Launch - Boeing Starliner Crew Test Flight
๐โจ History in the making tomorrow! Two NASA astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, are gearing up to soar aboard Boeing's Starliner spacecraft to the International Space Station! ๐
๐จโ๐ This mission marks the final flight test for Starliner, validating its entire transportation system from launch pad to in-orbit operations and return to Earth with astronauts aboard. Wilmore, a seasoned astronaut with 178 days in space, will command the mission, while Williams, with 322 days in space and seven spacewalks under her belt, will pilot the flight test. ๐ฐ๏ธ
๐ Get ready to witness this historic lift-off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, aboard ULA's Atlas V rocket, as they embark on a one-week journey to the space station and return to Earth under parachutes and airbag assistance in the western United States. ๐๐ฉโ๐
This is an incredible opportunity to inspire the next generation of space explorers! Tune in to NASA TV Live on their YouTube channel to watch the launch ๐ ๐
#NASA #Starliner #SpaceExploration #STEMEducation
Views from Sacre Coeur
From Steps to Summit: Our Journey up the 300 Stairs to Sacre Coeur's Dome in Paris ๐
๐ซ Our travellers were awe-struck by the view from the top, making the climb truly worth it!
Did you know?
โช๏ธ Sacre Coeur took 44 years to build.
โช๏ธ It boosts stunning views of Paris.
โช๏ธ Its white stone self-cleans with rain.
Even GLE Tour Escort Heather conquered her fear of heights for this breathtaking vista (and essential content ๐)! ๐ฐโจ
#SacreCoeurAdventures #ParisViews
France - Gordes and Roussillon
An recent adventure through the enchanting Vaucluse region, with Gordes and Roussillon stealing the spotlight!
๐ฐ Gordes, perched on a hill, felt like a journey back in time with its medieval streets and a castle that boasts panoramic views โ perfect for igniting young imaginations. ๐ณ
Roussillon, on the other hand, was a vibrant canvas of ochre cliffs, literally used for pigments centuries ago. Art enthusiasts can practically step into history, imagining how nature itself was the original art supply store! ๐จ๐
Vaucluse's picturesque villages of Gordes and Roussillon have been the backdrop for stars in numerous films. Imagine exploring places that were once the set for your favourite movies โ talk about bringing cinematic magic to life! ๐ฌ๐ฟ
Vaucluse, you've become our treasure trove of memories! ๐ค๐
Fontainebleau
๐ฐโจ Wishing we were back at the historic Chรขteau de Fontainebleau โ where every step was a journey through time! โณ
๐ซ๐ท Standing in the shadow of this epic masterpiece, absorbing the rich history that echoes within its walls. ๐ณ๐ฐ
Did you know?
1๏ธโฃ Royaltyโs Playground โ Fontainebleau served as a royal residence for centuries, hosting monarchs like Louis VII, Napoleon Bonaparte, and Henry IV. ๐
2๏ธโฃ Architectural Marvel โ The chรขteau boasts a blend of Renaissance and classical architecture, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ๐
3๏ธโฃ Napoleonโs Legacy โ Emperor Napoleon I considered Fontainebleau his second home, leaving behind significant contributions to its design and decor. ๐
4๏ธโฃ Historic Significance โ This chรขteau witnessed critical moments, including the signing of the Treaty of Fontainebleau in 1814 that marked the end of Napoleon's reign. โ๏ธ
A day filled with awe and inspiration as we walked in the footsteps of kings and emperors! ๐
Home from France
๐ซ๐ท Bonjour from Down Under, mates! France? Checked off our list! ๐ฅ๐ฅโ
๐ฌ We just touched down in Australia after an epic 16-day escapade across Europe's gem, France! ๐ซ๐ท From the dazzling lights of Paris to the quaint corners of Provence, our adventure was nothing short of spectacular! ๐
First stop: Paris, where we soaked up the magic of the Eiffel Tower and strolled along the Seine. Then, it was off to northern France for a dose of history, cheese (oh, the cheese!), and a splash of Monet's artistry. ๐ง๐ชท๐ท๐ชป
Provence stole our hearts with its charming towns like Avignon, Nimes, and Arles. And let's not forget the vibrant hues of Gordes and Roussillon!
Our young explorers and their amazing teachers rocked every moment, even amidst our whirlwind schedule.
Fueling up on crepes๐ฅ, snails๐, and yes, even frog legs๐ธ, kept us going strong. Shoutout to our fearless tour escort, Heather, who not only kept us safe but also captured over 3,500 memories along the way! ๐ฅ๐ท๐ Get ready for the serious France content to continue, at least for a little while! ๐
๐ธ If you're dreaming of whisking your students away on an unforgettable adventure, hit us up at [email protected].
Let's make those travel dreams a reality! ๐โ๏ธ #GLExpeditions #FranceStudentTravel #TravelGoals #FranceAdventures
Pont du Gard
๐โจ Standing in awe at the UNESCO World Heritage site, Pont du Gard โ this place is more than just an aqueduct. It's a Roman engineering masterpiece! Built over 2,000 years ago, this triple-decker marvel served not only as a water transport system but also had a mid-level walkway for those ancient Romans to strut their toga-clad stuff! ๐๏ธ๐ฆ
Did you know?
๐ฒ No mortar or glue held those massive stones together โ just genius Roman craftsmanship!
๐ฆ The whole aqueduct was part of a 50km water supply network that ensured fresh H2O for the city of Nรฎmes โ talk about ancient urban planning goals!
๐ฟ Pont du Gard is a living history lesson, surrounded by lush greenery and the remnants of a Roman canal, making it a time-travel hotspot! ๐ฐ๏ธ
Exploring this historic wonder felt like unlocking a portal to ancient times! ๐
Avignon tour
๐ฐ Stepped into a living history book on our Avignon walking tour!
๐ฟ๐ First stop โ Foodie paradise at the Les Halles market! ๐ฅ Located right in the heart of this historic city, surrounded by medieval ramparts, it's basically the ultimate culinary adventure. ๐ฐ๐ With 40 top-notch merchants serving up a smorgasbord of local delights, our taste buds were on a rollercoaster.
Wandered through the charming streets, soaking in the stories of the city's past. Fun fact: Avignon was the medieval City of Popes, and the Palais des Papes stands as a testament to that time when seven popes ruled from here! ๐๏ธ
๐ถโโ๏ธ Next stop was the Palais des Papes โ felt like we were in a medieval drama with its towering walls and grandeur! This Palace is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and stands as one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic building in Europe.
Finally, we marvelled at the famous Pont d'Avignon, also known as Pont Saint-Bรฉnรฉzet. Legend has it that a shepherd boy, inspired by divine visions, began building this UNESCO World Heritage Site in the 12th century with angelic assistance โ now that's a bridge-building story for the books! We learned that the original bridge was part of a crucial pilgrimage route too. Only four arches survived the test of time, leaving behind a mesmerizing ruin. ๐
๐ Avignon, you've woven history into your very streets, making this tour an absolute time-travel experience. ๐ฐ๏ธ
PS. Massive thanks to our guide Magali for all her insight and local knowledge ๐ฅฐ
TGV Fast train - Paris to Avignon...
Buckle up for a high-speed adventure from Paris to Avignon aboard the TGV! ๐โจ
Our journey captured in these mesmerizing videos showcases the breathtaking speed and ever-changing landscapes as we whizzed past iconic French towns like Lyon and Marseille. ๐๏ธ๐
Did you know? ๐ค
1๏ธโฃ The TGV holds the world speed record for conventional trains, reaching a staggering 574.8 km/h back in April 2007!
2๏ธโฃ It takes just under 3 hours to zip from Paris to Avignon on the TGV, covering a distance of over 570km!
3๏ธโฃ The TGV is not just about speed โ it's also known for its eco-friendly features, reducing CO2 emissions per passenger compared to cars and planes. ๐ฑโป๏ธ
Ready to elevate your students' travel experiences with the TGV? ๐ Contact us to learn more about planning your next language tour with us! ๐๐บ๏ธ
Creamy Camembert...
๐งโจ Embarking on a cheesy adventure in northern France at a Camembert cheese factory! ๐ซ๐ท The air was filled with the earthy aroma of fermenting goodness as we witnessed the magic behind this iconic fromage. ๐๐
Exploring the heart of Camembert-making, we observed the traditional craftsmanship that has been perfected over centuries. From curdling to moulding, the process is a symphony of precision and patience. ๐ป๐ง
Did you know? Camembert cheese originated in Normandy in the late 18th century, and its unique creamy texture is attributed to the specific breed of cows that graze in the region. The cheese gained worldwide fame when it was adopted by the French army during World War I as part of their rations! ๐ณ๐ฑ๐
Our taste buds were in for a treat as we savoured the culmination of this culinary journey โ the delectable tastings that makes Camembert the star of French cheese. ๐
Fondation Claude Monet
๐จโจ Strolled through the enchanting gardens of Fondation Claude Monet, where the magic of Monet came to life! ๐บ Did you know? Monet was not only a pioneer of Impressionism but also a master of capturing the fleeting beauty of nature? ๐ฟ๐๏ธ
Monet was obsessed with painting water lilies, creating over 250 artworks featuring them! ๐ผ His play with light and colour birthed the Impressionist movement, redefining how we see art. ๐ "Water Lilies" and "Impression, Sunrise" are two iconic masterpieces that'll leave you in awe! ๐
๐ผ๏ธ
Monet's influence was an art revolution! ๐จ Inspired by nature, he paved the way for modern art. ๐โจ From inspiring fellow artists like Van Gogh to leaving a timeless legacy, Monet's impact is immeasurable. ๐
Villers Bretonneux and the Sir John Monday Centre
๐ฆ๐บโจ Immersed in the solemn beauty of the Australian National Memorial and the Sir John Monash Centre in Villers-Bretonneux. This sacred ground echoes with the stories of courage, sacrifice, and resilience, embodying the ANZAC spirit that defines our nation's history.
The legacy etched into this hallowed land is a testament to the profound connection between Australia and France. Standing there, we were reminded of the compelling reasons why this area holds such significance for Australians: a symbol of unwavering sacrifice, a tribute to the valiant soldiers who fought, and a testament to the enduring bond shared with the French. ๐บ๐ค
Beyond borders, our shared history is engraved in the monuments and memorials, honouring those who fought side by side. The enduring alliance symbolizes unity, fostering a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made on both sides. ๐ซ๐ท๐ค
๐ค๐ซ๐ท Emotions ran deep as we reflect on the shared history, paying homage to the fallen heroes and their enduring impact ๐๐
#SpiritOfANZAC #LestWeForget
Amiens
๐ซ๐ท๐ฃ Step by step, our travellers explored the enchanting streets of Amiens on a walking tour! From charming cobblestone lanes to the awe-inspiring Amiens Notre Dame, every corner revealed a piece of history. ๐ถโโ๏ธ๐ถโโ๏ธ
Did you know? Amiens played a pivotal role for Australian soldiers during WWI:
1๏ธโฃ The Battle of Amiens in 1918 marked a turning point, leading to the end of the war.
2๏ธโฃ Amiens was a key logistical hub for Australian soldiers, providing crucial support.
3๏ธโฃ The Amiens Cathedral served as a symbolic landmark for Aussie troops during the war.
Immersed in history, our travellers walked in the footsteps of heroes and embracing the rich tapestry of Amiens. ๐๐ฐ
Paris Metro Adventures
Paris Metro Exploration in a Snap! ๐๐ซ๐ท
Watch our travellers navigate the bustling Metro system with precision and panache! From ticket validation to platform selection, every moment was a chance to sharpen their observation and French language skills. ๐ซ๐
With our GLE Tour Escort and Tour Manager by their side, they conquered the underground maze like pros!
PS - Huge shout out to Nate for his new found Metro navigational skills
Montmartre
๐ซ๐ทโจ Mornings in Montmartre are pure magic! ๐ธ Wandering through cobblestone streets adorned with local artists' masterpieces, the air is filled with the sweet scent of freshly baked baguettes and the lively sounds of street musicians. ๐ฅ๐จ
Montmartre, a bohemian haven, captivates with its eclectic charm and vibrant energy. Our senses were alive with the kaleidoscope of colours from the art-lined lanes, the distant echoes of accordion melodies, and the unmistakable aroma of Parisian delights wafting from quaint cafes.
Climbing up to Sacrรฉ-Coeur, the panoramic views of Paris stole our breath. ๐ฐโช Every step unveiled a new layer of this enchanting neighbourhood โ a true masterpiece under the Parisian sky. Our travellers soaked up the cultural tapestry of Montmartre, creating memories that will last a lifetime. ๐ธ
River Seine cruise
๐คโจ Cruising through the heart of Paris on the River Seine โ where every bend unveils a new chapter of beauty! ๐ซ๐ท The Eiffel Tower gracefully standing tall, Museum d'Orsay reflecting in the water, and the Louvre's majestic facade kissing the sky. ๐
โจ
From the water, Paris transforms into a mesmerizing dreamscape, bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun. The play of light on historic buildings creates a magical ambiance, giving the city a different, ethereal feel. ๐๐ซ
A truly enchanting afternoon cruise, leaving us spellbound by the iconic sights and the unique perspective only the Seine can offer. ๐๐ธ
Louvre
๐จ๐ซ๐ท Today we had an unforgettable day delving into the wonders of the Louvre Museum in Paris!
๐๏ธ From ancient artifacts to timeless masterpieces, the sheer scale and beauty of this iconic institution left us in awe!
Did you know? The Louvre's famous glass pyramid entrance, designed by architect I. M. Pei, was completed in 1989, adding a modern touch to the historic surroundings.
Inside, we marvelled at the grandeur of the Venus de Milo, the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa, and the majestic Winged Victory of Samothrace, each piece offering a glimpse into the depths of human creativity and emotion. ๐โจ
But the magic doesn't stop there!
The Louvre has not only inspired generations of artists and art lovers but has also made its mark on the silver screen. From the iconic Da Vinci Code to the enchanting Beauty and the Beast, and the action-packed James Bond film Skyfall, the Louvre's stunning architecture and priceless treasures have graced some of cinema's most memorable moments. ๐ฌ๐ฟ
P.S. Huge shout out to our tour guide, Lucas. So impressed with all your artistic knowledge and insights
Museum d'Orsay
๐จ Exploring the mesmerizing Musee d'Orsay in Paris with our Aussie school squad! ๐๏ธ This former railway station turned art haven holds a treasure trove of masterpieces, and we soaked in every stroke and story. ๐ซ๐ทโจ
Did you know? The Musee d'Orsay was inaugurated in 1986 and boasts an impressive collection of art dating from 1848 to 1914. The iconic clock faces overlooking the Seine River offer not just a view of the city but also a unique way to experience time standing still within these historic walls. ๐ฐ๏ธ๐ผ๏ธ
Musee dโOrsay has something for everyone, from the art enthusiast to the casual admirer. Van Gogh's mesmerizing self-portraits to Monet's water lilies โ every piece tells a tale of artistic evolution. Our travellers were awestruck by the diverse range of masterpieces, each echoing the spirit of its era. ๐
First day in Paris
๐ซ๐ทโจ Embracing the magic of Paris! ๐ผ The Eiffel Tower standing tall, a timeless guardian welcoming us to this historic city. Galeries Lafayette with stunning Paris views and an out of this world dome. Strolling down the Champs รlysรฉes, the scent of freshly baked pastries and the melody of street musicians fill the air, creating a sensory symphony that echoes through the iconic Arc de Triomphe.
The River Seine flows gracefully, whispering tales of centuries past as we stroll along its banks. Our travellers are on cloud nine, absorbing the rich history and culture around every corner. The excitement is palpable as they use their French language skills to interact with locals and navigate the charming labyrinth of Parisian streets.
From the grandeur of historic landmarks to the quaint cobblestone streets, each moment is a page in the storybook of our Parisian exploration. Stay tuned for more updates! ๐ธ๐
World Water Day
Empowering communities, one drop at a time! ๐ง
Today, on World Water Day, we shed light on the global challenges of clean water and sanitation access. Across the globe, millions lack these basic necessities.
But today, we celebrate the efforts of groups around the world, including our Australian students, who recently installed water tanks in rural Fijian villages when engaged in their water-related community service project. ๐
We empower students to make a difference, fostering compassion, empathy, and global citizenship. Together, we're creating lasting change and brighter futures. ๐
#WorldWaterDay #WaterForAll #BeTheDifference #CommunityImpact
French Language Day
๐ Joyeuse Journรฉe de la Langue Franรงaise!
๐ซ๐ท Did you know? French is not just a language, it's a bridge to diverse cultures, literature, and art. Celebrate the beauty and richness of the French language with us today! โจ
And guess what?
We're counting down - just 8 days until our exciting adventure in France begins! ๐ผ
๐ Join us as we embark on a journey filled with language, culture, and unforgettable experiences! ๐ซ๐ท
#FrenchLanguageDay #GlobalLearningExpeditions #CountdownToFrance
