Over spring break, two groups of students led by Mr. Antonio Mota and Mr. Sean Sweeney embarked on week-long journeys to Europe.  Mota’s group travelled around the Mediterranean coast, while Sweeney’s crew roamed central Europe for the week.  I was fortunate enough to go on Mota’s trip, marking my second straight year of traveling abroad.  After two magical experiences overseas, my cultural interests have sparked.  I have learned the value and enjoyment of traveling internationally, along gained an eagerness to keep going back.

Traveling abroad offers the opportunity to experience various cultures.  Each of the multiple cities I have visited in Europe tells its own story.  In Barcelona, the entire city is alive.  Everywhere you look, people are participating in various activities, ranging from playing soccer on the street to playing the harp on the sidewalk.  Everyone is out doing something, and there isn’t a single frown in sight.

In Rome, the city prides itself on its rich history and architecture.  Visiting the Coliseum, the Trevi Fountain, and St. Peter’s Basilica – places that only existed in magazines or history books before my trip – brings history and architecture alive.  There’s something new to experience every day, and you never get bored.

Experiencing various cultures can change one’s outlook on the world, and gives a better understanding of how other people live.  I believe everyone should participate in this at least once in a lifetime, because you not only learn about other people – you learn more about yourself.  I never thought I would enjoy playing soccer in the mountains in Switzerland prior to traveling, but traveling gave me the opportunity to branch out of my comfort zone and try new things.

Bottom line: travel if you can.  You will not regret it.