This past June, former junior and senior foreign language students were offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a chance to experience firsthand the source of their studies. The group visited many cities in Spain including Madrid, Granada, Seville, Costa del Sol, Toledo, Cordoba, and Torremolines. They saw many beautiful, historical sites like the Alhambra, La Mancha, and the Royal Palace, and they had plenty of time to shop and explore on their own.
Led by foreign language teachers Morgan Koss and Lynette Cervi, a group of thirteen students left their homes in the Jacksonville area on June 11th and entered an entirely new place for ten days. “[There was a] richer culture,” says Cervi, “[Spaniards] take pride in and care of older buildings and monuments.” “Spaniards are very proud of their rich history and culture,” Koss confirms.
One of the many differences noted by teachers and students alike included the daily siesta. “All the stores close from two to four for a siesta. Everyone goes home for a nap,” former senior Annie Deal says. “In Spain, life is not as fast-paced as here in the U.S. Spaniards take more time to enjoy life,” Koss tells.
The shops also stay open later, and the meal times are far different in Spain than they are here. “They eat later,” Deal explains.
The food choices are another of the major characteristics of Spanish culture. Among the favorites was flamequine. “[It’s a] grown-up chicken finger,” Cervi states. “Ms. Koss ordered it…I should have, too!” The Spanish also take their grains very seriously. “I love how there’s a hard roll at every meal. Yay, carbs!” Koss laughs. There were also some not-so-positive responses. “I didn’t really like the food, but I tried gazpacho, paella, and bulls’ tail,” Deal reveals. “I ate a lot of pizza instead.”
One of the main benefits of this trip is meeting and learning about people who were born and raised in Spain. Through different activities, students were able to accomplish this with ease. “The people were extremely friendly and helpful,” says Cervi. “We had a scavenger hunt and had to meet a lot of locals. Many spoke English and almost all of them were friendly,” Deal tells. “I encountered locals mostly when we had free time to explore—waiters and shopkeepers,” Koss explains. “They are very understanding when dealing with American tourists.”
In addition to all the opportunities in Spain, students were given yet another option—taking a day trip to Morocco, Africa. “I got to ride a camel!” Deal exclaims.
Through food, language, and many other factors, Spanish students were able to come face to face with the culture and uniqueness of Spain and its people. “For most, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience a different world, a different culture, and a different way of life,” Cervi says. “It’s the most wonderful opportunity to explore a culture different from your own, from the architecture to the food to the language and the people, even if it’s just for a short period of time,” Koss reiterates. The trip had the same effect on the student side. “[I would recommend it to] anyone who enjoys travel and experiencing new cultures,” says Deal. “I’d love to go back and see other parts of Spain.”
This upcoming summer, JHS students and faculty will be making the spectacular journey once again! The trip is open to all junior and senior foreign language students. See Ms. Koss if you have any questions. ¡Nos vemos entonces!