Warm People + Wonderful Food by Lindsay Stewart

My first week in Chile has been filled with warm people and wonderful food, just as I had expected. The warm, welcoming nature of the people feels familiar to the southern hospitality of home (south Louisiana). I can see why the this program has been so successful and produces positive feedback and stories from previous attendees.

Carlos, Cecilia, and Tomas took me to see the famous Huascar!
The weather was beautiful, and it was great to spend time
together learning about this special part of Chilean history.  

My wonderful host family has been so caring and thoughtful during my stay in their home. From the moment, we exchanged smiles and hugs at baggage claim, I knew this was going to be a great three weeks. My Chilean family has made me feel right at home and as a member of their family. 

Such a treat to have sushi together...
even though I don't like cream cheese! :)

Enjoying our round table dialogue... shared stories and our
love for Chile! :)  

The students at the school exemplify the same sense of warmth and welcome. From grades pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, the students all wave, ask how we are doing, and if we are enjoying Chile. After having many conversations with the students at the secondary school, it was clear to see that a sense of kindness was common throughout all of the students. We have had plenty of opportunities to interact with the students from class time, to open round table dialogue, to my new bus friends. I hope the next two weeks continue with enjoyable conversations and the making of new friends. 

Special thanks to Macarena for sharing her English classes
with me. It has been great to read to the students and
learn from one another as we go! 

Spoiled by sopaipillas and locally grown avocados! 

I did not know that my love for avocado could grow anymore... but I now look forward to it at nearly every meal. I have been spoiled with wonderful meals that are all accompanied by a cup of hot tea and many laughs around the table. The meals have been mostly foods I am familiar with, but they are often served in a different style mixed with traditional Chilean dishes- it has been so great to broaden my food horizons. I am looking forward to sharing two more weeks of food experiences. 

The views and landscape are truly mesmerizing! 

Huascar in the harbor in Talcahuano

Laguna Chica San Pedro de la Paz