and so much more.
Our tour guide was amazing as well! He taught us new French words and phrases every day and played French music on our bus rides. He shared with us some of his favorite French snacks and encouraged us to try classic French dishes and explore every place we visited. He also guided us safely throughout the cities as we were there during a strike. I now have a more realistic view of France and would happily visit again, or take another tour with EF!
– Gigi, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023