Bienvenidos a Colombia

Final exams are over and less than two weeks of our time in South America remain, so my roommate Tyra and I decided to accomplish one of our last goals of studying abroad: exploring a country outside of Peru!  We are in Colombia!

Colombia is sunny year-round, with a very strong Caribbean influence. The warm temperatures and sunshine are incredibly refreshing, since our last few month of Lima have been more cold than warm. We arrived into Cartagena yesterday, spent the afternoon at the beach, then journeyed to Taganga. In Taganga, we had dinner with our two French friends before they go on a four-day hike to the famous "Ciudad Perdida." The next 6 days are loosely planed; but, we prefer to live spontaneously, so plans are only tentative. The ocean is just moments away from our hostal, so the opportunity for outdoor adventures is virtually endless. 

Colombia is vastly different from Peru, so I look forward to seeing more of this culture!

Oxapampa Adventures!

I explored the sunny, German-influenced city of Oxapampa this past weekend during the music and arts festival Selvamonos. The long, 15-hour bus ride from Lima to Oxapampa was worth every minute, as we were greeted with a vibrant and warm scenery that greatly contrasted Lima's wintery weather. Our campsite was surrounded by vast mountains and vivid blue skies. Between listening to music and meeting people from around the world, we also looked at the hand-crafted goods of numerous vendors. These people proudly showcased their work. On Saturday, we hiked to a waterfall and waded in the refreshingly cold water. Seeing and hearing the rich Peruvian culture (as well as being able to explore outside of Lima after several months without traveling) was invigorating!

 Being abroad is almost surreal at times. From a very young age, I would read books about people who traveled far from their homes for one reason or another. Before I went to bed each night, Daddy would also read to me these books, my favorite being about Olympian Eric Liddell who traveled and served in China. While hearing and reading about foreign adventures was so common, I never dreamed that my own life would be filled with opportunities to see, explore, and serve in other countries. Until I traveled to Costa Rica during my senior year of high school for a week of service, I never imagined myself actually boarding a flight to another country. While I was very reluctant to commit to my first trip abroad, it ignited an unsuspected passion for these beautiful countries and their inspiring people. From these people, much is to learn.

Beginning of the End

Between farewell dinners, final exams, volunteering, and traveling, every one of my 25 remaining days in Peru is planned. While the thought of being reunited with my family and friends in America is elating, the though of departing from my Peruvian life is overwhelming. So many wonderful, diverse people have been placed in my life: every child at Hearts in Action, the Europeans in my Spanish class, the Peruvians who initially embraced my arrival and showed me around Lima... The list could continue.

My friends from around the world have imparted me with words of wisdom about embracing my remaining time in Peru. Upon my mentioning that I was almost sad by how my days in Peru are numbered, my Peruvian friend Natalia told me,"Enjoy every minute, every second, don't lose your time feeling sad! If you feel sad just remember [the good times that we've had]." While I have only ever socialized with Natalia twice, she always wants to be sure that I am enjoying myself and my adventures in Peru. Similarly, my good friend Sydney, who studied abroad in Italy this past spring reminded me, "Wherever you go, that is exactly where you are meant to be. Be happy you're there. Be happy to go home. Everything that happens to you is good." I keep these thoughts in mind daily!

My final day teaching English at Corazones en Acción was filled with a few tears as the children presented me with a cards and sang a song before I left. Always and forever this young ones will have a special place in my heart!

Traveling and seeing the diverse regions of Lima is exhilarating...and only more captivating as the time passes! This weekend, I am going to Oxapampa for a weekend music and arts festival with Tyra and some other American, Peruvian, and Europeans friends.We will return to face our final exams and projects before we leave for a week in Cartagena.

Mariah, Valeria, and I model scarfs boasting the famous swirly Peru logo! I purchased one of these scarves!

34 Days Remain

Approaching the end of my time in Peru is the most bittersweet experience of my life. Yes, 34 days still stand between me and a return flight to America; but, planning my final few weeks in Peru (which include finals, traveling, and showing my family the sites of Lima) has made me nostalgic of the experiences that have made my time in Peru so wonderful.

Occasionally throughout the last few months, I could get distracted from the sheer excitement of living in another country as I balanced school obligations and staying healthy with my daily routine.

Now, knowing just what little time I have remaining in Peru has opened again my eyes to the beauty of a culture that has captivated my heart. I notice the sunlight beaming onto the foggy mountains, the abundant piles of fresh fruit at countless "tiendas," and the innocent child sleeping on his mother's lap during a bumpy bus ride. I smile at the security guards at the front of every store and embrace the opportunity to practice Spanish as I order tequenos at my favorite tiny restaurant.

I am more appreciative of these unique cultural details now more than ever. An experience like this is only more precious because of its temporary nature (though its impact is everlasting).  I know that when it is 12:15 a.m. on July 21, I will leave Peru with no regrets, treasured memories, and an eternal gratefulness for this opportunity.

Fotos!

Posing with a statue of a traditional Inca girl at Parque de las Leyendas!

My adventures in Lima are endless! Take a look at everything that's happening!

Just posing with a half-eaten ice-cream cone and a giraffe!

Having fun with my fellow Ohioan Mariah and Valeria!

A busy parade in Central Lima on a national holiday similar to Labor Day!

My roommates Tyra, Jenna, and I enjoy the view from San Cristobal!

A bird's eye view of San Borja, my neighborhood!

Naptime at Parque de las Leyendas!

39 More Days in Peru

As Ohioans bask in the summer sun, those of us in the southern hemisphere shiver in the winter cold. Indeed, soups are becoming the more popular dinner choice and extra blankets now layer my bed. While winter temperatures in Peru do not compare to ice and snow of some Ohio winters, the sunless mornings and chilly walks to the bus stop are a stark contrast to the first few hot summer months I spent in Peru. Receiving a few puzzled glances as I walk around Lima is not uncommon, as I only wear a light cardigan and scarf on most days. Peruvians bundle in their jackets and pea coats and hats for this weather!

One of my favorite experiences in South America is gathering to watch the World Cup-qualifying soccer game. Seeing the candid, expressive reactions of Peruvians throughout the game is priceless. Last Friday, Peru scored a goal within the first few minutes of its game against Ecuador. The team held the lead for a 1-0 victory...much to the delight of every single person in Peru. Unfortunately, Peru lost to Columbia the following Tuesday.

I am also thrilled to spend time with Hearts in Action, teaching English to a group of 5 to 8 students. Lesson topics have covered everything from basic verbs and vegetables to body parts and beginner phrases. I learn a lot about Spanish throughout this teaching process, and each of the children in my class have become special to me.

Time continues at an unbelievably rapid pace. When did the month become June? My goal during my remaining days in Peru is to take advantage of every opportunity that presents itself, whether it is spending a few hours in Central Lima at an art exposition or returning to the jungle for a two-day music festival. 

Enjoying Peru

With nearly half of my time in Peru completed, being able to navigate through the different areas of Lima, communicate with familiar shopkeepers, and explore new places is easier. I have adjusted to life in Latin America and am familiar with my day-to-day routine.

One of my recent adventures included a visit to the Parque de las Leyendas--a zoo--with my American friends Valeria and Mariah! Entering the zoo only cost ten soles, or less than $5. A favorite exhibit reminded me of my Ohio home: the white-tailed deer! We also saw panthers, giraffes, and bears.

My Peruvian family and I recently went shopping together. Unfortunately, while some things in Lima can be cheap, clothing and shoes are quite expensive, so I did not purchase any new "ropa." However, I did find DVDs for about $2.

We eat an abundance of delicious food in my home, including soups, breads, and vegetable dishes. Carmela recently made a cake and when we inquired about the recipe, she laughed and said that she just throws ingredients in a bowl and hope that it turns out sweet enough.

La Universidad

As students in the United States wrap up their semesters with final projects and exams, I am just beginning my midterms! While three of my midterms are scheduled for next week, I completed my first midterm today in my oceanography course. Taking exams can be stressful, but knowing that I have no classes next week because of midterms makes the week more worthwhile!

Academics are quite different at USIL. The grading scale ranges from 1 to 20 points, with scoring 19 or 20 points ranking as a solid A. Professors rarely deem a paper or project deserving of an A, as there is always room for improvement! Final grades are primarily composed of the midterm and final exams, with a small percent depending on participation and homework. This is definitely a new system to me.

Hearts in Action

Situated in the dusty, rural streets of Lima is a small, unassuming building with an incredible mission. Each week, children of all ages enter this place for food, education, love and, encouragement. This place is Hearts in Action, an organization that offers outreach programs ranging from tutoring and English lessons to free lunches and health programs.

I have the blessing of spending my Tuesday afternoons at Hearts in Action teaching an English class to youth. When I originally expressed interest in volunteering with this organization, I never could have imagined that I would be creating lesson plans to teach English and gaining so much in the process.

           

While I was originally uncertain of my capabilities to teach English, I embraced this opportunity and am so grateful that I did. We review the concepts that they have already learned in school, as well as add more vocabulary to their English foundation. Ultimately, the goal of this class is for these children to build the confidence to use their blossoming English-speaking skills.  

Seeing their progression is exciting, as well as encouraging to me as I continue to learn a second language. Just as I teach these children English, they also teach me Spanish. They eagerly complete my sentences in Spanish if I am struggling for words. Together, we make the learning process both productive and humorous, as we both conquer obstacles with accents and mispronunciation.

Their favorite phrase is “see you later” and, in order to leave the room at the end of the day, saying this phrase is essential.

Perhaps the most exciting part of my volunteering with Heart in Action was being able to be a part of a school supplies giveaway at the beginning of the year. My church in Ashville, Hedges Chapel, generously helped supply the funds to give every student school supplies to last the entire year. Being able to help distribute these supplies was a humbling, rewarding experience.

Without service, my time in Peru would not be what it is.

Smiling for the camera after the school-supplies giveaway!

Carpe Diem.

Having spur-of-the-moment adventures has been my favorite part of my time in Peru. Spontaneity is embraced as I seek to explore every inch of the Peruvian country and culture

Today, for example, I was doing homework when an exciting opportunity presented itself. With a fifteen-minutes notice, my host mother asked if I wanted to join the family on a visit to the movie theatre to see the new Peruvian movie "Asu Mare." I eagerly accepted the invitation, as I have heard so many positive, proud comments from Peruvians about the movie. I assumed that Carmela, Lorenzo, his wife, Jenna, and I were the only ones going to the movie, so imagine my surprise when we met at least 15 other relatives at the theatre! Everything in Peru is a family affair.

Also, after spending Friday evening with our Peruvian friends, Tyra and I were headed home when one of our friends mentioned that he had a beach house. Rather than going home, we took the next bus to Punta Hermosa and spent the day soaking in the rays and enjoying each other's company. It was an amazing decision.

Some days, my schedule is planned to the minute with meetings, extra-curricular activities, and places that I need to be. Having the freedom to slow down and embrace time with the wonderful people in my life right now is incredible. 

Just a Typical Weekend...

The most authentic moment during my 4 days in Cusco was spent in a search of a restaurant that served cuy—or guinea pig. Two of my friends were determined to taste the delicacy, so I joined them on their quest for a restaurant that served the dish. 

Eventually, a waiter told us of a restaurant that served cuy and he pointed across the street where an elderly woman was begging for change in a narrow entryway. My friends and I simply stared at each other. No restaurant was insight. The waiter could see the look of disbelief on our faces, and encouraged us to walk through the entryway. Hesitantly, we followed his directions, only to see several timeworn buildings and an array colorful laundry air-drying in the breeze. After several awkward moments, another waiter appeared from an obscure door, declaring that his restaurant did, indeed, serve cuy. At this point, my friends and I knew that we could not turn back. 

The man guided us through the entrance into a wide, open restaurant filled with large wooden tables and benches that spanned across the entire wooden floor. Of the numerous people that packed the tables, we were the only foreign customers. Everyone else was a local. We eagerly ordered our food, cuy for my friends and vegetables for me. 

Suddenly, live music filled the air and people immediately jumped from their seats to dance, clap to the music, and join in the singing. We instantly embraced this atmosphere, soaking in the sights, sounds, and scents. Everything about this place was pure, genuine, and real. This, we determined, is Peru. 

If my friends and I had not explored beyond the small entryway, we never would have discovered such a raw, unfiltered version of Peru. We did not know what to expect; yet, we did not let this fact hinder our experience. The best adventures are unexpected and unplanned. These are the moments that we will never forget. 

Two days earlier, I journeyed to Machu Picchu.  As I stood at the top of Machu Picchu, I realized that every single second of my life led me to that breathtaking, awe-inspiring moment. If even one or two parts of my life were different, I may not have had such an unforgettable opportunity. I realized in that moment how grateful I am for my supportive family and friends, the good times, the not-so-good times, and every experience I have ever had at Marietta College.

Every day is a new adventure—whether it’s on the top of Machu Picchu, or roaming the streets of Cusco looking for cuy.

A Glimpse into Machu Picchu and Cusco

What a weekend! I had the breathtaking opportunity to visit one of the most awe-inspiring places on the face of the earth! Take a look at my adventures that range from a visit to Nelly's (where the process of dying llama wool is demonstrated) to Cusco and Machu Picchu!

Llama yarn!

Machu Picchu!

Llama at Machu Picchu!

Weaving tapestries...

I made it to the top of Wanyapicchu! What a climb!

The rainbow of colors represents Cusco!

A view of Machu Picchu from the top of Waynapicchu!

A lovely view

A cathedral in Cusco

It's Already Been One Month!

As I celebrate exactly one month since my journey in Peru began, I reflect on some of the experiences and observations that I have made to date:

1. Volunteering has been one of the most rewarding parts of my time here. Every Thursday afternoon, I go to  "Corazones en Acción" where I help feed lunches to kids and help them complete homework. I spend my time with the younger kids, who constantly ask me how to say certain words in English. I also joined my roommate Jenna on one of the monthly activities that she plans in order to teach English to school-age children. Eight kids attended the event. All of them were eager to help me with Spanish. "Gorra" was one of the words that they taught me. It refers to a baseball cap.

2. Peruvians graduate from high school at an early age. When I mentioned that I was 21 years old in my oceanography class, the other students gasped. Most of them were 17 or 18.

3. You never know where you will make a friend. One afternoon, my American friend Sam and I walked through a small neighborhood near our school. We stopped on the sidewalk for a moment when a shop worker overheard our speaking English. He immediate struck up a conversation, wanting to practice his English-speaking skills. He bought us soda and we stayed for over an hour talking to the man and another store worker. When we left, they considered us friends. They gave Sam their contact information, wanting to get together in the future.

4. English is everywhere. Many Peruvians that I've met can speak basic English (at the very least). One of my friends studied English at an institute for multiple years while he was growing up. Even movies at the theater are in English with Spanish subtitles.

Tomorrow at 5:30 a.m. I leave for Cusco and Machu Picchu with my study abroad group. I have classes off for the next 2 days since it is Holy Week. I am so excited!

El Fútbol

Below is an article that I wrote for The Marcolian about my experience abroad. Check out this story and others at http://marcolianonline.com/.

Now that I have watched a soccer game with my Peruvian friends, I can say that I have officially been amerced into the Peruvian culture.

On March 22, Peru faced its longstanding rival Chile in a game that would determine which team was still in contention for competing at the World Cup. In the days preceding this game, Peruvians spoke proudly of their country’s team, despite its losing record to Chile. Not a single Peruvian even considered losing as an option for this game.

On game day, red and white apparel donned countless individuals and many of the students at my university were talking about their extravagant plans for the game. Having a ticket to the game was envied.

I joined one of my friends for a small party in his home to watch the game. Observing the animated reactions of my Peruvian friends during the game was more entertaining than the actual game. The house would erupt into deafening screams and shouts whenever either team seemed close to making a goal.

Until the last 6 minutes of the game, neither team had scored a point; and, when Peru finally kicked the ball into the goal, every single person in the room jumped from his seat. Everyone embraced each other and ran hysterically around the room with tears in his eyes. Peru won the game.

A friend who actually attended the game confessed to his crying after Peru’s victory, and he was not the only one. Rambunctious, lively fans lined the streets of Miraflores. They were climbing on top of buses and passionately chanting the victory of their team.

In addition to this memorable night, I have experienced the Peruvian culture many diverse ways. Visiting Iquitos, the beautiful fountains in downtown Lima, and countless different beaches help amerce me into the Latin-American lifestyle. Needless to say, my upcoming trip to Machu Pichu is highly anticipated.

The longer I stay in Lima, the more I love the culture.

Living the Peruvian Life

My time in Peru has already surpassed two weeks; and, mastering the basics of public transportation is one of my proudest accomplishments to date. As I become more familiar with life here, I am learning--and doing--more and more.

Serving in this community is something that I have been eager to do. I volunteered with Hearts in Action on Thursday. A family connection led me to this organization where I will volunteer once or twice a week. Kim, one of the organization's leaders, gave me a tour of the facility; and, after completing volunteer paperwork, I proceeded to help with my first project! I helped sort toys for a giveaway and prepare craft materials for a character-building lesson. In addition to assisting with these randoms tasks, I will be tutoring students, too!

One of my biggest observation in Lima is that family connections are invaluable. When I explained to my Peruvian friend Paloma some of the difficulties I was having in scheduling my classes, she immediately referred me to her second cousin Jorge who works in the international office. While Jorge was unable to help my situation, he apologized profusely, saying how he would have done anything within his power to help a friend of his cousin.

Since the opportunities for submerging myself into this culture are plenty and my time is quite occupied, homesickness has yet to be an issue. While I miss my family, I cannot dwell on these feelings too much, or I will lose the moment here and now. My first feeling of nostalgia for my American home came on Thursday when a Peruvian friend and I went to a movie. Since the movie was in English with Spanish subtitles, I was able to understanding the context of the movie without thinking about it. This inexplicably made me reminiscent of my home.

I have exactly 122 days remaining in Lima; and, while that may seem like an abundance of time, I know I will be in America again soon. I am so grateful for this opportunity and the support of my family and friends around the world as I capitalize on this experience!

Escapades in Lima

Classes begin today!

I received my schedule at 9 a.m. this morning, two hours before my first class. Until this morning, I was not certain of what classes I would be taking. Receiving my schedule so close to the start of classes is another example of "Peruvian time."

My classes include intermediate Spanish, political science, psychology of communication, and oceanography. I have classes six days a week, too. Despite how laid back this culture can be, classes are very strict. The attendance policy is taken very seriously and students cannot have food or beverages in the class. Classmates are from Peru, Belgium, Korea, France, the Netherlands, the United States, and more.

Yesterday, my peers and I visited Circuito Magico del Agua in Lima. It was gorgeous...and we were able to run through some of the fountains!  

When strolling through the streets of Lima, seeing American influences in the culture is easy. KFC, Domino's Pizza, and McDonalds are not uncommon, as are teens wearing Aeropostale and Hollister. I often hear American pop music playing from different shops.

Hasta luego!

Adventures in the Amazon!

Here's a sneak peak into my weekend visit to Iquitos, a city only accessible via boat or plane. Mosquitoes, bats, piranhas, and humid temperatures didn't hinder me from exploring the Amazon. I am excited to share all about this experience later this week. Classes begin tomorrow!

A village girl from San Jorge

A sunrise on the Amazon

A critter in the jungle.

This raft transports plantains to Iquitos from small towns along the river. It's a five day journey.

El mono

Time

Below is an article I have written for The Marcolian about my biggest observation in Peru! Check out this story and others at http://marcolianonline.com/

Perhaps the biggest difference between Peru and America is how the people consider time. Time in Peru is much more relaxed and free-flowing. Rather than concerning myself with what I must accomplish throughout the day, I’m learning to embrace my time in a more organic, carefree way. Living in the moment and seeking the presence of the people you love is most important.

For most circumstance here, arriving up to two hours late is acceptable. I am adjusting to “Peruvian time” well, and appreciate the extra cushion of time as I still learn to travel on the bus. On my first time traveling from my home in San Borja to the study-abroad office, I arrived nearly twenty minutes late according to the schedule. When I arrived, I began apologizing to our group leader for being late. While I was anxious about my tardiness, she considered nothing of my being late.

Above all, time is best spent in the company of others…and food. Lunch is not about eating a meal, but bringing together our family. Plates are piled high, especially during lunch. While seafood and meat are quite popular in Peru, my host mother Carmela takes extra care to ensure that the house is stocked with plenty of vegetarian options. When Carmela noticed that I enjoyed eating yogurt for breakfast, she proceeded to buy several additional flavors of yogurt and more granola for me to eat with it.  My favorite foods are the fruits, like mangos and a hybrid of an apple and plantain. These fruits make the richest, flavorful juices I have ever tasted.

As my time in Peru continues, I feel as though I have been here much longer than I really have. I was instantly embraced by my Peruvian family and friends, as well as the other students at the university; and, while I am still getting acclimated to the culture and making my way through the city, I know I will become more familiar with and passionate about this country as the days continue. For only 139 I am here, I need to make the most of every second.

I'm Here!

Rumor has it that I am living with one of the best host families in Lima…and I absolutely believe it. When I arrived at my new home at 2 a.m. on Friday, I was greeted with energy, lots of kisses, and fresh flowers decorating my room. From the moment I entered the door, I was completely embraced into their home (which includes Carmela, her husband, her mother, her son, and her daughter-in-law). When I told Carmela how much I loved her beautiful home, she replied that it is now my home, too.

All of the Peruvians I have met so far are patient and accepting of my Spanish-speaking skills. Luckily, animated hand gestures and lively facial expressions help me understand the gist of most conversations. My new favorite Spanish phrase is "Que linda," or "How cute!"

San Borja is a lovely, health-conscious neighborhood. Jenna and I walked through the park yesterday, which includes an outside gym and offers dance lessons. Also, anyone who lives in San Borja can register to rent free bicycles for 45 minutes every day.

Lima is developing, and very diverse. I've already met people from Holland and South Korea, in addition to Peru! 

Today was beach day! Our family, Tyra, and Jenna all soaked in the rays. I loved it.

Classes start a week from tomorrow. Until then, I will continue with program orientation, and prepare for a trip to Iquitos--the Amazon--later in the week!

En Route to Lima

Watch out! After months of anticipating the day that I travel to Lima, nothing can stand in my way.

As I wait in Atlanta for my connecting flight, I reflect on what I have already accomplished on my journey. I have never traveled solo, so depending on myself for getting where I need to be has been a tad overwhelming; and, I triumph over the small obstacles I've tackled so far. I had to rearrange my luggage after one of my bags weighed 9 pounds over the limit, navigate my way through the massive airport in Atlanta, and speak with a Delta employee who mistakenly told me I needed a Visa to go to Peru. I celebrate the small victories!

Expressing how excited I am to be at my new home in San Borja is impossible! Earlier this week, I received an email from Carmela. She told me how excited she is to welcome me to her home and how she will try to make my stay in Lima nice. I already love this family. Assuming all goes well, I will arrive to my final destination by 2 a.m.

Hasta luego!

19 Days to Go...

I’ve been obsessively checking my email every day for the past two weeks; and, today, I received the email I’ve been anticipating: my housing information in Lima! Reading about where I’ll be living for five months is when reality hit me. This is really happening. Until now, my studying abroad experience has been in the distant future, months and weeks away. Now, all the details are coming together. I know where I’m living, I know who else is going on the trip, and, I’ve started to pack my bags. Now, it’s 19 days to go!

I’m living in the San Borja district of Lima with Carmela, her family, a dog named Pepo, and two other American students Tyra and Jenna.  

 

Also, you can send me snail mail! I promise I will send you something wonderful in return. Here’s my mailing address:

Mary Olivia Roberts

Calle Inca Ripac 297

3 piso, A303

Jesús María

Lima 11, Perú

Countdown to departure: 38 days

Thirty-eight days until the adventure of a lifetime begins! On February 28 at 7:20 a.m., I will depart Columbus, ultimately headed to the Aeropuerto Internacional Jorge Chávez in Callao, Peru. For nearly five months, I will study at La Universidad San Ignacio de Loloya in Lima, explore every inch of the diverse country, and embrace the lively culture...llamas and all.

Three years ago, I never would have imagined myself so eager for the opportunity to submerge myself into another culture. Traveling is an inexplicable, insatiable desire to love and learn about other people. Traveling gives you a renewed confidence and a stronger sense of self and community. I beyond thrilled--and completely ready--for this opportunity!

The countdown continues: 38 days.