I was heading into the summer before I would be a senior. My entire junior year consisted of saving and preparing for the highlight of my 2009 summer, the trip to Europe with the Wyoming Ambassadors. The Wyoming Ambassadors trip consisted of hundreds of musical teens all across Wyoming, who played musical instruments or for those who were in a chorus. I was in the chorus at my school, located in the small town of Newcastle.
When I had finally completed all the requirements for the trip, such as paying for it I was ecstatic! I would be with over 200 other teens traveling to six different countries in Europe over the space of 16 days. The countries were: England, France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and Germany. I would love to tell about each place, but there is too much to tell, so I will talk about my three favorite places. For weeks I practiced hard on the music I needed to know for the concerts we would perform. Finally, the day came when we would begin our journey. It was June 16, 2009 at 8:00pm when we boarded our last plane to London. The eight hours on the plane seemed to fly by, due to the fact that we were able to watch movies.
When we stepped of the plane in London, it was a whole new world! I had heard about the differences between the United States and London, but this was so different. The busy people walked along the streets in a hurry to get to their destinations. There were so many wonderful things that happened in London, but my favorite memory was when I was given the chance to see the Broadway show Wicked! After three days in London, we made our way past the regal white cliffs of Dover to a ferry that would take us to Paris. The ferry ride was pleasant.
When we arrived to Paris, France, it was definitely not what I had expected. There were so many people! I saw so much and experienced new foods that astounded my taste buds! My favorite part of Paris was seeing the majestic and beautiful Notre Dame cathedral. Walking into the vast double doors of this cathedral was intimidating; there was so much to take in.
Following our time in Paris, we voyaged to a small town called Crans Montana, Switzerland. This I would have to say was my favorite part of this tour. This sweet little town reminded me of home. I have to state, after spending six days in two huge cities, I was getting a little homesick, and it did not help that I was overwhelmed with the fact that I understood very little French. The air was cool, crisp, and clean; the weather reminded me of Wyoming: ever changing and unexpected. I had the most wonderful view of the marvelously breathtaking mountains. I did so much shopping in this town; I bought some sweet and silky Swiss chocolate. Just thinking about it makes my taste buds swirl. I also bought a cuckoo clock for my mother. The much loved part of this destination that I so enjoyed was the Swiss cheese fondue party the town people threw for us. The taught us many styles of dancing, while we laughed and enjoyed the time we had with these wonderful people. I do so wish I could explain more about these wonderful places. I learned and grew so much last summer. I had an experience of a lifetime that I know I will never forget.
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