Gondolas, Gelato and Garda: SHSS School Tour to Italy
Just before the Easter holidays, our lucky fifth year students visited the breathtaking Lake Garda, the romantic city of Verona, and the iconic canals of Venice. It was a perfect mix of education, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
On the first day they went to Verona, a beautiful city full of charm and history. One of the highlights was visiting Juliet’s balcony. This group were the last students to study Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet at Junior Cycle. so this was a lovely experience. They also saw the ancient Roman arena, the Arena di Verona, which was incredibly well preserved and older than the Colosseum in Rome. Verona’s vibe was relaxed and warm. A perfect way to start the trip.
The group stayed in Hotel Jolanda by Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake. The views were absolutely stunning: crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountains. The rooms were spacious and the breakfast was good. The staff were very accommodating and the indoor pool was a big plus. They took a private boat cruise across the lake and explored the small town of Sirmione. They learned how to make gelato and tasted the most delicious strawberry and pistachio ice cream ever. They even had some time to relax on the beach and swim in the lake.
Venice was a big success. They took a private vaporetto down the Grand Canal to St Mark’s Square. There, they met the guides by the Doge’s palace and did a walking tour as far as the Rialto. The highlight for many was a gondola ride. The long boats, expertly guided by gondoliers in striped shirts, took them into the canals of the inner city, passing places like Casanova’s house.
Gardaland was good fun. There were rides for everyone. Fast rollercoasters and Peppa Pig rides. The rain was annoying but the massive ponchos took away some of the discomfort.
Huge thanks to Ms Bell, Ms Meade, Ms O’Regan, Ms Shanahan, Ms Sexton, Ms Holland and Ms O’Donoghue for accompanying the students.
This trip was an unforgettable experience that brought history and culture to life. It was a great way to bond with colleagues and classmates, explore new places, and learn outside the classroom.
Highlights:
The pool and the sauna and the hot tub.
The panettone in the morning. Yum.
Amir, the fabulous bus driver.
The bus itself. So clean and gorgeous.
The pistachio ice cream. OMG.
The sunshine. Badly needed.
Sirmione. Wow, what a lovely place.
Signing names on the wall by Juliet’s house.
