Destination: US East Coast

There are many famous landmarks in the east coast of the USA, not least the city of New York which few international students can be unfamiliar with due to the many blockbuster films set in this world famous city. Located in the heart of New York is Manhattan Language and Bonita Vander at the school describes the city as a “24/7 town”. She adds, “The city wakes early and shuts down very late if at all! There is always something to do or to see and even when a person has some down time – sitting on a park bench or waiting in a line or just walking the city without a set destination, there is the never-ending fun of people watching.”

For younger secondary-school aged students, New York state also offers numerous attractions and opportunities, as Alex Dekhterman from American Dream International #forthepeople explains. “New York City is an ideal destination for international students. With world-renowned universities like Columbia University, New York University (NYU), and The City University of New York (CUNY), NYC provides top-tier education across a range of disciplines. The city’s vast network of industries—finance, technology, arts, media, and more—creates abundant internship and job prospects, while its iconic landmarks, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods offer countless ways to explore and connect.”

EF Academy New York, which is located 45 minutes away from the city of New York, combines “the safety and community of small-town American living with the proximity of New York City and all it has to offer”, according to Brad Park at the school. He adds, “As a boarding school, we offer amazing opportunities each week for students to explore New York City, as well as the beautiful Hudson River Valley. Students stroll through Central Park, experience the thrills of Six Flags amusement park, root for the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium, pick apples with friends at a nearby orchard, study great works of art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, analyse the water quality of the Hudson River for Marine Biology class, and so much more.”

In the most southerly state of Florida, Christine Sowers from The King’s Academy on West Palm Beach says that the beaches and warm weather are the main attraction for students. She adds, “West Palm Beach is known for its beautiful waterfront, upscale neighborhoods, and vibrant arts and culture scene. It boasts attractions like Clematis Street for dining and nightlife, the Norton Museum of Art, and the annual SunFest music festival. Florida, as a state, is famous for its warm weather, theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, the Everglades National Park, and its diverse ecosystems. It’s also celebrated for its beaches, including Miami Beach, Clearwater, and the Florida Keys.”

Known as the sunshine state, Shireen Hussain from ELS Language Centers St Petersburg says that Florida is a haven for nature lovers. “Nature lovers can explore the Everglades, a unique subtropical wilderness teeming with wildlife, or the stunning coral reefs in the Florida Keys. From cosmopolitan shopping districts to quiet seaside towns, Florida offers a bit of everything.”

Laura Galindo from Open Hearts Language Academy in Florida points out the academic benefits of studying in the state, particularly for those intent on continuing on to university study after their language course. “Studying English at OHLA Schools allows students to improve their language skills in an international environment while experiencing one of the most dynamic regions in the United States. Additionally, Florida is home to top-ranking universities, several of which are OHLA Pathway Partners,” she says.

Meanwhile for those interested in history, John Catlett from ELS Language Centers Philadelphia says that the city is known for being a city of firsts. “It is home to the first library, hospital, art museum, zoo, and even computer in the USA. Philly, as it is known colloquially, is famous for its rich history as the birthplace of American democracy, with landmarks like Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.”

In Southborough, MA, Nicola Casey from Fay School says that the school is located in an area known as New England, famous for its old-world charm. She adds, “Worcester, MA, the second-largest city in the state, has many hidden gems. Fay students often visit the Worcester Art Museum, attend WooSox baseball games, and catch a touring Broadway show at the Hanover Theatre. Fay’s boarding students frequently visit Harvard Square in Boston. The streets are lined with unique cafes, bookstores, cinemas, and shops, and everything is centred around Harvard University.”

Hidden gems

“A hidden gem in New York City is The Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art located in Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan. This serene museum is dedicated to the art, architecture, and gardens of Medieval Europe. It is housed in a building designed to resemble a Medieval monastery, with stunning architecture, tranquil courtyards, and beautiful views of the Hudson River.”

Alex Dekhterman, American Dream Intl

“For something a bit different, explore the Magic Gardens, a stunning maze of mosaic art created by local artist Isaiah Zagar. It’s a hidden gem tucked away from the hustle and bustle of shops and restaurants on South Street. Philadelphia has more murals than any other city in the world and even more public art, so keep your eyes open…literally!”

John Catlett, ELS Philadelphia

“Enjoy some seafood at Oyster Bar in Grand Central Terminal in New York City, and try the whispering gallery with a friend when you are finished.”

Heather Barikmo, English Language Center, LaGuardia Community College

“For something truly unique, international students should try a dolphin boat tour in the Indian River Lagoon (Florida). The scenic views of the lagoon, combined with the chance to spot wildlife such as manatees, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species, make this an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.”

Derek Thomas, ELS Language Centers Melbourne