Over Spring Break, a group of North Lamar ISD students, staff, and their families embarked on an unforgettable journey across Europe through EF Educational Tours, exploring the vibrant cultures of Spain and France.
The trip began in Barcelona, Spain, where travelers experienced the city’s rich art, history, and architecture. Highlights included strolling down the lively Las Ramblas, admiring the colorful mosaics of Park Güell, and marveling at the towering Sagrada Família. Students participated in a “Taste of Spain” cooking class, explored the Gothic Quarter and Barcelona Cathedral, and even dipped their toes into the Mediterranean Sea. A scenic photo stop at Montjuïc Hill offered breathtaking views of the harbor and city skyline.
The group then boarded a TGV high-speed train for a 7-hour journey to Paris, France, where they continued their European adventure. In Paris, they toured famous landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral (recently reopened after the 2019 fire), Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, Les Invalides, and the iconic Eiffel Tower. They also visited the world-renowned Louvre Museum, where they viewed Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, and explored the Fragonard Perfume Factory. A nighttime Seine River cruise offered a dazzling view of the Eiffel Tower sparkling against the city’s skyline.
EF Tours’ expertly guided itinerary ensured a seamless and enriching experience, offering students a hands-on educational opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world cultural exploration.
North Lamar sponsor Kendra Waldroup shared her excitement about the experience:
“We had the absolute best time! A lot of people think I’m crazy traveling with students— I think you’re missing out! Seeing the world through their eyes is amazing. I love watching their confidence grow and their desire to learn and appreciate other cultures. It’s the best! We were able to take in so much beauty in just eight days!”
Waldroup will continue her mission of global education this summer as she leads her next EF tour to Costa Rica, giving North Lamar students another incredible opportunity to learn and grow through international travel.
For many North Lamar travelers, this journey sparked a deeper appreciation for global perspectives and left them with lasting memories—and a desire to see more of the world.