It’s hard to believe that 24 hours ago, 24 strangers met in JFK airport and began this journey to Ecuador together. People often say that if you really want to get to know someone, you should travel with them. After spending one day with our new Glimpsers, it’s safe to say that they are some of the sweetest and caring students I’ve come across as an educator.
Our journey was not easy: Our flight departed at 1:00 am in the morning. While some of the students slept on the flight, for many it was a restless night. We landed in Bogota around 5:40 am our time, and had to navigate through the international terminal to our connecting flight to Quito. Not once did anyone complain or stray from the group. By the time we boarded to Quito, students from different schools were asking to sit next to each other to get to know each other more during our last flight.
Once in Quito, we were greeted by our amazing in country staff – Diego and Everlyn. When the students were informed that they were about to embark on a 4 hour bus ride, no one sucked their teeth or rolled their eyes. Instead, everyone saw the chance to get some rest and enjoy the view as we made our final journey to Riobamba.
In one day, the students have been exposed to so many new experiences. For some, this was their first time flying. For others, it was their first time traveling internationally without family. Over the next two weeks they will grow as leaders and educators, but more importantly, as thinkers who will hopefully view the world through new eyes after seeing the ways that others live. We already have our first leader of the day ready and prepped for tomorrow’s walking tour, so stay tuned to see what our students have to say on the blog!
Hi all! My name is Dallana (Diana). None of you know me, but I am a Glimpser and I also went to Riobamba this year. I am from the Bay Area. Diego and Evelyn were my PCs as well and I just want to tell you guys how blessed you truly are to have these two people as your PCs. They are so kind and so amazing. Diego spent his day off to help us in our CAP Day 3, a day that my delegation spent our second free day to help finish up the details in our projects. I am guessing that you will be staying at La Primavera. The staff there is so amazing and so kind and the food is absolutely incredible. I love hearing that some of you were making the effort to really get to know each other, even before you were in country. Make the most out of your time with each other because it really does go by so fast. I returned on July 11 and I miss my group like crazy. Well, enjoy your time in Ecuador and (you’ll be hearing this from Diego a lot) don’t “throw the lou roll in the toilet and don’t-touch-the-dogs” haha hope you all have an amazing time.
Hi joel…of course It took me two days trying to figure out how to reply, but I finally figured it out.. so happy that you all got there safely. Love the photos can’t wait to see more.
I’m so glad my son and all of u got their safe. Thank you for the photo and hope to see many more as well as hear of the amazing experiences.
I’m so glad my son and all of u got there safe. Thank you for the photo and hope to see many more as well as hear of the amazing experiences.
Sounds like the adventure has begun . Glad the travel days are behind you. Hope tonight everyone can settle in and get a good rest. Can’t wait to read about the experiences each day.
Hey Joel! So proud of you all! Learn, have fun, and be safe!!!