One of the most beloved traditions at BASIS Independent McLean is the international Project Week trips—a time when students immerse themselves in multidisciplinary projects, collaborative activities, and, of course, journeys beyond the city, state, or even country. These experiences take place after students complete their final exams and assessments, all under the guidance of dedicated teachers.

This year, four groups of Middle and High School students ventured abroad—to Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. Today, we are excited to showcase the third group’s trip to Asia, led by our Mandarin teacher, Ms. Li, and our Spanish teacher, Mr. Diaz!

---

Singapore and Taiwan, two jewels of Southeast and East Asia, offer distinct cultures, histories, and landscapes. While cool winds still graced the East Coast, BIM students and parents set off for these two islands, both in full bloom under the humid summer heat.

Follow the photo gallery for a glimpse into this exciting and unforgettable journey!

Day 1—2: USA >> Singapore

After a long flight, the BIM group arrived in Singapore, ready to begin their journey!

Day 3: Singapore

Esplanade Park, Merlion Park, Singapore River, Raffles Hotel, China Square Central, Buddha Tooth Relic, Henderson Waves, Little India Singapore, Botanic Garden, Garden Rhapsody Show at Gardens by the Bay

Jet lag and the 12-hour time difference could not stop our students’ eagerness to explore. Today entailed plenty of walking. Students, parents, and teachers visited many iconic sites that told the story of Singapore’s diverse population and culture, as well as the results of its rapid development.

Day 4: Singapore >> Taipei

Estimated travel time: 4-5 hours on the airplane.

Day 5: Taipei

The Grand Hotel, Yangmingshan National Park, Presidential Square, National Palace Museum, National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine, Shilin Night Market

The group picked up their pace again the next day, delving into the city of Taipei. From architectural landmarks to natural scenery, and from admiring historical treasures to soaking in the vibrant nightlife with the locals, our BIM travelers enjoyed a fulfilling day and recognized the distinct differences between Singapore and Taiwan.

Day 6:  Taipei

Yehliu Geopark, Taipei North Gate (Cheng’en Gate), Tea‐tasting experience, Pingxi District

Basking in the cozy ocean breeze, the group walked among the wind-sculpted rocks of Yehliu Geopark. In the Pingxi district, they stopped to enjoy the refreshing splash of the Shifen Waterfall, and learned the tea-tasting rituals in the quaint roadside shops.

Day 7:  Taipei >> Nantou

Sun Moon Lake Excursion: Scenic Cruise, Lake Ropeway, and Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village 

As one of Taiwan’s most beloved destinations, Sun Moon Lake boasts a graceful natural beauty, surrounded by mountains and enriched by an aboriginal cultural experience that slowed our travelers’ pace and invited quiet admiration.

Day 8:  Sun Moon Lake >> Taipei

Sun Moon Lake: Bike around the Lake, Taipei Xinyi: Wei Xiu District, Chiang Kai‐shek Memorial Hall, 101 Observatory

And there’s always more to explore in beautiful Sun Moon Lake. After biking along the famous lakeside trail, the group returned to Taipei to visit the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. They ended the day by taking one last comprehensive view of Taiwan from the top of the Taipei 101 Observatory.

Day 9: Taiwan >> USA

With plenty of memories to share and reflect on, the group returned home.

——— The End of Blog ———

Project Week is a BASIS Independent Schools tradition in which students work with dedicated faculty on multidisciplinary projects or international trips during the final week of the academic year. Through these diverse experiences, students broaden their interests, embrace new challenges, and gain invaluable skills through cooperation, exploration, and hands-on learning.

Stay tuned for more reports on the international trips!