A Tour of France and Italy

During spring break, 31 Southampton High School students had the opportunity to embark on a journey of a lifetime through France and Italy. Led by French teacher Mrs. Fritz, Italian teacher Ms. Abbadessa, and chaperones Ms. Davis and Mr. and Mrs. Amitrano, the whirlwind eight-day adventure took students from the heart of Paris to the Eternal City of Rome, with unforgettable stops in Versailles, Nimes, Avignon, Nice, Florence and Assisi.

Traveling by plane, high-speed train, buses, subways and even a boat ride down the Seine while dining under the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower, students explored the cities’ rich tapestry of history, art and culture.

In Rome, they walked in the footsteps of emperors and learned about ancient aqueducts and arenas, among other highlights.

In Florence, they stood before Michelangelo's masterpieces at the Accademia and gazed in awe at the grandeur of the Basilica of St. Peter. They crossed the sacred doors of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi — an especially meaningful experience during this Jubilee Year.

The group dined beside the Colosseum while serenaded by live opera, tasted gelato and crêpes on cobblestone streets, and fully immersed themselves in the life of Provence and the vibrant culture of Rome. 

Along the way, they caught a glimpse of modern life and language in both countries and were able to communicate in the very French and Italian that they have been studying in school, bringing classroom lessons vividly to life.

The students, who averaged 20,000 steps a day, stepped far beyond their comfort zones — making friends, sharing stories and absorbing lessons.