Oh the Places You'll Go x Camille Cassar

What an interesting week?! Between visiting the University, crawling underground for Chiflon Del Diablo, and driving hours and hours up the Andes Mountains, I must say that I can not complain at all. Let's start with my second trip to the University. Unlike the first time, I got to experience several things that the University had to offer, outside of the science department. My favorite part of this guided tour was definitely the University's very own art museum. As you enter, you're immediately immersed in a mural full of so much culture, so many stories, and even more history. Following the mural, there were several other parts of the museum that included art from local and well-known artists. Everything was absolutely beautiful. Afterwards, we walked around campus a little bit more and made our way back to the University. 

      Our next excursion of the week was to Chiflon Del Diablo, a mine located underneath the Pacific Ocean. This was by far one of the most interesting experiences of my life. Just hearing about the everyday struggles and living conditions of miners and their families was touching. Our tour guide was an actual miner of this particular job site and shared some of his personal experiences with us. Although he was still a bit scarred from all that he'd gone through, he made a conscious effort to let us into somethings that took place down there. Although some parts of the tour were pretty sad and somewhat alarming, I really enjoyed the experience.    

      Moving on to Fridays excursion.... the hot springs/thermal pools on the Andes Mountains. We left the school around 8:30, and arrived at around 11:30. I must say, if I have learned nothing else from this trip, I know to never ever believe Chileans when they tell you how long it will take to get somewhere or the departure/arrival time. We finally made our way up the mountain, and le me just say, it's was well worth the 3-4 hour trip. The view was absolutely stunning and the hot springs were amazing. Not to mention, we got a discount for having such a large group, that's always a plus. Although our time at the hot springs was cut short to about an hour, an hour and a half, it was an amazing experience and I'd love to do it again. After finally making our way back down, we decided to stop in a small town called Chillan which was full of souvenirs stations, food, and desserts. 

      Aside from all our field trips this week, we did have some educational, developmental time with the teachers at the school. I can't speak for everyone, but I must say that the science group had great discussions and even better presentations on Tuesday and Thursday of the week. The science teachers were very engaged and seemed to be even more impressed without things are done in the US and how they may or may not be able to incorporate some techniques into their curriculum here in Chilé. It was very productive and beneficial on both ends. 

    I'm getting a bit sad now that we have reached our final week in Chilé, but I can not complain. I'm having the time of my life and can't wait to see what this week has to offer. Fortunately and unfortunately, we have a lot planned for the upcoming week, so it will probably go by fast, but I'm certainly looking forward to all of the activities! On to week 3! 

*ps: this thing won't let me add anymore pictures, lo siento!