Traveling to Spain and Portugal this summer was truly a rewarding experience for a group of eight TWU students. From the old Jewish quarters in Toledo to the two thousand year old roman aqueduct in Segovia, students witnessed the fascinating history of Spain, with visits to amazing cathedrals, alcázares (Islamic castles) and gardens. The wonderful city of Sevilla, capital of the Andalusian region, gave them the unique opportunity to participate in a flamenco dance show, a beautiful performance in which the dancers passionately communicate an ample array of emotions. A visit to the world-class Museo del Prado in Madrid brought to life many of the artworks and artists studied in Spanish classes.

Lisbon, Portugal was an exciting place to visit as the students arrived during the festival of Santo António (Saint Anthony of Padua), who was born in Lisbon in 1192. Santo António is associated with love, relationships, and marriages and so the festival includes a wedding ceremony held for sixteen couples at once at the Sé Cathedral in Lisbon.  Flowing through the festivities is a feeling of romance and young love that comes alive in the streets and plazas with music, parties, and costumes, particularly the tradition of women wearing white veils as the brides of Santo António.

Full immersion in history, culture, and language in Spain and Portugal has truly enriched the lives of our students this summer and has given them a new appreciation for humanity and a deeper sense of intercultural understanding that will be a positive impact in their families, their friends, and wherever they go.

TWU provides many travel opportunities such as this. All our students are invited to participate and enrich their education through study abroad.