“GESM Goes Germany” – A Trip to Remember

based on text by Julio Sendra

Over the Easter holidays, 36 students from Grades 5 to 11 took part in an unforgettable journey through Germany, guided by three teachers. After months of planning, the trip became a mix of language learning, cultural experiences, and lots of fun.

We stayed in the quiet town of Bad Schussenried at the Humboldt-Institut, a boarding school that hosted international students and local groups. Days were filled with activities—sports, quizzes, baking, and more—plus short trips to a Beer Museum, a farm museum, and even a cheese factory (which looked better in pictures than it smelled in real life).

Our “big trip” Saturdays took us to Schloss Linderhof and to Zurich, Switzerland, where students visited the Lindt Chocolate Museum and the FIFA Museum. (Spoiler: chocolate won more hearts than football.)

Meals were an adventure on their own—healthy food and undercooked rice sparked daily debates, and Nutella became a breakfast favorite. One daily highlight? The race to get phones back every evening.

The students impressed us with their curiosity, humor, and, occasionally, their questionable survival skills (note: electricity and travel kettles don’t mix!). Most importantly, the trip brought everyone closer—turning classmates into a real community.

Thanks to the students, the supportive families, and especially to Ms. Michelle, Ms. Lala, and Ms. Nina for making it all possible.