Laguna Students Explore French Culture in Journey from Collioure to Paris

TRIP PHOTOS

In March, thirteen Upper School French students, accompanied by Dr. Yoshimura and Mr. Aslesan, embarked on an adventure to explore the rich culinary heritage of France. Their 8-day journey began in the picturesque town of Collioure, nestled on the country’s southeast border just north of Spain.

Upon arrival, the students were warmly welcomed by their pen pals from the Lycée Christian Bourquin in Argelès-sur-Mer, where they spent two days getting to know each other better. Throughout the year, Laguna students–who represented all levels of French, from French 1 to AP and French 5–connected with their pen pals through a digital platform in which they were matched with French students based on their interests. While interacting on the platform, Laguna students practiced their French while their pen pals communicated in English. It was especially meaningful for all the students to come together in person as they laughed, played games, and engaged in insightful discussions about cultural nuances and stereotypes.

“One of my favorite parts of this trip was the time we spent at Lycée Christian Bourquin with our pen pals,” senior Grace Trautwein says. “It was really cool to learn about all of our similarities and the differences between our lives. I got a glimpse into their lives in a way I otherwise never would have been able to and formed such a personal connection with them in just two days.” 

The Lycée Christian Bourquin, the pen pals’ hotel/restaurant preparatory school, offered a unique glimpse into the world of hospitality and a different school system. The students were treated to a comprehensive tour, wandering through diverse hotel rooms representing different classes of service and exploring restaurant kitchens and their wine-tasting classroom (no wine was poured!). 

“Spending time in Collioure was fantastic; the students were really open to us and I immediately clicked with a few girls,” reflects Lina Smith '26. “It was super interesting to see how different the school system and relationships between students and teachers were. There was a lot less interaction between students and teachers like we have at Laguna. At Laguna, each teacher knows their student personally, which helps us learn better and more efficiently.”

One memorable morning was dedicated to mastering the art of crafting authentic French baguettes. From weighing the dough to shaping and baking the bread, this hands-on activity culminated in a shared meal with their pen pals. 

Although the students' pen pals had originally planned a coastline scavenger hunt, the pouring rain thwarted their intentions. Nonetheless, the group found joy in savoring crêpes together as a delightful conclusion to their time in Collioure. Leaving behind the coastal charm of Collioure, the students eagerly anticipated their adventures in the heart of Paris.

In Paris, French cuisine took center stage. Guided gastronomic tours led the students through bustling markets, where they indulged in authentic charcuterie and cheese tastings, followed by a carefully curated exploration of Parisian chocolate and pastry shops.

Dining on a boat as it cruised the Seine River offered a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the sparkling Eiffel Tower, which was a mesmerizing sight for the group!

The group also had the opportunity to visit an urban farm, where they discovered innovative approaches to vegetable gardening in urban settings. From retirement homes to community gardens, they gained insight into sustainable practices that reshape urban landscapes.

Cultural enrichment continued with a visit to the Musée d'Orsay, where the students immersed themselves in the world of Impressionist Art. A hands-on workshop followed, allowing them to express their creativity through acrylic painting, inspired by the museum’s masterpieces and their own travel experiences.

Reaching the peak of the Eiffel Tower offered an awe-inspiring view of the city, while strolling along from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe on the Champs Élysées provided a glimpse into Parisian culture. Students also explored the Latin Quarter and the Odéon, where they fully immersed themselves in the beautiful atmosphere of the city.

Culminating their journey was a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience at the renowned restaurant Boutary, where a three-Michelin-star chef crafted an unforgettable meal for them. 

Grace Trautwein further reminisced about the impact of the experience, highlighting how it provided an enriching opportunity to apply the language skills she had diligently honed at Laguna. “During this trip, I was immersed in the language I have studied for five years,” she says. “It really struck me during our travels how many different languages and cultures there are and the different lives people live. The classroom only takes you so far, but travel develops your skills and opens your eyes. This was truly a moment of ‘sonder.’”