[Tips] Ideas for Traveling Outside of the Program

Riomaggiore of Cinque Terre, Italy

WEEKEND GETAWAYS:

Remember to book ahead if you’re traveling outside of the country! My class traveled to these destinations:

>> Amsterdam

>> London

>> Barcelona

DAY-TRIPS:

Professor Gonzales already has most of the popular day trips incorporated into the program. However, these are not:

>> Palace of Versailles 

A lavish palace and ostentatious display of “Sun King” Louis XIV and the French monarchy’s wealth.  As a heads up, expect huge crowds. 

>> Lille, France 

While I didn’t travel to the city myself, I hear it’s a place of grand squares, Flemish architecture, and fantastic food. 

>> Freiburg, Germany

A little German town near Strasbourg if you want to make a quick stop in Germany. Biggest attraction would be the Munsterplatz Food Market (open 7AM-1PM).

Top: Munsterplatz Food Market. Bottom: Freiburg, Germany. 

PRE/POST PROGRAM TRAVEL:

Endless combinations here depending on personal preference and length of stay. These are based on my own experience.

Vernazza: One of the five fishing villages of Cinque Terre, Italy.

>> Italy (Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre, Venice, Naples, Amalfi Coast, Parma, Pisa, Siena)

Highly, highly recommend Italy if you’re interested in immersing yourself in one country or traveling solo for two weeks. It truly is one of the most multifaceted places to explore—rich in history, culture, and natural landscapes. 

From the ancient streets of Rome, stunning canals of Venice, to the colorful fishing villages of Cinque Terre, a diverse and enriching experience awaits in Italy. 

I wandered the streets of Rome, hiked the tallest peaks in Cinque Terre, pored over Renaissance paintings in Florence… More can be found on my personal experience here. 

Top: Roman Forum. Bottom: Venice, Italy.

>> London, Amsterdam 

Best cities for proximity to Paris! Amsterdam is a charming city and London is, well, London. Infinite things to do in both cities. 

>> Spain (Madrid, Seville, Barcelona)

Another country perfect for immersion from the busy streets of Barcelona, museums of Madrid, to the more small-town feel of Seville.  

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Again, pre/post program travels are completely based on personal preference! These are just ideas based on my own experience.

Happy travels!

Sherry