From February 2nd to February 5th, students from the Hotel Gastronomy faculty at BS-Kehl (Berufsschule Kehl) had the incredible opportunity to visit Paris as part of an intercontinental exchange program funded by Erasmus+. This program is designed to promote cultural understanding and strengthen cooperation between European countries. Over the course of the exchange, 26 students from a variety of backgrounds and nationalities came together to not just explore a new country, but to experience a city that’s on nearly everyone’s travel bucket list: Paris.
The Erasmus+ program offers students the unique opportunity to experience European culture beyond the classroom. For many, this exchange is not just about sightseeing; it’s about gaining a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures within the European Union. By living and working in different countries, students can explore the complexities of European life—both the positives and the challenges. This holistic experience enriches their perspective, helping them to see Europe not only as a place of work but as a continent filled with rich history, diverse cultures, and multifaceted opportunities.
BS-Kehl, as a German Erasmus+ partner institution, has a long-standing partnership with Lycée René Auffray, a vocational school in France that offers a unique approach to education. Unlike the German system, where students divide their time between work and vocational school, France’s system is distinctive in that students complete both their studies and hands-on work experience under the same roof. For students aged 15 to 18, this means spending three years in the same building, gaining invaluable experience and confidence while mastering their craft in a real-world setting, all within a controlled learning environment.
We were fortunate to receive a guided tour of the school, exploring various departments, including the hotel and restaurant operations. The facilities were equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and it was truly inspiring to see students actively engaged in their studies as we walked by. What struck us the most was the realization of how young these students were, and yet, by the time they turn 18, they will have accumulated a wealth of hands-on experience. It’s truly remarkable to witness such dedication and skill development at such an early age—an extraordinary learning environment in every sense.
Staying at the Lycée René Auffray’s on-site hotel was an unforgettable experience. The accommodation services were top-notch, ensuring a restful stay with a delicious breakfast every morning. On top of that, the students themselves were responsible for running the hotel shifts, offering a truly immersive experience in hospitality, while giving the visiting students a unique glimpse into their day-to-day operations.
Every day we left the hotel to experience Paris, there was never a dull moment. Our group got to know each other as we underground through Paris from Clichy, bonds were created over one mission – to get to see as much as possible in Paris. Amongst the many places we went, these are the places that stook out for us
Each day in Paris was an adventure, and one of the first landmarks we encountered was the iconic Eiffel Tower. Standing tall against the Paris skyline, it was a moment of awe for all of us. Whether it was admiring the view from the ground or making our way to the top for a panoramic view of the city, the Eiffel Tower is a symbol of Paris, and seeing it in person was nothing short of breathtaking.
Our cultural immersion continued at the D’Orsay Museum, home to a remarkable collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. The museum, housed in a former railway station, offered us an intimate glimpse into the works of Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. As art lovers, we felt truly privileged to walk through the halls where history and creativity merged so beautifully.
Our cultural immersion continued at the D’Orsay Museum, home to a remarkable collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. The museum, housed in a former railway station, offered us an intimate glimpse into the works of Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. As art lovers, we felt truly privileged to walk through the halls where history and creativity merged so beautifully.
The Arc de Triomphe stood as a monumental testament to France’s military history and national pride. We marveled at its intricate sculptures and inscriptions while reflecting on the significant events it commemorates. Standing at the base of this colossal structure, it was easy to imagine the parades and celebrations that take place around it, marking victories and remembering sacrifices.
A trip to the stunning Sacré-Cœur basilica on the highest point of Paris was an unforgettable experience. The white domes of the basilica gleamed in the sunlight, and the view from the top was unparalleled. As we took in the sights of the city below, we were struck by the peaceful atmosphere that surrounded this sacred place, offering both spiritual solace and breathtaking vistas.
For those with a penchant for luxury, a stop at the Louis Vuitton flagship store was a must. With its sleek and modern architecture, the store itself was a work of art. As we strolled through the displays, we were immersed in the world of high fashion, learning about the craftsmanship behind one of the most prestigious brands in the world.
Being part of this year’s Erasmus+ cohort was truly an honor. This trip not only deepened our understanding of Paris, but also allowed us to connect with some incredible people along the way. The memories and lessons we’ve gathered will stay with us long after we’ve returned home. I sincerely hope future cohorts have the chance to experience the same magic and growth that we did.
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