Learn Upstate International Learning Experience: Italy 2027
May 23rd - May 30th, 2027
In May 2027, Learn Upstate invites families from across the Upstate of South Carolina — homeschool, public, and private school — to join us for an immersive educational journey through Italy, including Venice, Florence, Rome, Naples, and Pompeii.
This experience blends history, culture, food, and hands-on learning into a guided, thoughtfully paced international trip designed to deepen understanding far beyond the classroom.
What Makes This Trip Different
This is not a sightseeing tour. It’s a learning experience.
Students will:
- Explore world history in the places where it happened
- Engage in guided tours led by local experts
- Participate in hands-on cultural experiences
- Learn through movement, discussion, and real-world context
Highlights include:
- Guided tours of St. Mark’s Basilica, the Vatican, the Colosseum, and Pompeii
- Visits to Florence’s Uffizi or Accademia Gallery
- A pizza and gelato cooking class
- A climb of Brunelleschi’s Dome
- Gladiator School in Rome
- Day trip to Naples and Pompeii.
Sample Itinerary Overview
- Venice: Arrival, walking tours, optional gondola ride
- Florence: Art history, markets, cooking class, and panoramic views
- Rome: Ancient history, Vatican City, Colosseum, Gladiator School
- Naples & Pompeii: Archaeological exploration and cultural immersion
The full trip spans 8 days, including international travel days, with all lodging, transportation, and activities arranged in advance.
Who This is For
This experience is ideal for:
- Students who learn best through real-world experiences
- Families interested in educational travel
- Learners ready to engage thoughtfully with history and culture
Participation is intentionally limited to ensure a supportive, well-managed experience.
Interested in learning more?
If you’d like additional details or want to be notified as planning continues, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact:
📧 bhallmark@learnupstate.com
📞 (864) 844-9596
About Your Trip Leader
Learn Upstate's Italy experience is led by Brandi Hallmark, owner of Learn Upstate and Founder of Liberty Oaks Academy, who has helped lead groups to Israel twice and traveled through Greece, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
On the ground in Italy, the group will be guided by Boaz Shalgi, a professional guide who leads trips through Italy, Greece, and Israel year-round. Brandi's family has known and traveled with him for more than twenty years.
Brandi will be traveling with her own two daughters in 2027 — the same trip, the same group.