Almost 30 years ago, ICCE originated with a group of university professors in the Washington, D.C. area, who, having lived and worked overseas themselves, wanted to provide a better understanding of diverse cultural backgrounds for Americans going abroad.

It was one of the early, leading foreign study organizations in the U.S., offering study-abroad programs -- languages, social sciences, arts, music, and the performing arts. A proven track record in international programs and a genuine interest in the safety of participants, health factors, value, and performance quality, are as always, ICCE's paramount considerations in carefully selecting desirable European locations.

Regardless whether it's a first trip, a repeat ICCE trip, or whether you've been to a particular place numerous times before, ICCE's unique, relaxed approach focuses on producing fulfilling programs aimed at changing, enriching, broadening, and providing wonderful, new, memorable life experiences for each participant.

For Opera, Art and Performing Arts Trips, top U.S. trip leaders-discussants are your guides to performances. A network of knowledgeable locals becomes your guide to the cultures of their countries - so you won't just be a tourist. Because it's non-commercial, there's a realistic attitude towards places and performances. It's for good reason that cultural arts notables have called ICCE "the specialist" in opera, art and performing arts trips.