Friday, May 19, 2017

It's a Lil Chilly in Chile by Haley Englade

I have never written a blog before, nor have I ever written on an iPad. So bare with me. This is only my second week here in Chile, as I have been traveling for the week before. I believe during the preparation of my entire trip, I was only nervous about the airplane food... What a stupid thing to be nervous about when you will live with a Chilean family for 3 weeks.  As far as my time in Concepcion, I was only excited! I have so many stories following the first 2 weeks of my stay in Chile and I will try to explain a few.

I arrived in Santiago and stayed in the city for 2 days. Upon our arrival, we already found it difficult to manage transportation. One uber after another, I learned that the people of this country do not need huge cars, instead they drive cars that fit their family life. This was not good news for 4 girls with suitcases weighing 50 pounds, not including carry ons as well.  In the picture below, is the most intense game of Tetris, our suitcases plus our bodies all fitting in a Suzuki. Not pictured, is another time where my feet were touching my head and my leg rests in the uber drivers leg space because we were so crammed... talk about an awkward 35 minute drive.



A few days later, I flew in to Calama. Funny story, I actually missed my flight that I scheduled for the wrong time and had to pay buku money hoping just one seat would be available for the plane ride with my friends. Everything ended up working out in funny ways, but my panic went from 0-100. Here we took a transport to San Pedro de Atacama and schedule a star tour and Sandboarding. Here's a few pics ;)

     


We returned back to Santiago and spent a few days in the city and touring the Casablanca Valley. Here is a picture of me happy with the plate of food in front of me. Yes it was good zoom in it looks delish. Once I finished my meal, I was informed I ate cow throat. Apparently "sweet bread" is not bread nor is it sweet.


Finally it was time to head to Concepcion. The plane ride was short, yet I managed to sleep my way though it. On a side note, I was informed that I sing in my sleep so whenever I sleep on a plane I get very self conscious that I am serenading my neighbors.... Then it was time to meet my familyk!! I was in contact with my family for the longest time so I already had a connection to them. When I arrived I was so happy to see them and they were overjoyed as well. When I arrived to my house I saw my bedroom and a welcome sign, I already felt as if I could make this my home.
   

Throughout this week in the city, I have been planted back into high school. I work with PE teachers and actually get a great cardiovascular workout with the scheduled activities. By day 5 with Carlos and Leo (my teachers) I find it very hard to move as every muscle in my body is sore. Basically, in the mornings I arrive at 8a.m. and leave for home at 2:45. During the school day I participate in all of the physical education classes. On Thursday, my schedule was completely full with classes; I usually have a brawl and get to visit an English class to help teach. But Thursday. Thursday I played handball (a very physical contact sport mixed with soccer and basketball), volleyball, acroyoga, and basketball. The teachers here are very fun and the classes are always different, making it even more fun for me.
  

During the nights at home, I have taken a nap every day this week. I guess high school wears me out.
When I arrive from the dead (my nap) I wake up to once. "once" is a special kind of dinner. It usually occurs between 8-9p.m. and it is my favorite. We usually eat toasted bread with either jam, turkey and cheese, or fresh avocado.

I think I have already changed being in Chile for the past few weeks. I learned that the people here are so nice and in order for a proper greeting, you should kiss on the cheek. I've tried many different news foods, I guess you can call this adventurous. I am also very excited to learn more about the people here and the different activities the school has to offer. I am wanting to type more, but my iPad is freaking out on me. This is me signing out.




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