Each fall and spring, students at Leysin American School in Switzerland step beyond the classroom and into the world for our LAS Cultural Trips, an unforgettable week of exploration and discovery. From historical tours to outdoor adventures, from creative arts to scientific inquiry, these experiences bring our curriculum to life and strengthen the bonds within our community. This fall our students ventured across Europe, diving into language, culture, history, and adventure, experiencing the impactful hands-on learning that only travel can offer.
Grades 7–9: Lugano, Switzerland
Our younger students headed south to the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland in Ticino, where they cruised across beautiful Lake Lugano, explored the city through a lively cultural scavenger hunt, and traveled to Locarno for an exciting falconry display. The adventure ended high above the valley on Monte Tamaro, where they braved the high ropes course and soared down the alpine coaster—an unforgettable blend of culture, scenery, and fun!
Grade 10: Outward Bound, Germany
In the Bavarian Alps, our grade 10 students embraced challenge and teamwork during their six-day Outward Bound adventure. From problem-solving activities to a one-day overnight mountain expedition, students pushed their limits, strengthened friendships, and discovered new confidence and resilience.
Grade 11: Berlin, Germany
Students delved deep into Berlin’s powerful history, visiting iconic sites like the East Side Gallery, Checkpoint Charlie, and the Brandenburg Gate. Highlights included the Berlin Spy Museum and the Memorial for the Murdered Jews of Europe. This trip brought classroom lessons vividly to life in one of Europe’s most dynamic cities.
Grade 11: Bordeaux, France
For students studying French, Bordeaux offered total immersion in French culture and language. From walking tours through the city’s elegant streets and a visit to the Cité du Vin Museum, to a night at the ballet and excursions to Saint-Émilion and the Dune du Pilat, this trip blended history, the arts, and language that were authentically French.
Grade 11: Barcelona, Spain
Our Barcelona group explored the city through an artistic lens, visiting Gaudí’s masterpieces and the Picasso Museum, and even creating their own cubist artwork in a “Painting like Picasso” workshop. The trip ended with a lively Flamenco dinner show, which was an inspiring celebration of Spanish creativity and culture!
Grade 11: Iceland
Our Iceland adventure was an unforgettable journey through science, nature, and discovery! Students stood between two continents at the Bridge Between Continents, explored the lava-swept town of Grindavik, and learned how Iceland harnesses volcanic energy at the Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant. They witnessed geysers erupting, marveled at the power of Gullfoss waterfall, and relaxed in the Secret Lagoon’s natural hot springs. Nights in countryside cabins near Vík offered stunning views of the Northern Lights, and the trip ended with rainbows over Skógafoss waterfall and a scenic glacier hike. This trip was a perfect blend of learning, adventure, and wonder.
Grade 11: London and Cambridge, United Kingdom
This year’s university advising trip gave students a firsthand look at some of the UK’s top universities including Cambridge, SOAS, and Queen Mary. Between campus tours, the group also soaked up London’s energy, taking in the sights from the London Eye and exploring the city’s rich culture.
Grade 12: Venice, Italy
Students explored the art and history of Venice through visits to the Doge’s Palace, Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and Biennale of Architecture. They also created Venetian masks in a hands-on workshop and attended a classical concert. This experience was as rich and timeless as the city itself!
Grade 12: Florence, Italy
Florence offered a feast of art, history, and cuisine. Students toured the Duomo, Accademia, and Uffizi Gallery, learned traditional cooking in a local class, and sampled authentic Italian dishes during a food walking tour. It was a perfect balance of culture and culinary delight!
Grade 12: Rome, Italy
In Rome, ancient history came to life as students explored the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, and the Galleria Borghese. They even trained like gladiators and took part in an Italian cooking class, ending the trip with hearts (and stomachs!) full.
These trips remind us that learning happens everywhere, and that curiosity, exploration, and connection are at the heart of the Leysin American School experience!
