From March 6 to 18, a group of thirty grade 11 and 12 students from École secondaire catholique de La Vérendrye went on an educational trip to Europe.
The return of the biennial trip had been eagerly awaited by the students, whose last trip took place in 2019—an initiative interrupted due to the pandemic. This year brought together many participants.
"From the beginning, students are involved in planning the trip," explains Ms. Morin, a teacher at ÉSC de La Vérendrye and one of the trip's chaperones. "The students chose the places they wanted to visit, and before leaving, they prepared a presentation on each destination to ensure the group was well informed before leaving." Prior to leaving, participants also attended a workshop on table etiquette while enjoying a meal prepared by the school’s hospitality and tourism class.
Ms. Morin, who participated as a student on La Vérendrye's first trip to Europe in 2006, describes it as a rewarding and unforgettable experience. "It's living history through experience: being on site, admiring the architecture, and experiencing the culture. It's also learning about currency conversion and traveling by various means (plane, high-speed train, metro, bus)."
2024 Europe trip
During their stay, students had the opportunity to visit several historical, iconic, and emblematic places, learning more about the culture of each country. Let's explore Europe together through their experience and perspective!
Berlin, Germany
Despite flight cancellations in Germany, the trip started off on the right foot in Berlin, where students visited the Brandenburg Gate, remains of the Berlin Wall, and the Topography of Terror Museum.
Dresden, Germany
Although the visit to Dresden was a free day, the group took the opportunity to explore the city's iconic sites such as the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), the Zwinger, and the palace.
Prague, Czech Republic
During their guided tour of Prague, students discovered the Lennon Wall, the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the Old Town Square during the day. In the evening, they experienced folk culture: music, dance, and food. Happiness and laughter were abundant during this unforgettable cultural experience!
Dachau, Germany
Back in Germany, the group visited the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. This visit, which emphasizes human rights, was emotional for several students.
Munich, Germany
The day began with a guided bus tour through the city of Munich. Afterwards, they visited Neuschwanstein Castle, the summer residence of King Louis II of Bavaria, where they admired the collection of sleds and carriages. They then headed to Ludwig II, a replica of Versailles where the king stayed for six months at Herrenchiemsee.
Some took the opportunity to taste a local pretzel!
Lucerne, Switzerland
First steps in Switzerland and the students' amazement on their way to Lucerne. Mesmerized by the beauty of the Swiss Alps, many exclaimed "Whoa!".
Upon arrival, they visited Löwendenkmal (Lion of Lucerne), a sculpture carved into the rock symbolizing the sacrifice of 800 Swiss soldiers. They visited the Jesuit church and crossed Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), the oldest covered wooden bridge in Europe.
They also enjoyed a cable car ride to Mount Pilatus—what beautiful views, and interesting encounters with the birds!
Paris, France
To get from Lucerne to Paris, the group traveled by high-speed train! They spent two days in the French capital: discovering Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe, the Hôtel des Invalides, and the Eiffel Tower with their guide. Before taking the plane back to Canada, they visited the Louvre, admired Notre-Dame Cathedral, enjoyed a cruise on the Seine, and visited the Fragonard perfume factory!
Thanks to the organizers, Ms. Paquette and Mr. Gauthier, as well as the chaperones, Ms. Morin and Mr. Murphy.
