Participating in an exchange has always been something on my bucket list because it is such a great way to experience a new culture and practise a language. When I found out about the French exchange to Brussels, I knew at once that it was something that I wanted to do because you can learn so much just from being fully immersed in a language.
I was really nervous about who I would be staying with, but before the trip, we were given a form where we answered questions about our hobbies and personality. This really helped make sure that whoever you get matched with has similar interests, and I was able to get in touch with my exchange a couple of weeks before we left for Brussels.
I honestly had the best time with the school because of all the activities they had planned like chocolate-making and visiting a brewery. I got to try some Belgian specialties like waffles and fries (which were really good!) and we also had some free time to explore the city.
Some other highlights of the trip were definitely Mini-Europe, which had all of the key landmarks in Europe but in a miniature size so you could walk around looking at them all (each landmark was so incredibly detailed), and my friends and I tried out boat racing as well. The days definitely were long but because we did so much every day, we got to see so much in a week. We went to the Museum of Comics, the Atomium (which was architecturally so incredible) and even the European Parliament.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to take part in this trip – it was so insightful. It also makes you more aware that different countries have different customs and cultures – in terms of meals, attitudes, fashion and so much more.
Thank you to Madame Troletti, Mr Willis, and Ms Lopez for taking us, and I really recommend anyone considering it to take part. It truly is worth it!
Rhea, L6
