Day 1-3

Bienvenue.

Guadeloupe is an overseas region of France in the Caribbean’s Lesser Antilles and our French studies department for the next three weeks. It’s actually comprised of two islands — Basse-Terre which boasts towering mountains and lush tropical forests, and Grande-Terre with its white sandy beaches and thriving coral reefs. This is our jumping off point for a French Immersion adventure that will ultimately lead to greater proficiency in French and a deeper appreciation of the French Creole culture. Eager to get started, we head out on a hiking excursion in Guadeloupe's spectacular jungle terrain. It’s clear why the Carib Indians called this place Karukera or 'Island of Beautiful Waters' as we kayak to our campsite on the tiny Macou Island. The history of the French West Indies comes alive experientially. As the evening sets in, we anxiously anticipate the next phase of our learning adventure.

Day 4-9

A culture experience you have to experience.

The Caribbean island ecology completely enchants us. Sainte Anne grabs hold with its beautiful beaches, swaying palm trees and quaint village. Here we begin our formal French language studies. We spend our mornings at our school, Inter Média Langue Caraïbes, studying and conversing with experienced language instructors in small groups. In the afternoons we take it out into the streets, conversing in real world settings and soaking up the festive island atmosphere. Visit vibrant local markets where women dressed in colorful Creole attire sell everything from fresh mangoes and papayas to local Caribbean crafts. Haggle — in French! Participate in drumming, traditional art and cooking workshops, and learn the history of the Creole culture through hands-on experience.

Day 10-11

Study break.

Try your hand at surfing in the turquoise blue water off the shores of St. François. Our experienced French surfing instructors teach us the art of catching the perfect wave. Each wave carries you deeper into the soul of French Caribbean culture.

Day 12-16

Welcome home stay.

Our language exploration continues in Sainte Anne, where we stay with host families who welcome us into their homes. Mornings continue to be spent in formal language instruction, while afternoons are spent working on service projects. Projects may include helping out at a day camp for local children or working with an organization that assists the needy. Students also take on an oral history project in the local community. In the evenings, share stories from your day as you eat dinner with your family. For just under a week, become a real part of the island community, living, working and playing alongside native speakers. There’s no better way to learn French.

Day 17-21

À la prochaine fois.

Our final adventure in the French West Indies takes place aboard a 50-foot catamaran. Set sail to the nearby Iles des Saintes. Feel as though you've traveled back in time as you discover charming villages, spectacular white sand beaches and a landscape scattered with nineteenth century windmills. The islands offer unspoiled tropical beauty and some of the best snorkeling in the area. We’re speaking French the entire time as we hop from one breathtaking island to another. By the end of the journey, we think back on all that we have seen and experienced. We take pride in how our far understanding of French language, vocabulary, history and culture has grown. And we consider our place in the world and how this journey will shape all others that follow.