With its maze of alleyways and bridges leading out to the cafes, performers and pigeons of St. Mark Square, there is something undeniably charming about Venice. But during Carnevale, the city is even more magical. During this Venetian equivalent of Mardi Gras, the streets are sprinkled with confetti by revelers strolling the piazzas in jeweled masks. And like festivals and holidays in many cities, Carnevale is a great event that can add extra excitement to your tour.

In fact, whether you’ll be enjoying a mariachi band on Cinco de Mayo in Mexico or dancing in an Irish céilí on St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, planning your tour around a holiday or world event can enhance your already amazing trip—and really bring your lesson plan to life. For example, what better way to emphasize that unit on the French Revolution than to take your students to see a Bastille Day parade down the flag-lined Champs-Élysées? Any trip to France would give them a chance to practice their French and visit important historical sites, but participating in a celebration comparable to our own Independence Day could finally help them appreciate the historical significance of the storming of the Bastille.

Last summer, thousands of students were able to experience Europe during the World Cup Tournament. And even groups traveling outside of Germany were able to be a part of the excitement, following their favorite teams as they traveled from city to city on their normal itinerary. The wonderful experience of simply being abroad for the first time was enhanced by the added bonus of getting caught up on location in a world-wide event. Despite the fact that it’ll be another three years before the next World Cup Tournament, there are already some great events lined up for summer 2008.

For a full week next summer, about a half million young people from all over the world will make a pilgrimage to Sydney for World Youth Day 2008. Explorica has put together several Value Package tours of Australia & New Zealand with this historic event in mind. Take part in Pope Benedict XVI's World Youth Day appearance and then complete your trip by snorkeling through the Great Barrier Reef or visiting the famed Ayers Rock.

Also, sports fans have an incredible opportunity in China next year. After touring the Great Wall and the Terra Cotta soldiers of Xi’an, stick around Beijing to see the lighting of the Olympic torch, and to cheer on fellow Americans as they compete for the gold. Booking one of Explorica’s China tours and then organizing a stay-behind in Beijing would make for a great summer vacation.

Whatever your interests, planning a tour around a special event or holiday is a unique way to give your students an in-depth cultural experience. For more information on upcoming tours, please contact your Program Consultant or visit Explorica.com.