Sun, surf and snow

The society trips abroad not to be missed this year

Illustration by Natalie Duda

Every year more and more societies are adding international trips to their calendars. It is easy to understand why the appeal of a well-hyped annual trip abroad can attract huge amounts of new members to the society during Freshers’ Week. Some societies have become better known for their annual trip abroad than the rest of their activity during the year combined. Below are some of the most famous (and infamous) trips taking place this year as well as a few lesser-known ones which promise to be just as exciting

DU Snowsports – Ski Trip

Of course I couldn’t possibly write this article without mentioning DU Snowsports’ annual pilgrimage to the pistes of Europe. This trip has become somewhat of a rite of passage for many Trinity students, attracting 500 of us each year. This year, following on from the success of last year’s trip, it has been decided that the trip will take place in Val Thorens, France, once again. It is the highest ski resort in Europe and is guaranteed optimum snow conditions all year round. However, if you have ever been lucky enough to nab a spot on the ski trip you’ll know that the skiing isn’t exactly the principal draw of the trip for many. What seems to attract the vast majority of club members who brave the trip each year is the promise of some of the best and wildest nightlife in the Alps.  Although tickets are officially sold out for this trip, there would be no harm in keeping a watchful eye on the Facebook page to get your hands on a last-minute ticket being sold on. It could be, like it has been for so many others, one of the highlights of your time in Trinity.

Trinity Surf Club – International Trip

Although this year’s Surf Club International has not yet been officially announced, each year during the second reading week of the year Trinity Surf Club send a group of eager surfers and non-surfers to an exotic location to soak up some sun, enjoy epic waves and party, a lot. For the last few years the trip has graced the beautiful shores of Morocco. Surf lessons are optional and can be enjoyed for a small addition to what is usually quite a reasonable price for a week’s holiday in Morocco. A number of day trips are organised throughout the week as well as nights out and a bonfire by the beach. Tickets for this particular trip will go on sale before Christmas so be sure to keep an eye on the Surf Club’s Facebook page and become a member if you have not already done so. This trip is quickly becoming one of the most popular society international trips for a reason.

TCD BioSoc – Christmas Liverpool Trip

One of the perhaps less-hyped trips on the list but one that has hugely grown in popularity over the last few years, particularly among the medical students of the college. It is advertised as somewhat of an international mystery tour, with the location of the trip not being revealed until a few days before tickets went on sale. This year the society has revealed they will be “jetting ‘Across the Universe’ to the home of The Beatles”, Liverpool. This trip, it is safe to say, is all about the nights out. There isn’t much organised for the trip-goers during the day, to ensure that what goes on during the night is particularly special (and you get some well-needed recovery time the next morning!). Unfortunately tickets are already sold out for this one but don’t fret, as BioSoc is encouraging everyone to go ahead and book their own accommodation near the Hatters Hostel where they will be staying and enjoy the same benefits as those who secured the official places on the trip. This one is sure to be a well-earned break for all you hard-working medical students and others alike.

DUHAC – Lanzarote Trip

Finally, I wanted to include a sports club’s trip abroad that really is all about the sport. For the last three years Dublin University Harriers and Athletic Club (DUHAC) have been travelling to Lanzarote during the Christmas break for a spot of warm-weather training. However, fear not, this trip is not for elite athletes and fitness fanatics, it is for anyone that would like to enjoy some well-needed time in the sun but keep active while doing so. The club will be travelling to the state of the art Club La Sante in Lanzarote which offers a fully equipped running track, running trails and a vast gym which offers a variety of classes from beginner to advanced level. Of course the exercise isn’t compulsory and travellers are equally free to chill by the pool all day and soak up some sun before enjoying the nights out that will take place each evening. This trip is almost full but if you’re interested in going be sure to contact one of the club’s captains to quickly secure your spot. It could be one of the most surprisingly enjoyable and rewarding trips of the year, regardless if you’ve ever trained with the club before!