October 13, 2016

Here's Why Teachers Should Take Their Students to Spain

Included are 3 Free LINK Travel Lesson Plans for teachers traveling to Spain!

1. The Language

Spanish is the second most widely spoken language in the world. Mastering Spanish – the official language of 21 countries – would allow you to communicate with 495 million people worldwide. What better way to practice your Spanish than chatting with the locals in the country where the language originated?

2. The Educational Opportunities

Scattered throughout Barcelona, you’ll see the architectural masterpieces designed by Antoni Gaudí, including the famous La Sagrada Familia Basilica and Park Güell. Inspired by Oriental techniques, elements of Gothic architecture and the tenets of the Modernista movement, his unique works go beyond any one style. Visitors of La Sagrada Familia can see Gaudí’s grave in the crypt and visit the museum that documents his life and work as well as the history of the sanctuary.

Visit the Prado Museum to see the world-famous paintings of El Greco, Goya and Velázquez, among other collections from the 12th to the 19th centuries.The Reina Sofía museum in Madrid is home to Pablo Picasso's colossal (11′ 6″ x 25′ 6″) painting Guernica. Behold Picasso’s famous anti-war painting and discuss the political statement behind why it was created for an unforgettable contextualized history lesson.

3. The Culture

Spanish people are warm and welcoming with a deep appreciation for tradition, family and food. In comparison to our typically fast-paced way of life here, it’s common for Spaniards to take midday naps called sietas and spend hours at the dinner table engaged in conversation. In contrast of these customs indicative of a relaxed lifestyle, Spain is known for its elaborate fiestas and energetic nightlife. Immersing in a new culture brings a new, eye-opening perspective to students as they see how different other cultures are – but realize just how very similar as well.

5. The Food

Paella, fresh seafood and tapas – lots of tapas. Tapas are a diverse array of savory Spanish appetizers from cured meats and cheeses to empanadas and patatas bravas. The difference between Spanish tapas and what comes to our minds when we think of an appetizer is when you start eating tapas, you finish eating tapas.

Take your students on an educational tour to Spain!

Highlights of our Madrid to Barcelona tour include a guided tour of the Prado Museum, free time in Madrid to explore the Reina Sofía, an optional Flamenco dinner and show, excursions to El Escorial and Valley of the Fallen, La Sagrada Familia Basilica and Montserrat.