As the school year flies by, many teachers will already be thinking about the last week of term in July, and how to leave their students in high spirits as they break up for the summer.
A lot of schools choose to run an ‘activities week’, rewarding students for their hard work by providing an opportunity to visit new destinations and experience different cultures.
The best thing about a cultural trip is that their sole focus is having FUN, and there is no pressure on teachers to deliver curriculum content. Not only that, it also allows students to concentrate on building friendships and develop their self-confidence and independence.
We’ve picked our top 10 destinations that will give your students an insight into different cultures across the world.
USA
Take a tour around the home of Baseball legends the New York Yankees. A visit to the Yankee Stadium and Museum will open your eyes to the sporting culture in New York.
For the art enthusiasts, you won’t want to travel to New York without stepping into 5,000 years of art history at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. There you’ll find waiting for you several must-see pieces, including Van Gogh’s “Self-Portrait with a Straw Hat” and Claude Monet’s “Bridge over a Pond of Water Lilies”.
UK
Journey to our very own capital city and learn about how our monarchy and government have changed over time and shaped the country we live in today. Don’t forget to call in at the Tower of London or watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace!
For a more recreational trip, head to the London Eye for a 360 degree view of the city, or take a walk through The London Dungeon for a frighteningly good time.
FRANCE
Where better to soak up some French culture than Paris? Your itinerary will most likely include all the classics – from the Eiffel Tower and a River Seine cruise, to an insightful visit to the Louvre Museum.
Whilst you’re there, why not hop over to Disneyland Paris for a day? Meet some of your favourite characters and enjoy the enchanting shows and parades performed by some well-known faces.
SPAIN
Take in the views of the stunning Cantabria mountain range on the Fuente De cable car – a great opportunity for some picturesque photography!
Marvel at the brilliance of traditional Spanish flamenco dancing, performed by professionals at Palacio del Flamenco in Barcelona.
ITALY
Known for its archaeological wonders, Sicily has an abundance of historical culture to explore. Learn about the area’s natural hazards with a trip to Mount Etna.
The Bay of Naples is the perfect destination for a gastronomic adventure. Try your hand at making an authentic Italian pizza, find out how limoncello is produced and see an olive oil mill in operation!
Our third Italian destination is the culture-rich Rome. Gaze in awe at the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, and find out about Rome’s political history at the monumental Colosseum.
AUSTRIA
Psychoanalysis founder Sigmund Freud spent most of his life based in the Austrian capital of Vienna, where there is now a museum dedicated to him. On display here are photographs, films and his antiques collection, giving you an insight into his life as a neurologist.
For more of an adrenaline rush, test your nerves on the big rollercoasters at Prater Wien Amusement Park!
BELGIUM
What comes to mind when you think of Belgium? Chocolate and beer of course!
A visit to Bruges is incomplete without a walk round the Choco-Story Museum to discover the history of cocoa. Why not also enjoy a tour of the De Halve Mann Brewery, where you’ll hear the fascinating stories behind the production of traditional Belgian beer.
NETHERLANDS
Famous for its enormous contributions to the horticultural industry, the Aalsmeer Flower Market is one of the best ways to learn about the economic structure of the Netherlands.
Take in the scenic views of Amsterdam’s architecture aboard a canal cruise – a great way to avoid the crowds!
GERMANY
A walking tour is definitely one of the best ways to see Berlin. Accompanied by a guide who will tailor the route based on what your group want to see, this excursion will not disappoint.
For a dash of history on your visit, head to the Deutches Historisches Museum.
RUSSIA
Experience the vibrancy of Russia’s landmarks, including the stunning palaces of St Petersburg and the many museums of Moscow.
Highlights include the Kremlin, home of many famous artworks, and Yusupov Palace where Grigori Rasputin was murdered in 1916.