#Wakayama #Grand Mercure #Summer Research

Transform Your Summer Holidays with Educational Travel

This summer, families can create unforgettable memories at the Grand Mercure Wakayama Minabe Resort & Spa. Nestled on a hillside with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, this all-inclusive hotel is launching a special program aimed at elementary school students, expertly combining the excitement of travel with educational experiences. This initiative is called the “Summer Research Support: Sea Experience and Clock-Making Plan,” where not only will children enjoy a vacation, but they will also complete a unique research project—all in one day!

A Unique Summer Experience

Designed for families seeking enriching experiences during the break, this program includes hands-on learning combined with leisure. Over the course of three hours, children will engage in sea observation and then use their findings to create their own unique clocks. A team from the Kishu Experience Exchange Dream Club will join the participants to guide them throughout the journey, ensuring that both fun and learning are achieved.

Crafting Memories Under the Summer Sun

Step 1: Beach Exploration

The adventure begins at the picturesque Komezu Beach, where participants will collect shells, sea glass, driftwood, and other marine debris. This serene spot, reminiscent of a private beach, offers a tranquil environment for children to connect with nature while enhancing their observational skills. They’ll record their findings, categorizing various materials to set the stage for the clock-making activity later on.

Step 2: Reflection on Discoveries

After returning to the hotel, kids will take time to sort and classify the treasures they've collected, distinguishing between natural objects and man-made materials. Using educational slides, they will delve into the origins of the plastic they've gathered and discover the interconnectedness between the ocean and our daily lives. This reflective session encourages critical thinking, prompting them to consider what actions they can take to decrease plastic waste and tackle environmental issues. It’s a valuable opportunity for participants to translate their experiences into tangible observations for their summer research submissions.

Step 3: Crafting Original Clocks

Once the exploration and learning phases are complete, it’s time for creativity! Children will clean their collected items to prepare for the clock-making session. Using their natural materials, they will design and assemble one-of-a-kind clocks that capture the essence of their coastal adventure. This creative process not only preserves their memories of the experience but also encapsulates the learning journey of observation, classification, and reflection into a tangible piece of art.

Event Details

The accommodation package is available from August 1 to 22, with specific dates on Fridays, Saturdays, and August 13. The program kicks off the next day from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Participants will gather in the hotel lobby before heading to the beach and back to the hotel for the crafting session. Each program has a maximum capacity of about ten participants.

The inclusive package entails a two-day stay, buffet-style dinners, breakfast, lounge access, and all materials for clock-making, as well as safety measures against heat exhaustion, including water and additional electrolyte tablets. An extra child can join for ¥6,500 (to be paid on the day). For more information or to reserve this unique summer experience, click here.

Culinary Delights Await

In addition to the exciting educational program, guests can also enjoy newly introduced dishes at the buffet restaurant