Braeburn Annual International Trip to Germany, France, Spain & Monaco

Our journey from Nairobi marked the beginning of an adventure we will never forget. We set off full of excitement, with a long journey ahead that included a layover in Doha before reaching Germany. Hamad International Airport amazed us with its size and modern design – it felt like stepping into another world.

Upon arriving in Frankfurt, we explored the old town where books were once burned, visited a beautiful historical church with stunning Gothic architecture, and admired several monuments that told the city’s story. A stop at Freizeitpark, a playground with farm animals, added a light-hearted and relaxing end to the day.

In Munich, visiting the BMW Museum was an unforgettable experience, especially for car enthusiasts. The building’s sleek architecture and modern design were impressive, and the exhibits showcased BMW’s evolution from classic models to futuristic creations. Interactive displays, beautifully restored vehicles, and cutting-edge engineering made it both educational and inspiring.

From Germany, we took a short flight to France. Although the journey lasted just an hour, watching the clouds and the soft light from the aeroplane window made it feel much longer. Nice welcomed us with sunshine, blue skies, and beautiful scenery.

Our visit to Monaco and Monte Carlo felt like walking through a film set. The luxurious yachts, the elegant streets, and the supercars gliding by were breathtaking. Beyond the glamour, it was inspiring to see how ambition and discipline shaped the success around us. Monaco showed us that wealth is not just about money – it is about passion, focus, and determination.

A visit to the Fragonard Perfume Factory in Grasse was another highlight. We learnt about the history of perfume, the importance of natural oils, and the artistry involved in scent creation. The scent-identifying game turned out to be harder than expected but added plenty of laughter to the experience.

The next part of our journey took us to the French Riviera, where we explored Cannes and Antibes. Walking along the Cannes promenade, where the world-famous film festival takes place, was surreal. The glamour of the beach and the charm of the old town blended perfectly. Antibes, quieter but equally beautiful, offered peaceful sea views and an artistic atmosphere. The two towns, so different yet complementary, made the experience unforgettable.

Our next stop was Spain. The bus ride to Barcelona was long but scenic, offering glimpses of the Mediterranean coast and the vibrant architecture that awaited us. That evening, we attended a traditional Flamenco Dinner Show. The music, singing, and dancing filled the room with energy. Some of us even joined the performers on stage – shy at first, but it turned into a fun and memorable experience. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere captured the heart of Spanish culture.

One of the most memorable experiences in Barcelona was the Montjuïc Cable Car ride, which offered breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city. From high above, we could see the coastline, colourful buildings, and landmarks such as the Sagrada Família shining in the sun. Later, we explored Park Güell, with its bright mosaics, imaginative designs, and peaceful gardens. It felt like walking through a piece of art.

Meanwhile, another group visited the EU Business School. Touring its modern campus, speaking to staff, and learning about international study programmes gave us valuable insight into higher education opportunities abroad. The experience was both eye-opening and motivating.

In our final days, we enjoyed shopping in Barcelona, exploring stores such as Zara, H&M, and other international brands unavailable back home. It was a fun opportunity to buy gifts and souvenirs to remember the trip. Some students opted to attend a thrilling football match between Barcelona and Girona instead. The energy in the stadium was electric, and when Barcelona scored a last-minute goal to win 2–1, the entire crowd erupted with excitement. Watching world-class players live was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Our final journey took us by train to Madrid, offering one last view of Spain’s picturesque landscapes. As we prepared to fly back to Nairobi, we reflected on all the incredible experiences we had shared – from the history and innovation of Germany, to the elegance of France, and the colour and passion of Spain.

The trip was more than a tour of Europe; it was a journey of discovery, learning, and inspiration. We returned home with unforgettable memories, stronger friendships, and a renewed sense of curiosity about the world beyond our classrooms.

Written by: Anna, Cong Li, Atharva, Marzouq Munir Ahmed and Hayley-Nadine