Begin your journey in Rome, the Eternal City, where ancient history meets modern life. Explore the Colosseum and the Pantheon, and trace the roots of Western civilization amidst the bustling energy of a modern metropolis. Here, we introduce the foundations of Judeo-Christian thought, setting the stage for our exploration of world history in 1450. To start, we’ll delve into the relationship between politics, religion, and society during the Protestant Reformation and global shifts in belief. Our healthy active living program begins with baseline testing and an introduction to different leadership styles, while our English class brings a performance of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar to life using the Roman Forum as the backdrop. From crafting thoughtful reflections at the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica to savouring gelato by the iconic Trevi Fountain, you’ll experience the vibrant tapestry of Rome—a city where the echoes of the past continue to shape the present.

Our journey continues to the idyllic Tuscan villa of Borgo San Luigi, nestled in the rolling hills between Siena and Florence. Amidst sun-bathed stone buildings and meandering forest trails, we’ll find respite and rejuvenation after the vibrant energy of Siena. This tranquil retreat offers the perfect setting to cultivate essential skills. Here, you’ll collaborate with your peers to organize a sporting event, fostering teamwork, strategic thinking, and friendly competition. You’ll hone your public speaking skills and present your work to the class in a supportive and inspiring environment. And, of course, no Tuscan experience is complete without savouring exceptional cuisine, perhaps beneath the shade of a grape arbour, surrounded by the elegant silhouettes of cypress trees.

From Borgo, our journey takes us to Florence, the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” Here, amidst the echoes of da Vinci, Michelangelo, and the Medici family, we’ll immerse ourselves in the artistic, intellectual, and cultural revolution that transformed the Western world. We’ll stand in awe beneath Brunelleschi’s Dome, wander the halls of the Uffizi Gallery, and cross the Ponte Vecchio, absorbing the city’s unique heritage. Our World History studies delve into the Medici and other prominent families of the Renaissance and examine how they profoundly influenced art, architecture, politics, philosophy, and the monetary system. Inspired by the city’s bustling markets, stunning palazzi, and the masterpieces that grace every corner, our English classes will ignite your creative writing and encourage you to capture the essence of Florence in your own words. We’ll leave Florence with a deeper appreciation of humanity’s boundless capacity for creativity and beauty.

Next, we venture to Siena, one of Tuscany’s best-preserved medieval cities. Residing in a city steeped in history and tradition, we wander through its labyrinthine streets, where the echoes of past rivalries still resonate between the fiercely competitive contrade. These historic neighbourhoods, each with its unique identity and vibrant spirit, come alive during the Palio, the thrilling horse race renowned worldwide. Here, we witness the pageantry and passion of this centuries-old tradition, experiencing firsthand the energy that permeates Siena’s historic center. Our English curriculum will delve into the rich world of poetry, exploring various poetic devices and their impact on language, drawing inspiration from the city’s artistic and cultural heritage. In a unique application of our Healthy Active Living course, students organize a city-wide game of capture the flag, strategically navigating Siena’s intricate layout while experiencing its dynamic energy firsthand.

We trade the bustling city for the tranquil coastal setting of Roccamare, where the pristine white sands meet the expanse of a centuries-old pine forest. Following our immersive week exploring the historical tapestry of Rome, students can reflect and consolidate their learning amidst the rejuvenating atmosphere of the Tuscan coast. A bike ride to the charming seaside town Castiglione della Pescaia, offers you the opportunities to engage with the local community and savour the healthy benefits of the Mediterranean diet. In Roccamare, our exploration of 15th-century history continues, broadening its scope to encompass key events beyond Europe. The physical education curriculum incorporates beach sports, fostering physical and mental well-being. This serene environment provides an ideal setting for intellectual inquiry, encouraging students to deepen their understanding of the world and to connect with nature and one another.

A short bus ride brings us to Pitigliano, a breathtaking hilltop town etched into the dramatic landscape of Tuscany. Known as “Little Jerusalem” for its historical Jewish community, Pitigliano offers a unique blend of ancient history and stunning scenery. Our exploration begins with a day-long hike through the picturesque countryside, starting in the nearby village of Sovana. As we hike the rolling hills and lush valleys, we’ll witness breathtaking vistas and immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the region. Our hike culminates in a fascinating exploration of the Etruscan caves and burial sites carved into the cliffs surrounding Pitigliano, remnants of a civilization that thrived thousands of years ago. After our hike, we’ll savour the warmth and hospitality of Pitigliano, wandering its labyrinthine streets and discover hidden piazzas, artisan workshops, and charming trattorias tucked away around every corner. To complete our Tuscan adventure, we’ll journey to the renowned Saturnia hot springs, where we will relax and unwind in the warm, therapeutic waters as you soak in the stunning natural surroundings.

Barcelona awaits, a short flight away—a city of vibrant color, unparalleled architecture, and centuries of artistic inspiration. This dynamic metropolis will serve as our living classroom, providing a rich backdrop for our exploration of magical realism in literature. We’ll begin by immersing ourselves in the vibrant street life of Las Ramblas, a bustling pedestrian boulevard teeming with street performers, flower stalls, and lively cafes—a microcosm of the city’s energy and diversity. We’ll marvel at the ever-evolving Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s unfinished church, a testament to his architectural genius and a symbol of Barcelona’s artistic spirit. After visiting the Picasso museum, we use this city as the perfect backdrop for exploring the elements of magical realism found in the literature we examine. Beneath the towering statue of Christopher Columbus, we’ll embark on a journey through the Age of Exploration and Colonialism, examining Spain’s complex interactions with cultures from Peru to Japan. From delectable tapas to traditional paella, we’ll enjoy the culinary delights of this dynamic city. And who knows, with a bit of luck, we might even catch a glimpse of FC Barcelona, the city’s beloved football club!

We journey onward to Madrid, the majestic heart of Spain, a city rich in art, history, and cuisine. From elegant boulevards like the Paseo del Prado to world-renowned museums like the Prado, Madrid offers a stimulating environment for academic exploration. Our history course will delve into the tumultuous period of the European Wars of Religion, examining the complex interplay of political, social, and religious forces that shaped this era, and exploring the global shift towards centralized empires. At the Prado Museum, we’ll analyze masterpieces by Spanish masters like Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco, as well as international artists, engaging in small group discussions to interpret these works and develop our critical analysis skills. In the afternoons, we’ll hone our travel writing skills, capturing the essence of Madrid’s diverse neighbourhoods, from the historic streets of the Barrio de las Letras to the energetic lanes of Malasaña.

Our last stop on the Iberian peninsula is Lisbon, Portugal’s famed capital. From exploring its historic neighbourhoods to experiencing the melancholic beauty of Fado music, we’ll immerse ourselves in the richness of this ancient port city. Here, we’ll delve into the Enlightenment and the Scientific Revolution, examining the transformative ideas that shaped modern thought. We’ll explore how these movements influenced Portugal’s role in global exploration and trade, connecting historical concepts to the tangible remnants of Lisbon’s maritime past. We’ll discover hidden gems tucked away in the Alfama district’s winding alleyways, wander through the grand plazas of the Baixa, and marvel at the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We’ll end our stay here at the iconic Belém Tower, a historic fortress that stands as a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery, and enjoy fresh pastéis de nata at the highly acclaimed Pastéis de Belém.

A short flight brings us to Paris, the “City of Lights.” From the Louvre to Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower, we’ll explore its history and revolutionary fervour. In the Pantheon’s crypt, we’ll examine the power of propaganda and rhetoric through writings that fueled the French Revolution and Robespierre’s rise. At Napoleon’s tomb, we’ll discuss his impact on Europe. With visits to the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou, we’ll engage in small group discussions interpreting these works and debating the age-old question, “What is art?” Finally, strolling along the Seine, we’ll consider history’s ebbs and flows while savouring exquisite French cuisine.

En route to Heidelberg, we stop in Verdun to visit the museum and historic site commemorating the World War I Battle of Verdun. After this sobering experience, we arrive in the picturesque city of Heidelberg. We’ll hike to the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, dating back to 1214, and delve into its rich history. We’ll then enjoy a frisbee tournament before embarking on an epic climb up the ‘Stairway to Heaven,’ a series of 1,200 stone steps. Our effort is rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Heidelberg in all its glory. This stop offers a fantastic introduction to German history, food and culture—the perfect place to connect as a class, enjoy a book chat in a cozy cafe, and prepare for the adventures ahead.”

Ascending to the top of Europe, we emerge from the Stechelberg gondola into the idyllic Swiss village of Murren, our home base amidst the breathtaking alpine scenery. Here, surrounded by the symphony of cowbells, bleating goats, and cascading waterfalls, we’ll embark on invigorating hikes and share stories around crackling fires. Our English class allows time for refining essay writing skills and focusing on developing complex arguments, all while enjoying personalized workshop sessions with the majestic Alps as our backdrop. In our history class, we’ll delve into the “long 19th century,” exploring the rise of imperialism and its profound consequences, ultimately understanding how the stage was set for the First World War. With a full-day hike to challenge our bodies and ample downtime to rejuvenate our minds, Switzerland offers the perfect balance of adventure and reflection before our journey brings us back to Germany.

In Munich, we introduce you to the works of Friedrich Nietzsche and confront the harrowing realities of the Holocaust through Elie Wiesel’s powerful memoir, Night. These texts will guide our exploration of the universal themes of salvation and survival, through which we can understand the tumultuous events of the 20th century. We examine the rise of totalitarian regimes, focusing on the devastating rise of Nazism in Germany and its impact on the world. From the serene beauty of the English Gardens, to the somber weight of the Dachau Concentration Camp, we witness how literature illuminates the past. Each poem, story, and song will deepen our understanding of Munich’s complex history and its enduring relevance to our world. As we witness Munich prepare for its legendary Christmas markets, we savour our last days together before our journey home and culminate this epic journey with a Bavarian feast at the legendary Hofbräuhaus.

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.