In Paris, we kick off our 3-country journey where we dive into the literature and artistry from the Age of Enlightenment and the Age of Revolution. In the Pantheon’s crypt, we revisit the rhetorical essays of Rousseau and Voltaire that laid the foundation for the French Revolution. From bike rides through the Gardens of Versailles to visits to the Musée du Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, students will be inspired to write creatively and delve into the works of Molière and Victor Hugo. Paris is a once-in-a-lifetime immersion into French literature and culture.

We travel to Montpellier, a region along the French Riviera. We stop here for a short break from the hustle and bustle of the big cities. Montpellier is known for its architecture, cathedrals, vineyards and cuisine. In the vibrant Place de la Comédie, lined with restaurants and cafes alit with colour and festivities, we traditionally stage nighttime “dressed-up” photoshoots that students keep as professional keepsakes. At the base of the Promenade du Peyrou, we hold class, perform Shakespeare presentations and stage our critical thinking book chats.

The deep blue of the Mediterranean affords us a respite from the energy of Paris and Montpellier as we settle into our hotel along Spain’s rugged coast. Sunrises along the beach and an afternoon climb through coves and hills that dot the coastline make for an excellent location to focus on academic analysis of our primary summer readings. Masterclasses on essay writing and one-on-one editing sessions allow for tailored feedback that help hone our skills in finding literary meaning. The coastline provides the ideal backdrop for our final family dinner as we share stories about our summer adventure.

Barcelona has been an inspiration for writers and artists for over two thousand years with its vibrant colours, unmatched architecture, and Catalan cuisine. Here, we develop our writing skills and practice character development along Las Ramblas, poetry in Gaudi’s Park Güell, and travel writing in La Sagrada Familia, all between lunches along the Mediterranean and dinners in the Gothic quarter. If we’re lucky, we may even catch a glimpse of the world famous soccer team.

In illustrious Lisbon, Portugal,  students develop the branding of their blog sites and post advanced level social media content. Performing artists fill the streets, and Portugal’s famed Fado music can be heard each night in this ancient port city. Our classes vary between finding and capturing hidden gems though various lenses and developing students’ understanding of how they will ultimately shape their ‘Carpe Deim’ projects. This is THE most memorable way to wrap up the most memorable summer for our students.

Online Post-trip Sessions
Upon your return, you will have time to complete additional research and your Final Culminating Assessment. This time allows you to reflect on and integrate your travel experiences into the course material. The MEI staff have found this evaluation style enjoyable and the most authentic way for students to demonstrate their knowledge and academic skills. After your assessment, you will complete your course exams online. Once your marks have been reviewed, MEI Academy will send your transcript to your home school to add to your academic records.