Girl Scouts Embark on an Unforgettable European Adventure
August 15, 2023
A group of eight determined and adventurous Cadette Girl Scouts recently returned from an extraordinary trip to London, England and Paris, France. Through their hard work and dedication to researching, planning, and saving money from cookie sales the past three-plus years, these young girls were able to embark on an educational and cultural experience that they will hold in their memories forever.
From the bustling streets of London to the historic landmarks of Paris, Troop 33017 explored the rich history, art, and culture of these two iconic cities.
In London, the girls rode the London Eye; watched the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace; explored Covent Garden, Paddington Station, and Borough Market; tried their hands at mudlarking; and took part in a pinning ceremony at PAX Lodge, a Girl Scout World Center!
In Paris, the troop climbed the steps of Montmartre to view the Sacre Coeur, cruised the Seine River, saw the sights, toured Versailles and the Louvre museum, as well as spent a day at Disneyland Paris!
This incredible opportunity not only broadened their understandings of the world, but also empowered them with a global perspective.
"We learned a lot about geography, the history of different royal families, and other cool figures who contributed to Paris' and London’s history." said Girl Scout Abby D. "This trip helped us see and acknowledge details from a point of view that we don't see on a regular basis. We also grew on this trip by learning how to adapt to different lifestyles around the world."
Girl Scout Maddy L. told her troop leader that traveling internationally with her troop helped give her the confidence to navigate new places, which is what Girl Scouting is all about—building girls of courage, confidence, and character.
“After seeing our girls traveling this summer, I think international travel gives Girl Scouts a fresh perspective of the world and people around them,” said Troop Leader Catherine Vasquez. “As Maddy told me, it prepares the girls for navigating new places on their own. Visiting France, especially, helped show the girls what it can feel like navigating spaces where the language is not familiar.”
Before Troop 33017 ventured to Europe, the troop reviewed travel tips, packing suggestions, and currency knowledge, as well as learned some basic French words and phrases over the course of several months. The troop also traveled to Girl Scout Founder Juliette Gordon Low’s birthplace in Savannah, Georgia, to learn about each girl's traveling habits, in anticipation of their international trip.
Juliette Gordon Low once said, “Girl Scouting and Girl Guiding can be the magic thread which links the youth of the world together.” Her words stand true today for young girls at Girl Scouts of West Central Florida.
Girl Scouts believe every girl deserves a chance to see the world. GSWCF offers many different travel opportunities so girls can see new places, meet new people, and learn about different cultures and ideas. Whether exploring unfamiliar places through overnight camping trips, international troop travel, or Girl Scout Destination trips, Girl Scouts are continually expanding their horizons.
Girl Scouts in Troop 33017 definitely expanded their horizons, and Juliette Gordon Low would be proud.
Girl Scouts on this trip: Jacinta B., Eadie D., Abby D., Lily D., Hillary D., Maddy L., Ava T., Addison V.
Adult Leaders on this trip: Catherine Vazquez, Jennifer DiOnne.
To learn more about traveling with Girl Scouts, click here.
