Today marked the end of an unforgettable adventure through Italy and Greece.

After one final breakfast together, we made our way to the airport in Athens to begin our journey home. As we boarded our flight to Toronto, students reflected on the incredible experiences they had shared over the past 26 days. From exploring the ancient streets of Rome and walking through the ruins of Pompeii, to sailing the Greek islands, learning in unforgettable classrooms, and making lifelong friendships along the way.

Upon arriving in Toronto, it was time to say our goodbyes. Families eagerly welcomed students home, while teachers and staff bid farewell to a group that had grown tremendously over the course of the program. Although it was bittersweet to see the trip come to an end, everyone left with countless memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the history, culture, and beauty of Italy and Greece.

Thank you to all of our incredible students for making this such a special program. Your curiosity, enthusiasm, kindness, and willingness to embrace every opportunity made this an experience none of us will ever forget.

Until next time!

– McKay (Activity Coordinator)

Today marked the culmination of weeks of learning, adventure, and unforgettable memories as students completed their final assessments.

The morning was spent making final preparations for exams, giving students one last opportunity to review their notes and meet with classmates before putting all of their hard work to the test. By the afternoon, it was time for the final assessments. Students approached the exams with confidence, and it was wonderful to see all of the effort they had put in throughout the program come together.

With the academic portion of the trip officially complete, it was time to celebrate!

Students got dressed up for our final banquet, kicking off the evening with photos before enjoying a delicious dinner together. The celebration continued with our annual paper plate awards, recognizing the many funny moments, inside jokes, and unique personalities that made this group so special. We then watched a slideshow highlighting the incredible memories we had made over the past four weeks before ending the evening with plenty of dancing and laughter.

Then, students received their program gifts: a commemorative Global Summers t-shirt for everyone to sign and an evil eye bracelet, a meaningful keepsake from Greece that they can take home as a reminder of this unforgettable experience.

To cap off our final evening together, we headed into town one last time for some ice cream and to pick up a few snacks for tomorrow’s flight home. It was the perfect ending to an incredible month filled with learning, friendship, and adventure.

Tomorrow we begin our journey home, taking with us not only souvenirs, but also memories, friendships, and experiences that will last a lifetime.

– McKay (Activity Coordinator)

Today was dedicated to preparing for tomorrow’s final exams. Students began the morning by meeting with their teachers for one last review session, asking final questions, revisiting key concepts, and making sure they felt confident heading into exam day.

Following the review sessions, students spread out across the hotel and nearby cafés for a productive day of studying. It was great to see everyone working hard and supporting one another as they prepared to wrap up the academic portion of the program.

Of course, there was still time to enjoy our final days in Greece. Throughout the day, some students took study breaks by heading to the basketball courts for a friendly game, while others explored Athens one last time to pick up a few last-minute souvenirs for family and friends back home.

After another delicious dinner together at the hotel, a few students made one final trip into town to enjoy some authentic Greek gelato before returning to continue studying for tomorrow’s exams.

It’s hard to believe that tomorrow is our final day in Greece. Students are feeling prepared and ready to showcase everything they have learned throughout the program. Once the exams are complete, they’ll have the chance to celebrate all of their hard work together at our final banquet.

– McKay (Activity Coordinator)

Today, across all classes, students worked hard to complete their culminating activities and prepare for their final assessments. Some classes presented their final projects, showcasing everything they have learned throughout the program, while others spent the day reviewing key concepts in preparation for exams. It was rewarding to see how much students have grown academically over the past few weeks.

During their lunch break, students enjoyed some time exploring Athens, grabbing lunch, and making the most of our central location. Mr. Szczesniak’s class also ventured to the famous Alice in Wonderland Road, one of Athens’ most unique and colourful streets, adding another memorable stop to their classroom experience.

After classes and some dedicated study time, everyone gathered back at the hotel for dinner together before one final unforgettable evening.

To celebrate the end of the course, Ms. Kovacevic’s class attended a screening of The Odyssey at one of Athens’ beautiful open-air theatres. Watching the film under the stars with the illuminated Acropolis in the background was the perfect way to bring the novel to life and reflect on everything they had studied. Several students from other classes also joined in, and everyone agreed it was an unforgettable experience.

It was the perfect way to end our final day of classes. It is a reminder that some of the best learning happens far beyond the walls of a traditional classroom. As we prepare for our final days in Greece, students can look back with pride on everything they have accomplished, both academically and personally.

– McKay (Activity Coordinator)

Today was our final weekend day in Athens, giving students the perfect opportunity to experience more of this incredible city at their own pace.

Throughout the morning and early afternoon, students enjoyed free time to explore Athens. Many took the opportunity to catch up on schoolwork as they prepare for their final assessments, while others wandered the city’s lively streets, picked up souvenirs, and enjoyed the many cafés and shops just steps from our hotel. With our hotel located in the heart of Athens, students have been able to easily explore many of the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods on foot.

Later in the afternoon, we came together for one of the highlights of our time in Greece: a guided tour of the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Our fantastic tour guides brought the ancient city to life, sharing fascinating stories about the birthplace of democracy and the incredible history behind these world-famous landmarks. As students walked through the archaeological site and stood beneath the towering columns of the Parthenon, they truly stepped back in time and gained a deeper appreciation for the history that has shaped our world.

Following the tour, we enjoyed another delicious dinner together in the city before students were given some free time to explore Athens in the evening. Whether strolling through the illuminated streets, shopping, or simply taking in the atmosphere, it was another wonderful evening in Greece’s historic capital.

– McKay (Activity Coordinator)

Today, we said goodbye to beautiful Kalamata and made our way to the final destination of our journey: Athens.

The morning began with one last delicious breakfast buffet at the hotel before we boarded the bus for our trip north. Along the way, we stopped at the impressive Corinth Canal, where students enjoyed lunch while taking in one of Greece’s most remarkable engineering feats. It was another great opportunity to appreciate the country’s fascinating history and breathtaking scenery.

After arriving in Athens, we set off on a walking tour to discover some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Students watched the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, wandered through the charming streets of Plaka, explored the lively flea market, and experienced the vibrant atmosphere that makes Athens such a unique city. There was no shortage of photo opportunities as students continued to discover the rich history and culture of Greece’s capital.

Following the tour, we gathered for dinner before students enjoyed some free time to explore Athens in the evening. The excitement was evident as everyone looked forward to spending the final days of our adventure in this incredible city.

While there are still plenty of exciting activities ahead, students are also staying focused on their academics as they prepare for their final assessments later this week. Throughout this trip, they have done an outstanding job balancing learning with exploration, making the most of every opportunity both inside and outside the classroom.

With just a few days remaining, we are looking forward to making the most of our time in Athens and creating even more unforgettable memories together!

– McKay (Activity Coordinator)

Today, many of our students took part in one of the most anticipated optional excursions of the trip…a visit to the incredible Diros Caves! With over half of the group joining the excursion, it made for a fun day filled with adventure and unforgettable scenery.

The journey began with a scenic bus ride through the Peloponnese, passing charming Greek villages while taking in breathtaking views of the coastline, mountains, and crystal-blue sea. The drive alone was an experience, offering students a chance to appreciate even more of Greece’s natural beauty.

Upon arriving at the caves, excitement quickly spread throughout the group. We entered the cave system and immediately boarded small boats to begin our guided tour through the underground waterways. As we glided through the caves, students admired the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years. At times, everyone had to duck beneath the low cave ceilings, adding an extra sense of adventure to the experience. Learning about the history and geology of the Diros Caves while exploring them by boat made for a truly unique and memorable visit.

After the tour, we enjoyed a delicious lunch at a traditional Greek taverna before making one final beach stop on the journey back to Kalamata. Students took the opportunity to swim, relax, and soak up the Mediterranean sunshine one last time.

In the evening, the entire group gathered for our final dinner in Kalamata. Over the past week, this beautiful beachfront hotel has truly felt like home. From the incredible ocean views and easy access to the beach to the outstanding buffet with its endless variety of delicious meals, it has been a favourite stop for both students and staff.

As we said goodbye to Kalamata, there was a feeling of gratitude for all the memories we have made here. From classes by the sea and exciting excursions to sunsets on the beach and evenings spent together, Kalamata has given us an unforgettable week that we’ll always remember. Thank you, Kalamata…you will be missed!

– McKay (Activity Coordinator)

Today was a productive day as students continued working hard on the culminating activities and final projects for their classes. It’s been wonderful to see how much they’ve learned throughout the trip while combining academics with unforgettable travel experiences.

One of the day’s highlights came from Mr. Szczesniak’s class, where students presented their final projects dressed in togas while enjoying some snacks. It was a creative and entertaining way to celebrate everything they had learned, and the presentations made for a memorable classroom experience.

Between classes, students made the most of the beautiful weather by spending time at the pool or relaxing on the beach just steps from the hotel. These moments have become a favourite part of our time in Kalamata, offering the perfect balance between learning and enjoying Greece’s incredible coastline.

Following another delicious buffet dinner overlooking the sea, many students chose to participate in our optional sunset swim. With calm waves, warm water, and a breathtaking sunset over the bay, it was a peaceful and memorable way to end the day. Students enjoyed swimming, chatting with friends, and soaking in the beautiful Kalamata evening together.

– McKay (Activity Coordinator)

Today was packed with adventure, teamwork, and plenty of fun!

The morning began with our exciting sea kayaking excursion. After a short bus ride to another part of the Kalamata Bay, students received a quick lesson before setting off on the crystal-clear waters. Everyone had the chance to enjoy some free paddling before taking part in a series of fun challenges, including paddling without using their paddles, paddling backwards, and other team activities that brought lots of laughs and friendly competition.

As we continued our journey, we explored some beautiful sea caves before arriving at a secluded swim stop. It was an experience we won’t soon forget. 

After returning to the hotel, students attended an afternoon session of classes before gathering once again for another delicious dinner overlooking the beach.

The fun didn’t stop there! In the evening, students headed to Kalamata’s professional beach volleyball courts for our highly anticipated beach volleyball tournament. Students formed their own teams and competed under the lights in a night filled with exciting rallies, great sportsmanship, and lots of cheering from the sidelines. Whether playing or supporting their friends, everyone had a fantastic time, making it one of the most memorable evenings of the trip so far.

– McKay (Activity Coordinator)

We are settling into life in beautiful Kalamata, and each day continues to offer the perfect balance of learning, adventure, and relaxation.

The morning began with another round of classes held around the hotel, making the most of our beautiful surroundings while students continued their academic work.

After classes, many students headed to the nearby floating water park for an afternoon of fun. From climbing inflatable obstacles to jumping into the sea and racing down slides, there was no shortage of laughter and excitement. It was the perfect way to cool off and enjoy another sunny day along Greece’s beautiful coastline.

In the evening, everyone gathered back at the hotel for another incredible buffet dinner. Students continue to be amazed by the variety and quality of the food each night, and the breathtaking beachfront views from the dining area make every meal even more memorable. Dinner was made even more special as we celebrated one of our students’ Sweet 16 together! 

After dinner, students had some free time to explore Kalamata. Many made their way to the beach to capture the stunning sunset, taking photos as the sky lit up with beautiful shades of orange, pink, and purple. It was the perfect ending to another wonderful day in Greece!

– McKay (Activity Coordinator)