After much debate and setback attempting to organize a language trip to Mexico for Spanish language classes, LT has finally settled on a new destination: Lima, Peru. Offering a culturally immersive experience, the trip to Lima will help students build relationships and further their knowledge of Spanish culture.  

“Language trips enhance the experience that our students have in World Language programs, and they benefit students by providing a cultural immersion experience that is so valuable to them,” Superintendent Brian Waterman said. “Language immersion programs are an integral component of the World Language experience at LT, and we are thrilled that our school community supports these types of trips.”

As of now, the Spanish department has not decided on the number of students attending the trip; however, they have laid out a tentative itinerary. Day 1, Thursday, March 19: Depart Chicago and arrive in Lima the next morning. Day 2, March 20: day of tours and exploring Lima. Day 3, March 21: take a short flight to Cusco City and tour the vibrant town. Day 4, March 22: take a train to Machu Picchu and explore throughout the day before taking a train back to the city to meet host families. Day 5-9, March 23-27: attend morning classes at the language school, connect with host families, and take immersive classes like a Salsa dancing class. Day 10, March 28: take a short flight back to Lima and take another tour of the city before returning to the airport for a night flight to Chicago. Day 11, March 29: arrive back in Chicago on Sunday morning. 

“Peru offers an incredible combination of history, culture, and language immersion,” Spanish teacher JoEllen Gregie said. “It’s home to vibrant Spanish-speaking communities and world-renowned sites like Machu Picchu, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley.”

In order for a trip to be agreed upon, the destination must be safe and provide an educational opportunity. The original destination of Cuernavaca, Mexico, was denied at the Sept. 15 Board of Education Regular Action meeting because of the Level 3 advisory posted by the U.S. State Department. Lima was approved at the Oct. 20 Regular Action Meeting. 

“This trip is an educational opportunity as students will be attending Spanish language [classes] during the week, as well as engaging in cultural experiences and excursions,” Waterman said.

“I  am excited to experience the new food and be in a new culture,” trip attendee and LION reporter Charlie McLaughlin ‘27 said. “I have a goal of studying abroad in college, so I am excited to get a taste of that.”