Sister Cities of Nashville welcomed high school students and teachers from sister cities Taiyuan, China; Mendoza, Argentina; and Tamworth, Australia this spring.  They stayed with host families with students at myriad public and private high schools in Nashville.  Our visitors attended school with their hosts for a few days to have an American high school experience and Sister Cities provided programming that allowed the students to learn about the issues facing Nashville; learn about city governance; and visit cultural and historic attractions.  The students also volunteered with the TN Environmental Council, helping to plant trees and beautify Nashville.

Sixteen Nashville delegates traveled to Mendoza, Argentina to experience the cultural extravaganza that is Vendimia!  The 81st Annual grape harvest festival featured a fabulous parade and an evening spectacle that would rival any Superbowl half-time show (and it was two hours long with more than 1,000 performers).  Delegates also visited ICEI school, where we have conducted reciprocal educational exchanges for over five years.  The mayor's office hosted a reception for the group, featuring Mendoza wines, empanadas and a tango demonstration. Our delegation toured many vineyards, an olive oil factory, spent a day at a spa with thermal springs just outside of Mendoza, and, of course, enjoyed connecting with friends, students and their families who have previously visited Nashville.