At Xperitas, we believe that travel is about more than just sightseeing. It's about connecting with the people, culture, and community in a way that transforms your perspective. This summer, we were thrilled to partner with the American Association of Teachers of German (AATG) to create an unforgettable journey for high school seniors—a trip that blended language immersion, cultural discovery, and personal growth.
Our inaugural AATG-Xperitas Summer Program was a remarkable experience for the students who participated. This program, designed for rising and graduating high school seniors, gave them the unique opportunity to experience German culture firsthand, build meaningful relationships with local families, and improve their language skills in an immersive environment. It was an adventure that truly embodied the spirit of Xperitas: fostering genuine connections between participants and the communities they visit.
The Heart of the Program
A True Immersion Experience
The AATG-Xperitas Summer Program began in the vibrant city of Munich, known for its rich blend of tradition, culture, and modernity. Students explored the city on bicycle and foot, visited great museums and real castles. Then the real adventure began. Students were immersed in the German language and culture by experiencing everyday life with their host family. They practiced their German skills in a real-world settings while forming lasting friendships. The program ended in the city of Cologne where students learned about Cologne’s Roman history and enjoyed views from the magnificent Kölner Dom, the tallest cathedral in the world.
Participants were not just passive tourists; they were active members of the community. The students' experiences were designed to deepen their understanding of Germany’s rich cultural heritage and history, while also allowing them to learn about daily life in the country.
A crucial component of the program was the language immersion aspect. Students were encouraged to speak German as much as possible, both with their host families while travelling as a group. This hands-on approach to learning helped students improve their fluency, confidence, and understanding of the language.
Watch the 2025 recap video, courtesy of 2025 Program Leader Christina McDade.
Building Connections for a Lifetime
For high school seniors looking to deepen their understanding of the German language and culture, the AATG-Xperitas Summer Program is the perfect opportunity. By spending time with host families, exploring Germany’s diverse regions, and engaging in immersive cultural activities, students build more than just language skills—they build lifelong memories and friendships.
At Xperitas, we are passionate about providing students with the tools to connect with others in meaningful ways, and the AATG Summer Program does just that. We are excited to continue our partnership with AATG and offer even more students the chance to embark on life-changing journeys of cultural exchange.
Join Us for the Next Adventure!
As we reflect on the success of our first summer program, we can’t help but feel excited about what’s to come. There will be more opportunities to experience Germany in a way that is authentic, enriching, and impactful. If you’re a rising or graduating high school senior looking for an immersive travel experience that will open doors to new perspectives, we encourage you to check out the upcoming AATG-Xperitas programs.
For more information about the program and to see how you can get involved, visit:
Have you seen our 2 NEW programs?
We can’t wait to welcome the next group of explorers into this incredible experience!