This past summer was the first “normal” summer since COVID. For the first time since the summer of 2019, students were able to spend their summer without having to wear masks and worry about getting sick. As traveling restrictions became less severe, many took advantage of this opportunity and went on vacation to various parts of the world. In fact, a group of our very own Littleton High School students went to Italy and Greece!
The trip was originally scheduled for the summer of 2020, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was pushed back to the summer of 2022. The long wait made this experience more enjoyable, according to some students.
“Well, I liked that I was older. I feel like I appreciated everything more, and waiting for it built up the hype,” said junior Courtney Urbanek.
Students traveled across Italy and Greece for 14 days and visited the popular cities of Rome, Florence, Meteora, Athens, Delphi, Chania, and Heraklion.
Throughout Italy and Greece, students visited many ancient sites and enjoyed the culture and cuisine these places have to offer. A popular activity was exploring Athens.
“My favorite thing we did was seeing the Parthenon and the Mediterranean,” said Urbanek.
Traveling to Europe is a big decision, and many students who decided to go went to pursue their passion for traveling.
“I’ve always wanted to go to Europe, so when the trip came around, I knew I had to do it,” said Urbanek.
“I wanted to go because Italy and Greece had been on the top of my travel bucket list for years since about 3rd grade,” said sophomore Mae Watts.
Going to Europe was a learning experience for many. Traveling internationally without parents led to students becoming more self-sufficient.
“I really learned the value of staying organized while traveling,” said Watts.
“I learned I want to travel more, and more about my travel style. I like to move around a lot, not stay in one place for two weeks,” said Urbanek.
This fast pace form of travel was new to many of the students.
“We only stayed at each hotel for a night or two and if you spread out or got too comfortable getting ready to move on was a challenge,” said Watts.
A day in the life during this trip was very eventful.
“We would have an early morning and eat breakfast at the hotel. We would get on the bus and just go,” Watts said. In town, students explored the culture and landmarks of these historic cities. During the day, students explored and went on guided tours. After lunch, students continued to walk around the cities.
“Then we would meet back up and go get dinner as a whole group. We would get back to the new hotel around 9 or 10,” said Watts.
For those interested in going on a trip to Europe with LHS students next summer, here are some words of advice!
“Go. Even if you don’t know anybody, you’ll get to know people. It’s so fun and you get to see the world, like it’s a cool experience to have without your parents because you can learn more about yourself,” said Urbanek.
These summer trips are a perfect way to add adventure to the summer and explore the world. Memories made from experiences like these last a lifetime, and this trip was inspirational for many of the students that participated this year. For students considering attending the trip next summer—do not be afraid to take risks and take advantage of this opportunity!
