Three weeks in France to immerse themselves in French language, culture and history -- what a whirlwind! Eleven lucky Year 11 & 12 French students got to experience a taste of life in France over the April term break.

On the French tour, organised and led by Dr Stef Hossbach and accompanied by Ms Jenni McLaughlin, the girls enjoyed an incredible taste of French life and European travel for three weeks. They were hosted by French homestay buddies for a week who they’d been corresponding with for several months and experienced high school in Toulouse, including presenting to English classes and discussing the many similarities and differences between France and New Zealand. Also whilst based in Toulouse they explored the beautiful medieval walled city of Carcassone.

The next stage of the trip the girls were based in Avignon, where they visited the Popes’ Palace and nearby historic Roman sites, including the theatre in Orange, stadium and temple in Nimes, Pont du Gard aqueduct and pretty villages in Provence.

The third base was in the beautiful city of Strasbourg on the German border, where the girls were totally starstruck by the incredibly ornate and grand cathedral, and visited the very sobering Struthof Concentration Camp, as well as a stunning medieval castle/chateau on a hill.

Lastly, they enjoyed four beautiful Spring days in Paris, which topped it all off and was a feast for the soul. They were wowed by the iconic sites of Paris such as the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower by night and Notre Dame cathedral. Took a boat tour on the Seine, drank in culture and magnificent artwork in museums, wandered wonderful neighbourhoods like Montmatre and Le Marais, visited famous cemeteries, marvelled at the magnificent Gallerie Lafayette store with its art noveau dome and much, much more.

All in all, the girls had a wonderful taste of French life and culture and their language skills improved no end. Even Ms McLaughlin can now say more than ‘bonjour’, ‘merci’, ‘au revoir’, ‘baguette’ and ‘croissant’! Many thanks to Dr Hossbach for a truly wonderful trip and a taste of France never to be forgotten.