Over Memorial Day weekend, a group of Becton students embarked on an educational journey through Spain and Italy, experiencing firsthand the history, culture, art, and traditions of two of Europe’s most iconic countries.
The trip, organized by Italian teacher Mrs. Bonanno, took place from May 23 through June 1 and included eighteen student participants accompanied by Mrs. Bonanno, Mrs. Sanchez, and Mrs. Mackanin. Students who attended the trip included Emilio Battistus, Valeria Cardenas Rendon, Luca Costa, Gianna D’Elia, Aidan Delgado, Avyukt Gupta, Collin Hagen, Emmit Janosz, Sarah McAdams, Gianna Morrone, Ferdinando Morrone, Jayden Pham, Gabriel Rahaman, Samantha Restrepo, Nicholas Rodriguez, Lirie Sulejmanoska, Gerlina Valdez Herrera, and Francesca Zisa.
The adventure began in Madrid, where students arrived at Barajas Airport and met their tour guide, Gerard. After settling in, the group enjoyed lunch at the famous Mercado de San Miguel before exploring some of Madrid’s most well-known landmarks. A guided walking tour took students through Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, allowing them to experience the heart of the city while learning about its history and culture.
The evening introduced students to traditional Spanish cuisine during a tapas dinner. The group also enjoyed a performance by La Tuna, a Spanish troubadour-style musical ensemble that provided a memorable introduction to Spanish culture.
The following day was filled with sightseeing throughout Madrid. Students visited Plaza de España, Plaza de Cibeles, and the bustling Gran Vía district. A city bus tour offered views of some of Madrid’s most famous locations, including government buildings and international landmarks. The group also visited the renowned Prado Museum, where they viewed works by celebrated Spanish artist Diego Velázquez and learned more about Spain’s artistic heritage.
Later that evening, students attended a traditional flamenco performance and dinner, experiencing one of Spain’s most recognizable cultural traditions. The day concluded with free time to explore the city and enjoy local favorites such as churros and gelato.
The trip offered students much more than sightseeing. Traveling abroad allowed them to immerse themselves in new cultures, practice language skills, and gain a greater appreciation for global perspectives. From historic plazas and world-famous museums to authentic food and cultural performances, every experience provided opportunities for learning beyond the classroom.
Educational trips like this one give students the chance to connect what they learn in school with real-world experiences. As the group continues its journey through Spain and Italy, students are creating memories that will last a lifetime while developing a deeper understanding of the cultures, histories, and traditions that make each destination unique.
For many participants, the Eurotrip was not only an opportunity to travel, but also a chance to learn, grow, and experience the world in ways that simply cannot be replicated within the walls of a classroom.
