International Learning Trips

International Learning Trips

Each year Pallotti offers students the opportunity to explore the world and learn about different cultures through a variety of international trips. In the past Pallotti students have traveled to many different countries including Italy, Ireland, Germany, Scotland, England, Greece, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, Belize, and many more. We travel with a global company called EF (Education First). This company is a world leader in international education and they guarantee the lowest price for our trips. The trips are amazing experiences for the students that are able to go.

There are so many great benefits to be gained from international travel including: 

• Learning more about the world and different cultures
• Stepping out of their comfort zone and gaining self confidence
• Gaining a sense of independence (traveling without a family member)
• Making friends with students from other schools and countries

CURRENT TRIPS

Portugal Trip: June 2025

Pallotti is going to Portugal in June of 2025 and we would love to have you come with us! On this trip we will wind our way along the Atlantic coast, experiencing the cosmopolitan flair of Porto and Lisbon alongside the rustic charm of rural Portugal. We will see the Baroque-style libraries in the ancient capital of Coimbra and venture to the rugged seaside cliffs, which Portuguese explorers once considered the end of the world. We will also visit ancient churches and religious sites like Fatima. Join us to explore the culture and cuisine of this beautiful country! There will be an informational meeting on Tuesday, October 10 at 7:00 PM. The meeting will be virtual so please use the following link to RSVP for the meeting: http://bit.ly/3YKcoak

Please email Ms. Grenchik, kgrenchik@miniaussiesofiowa.com, if you have any questions about either the Hawaii or Portugal Trips.

China Trip: Late June 2024 - Early July 2024

Pallotti is offering a 9-day educational trip to China in June-July of 2024 and we still have spots available! On this trip students will visit Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, climb the Great Wall, experience a home-cooked Chinese dinner, watch a Tang Dynasty show and much more! There will be an informational meeting about this trip on Thursday, September 28 at 7:00 PM. The meeting will be virtual so please use the following link to RSVP for the meeting: http://bit.ly/458BQZt. This trip is a great opportunity for your child to explore one of the largest countries in the world, try new foods, experience a completely different culture, and build global cooperation skills.

Please email Ms. Carnes, mcarnes@miniaussiesofiowa.com, if you have any questions about the China Trip.

Belize Immersion Trip - Laudato Si: January 2025

In January of 2025, we will be taking a group of nine students to Belize to take part in a cultural and ecological immersion trip. This immersion trip is part research, part service, part reflection, and part fun. The trip will focus on the following:

• Focus 1 will include an in-depth scientific study of the environment, ecosystems, and wildlife of Belize. This will be achieved by exploring various sites and by working with researchers active in Belize. Possible site visits will include the Tropical Education Center, Belize Zoo, Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Community Baboon Sanctuary, Belize Organic Farms, and visits to the Coral Reef among others. Students should expect to learn about and participate in some of the work being done in environmental and habitat restoration.

• Focus 2 will involve studying the papal encyclical Laudato Si: On Care For Our Common Home. This letter from Pope Francis calls on all people of goodwill to reflect upon and find creative solutions to the environmental challenges that we face today. Caring for, appreciating the beauty of, and loving the natural world are integral to the Catholic faith. Students will reflect upon the scriptural basis for caring for God’s creation, the human roots of our environmental challenges, and how to employ an integral ecology. Students will learn about the culture, ethnic groups, language, spirituality, food, and music of the people of Belize. Site visits include Pallotti High School in Belize City, St. Agnes Anglican School, Belmopan Market Plaza, Xunantunich Mayan Ruins, and Nohoch Che’en State Park. Catholic contemplative prayer practices will be taught and experienced throughout the trip. 

We are looking for students who…

• Are interested in nature, marine biology, zoology, and/or environmental issues.
• Are interested in developing an ecological spirituality which includes deepening one’s appreciation for God’s creation aka the natural world.
• Love the outdoors, hiking, snorkeling, and cave tubing. 
• Are interested in serving and building relationships with students at Pallotti High School in Belize City. 

APPLYING FOR THE TRIP

If you would like to apply for the Belize Immersion Trip, please complete the application linked below and return to Mr. Bayly by April 15. Space is limited to 9 students. Once accepted into the program, your spot will be reserved for 14 days. A $500 deposit will be required to hold your reservation. Full amount is due by December 15^th.

• Application for Belize Immersion Trip: (available now below)

Students should expect to meet several times during the fall to discuss Laudato Si and what to expect on the trip. Accepted students are encouraged to read Laudato Si and to watch the Laudato Si documentary linked below.

Please email Mr. Bayly, bbayly@miniaussiesofiowa.com, if you have any questions about the Belize Trip.

PREVIOUS TRIPS