El Viaje de su Vida: Group enjoys ‘trip of a lifetime’ to Europe

While fireworks were launched into the night sky, four-course meals were served and time was spent with family as Americans celebrated Independence Day, a group of 17 travellers from Greybull celebrated a little bit differently this year. Their Fourth of July included foreign beaches, ancient European architecture and rushed connection flights.
Landing in in the metropolitan city of Barcelona, Spain, travelers ventured through the deserts and beachside towns of Spain, over the Pyrenees Mountains and through the French countryside until reaching their final destination of Paris, France.
Led by Greybull High School Spanish Club instructor and Spanish teacher, Tim Eardley, the biennial trip to Spanish-speaking countries concluded on July 6th with nine days devoted to exploring the origins of the language. Typically, the trip is targeted at current students and recent graduates, but this year’s trip included more travelers who were not currently attending GHS, but rather members of the community interested in seeing what the world has to offer
Eardley partners with EF Tours to provide tour guides, affordable accommodation, meals and transportation. Although it is an official Spanish Club trip, Eardley always invites parents and relatives, as well as locals in the wider community, who want to explore other countries, to chaperone the tours.
“Overall, it truly was the trip of a lifetime! We experienced new cultures, met new people, visited ancient sites, ate exciting new food and practiced our Spanish. We learned, smiled and laughed a lot,” said Eardley. “We started in Barcelona, travelled to Pamplona and ended in Paris. We tried to see and do all that we possibly could. Our group was very positive and flexible, which made for an outstanding trip!
“We all had tons of fun and, at the same time, travelers became better global citizens by learning about and accepting new cultures and sharing ours.  This trip will help travelers make the world a better place by understanding it on a deeper level and working to improve it. It helped students appreciate what we have here.
“I love our small-town community of Greybull, but always encourage others to see the world and then bring the best of it back home. Our Spanish Club trips change lives and are cherished by all. We appreciate all the support and everyone who made this trip possible.”
The trip captured the attention of many community members, including Christopher Dalin, who went with his nephew, Chris Dalin
“I’ve always wanted to go to Europe, my nephew expressed interest so we just went for it,” explained Dalin. “It was amazing. The architecture and craftsmanship were incredible. The history behind everything was difficult to really grasp; buildings and structures dating back before the Romans, the influences of Carthage, [to the] Greek to Arab to Roman.
“The architectural and civil works devoted to God were soul stirring and inspiring. In France, it was similar, but a much wealthier version than Spain. Again, the architectural works were breathtaking.
“EF Tours did a wonderful job of capturing the essence of Spain and France for our group. Mr. Eardley went above and beyond with his leadership during this trip. Our group made it a truly memorable and unique experience. 10/10, would go again.”
Greybull High School custodian Sean Patrick also took advantage of the opportunity.
“I’ve always wanted to go somewhere in Europe, but wasn’t sure where to go first, so when this trip opportunity came up, I couldn’t say no. I’ve also been intimidated by all of the planning: flights, hotels, transportation, as well as what to do and how to communicate! To have everything planned for me and to have a translator if needed, it was a no brain-er that I HAD to go,” Patrick said.
The experience not only brought together the community, but immersed them in two major parts of European culture.
“I thought it was really cool. Two very different countries culture wise,” rising senior Cole Wisehart said. “It was interesting going with a big group because I never have done that before, but I didn’t really mind it because we all got along. I definitely loved being at the beach and seeing the Eiffel Tower.”
After returning from their journey abroad, memories and experiences were held close to heart. Travelers brought home souvenirs and sore feet, but the chance to experience places so different than their own was once in a lifetime.