Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Day 3 - Leadership Training and Mayan Ruins


11/29/12 – DAY 3

I loved both of the activities today. I was pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable the Mt. Carmel High School visit happened to be.  In past educational trips that I’ve been on, the cultural exchange aspect has been rather awkward and been towards the bottom of my list of favorite days. But this interaction was awesome, and we really got to enjoy ourselves getting to know the students. I’m looking forward to the possibility of hearing from them online and getting to continue talking. I’m very happy that we’re fostering such a wonderful relationship with them and are able to return every year.
Also a fabulous highlight was our visit to the Mayan Ruins Xunan Tunich. Our guide was rather verbose, but the view from the top of the main structure was incredible. I liked that we were so close to Guatemala, and could look just to the west across the border. It was interesting to speak with another guide as well as one of the military guards at the top of the temple. I love the constant exchange that I seem to be having with everyone here. Maybe it’s just because I’m older than I was the last time that I was in Central America, but I feel far more comfortable engaging in conversation with people here.
It was great to finish out the days travel with a Belikan at the local bar with the expat owner. I definitely bruised my hand on the punching bag, but got to enjoy a great conversation with Balbino the driver and look out at the shops and riverfront. 

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