Author: obrienvl1

Last semester, I studied abroad in Nantes, France as part of Grove City College’s study abroad program. If you’re curious why I choose to study abroad, I explained the process in a previous post. Below I describe my Thanksgiving break experience.

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Thanksgiving break came in a flash, which marked the remaining three week period of our European voyage. Throughout the semester, I spent my weekends local, visiting major tourist sites on the North West coast of France (including La Baule, Guérande, and St. Malo). But from November 20^th to November 30^th, I experienced a journey of a lifetime. Venturing from Barcelona, Spain to Florence, Italy all the way to Prague, Czech Republic. I felt as though I saw and observed more in 10 days than I have in my 20 years of life.

To kick off break, my friend and I boarded a flight and landed in Barcelona, a city full of passion, life and unforgettable spirit. After spending a rather interesting night at an apartment near the bus stop, we met up the following morning with some other friends from Grove City. We took the city by storm drinking fresh squeezed fruit smoothies at the La Boqueria, visiting Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya and taking pictures of Gothic Quarter’s breathtaking views. That night, along with the locals, we experienced the country’s national pastime by watching football at a popular restaurant eating tapas. The city was alive as Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona scored a hat trick which lead the team to a 5 to 2 victory over their opponents!

Believe it or not, the following day seemed even busier as Leah and I joined another GCC group at two of Spain’s most famous monuments: Gaudi’s Park Güell and the Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família. From beautifully gardened landscapes to detailed mosaic décor, Park Güell was an artistic experience all within itself. Personally, my favorite site was Sagrada Família. Upon entering the church, I was overcome with emotion and beauty. The exterior windows are made of stained glass while the interior of the building is structured with high posts and tiles made of white marble. Gaudi loved nature and created his architecture to represent God’s creation. Columns are carved into trees while the roof’s steeples are sculpted into the Fruits of the Spirit. My experience at Sagrada Familia was otherworldly and I feel so very blessed to have entered such a spiritual place of worship.

After a venturous weekend in Barcelona, we headed to Florence, Italy – the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” Primarily recognized for its architecture, monuments and cathedrals, specifically The Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence has the ability to awe tourists of all backgrounds and interests. Our four-day visit was made possible and enjoyable through the service of Hop On Hop Off tour bus which took us through the entire city, dropping us off at Florence’s most famous monuments and buildings. Piazzale Michelangelo, being located on the hillside, was one of my favorite stops. From this location, one could see the entire landscape of Florence including the Duomo, surrounding mountains ranges and the Arno River. The tour also included a two hour excursion to the mountainside of Fiesole, a town and commune of the Metropolitan City of Florence in the Italian region of Tuscany.

During my time in Italy, I could not get enough of Italy’s most favored cuisine including gelato, pasta and pizza. I often dream and desire to relive the moments of sitting in an Italian café sipping a cappuccino while enjoying a chocolate cannoli. In terms of social and recreational events, Florence is primarily recognized for its leather street markets. While visiting these markets I scored some great deals purchasing a leather wallet, belt and purse. Although short, my time in Florence was incredibly memorable through the culture’s art, architecture, cuisine and social atmosphere.

Our amazing adventure ended in so far my second favorite city in Europe: Prague, Czech Republic. Nicknamed the “City of a Hundred Spires,” Prague is the largest city in the Czech Republic and it looks as if it belongs in a fairy tale. From its Parisian architecture to friendly locals and safe atmosphere, Prague felt like a home away from home.

During our visit we took the Best of Prague tour which included a city walking excursion, boat cruise and typical Czech lunch. The tour was six hours long and included famous sights and monuments and a boat cruise. For lunch we had a wonderful meal of potato dumplings and Prague’s most famous delicacy, goulash. My three favorite stops on the tour were Lennon Wall, Astronomical Clock and Prague’s famous Christmas Markets. Because Prague is known for its origins in Baroque music and operas, my friends and I attended an opera at the National Theater. Overall my experience and time in Prague was unforgettable and I plan on returning to this magical city of history, music and welcoming atmosphere.

Upon returning back to the ESC, I was taken back by how amazing and unique God created his world and how wonderfully He designed each and every part of it!

Last semester, I studied abroad in Nantes, France as part of Grove City College’s study abroad program. Also, be sure to check out my post on why I chose to study abroad.

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During the course of lengthier vacation breaks, including Fall and Thanksgiving break, students are given permission to venture to varying countries of their interest. Upon deciding which country to visit, students are required to pair up in groups, reserve hotels and apartments as well as book flights. In order to ensure everyone’s safety, all groups are to submit a travel sheet to Mark and Deb Reuber (the program directors), describing where their group will be traveling along with information about airfare, apartments and other varying forms of transportation. Students are also required to notify their parents for consent before departure.

As our sixth and last week of the field trip program came to a close, we started packing our bags and printing out our boarding passes. I have always wanted to visit the homeland of my heritage and what better way to spend my fall break then to visit Ireland, a country full of luck, live music and lively people!

Once my group reached Ireland, we settled into our beautiful apartment (which was in the heart of Dublin). We took the streets by storm, exploring as much as we could before the sun went down. Later that evening we found ourselves at a nearby mall that was featuring a student night. All stores were offering student discounts and sales, which made for some wonderful souvenir shopping. After some great steals and bargains, we headed downtown to the world famous Temple Bar.

We woke up the next day, bright eyed and bushy tailed. The morning began with an early start as we ventured out at 7 a.m. to catch the Cliffs of Moher tour bus. The all-inclusive tour took us on a 13-hour journey from Dublin all the way to Galway which featured the famous cliffs. Personally, I believe our tour guide was the best part of the excursion. He sang, taught us Gaelic and provided us with an unforgettable experience that I will always cherish. After stopping at St. John’s castle, we arrived at the cliffs. It is so hard for me to put into words the feelings and emotions I felt as I crept to the cliff’s edges. Between the pumping adrenaline in my blood to the rapid beating of my heart, I was in complete amazement of God’s creative handiwork! Without railings or fences, one is held at his or her own risk. The harsh whip of the air and the smell of sea salt mesmerized my senses as I walked from cliff to cliff. After the cliffs, we enjoyed a traditional fish and chips dish at an authentic Irish pub right on the coast.

On our way home, we ventured through numerous limestone quarries, pastures, cemeteries and beautiful beaches. The following morning the lasses went shopping while the lads took a tour of the Guinness factory. During my time in downtown Dublin, I was able to see the spectacular Trinity College which was so elegantly preserved and well kept. We soon met up with the remainder of the group at the bus stop and headed towards our next destination, Scotland.

 

As we flew over Scotland I had no idea what to expect. Personally, Scotland was not on my mental radar of countries I was interested in visiting, but after firm persuasion, I was happy and content to visit the UK. We arrived around 7 p.m., just in time for the local Edinburgh versus Ireland rugby match. Fun was had by all, as we tried to blend in as best we could cheering on the Glasgow Warriors. Edinburgh by night, looked as though we had just arrived in a fairy tale. All buildings have externally remained the same for hundreds of years which gave the city a medieval vibe.

We had another early start, this time waking up at 5:30 a.m. to watch the sunrise at Arthur’s Seat. For those of you who may not know, Arthur’s Seat is a dormant volcano that is said to have the best panoramic view in all of Edinburgh. Upon arriving at the top of the mountain, I was in total shock. We were in a cloud, nothing could be seen below but white fluff. I started to cry because I was so overwhelmed and could not believe I was hundreds of feet in the air. As the sun rose, the view became more scenic as mountains and the city structure became visible. This was yet another wonderful experience where God revealed his presence and majesty ever so clearly to me.

As the day progressed we took a pleasant walking tour, located on Royal Road. Our tour guide took us to numerous historical places including St. Guiles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, the Elephant House and Greyfriars Kirkyard. We all had a wonderful dinner at the Standing Order which offered great traditional Scottish meals such as Haggis. I did venture to try some Haggis and I cannot say that I truly enjoyed it. The next day, we returned to St. Guiles’ Cathedral for mass and enjoyed a warm cappuccino at the Elephant House (Harry Potter was written there!), following the service.  We also had the opportunity to learn about Edinburgh’s history at the National Museum as well as Scottish National Gallery.

Overall I had a terrific fall break and made memories that will last me a lifetime. Both countries have such unique cultures but what both countries have in common are the very friendly residence. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Ireland and Scotland and look forward to returning one day with my family and friends.

Last semester, I studied abroad in Nantes, France as part of Grove City College’s study abroad program.  As part of the study abroad program, there is a six-week field trip program. One of our trips was a weekend trip to Paris, which I describe below.

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One of the most memorable, fabulous journeys I took while studying abroad was to Paris. After my visit, I’m convinced that I must have some French in my blood. From the tower view of Notre Dame, to the sight of the Mona Lisa at the Louvre all the way to the sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower, I felt at home in a city that I will one day call mine.

“Ajoutez deux lettres à Paris, c’est le paradis”

We started our voyage early on Friday morning, taking the TGV first to Angers and then to our final destination, Paris. We first visited the Eiffel Tower, which can be seen throughout all of Paris because it is 100 stories high! Following the Eiffel Tower we visited the Arch de Triumph located near the fashion strip, Champs-Élysées. Personally my favorite structure in all of Paris, the Arch de Triumph honors all of Napoleon’s military victories. The Arch stands tall with golden trimming and engravings of Napoleon’s battles on the walls. We had the awesome opportunity to climb to the top of the Arch, which provided us with an incredible view of the city.

After walking the entire Champs-Élysées (passing the Louis Vuitton headquarters), we entered into the courtyard of the Louvre. I was just in awe, as I passed through the golden gates into the most majestic garden and courtyard. It’s hard to believe that such a magnificent palace is now a museum open to the public. The Louvre is the largest building of its type. The large Egyptian Obelisk is an unbelievable glass structure placed in the center of the courtyard. Similarly, Apollo’s room was unforgettably gorgeous and artistically outstanding!

We finished the night on a river cruise down the Seine River. The Seine divides the city into left and right banks. As we traveled down the river, the Eiffel Tower twinkled brightly, with its hourly light show. A spectacular way to end the night!

The following day we toured the luxurious Palace of Versailles! Personally, the gardens of Marie Antoinette were my favorite, as well as, the Hall of Mirrors inside the palace itself.

Later that day, I was blessed to visit my uncles who live in Paris. We had a superb time eating out, taking oyster shots, tasting the most amazing gelato and finishing off the night at their French-style apartment. I’m so incredibly thankful to have spent the day with family in the most amazing city!

On Sunday, we attended mass at Notre Dame Cathedral. From the most amazing stained glass rose windows to the Gothic architecture, we could definitely feel the presence of God alive and working. Following the mass, we visited the stained glass cathedral of St. Chapelle, Centre Pompidou (modernist art museum) and Musee d’Orsay (an old impressionistic art museum). Paramount Pictures’ Hugo is based off of Musee d’Orsay, during the time the building used to be a fully functioning train station. We then ventured off to Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre, which is a Roman Catholic Basilique. The cathedral is placed on a huge hill with souvenir shops, creperies and live music lining the streets up to the structure. During our time there, we witnessed an amazing futbol trick show as well as wine and cheese festival (the place was packed with hundreds of people). We finished off the night, riding to the top of the Eiffel Tower which was terrifying yet exceptionally beautiful and totally worth it!

Our long weekend concluded the next day, with an exceptional morning view of Paris from the top of the towers of Notre Dame. My uncles convinced us that this was the best view of all of Paris, and I could not agree any more! We finished the remainder of the day at the gorgeous Luxemburg Gardens and Pantheon, where some of France’s most famous are honored and buried. Such a fantastic way to end one of my favorite trips in Europe. If you have not visited Paris, I highly recommend it! Paris will change your perspective on food, culture and the sense of leisure and enjoyment!

 

Last semester, I studied abroad in Nantes, France as part of Grove City College’s study abroad program. If you’re curious why I chose to study abroad, check out my previous post. As part of the study abroad program, there is a six-week field trip program. We took a four-day trip to Normandy and some surrounding French villages. I described my experience below.

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Our first stop was to Fougère, which is located in northwestern France in the region of Brittany. Best known for its medieval heritage, Fougère is primarily recognized for its ancient castle, Château de Fougère, and regionally renowned Saturday-morning market. This market it so famous that it appears in the opening scene of Disney’s production, Beauty and the Beast. As a high school student, I participated in the performance of this exact play and felt as though I was sensing some déjà vu. I was continuously mesmerized by the preservation of the commune’s ancient architecture and cobble stone roads.

At our second stop, we found ourselves at the incredible Mont. St. Michel. Completely surrounded by water and towering hundreds of feet in the air, Mont. St. Michel is a monastery that has a fairy tale feel with a majestic sea, magical view and bewitching ambiance. You can only travel in one direction, which is towards the very top of the monastery. Thus restaurants, cafes, bakeries and stores are all slanted and on a tilt. I have never seen anything like this before in my life. I highly recommended visiting if you are ever traveling to western France. The island is surrounded by quicksand by day and an incoming tide by night. Access to the island can only be had during daylight hours via a shuttle. Interestingly, Mont. St. Michel contains approximately 30 residents.

Our last stop for the day was Bayeux. Upon arrival we were placed in a fabulous hotel where our rooms were stationed in quaint facility with half-timbered wooden ceilings. That night we were fed as if we were kings and queens. We were treated to an incredible five-course meal consisting of Normandy’s famous French Onion Soup, Roasted Chicken, Cheese Platter, Raspberry Tart and Café. With the conclusion of our meal, we hit the town venturing out to see the lit-up Paroisse Notre Dame du Bessin and Bayeux’s night life. We also had the opportunity to attended the Sunday mass at Paroisse Notre Dame du Bessin, which presented such a beautiful tradition Catholic service.

The conclusion of our voyage was spent at the coasts of Omaha Beach where every soul could sense the damage yet victory concluded on that very shore. German bunkers and massive fields stretched along the cliff’s edge. The sobering experience became more surreal after vising the American Military Cemetery, 25 minutes outside D-Day Beach. Thousands of white crosses extended over miles of land, which the French granted to the U.S. as a peace treaty and gift. Walking through the cemetery really gave me a new perspective on patriotism and what it truly means to die for one’s country in order to protect the innocence and futures of millions of individuals. My “thank yous” and condolences will never compare and be enough for the brave actions and considerable sacrifices these men made to protect our freedom.

 “That road to V-E Day was hard and long, and traveled by weary and valiant men. And history will always record where that road began. It began here, with the first footprints on the beaches of Normandy.”

 

The French Revolution played a major role in the destruction and restoration of France. Students of Dr. Gary Smith’s Modern Civilization course were given the opportunity to experience the unfolding of European history right before their eyes.

During my time in France, we visited the beautiful commune of Clisson. Located in Pays de la Loire in western France, Clisson’s historical sites and monuments originate back to the 13^th century. On the day we arrived, the town was holding a festival. In honor of the festivities, the Église Notre Dame’s tower was open to tour (this tower is open only one day out of the entire year). We had perfect timing!

The view from the 115-step tower was breathtaking! From this unbelievable sight, you could see the Château de Clisson as well as the river and downtown area. As you can see in the picture above, the town houses have red roofs which reflect Italian influence and style. The significance of the Italian culture is reflected in the history of Clisson during the time of the French Revolution. Clisson was on the losing side of the Counter Revolution and lost up to 100,000 lives fighting for the unity of France. Unfortunately, the city was destroyed and replaced with 19^th century Italian-style villages. The Italian culture is most notably found in flat red roofs, garden pine trees, red brick arches, the Château de Clisson and the Romanesque-styled Église Notre Dame.

What is left of the Château de Clisson, is the outlining of the castle remains. The Counter Revolution brought the castle to ground, thus grass and foliage have made their way into the floor of the castle which now stands as a remarkable ancient ruin. My favorite part of Clisson was the beautiful family estate that is now open to the public and features beautiful works of art. Surrounded by Roman sculptures, patches of the greenest grass and elegant passage ways, the estate offers an exceptionally classy experience that was once part of the nobility’s lifestyle in the 1200’s.

In GCC’s ESC Program, students are not only tested on France’s incredible history, but also provided the opportunity to be immersed in the culture’s recreation. Fútbol, France’s national sport, is the country’s most popular pastime, which I was able to experience twice at the Stade de la Beaujoire. Located 30 minutes by public transportation, the stadium provided us with an ambience that reflected France’s true passion and sense of culture.

While in Nantes, I experienced my very first European Football Match. In order to show my game day pride for FC Nantes, I purchased a yellow and green jersey. The match took place at Stade de la Beaujoire, located just outside the downtown city of Nantes. Between the waving of yellow and green towels to the singing of the team’s anthem, Allez Nantais, I felt totally immersed in the competitive side of the French culture.

Nantes faced Reims in a long and tough match, with the first goal being scored in the second half. Unfortunately, Nantes, after receiving two yellow cards as well as two evictions, lost to Reims 0 to 2. After the stunning victory of Reims, the fans of Reims acted out of complete insanity, setting off red flares and running towards the field. Although Nantes lost, I truly enjoyed experiencing such a thrilling event where I felt as though I was a true citizen of France, specifically the region of Nantes. It was a communal experience I will never forget.