A Journey Begins
On Sunday, June 28, 2026, our German School Campus Sprachreise 2026 officially began as our students departed from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for Germany. After arriving safely in Frankfurt the following day, they were warmly welcomed by our local team before traveling to their host families in and around Bayreuth.
Living with German host families is one of the most meaningful aspects of the Sprachreise. From the very first day, students began experiencing everyday life in Germany, practicing their German in authentic situations, and building friendships that extend far beyond the classroom.
With excitement, curiosity, and a little jet lag, they settled into their new homes and prepared for an unforgettable first week.
Exploring Franconia
The first days were filled with cultural discoveries and outdoor adventures. Students visited the world-famous Margravial Opera House in Bayreuth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site closely connected to the legacy of Richard Wagner.
The weather brought a change of plans when heavy rain delayed the scheduled canoe trip on the River Wisent. Instead, students explored the fascinating Sophie’s Cave (Tropfsteinhöhle), enjoyed an impressive falconry demonstration, toured Schloss Rabenstein, and shared lunch.
One culinary highlight quickly became a favorite: Currywurst. After hearing so much about this traditional German dish during class throughout the school year, nearly every student eagerly decided to try it for the first time.
Later that day, the weather cleared, allowing everyone to enjoy the postponed canoe adventure through the beautiful Franconian countryside.
Innovation Meets Language Learning
Midweek, students participated in the F.A.B.L.A.B. MINT Program in Bayreuth, where language learning met innovation.
Working in a modern makerspace, they explored robotics, engineering, digital design, and other STEM (MINT) activities through hands-on projects. Designing, building, experimenting, and collaborating allowed students to strengthen both their technical skills and their German language abilities while working in an authentic German educational environment.
The experience demonstrated how language learning becomes even more meaningful when combined with creativity, teamwork, and real-world applications.
A Step Back in Time: Rothenburg ob der Tauber
One of the week’s highlights was the excursion to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval towns.
Walking through narrow cobblestone streets, passing colorful half-timbered houses, ancient city walls, and historic market squares gave students a vivid impression of Germany’s rich history and cultural heritage. Experiencing these places in person transformed classroom lessons into living history.
Christmas in the Middle of Summer
While in Rothenburg, students also visited the famous Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village, where Christmas traditions are celebrated throughout the year.
They explored handcrafted ornaments, traditional nutcrackers, wooden pyramids, music boxes, and many other examples of German craftsmanship. Many also visited the German Christmas Museum to learn how German Christmas customs have developed over the centuries and influenced holiday traditions around the world.
Driving back through the Franconian countryside, students admired Germany’s rolling green landscapes, another memorable part of their cultural experience.
Weekend with the Host Families
The weekend was dedicated entirely to life with the host families.
Students experienced authentic German family life through activities that reflected everyday culture and community. They enjoyed bike rides through the countryside, visits to local farms, horseback activities, music-making together, community festivals, mini golf, sightseeing, and relaxing evenings around a fire, making s’mores.
These shared experiences gave students countless opportunities to speak German naturally while becoming part of family life. Whether helping prepare meals, exploring local neighborhoods, or simply spending time together, every conversation contributed to their growing language confidence.
Language Learning Beyond the Classroom
Week one of the German School Campus Sprachreise 2026 has already shown that language learning extends far beyond textbooks. Every conversation with a host family, every cultural excursion, every museum visit, every meal, and every shared activity provides authentic opportunities to strengthen German language skills while gaining a deeper understanding of German culture.
Our sincere thanks go to our outstanding host families, whose warmth, generosity, and hospitality have made our students feel welcome from the very first day. Their support creates an environment where language, culture, and friendships come together in the most meaningful way.
As the program continues, we look forward to many more educational experiences, cultural discoveries, and unforgettable memories during the weeks ahead.
