by Alexander Apoolingum 8G

Our trip to Gredos was the most exciting, enthralling, and sometimes exhausting, trip I have been on so far. Filled with fun
moments and ample times to show off our skills in various expertises, ranging from mountain biking, to cooking, to archery,
it was certainly an unforgettable experience for everyone who went.

Our Monday was filled up with last minute checks in the morning, and then a frantic dash to school to ensure we didn't miss
the coach. As we waved goodbye to our parents, the sadness was quickly replaced with anticipation of what would ensue.
Just over 8 hours later, we took our first steps in Spain, travelling around the airport and collecting our suitcases. We
continued onwards, arriving at 3:00 in Gredos.

Tuesday was an exhausting day, featuring a challenging adventure park and a hot nature walk with little shade, where large
insects made many cautious. Despite running on just a few hours of sleep, most people were eager to play football afterward
—a game that, though played unconventionally with a volleyball and handball goals in sand, became our main source of
entertainment over the next five days.

With Wednesday came 4 new activities, including archery and film-making, which we had great fun doing; rewatching our
films with everyone else evoked lots of laughs and cheers. In archery, the winning group received a keychain in the shape of
an arrow, which you might see dangling off people's bags in the years to come. Furthermore, we were also able to watch the
football match between PSG and Real Madrid. The Gredos staff weren't too happy after a heavy Real Madrid loss!

Thursday was the day that everyone was looking forward to for one reason. We were going to the market! As everyone
woke up, there were avid conversations on what would be bought. Luckily, it did not disappoint! Slushies and football shirts
were the most common things to see as we cooled off on a hot day. After roaming around the small town of Navarredonda
de Gredos for an activity, we returned back to partake in more fun. For us, the day ended after we put up a tent, and caught
insects who lived nearby.

On the next day, we did mountain biking and cooking, in which we made tortilla de patatas. I have to say, we were all
impressed with our cooking skills as the tortillas tasted truly delectable. In the afternoon, we travelled to a natural swimming
pool. Although it chilled most of us to the core, most people still jumped in, not averse to splashing others too. Not to forget,
the sun was there to warm us up.

On the final day, we left at around 11:30, stopping in Avila to buy some more souvenirs and ice creams. Our flight left on
time and we arrived back at 10:30 in the evening. When we saw our parents this time, we had many more memories and
new skills learnt that I know we will all remember for a very long time to come. This was truly an unforgettable trip!