Hornets Take Flight
Summer Trip to Ireland and Scotland Yields New Experiences
Gracia Padilla Carranco, Staff Writer
September 5, 2023
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Photo By: Jake Talamantez
SCOTLAND AND IRELAND—Not many teens can say that they have traveled the world but thanks to Flour Bluff High School, a select few went to Ireland and Scotland this past summer. Three of those who ventured from the highschool campus to explore the wonders and rich history of Ireland and Scotland had a lot to say about their experiences overseas.
Throughout the trip, the group visited numerous historical sites and learned about the kings and queens who ruled centuries ago.
“We visited Dublin Ireland, Belfast Ireland, Glasgow Scotland and Edinburgh Scotland. We also visited famous castles” said Natalie Salinas.
The famous castles they viewed are very meaningful to the area. The group experienced a journey like no other. Natalie Salinas stated that the area was “cool and very different from here” as well as “unique and very pretty.”
One of the most extraordinary features of the journey was the rich culture that presented itself at every turn. The group had learned about how residents lived on a daily basis and were very stunned by the difference in lifestyle compared to what they are used to back home. The group also ate foods such as fish and chips and lots of beef.
According to junior Violet Valdez, “It was really good, but really tiring actually. The second flight was super long. We learned a lot about there history of Belfast and we went to this neighborhood and saw a lot murals In the end it was worth it.”
The teens visited St. Patrick’s Cathedral and were impressed by the impressive flags that were centuries old and stories of times long past.
The teens did notice a substantial difference in food preferences, remarking that America has an intense love for sugar while the Scottish and the Irish preferred veggies and potatoes. Jake Talamantez felt that his favorite place was Edinburgh in Trem, Ireland. He enjoyed the food, although he stated “The food was amazing but I did get tired of eating peas everyday.”
Violet Valdez said “The food was definitely different. It was very funky and tasted fresh”.
Despite the differences they experienced, the group agreed about one thing: the scenery and landscape was absolutely stunning, and the living standards were quite different in Ireland and Scotland than back home. As Natalie Salinas said “livingwise, it was better over there than over here.”
It was an unforgettable experience for everyone involved and a once in a lifetime opportunity.
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