Hello all,
We have reached our final destination in Guatemala, Panajachel, and we will be leaving for Mexico on Wednesday (March 2). We will be taking the bus to San Cristobal and from there catching a colectivo to Tuxla where we will spend the night before our flights.
We spent two nights in San Pedro La Laguna which is across Lake Atitlan from Panajachel. San Pedro is a quiet town with a decent amount of tourists, yet less than where we currently are. We didn't do much in San Pedro other than walk around and sit at cafes and enjoy the quaint town.
We arrived in Panajachel yesterday morning (Feb 28) and spent almost our entire day walking around the town. Today we went to a nature reserve where Lacey and Sarah went ziplining while I hiked the nature trails. After we spent about an hour at a beach in the park and swam in the lake. So far our time on Lake Atitlan has been quite relaxing and it has been nice getting out of the polluted city, Quetzaltenango, and breathing in the nice clean air here.
At this point in the trip there is not a whole lot else for us to see or do and I am kind of ready to head back home. I will try to update my blog one more time when I am back in Mexico but this could potentially be my last update. I am off for now to eat dinner and I will see all of you in a few days!
Scott
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Volcan Santa Maria
Hello all,
Today we will be leaving for San Pedro la Laguna which is on Lake Atitlan. Right now we are enjoying our last morning in Xela and waiting for our laundry to be completed so I have time to give you a brief update.
Yesterday (Feb 25) we woke up at 5am, got ready and made our way to the foot of Volcan Santa Maria. This volcano is 3,677 metres above sea level and is dormant right now. Its last eruption was in 1902 and created a volcano beside it called Santiaguito which erupts approximately every hour.
We began our hike at 6:45am and met a stray dog who began to follow us. The trek up the mountain was extremely steep, rocky and at parts, quite dusty. Unfortunately, the volcano was very wooded and the sun rose on the opposite of the mountain so we could not enjoy the sunrise. On the way up, we ran into a guide who was taking his group down the mountain and he noticed the dog who was following us. Apparently her name is Maria and she frequently follows people up the volcano. After 3.5 hours of strenuous hiking we made it to the summit of the volcano where there was a very large religious ceremony happening with all locals. We found out today that the ceremony was a celebration of the new Mayan Calendar.
At the summit, with our dog friend Maria, we were a bit disappointed to realize how cloudy it was so we could not really enjoy the view. We ate our lunch at the top of the volcano which consisted of avacadoes, mangoes, bananas and peanut butter sandwiches, which were all much needed after using so much energy to get to the summit. At one point, some of the clouds cleared and we think we saw Santiaguito (the volcano which erupts every hour). After spending about an hour at the summit, we decided to make our way back down with Maria in tow. The way down was much more difficult than expected and it took 2.5 hours just to descend. Once we got to the bottom we were extremely exhausted and made our way back to Xela for a shower and a nap. Maria left us at the bottom of the mountain.
Once we finally woke up we were starving and we found a TexMex restaurant in downtown Xela where we ate a ton of food. After dinner, I was completely spent so I returned to the hostel for a much needed night's sleep.
That's about all I have to update you on right now so I will keep you posted on what we do next when I can. Adios,
Scott
Today we will be leaving for San Pedro la Laguna which is on Lake Atitlan. Right now we are enjoying our last morning in Xela and waiting for our laundry to be completed so I have time to give you a brief update.
Yesterday (Feb 25) we woke up at 5am, got ready and made our way to the foot of Volcan Santa Maria. This volcano is 3,677 metres above sea level and is dormant right now. Its last eruption was in 1902 and created a volcano beside it called Santiaguito which erupts approximately every hour.
We began our hike at 6:45am and met a stray dog who began to follow us. The trek up the mountain was extremely steep, rocky and at parts, quite dusty. Unfortunately, the volcano was very wooded and the sun rose on the opposite of the mountain so we could not enjoy the sunrise. On the way up, we ran into a guide who was taking his group down the mountain and he noticed the dog who was following us. Apparently her name is Maria and she frequently follows people up the volcano. After 3.5 hours of strenuous hiking we made it to the summit of the volcano where there was a very large religious ceremony happening with all locals. We found out today that the ceremony was a celebration of the new Mayan Calendar.
At the summit, with our dog friend Maria, we were a bit disappointed to realize how cloudy it was so we could not really enjoy the view. We ate our lunch at the top of the volcano which consisted of avacadoes, mangoes, bananas and peanut butter sandwiches, which were all much needed after using so much energy to get to the summit. At one point, some of the clouds cleared and we think we saw Santiaguito (the volcano which erupts every hour). After spending about an hour at the summit, we decided to make our way back down with Maria in tow. The way down was much more difficult than expected and it took 2.5 hours just to descend. Once we got to the bottom we were extremely exhausted and made our way back to Xela for a shower and a nap. Maria left us at the bottom of the mountain.
Once we finally woke up we were starving and we found a TexMex restaurant in downtown Xela where we ate a ton of food. After dinner, I was completely spent so I returned to the hostel for a much needed night's sleep.
That's about all I have to update you on right now so I will keep you posted on what we do next when I can. Adios,
Scott
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Quetzaltenango
Hello all,
I have a lot to update you on. First and foremost, we have arrived in Quetzaltenango (Xela), Guatemala and are safe and sound. Our plan as of right now is to stay here for two more nights then go to Lake Atitlan where we will stay for the duration of our time in Guatemala.
The last I updated you, with the exception of yesterday, we were on our way into the Lacandon Jungle. Feb 17 (Carrie's birthday) was our travel day to the jungle. It was a rather uneventful and long bus trip which saw us arriving in the jungle at dark. Our cabins were made out of wood with a blanket for a door and bugnets over the bunkbeds. The only other point of note was seeing a scorpion in the bathroom on the first night.
The next day (Feb18) we were up early and on our way to see Yaxchilan (Mayan ruins). Prior to departure, a few of us had a morning swim in a pristine, beautiful jungle river that flowed right by our cabins. To get to Yaxchilan, we had to take a boat up a river that borders Guatemala because there are no roads to the ruins.At its widest point the river was about 50m wide and technically we were on the Guatemala side for a lot of the trip. The ruins themselves were interesting but not overly special, but the best part was on the boat trip back we saw a massive crocodile sunning itself on the riverbank.
The next day (Feb19) the large group split off into two smaller groups. One group was going to more mayan ruins at Bonampak and the other was going for a hike through the jungle. The day after, the groups would switch activities. I was part of the group who went for a hike through the jungle. The hike was very interesting but we could not get as much out of it because our guide was speaking Spanish and we did not have a translator. However, about halfway through we found ourselves at a beautiful waterfall where we were to swim on our way back from unexcavated ruins which we were on our way to. After the waterfall, the hike got much more intense and we eventually made our way to the unexcavated mayan ruins. After seeing the waterfall and knowing that we would be swimming there, it was hard to enjoy the ruins or hike to their full extent since we were soaked in sweat and really looking forward to a swim.When we got back to the waterfall, we swam for a good hour or so and got a mudbath from the mud at the river. It was an absolutely amazing swim!
The next day (Feb 20) was our day to go to Bonampak (more Mayan ruins) while the other group went for a hike. Bonampak is much smaller than Yaxchilan and it did not take us much time to finish at the ruins. After Bonampak we went to a different swimming hole in the jungle with crystal clear water (literally some of the clearest water I have ever seen) and had yet another amazing swim. The water was so clear that it looked like I could stand in the middle no problem, yet when I went to stand I found the water to be well above my head.
The next day (Feb 21) was another travel day on our way to Palenque. On our way we stopped at Agua Azul which is another beautiful waterfall and an area of recent conflict between the government and other people. The waterfall was amazing and we swam around for a little while before leaving for yet another waterfall swimming hole called Misol-Ha. Misol-Ha is where the movie Predator with Arnold Schwarzenegger was filmed. After a full day of swimming at beautiful waterfalls we arrived at our hotel in Palenque ready for a good night's sleep.
The next day (Feb 22) we did a tour of the ruins at Palenque before departing for San Cristobal where the group portion of the trip would officically end. It felt good to be back in San Cristobal even for a short time and it was bitter-sweet to have the group portion of the trip come to an end.
Yesterday (Feb 23) we woke up bright and early in San Cristobal for our travel day to Guatemala. We got to Xela around 4pm and found a cheap hostel called Casa Argentina. Our accomodations, though not luxurious, are only Q35 a night (approx. $5 Canadian)!
We decided that today (Feb 24) will be our orientation day with no plans other than getting to know the city. We plan on staying in Xela for 2 more nights before heading to Lake Atitlan. Tomorrow, we are going to have to get up bright and early because we plan on hiking Volcan Santa Maria which is a volcano that rises to 3,677 metres above sea level. The hike it supposed to take about 4 hours to the summit so we will be in for a very active day tomorrow. Anyways, I am off for now and I will update you guys next chance I get. Adios.
Scott
I have a lot to update you on. First and foremost, we have arrived in Quetzaltenango (Xela), Guatemala and are safe and sound. Our plan as of right now is to stay here for two more nights then go to Lake Atitlan where we will stay for the duration of our time in Guatemala.
The last I updated you, with the exception of yesterday, we were on our way into the Lacandon Jungle. Feb 17 (Carrie's birthday) was our travel day to the jungle. It was a rather uneventful and long bus trip which saw us arriving in the jungle at dark. Our cabins were made out of wood with a blanket for a door and bugnets over the bunkbeds. The only other point of note was seeing a scorpion in the bathroom on the first night.
The next day (Feb18) we were up early and on our way to see Yaxchilan (Mayan ruins). Prior to departure, a few of us had a morning swim in a pristine, beautiful jungle river that flowed right by our cabins. To get to Yaxchilan, we had to take a boat up a river that borders Guatemala because there are no roads to the ruins.At its widest point the river was about 50m wide and technically we were on the Guatemala side for a lot of the trip. The ruins themselves were interesting but not overly special, but the best part was on the boat trip back we saw a massive crocodile sunning itself on the riverbank.
The next day (Feb19) the large group split off into two smaller groups. One group was going to more mayan ruins at Bonampak and the other was going for a hike through the jungle. The day after, the groups would switch activities. I was part of the group who went for a hike through the jungle. The hike was very interesting but we could not get as much out of it because our guide was speaking Spanish and we did not have a translator. However, about halfway through we found ourselves at a beautiful waterfall where we were to swim on our way back from unexcavated ruins which we were on our way to. After the waterfall, the hike got much more intense and we eventually made our way to the unexcavated mayan ruins. After seeing the waterfall and knowing that we would be swimming there, it was hard to enjoy the ruins or hike to their full extent since we were soaked in sweat and really looking forward to a swim.When we got back to the waterfall, we swam for a good hour or so and got a mudbath from the mud at the river. It was an absolutely amazing swim!
The next day (Feb 20) was our day to go to Bonampak (more Mayan ruins) while the other group went for a hike. Bonampak is much smaller than Yaxchilan and it did not take us much time to finish at the ruins. After Bonampak we went to a different swimming hole in the jungle with crystal clear water (literally some of the clearest water I have ever seen) and had yet another amazing swim. The water was so clear that it looked like I could stand in the middle no problem, yet when I went to stand I found the water to be well above my head.
The next day (Feb 21) was another travel day on our way to Palenque. On our way we stopped at Agua Azul which is another beautiful waterfall and an area of recent conflict between the government and other people. The waterfall was amazing and we swam around for a little while before leaving for yet another waterfall swimming hole called Misol-Ha. Misol-Ha is where the movie Predator with Arnold Schwarzenegger was filmed. After a full day of swimming at beautiful waterfalls we arrived at our hotel in Palenque ready for a good night's sleep.
The next day (Feb 22) we did a tour of the ruins at Palenque before departing for San Cristobal where the group portion of the trip would officically end. It felt good to be back in San Cristobal even for a short time and it was bitter-sweet to have the group portion of the trip come to an end.
Yesterday (Feb 23) we woke up bright and early in San Cristobal for our travel day to Guatemala. We got to Xela around 4pm and found a cheap hostel called Casa Argentina. Our accomodations, though not luxurious, are only Q35 a night (approx. $5 Canadian)!
We decided that today (Feb 24) will be our orientation day with no plans other than getting to know the city. We plan on staying in Xela for 2 more nights before heading to Lake Atitlan. Tomorrow, we are going to have to get up bright and early because we plan on hiking Volcan Santa Maria which is a volcano that rises to 3,677 metres above sea level. The hike it supposed to take about 4 hours to the summit so we will be in for a very active day tomorrow. Anyways, I am off for now and I will update you guys next chance I get. Adios.
Scott
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Guatemala
Hello all,
I do not have time right now to tell you what happened in the jungle but I just want to give you a brief update as to what I am doing at this point. The group phase of the trip has come to an end and everyone is heading their separate ways. Even though the group part of the trip was fun and I learned a lot, it is going to be extremely nice travelling with less people. Currently it is 6:30am local time and I am waiting in my hotel lobby for our bus to Guatemala which is picking us up at 7am. I am really looking forward to seeing a new country and having new experiences. Next chance I have I will update everyone on what we did in the jungle and what I will be doing in Guatemala. I will talk to everyone next chance I get.
Scott
I do not have time right now to tell you what happened in the jungle but I just want to give you a brief update as to what I am doing at this point. The group phase of the trip has come to an end and everyone is heading their separate ways. Even though the group part of the trip was fun and I learned a lot, it is going to be extremely nice travelling with less people. Currently it is 6:30am local time and I am waiting in my hotel lobby for our bus to Guatemala which is picking us up at 7am. I am really looking forward to seeing a new country and having new experiences. Next chance I have I will update everyone on what we did in the jungle and what I will be doing in Guatemala. I will talk to everyone next chance I get.
Scott
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Lacandon Jungle
Hello all,
I am going to be very brief here because I have caught a bad cold and don't feel like writing much. Yesterday, we finished up with Natate and debreifed with them to give our feedback on their projects. It was nice working with them but I am happy that we are now done and on our way to other things.
Today we had a morning meeting with the group then had the huge honour of being invited to a Chamula village where the Arthur Frederick Community Builders had several projects on the go for lunch. The lunch consisted of a really good chicken soup.Afterwards, we talked more with the community members about their lives.
Tomorrow we are going to the Lancandon jungle for a while then onto Palenque. For the jungle I will have no internet access whatsoever and I am not sure about Palenque. As a result, I will be out of contact for an undetermined period. It will be sad leaving our Mexican families tomorrow because it seems like most people have bonded really well with them. A few minutes some of our group made going to Guatemala official by booking our bus tickets for reading week. Anyways, I will update everyone when I can.
Scott
P.S. I know today is the 16th but since I will be out of touch for a while I want to wish Carrie a Happy Birthday tomorrow and I love you!
I am going to be very brief here because I have caught a bad cold and don't feel like writing much. Yesterday, we finished up with Natate and debreifed with them to give our feedback on their projects. It was nice working with them but I am happy that we are now done and on our way to other things.
Today we had a morning meeting with the group then had the huge honour of being invited to a Chamula village where the Arthur Frederick Community Builders had several projects on the go for lunch. The lunch consisted of a really good chicken soup.Afterwards, we talked more with the community members about their lives.
Tomorrow we are going to the Lancandon jungle for a while then onto Palenque. For the jungle I will have no internet access whatsoever and I am not sure about Palenque. As a result, I will be out of contact for an undetermined period. It will be sad leaving our Mexican families tomorrow because it seems like most people have bonded really well with them. A few minutes some of our group made going to Guatemala official by booking our bus tickets for reading week. Anyways, I will update everyone when I can.
Scott
P.S. I know today is the 16th but since I will be out of touch for a while I want to wish Carrie a Happy Birthday tomorrow and I love you!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Hola
Hello all,
I am just going to give a brief update as to what I have been up to the last few days. On Friday (Feb 11) we were back at the park picking up garbage again, this time it wasn't raining and we were hiking along the river. Saturday (Feb 12) was a very interesting day. We went to a Natate project near the town of Teopisca which is attempting to become completely self sustainable. The building was built mostly out of adobe (mud) right from the property. They also have a green house, chicken coop, stream for water and a dry toilet which makes the project very eco-friendly. There were three projects for the day: working on the chicken coop, working on a garden or making adobe bricks. I chose adobe and I feel that I made the right decision. The work was very hard and it took about 9 of us two hours to make 20 adobe bricks. After the work was done, the Natate people cooked us a very nice lunch on site.
Sunday (Feb 13) was a free day where I spent most of my time relaxing and not doing much. I should mention, however, that Sunday was the first time I ate something other than Mexican food because we went out for a pizza dinner.
Today we were back with our Natate projects, however, instead of working at the park, I showed up and they decided to take me to a botanican garden in Tuxla Gutierrez while everyone else had to stay behind and rake leaves. At the botanical garden our task was to clear debris and brush which was hard work but still fun. Before working, however, I got to witness the ribbon cutting ceremony for a local palentological museum. The best part of the day though was the drive to Tuxla and the drive home where I was in the back of a pick-up truck looking at the beautiful scenery.
Anyways, I look forward to updating everyone again soon, but for now I am off.
Scott
P.S. Happy Valentine's Day to my love Caroline!
P.P.S. Happy Birthday Chris Dionne!
I am just going to give a brief update as to what I have been up to the last few days. On Friday (Feb 11) we were back at the park picking up garbage again, this time it wasn't raining and we were hiking along the river. Saturday (Feb 12) was a very interesting day. We went to a Natate project near the town of Teopisca which is attempting to become completely self sustainable. The building was built mostly out of adobe (mud) right from the property. They also have a green house, chicken coop, stream for water and a dry toilet which makes the project very eco-friendly. There were three projects for the day: working on the chicken coop, working on a garden or making adobe bricks. I chose adobe and I feel that I made the right decision. The work was very hard and it took about 9 of us two hours to make 20 adobe bricks. After the work was done, the Natate people cooked us a very nice lunch on site.
Sunday (Feb 13) was a free day where I spent most of my time relaxing and not doing much. I should mention, however, that Sunday was the first time I ate something other than Mexican food because we went out for a pizza dinner.
Today we were back with our Natate projects, however, instead of working at the park, I showed up and they decided to take me to a botanican garden in Tuxla Gutierrez while everyone else had to stay behind and rake leaves. At the botanical garden our task was to clear debris and brush which was hard work but still fun. Before working, however, I got to witness the ribbon cutting ceremony for a local palentological museum. The best part of the day though was the drive to Tuxla and the drive home where I was in the back of a pick-up truck looking at the beautiful scenery.
Anyways, I look forward to updating everyone again soon, but for now I am off.
Scott
P.S. Happy Valentine's Day to my love Caroline!
P.P.S. Happy Birthday Chris Dionne!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Long Time no Talk
Hello all,
Sorry about the lack of updates, the last few days have been very busy. Over the last couple of days we have met with many organizations and started our work with Natate (an organization based out of San Cristobal). On Tuesday (Feb 8) we went to a presentation by a human rights organization called Frayba that operates out of San Cristobal. This organization is really busy so we didn't have a presentation specifically for our group, we had to sit in on one where they were training international observers. It was really informative but we couldn't get involved much since the presentation was not intended for us.
In the afternoon we met with Natate and got a presentation from them about their organization and about what we will be doing while we are volunteering with them for the next few days. We also got to meet a bunch of their volunteers and a couple of the people that we will be working with on our projects. It turns out that there are three projects they are currently working on: renovating the Mayan Medicine Museum, planting a botanical garden and working at an educational park. I am working at the educational park.
The next morning we went to our respective job sites to meet the locals working with us and to get an idea of what we will be doing. The park is a conservation area that covers 16 hectares. There is a zoo, walking trails and a bike path. Overall, it is a very nice place. After seeing where we will all be working we met up with the larger group and had a meeting with staff from the Canadian Embassy who were in town for other reasons. It was a good chance to network and meet people who work at the embassy.
This morning (Feb 10) we started our work at the park. Our job for the day was picking up garbage along the bike path. I should also mention that the terrain of the park is mountainous and that it was raining this morning. However, in spite of the rain and hills, it was a good time and we all got a really good workout hiking through beautiful paths in the mountains. It felt good to put in some labour and get out of the classroom. Anyways, I will update you guys again soon.
Scott
Sorry about the lack of updates, the last few days have been very busy. Over the last couple of days we have met with many organizations and started our work with Natate (an organization based out of San Cristobal). On Tuesday (Feb 8) we went to a presentation by a human rights organization called Frayba that operates out of San Cristobal. This organization is really busy so we didn't have a presentation specifically for our group, we had to sit in on one where they were training international observers. It was really informative but we couldn't get involved much since the presentation was not intended for us.
In the afternoon we met with Natate and got a presentation from them about their organization and about what we will be doing while we are volunteering with them for the next few days. We also got to meet a bunch of their volunteers and a couple of the people that we will be working with on our projects. It turns out that there are three projects they are currently working on: renovating the Mayan Medicine Museum, planting a botanical garden and working at an educational park. I am working at the educational park.
The next morning we went to our respective job sites to meet the locals working with us and to get an idea of what we will be doing. The park is a conservation area that covers 16 hectares. There is a zoo, walking trails and a bike path. Overall, it is a very nice place. After seeing where we will all be working we met up with the larger group and had a meeting with staff from the Canadian Embassy who were in town for other reasons. It was a good chance to network and meet people who work at the embassy.
This morning (Feb 10) we started our work at the park. Our job for the day was picking up garbage along the bike path. I should also mention that the terrain of the park is mountainous and that it was raining this morning. However, in spite of the rain and hills, it was a good time and we all got a really good workout hiking through beautiful paths in the mountains. It felt good to put in some labour and get out of the classroom. Anyways, I will update you guys again soon.
Scott
Monday, February 7, 2011
Update
Hello all,
I don't have much to update you guys on because yesterday was a free day and today is a Mexican holiday so we have yet another free day! Saturday our class went to the Na Bolom museum in San Cristobal which is dedicated to the Lancandon jungle and the indigenous people living there. It is a very interesting place and I wish I had paid more attention to the tour, yet my attention span was short at the time. It was beneficial though to learn more about the jungle and its people because we will be spending a week there at the end of our time in Mexico.
Yesterday, as mentioned, was a free day, however, our group took a trip to a park just outside the city which has really scenic caves. The park we went to is a place where the locals spend Sundays with their families, and we basically just relaxead for half of the day there. After we got back, the fun started and we found a place to watch the Superbowl (in Spanish). I feel that I should mention how terrible the Black Eyed Peas were at half time. Anyways I don't feel like writing more so I will talk to you later.
Scott
I don't have much to update you guys on because yesterday was a free day and today is a Mexican holiday so we have yet another free day! Saturday our class went to the Na Bolom museum in San Cristobal which is dedicated to the Lancandon jungle and the indigenous people living there. It is a very interesting place and I wish I had paid more attention to the tour, yet my attention span was short at the time. It was beneficial though to learn more about the jungle and its people because we will be spending a week there at the end of our time in Mexico.
Yesterday, as mentioned, was a free day, however, our group took a trip to a park just outside the city which has really scenic caves. The park we went to is a place where the locals spend Sundays with their families, and we basically just relaxead for half of the day there. After we got back, the fun started and we found a place to watch the Superbowl (in Spanish). I feel that I should mention how terrible the Black Eyed Peas were at half time. Anyways I don't feel like writing more so I will talk to you later.
Scott
Friday, February 4, 2011
Sergio Castro
Hello all,
How goes it? I am going to give a brief update on the last two days since I am at a cafe and I don't really feel like writing too much.Yesterday (Feb 3) was fairly irrelevant since we spent almost all day "debriefing" our experiences.Today (Feb 4), however, was quite interesting. As I mentioned previously, two girls in my class and I had the great opportunity of shadowing a man named Sergio Castro. Just to refresh your memory, Sergio is a trained veteranarian who gives medical attention to people who do not have access to doctors. Most of the people he treats have burns or diabetic ulcers. Sergio also helps build schools for communities that do not have access to education.
Today started with us going to see one of his school projects in a community approximately 10km outside of San Cristobal. The project was interesting and seemed to be similar in nature to projects that I have seen done by the Arthur Frederick Community Builders. After looking at the project, we drove back into San Cristobal to do rounds with Sergio and see how he cares for his patients. The first man we saw had bad burns from when he had a seizure and fell into a fire. It was really impressive to see the care that Sergio gave this man and the rest of his patients.After the burn victim, we saw him treat about four or five elderly people with diabetic ulcers on their legs. Sergio told us that among the people living in San Cristobal, he sees more ulcers than anything else. The people he treats outside of San Cristobal, however, are mostly indigenous people that have fallen into fires and are severely burned. I recommend youtubing "Sergio Castro Chiapas" if you want to learn more. After we got back to Sergio's museum, we found out that he does rounds every morning and every afternoon he treats people at his museum. However, after spending a day with Sergio and seeing all that he does for the people of Chiapas, I couldn't help but wonder: what will happen when he's gone?
Scott
How goes it? I am going to give a brief update on the last two days since I am at a cafe and I don't really feel like writing too much.Yesterday (Feb 3) was fairly irrelevant since we spent almost all day "debriefing" our experiences.Today (Feb 4), however, was quite interesting. As I mentioned previously, two girls in my class and I had the great opportunity of shadowing a man named Sergio Castro. Just to refresh your memory, Sergio is a trained veteranarian who gives medical attention to people who do not have access to doctors. Most of the people he treats have burns or diabetic ulcers. Sergio also helps build schools for communities that do not have access to education.
Today started with us going to see one of his school projects in a community approximately 10km outside of San Cristobal. The project was interesting and seemed to be similar in nature to projects that I have seen done by the Arthur Frederick Community Builders. After looking at the project, we drove back into San Cristobal to do rounds with Sergio and see how he cares for his patients. The first man we saw had bad burns from when he had a seizure and fell into a fire. It was really impressive to see the care that Sergio gave this man and the rest of his patients.After the burn victim, we saw him treat about four or five elderly people with diabetic ulcers on their legs. Sergio told us that among the people living in San Cristobal, he sees more ulcers than anything else. The people he treats outside of San Cristobal, however, are mostly indigenous people that have fallen into fires and are severely burned. I recommend youtubing "Sergio Castro Chiapas" if you want to learn more. After we got back to Sergio's museum, we found out that he does rounds every morning and every afternoon he treats people at his museum. However, after spending a day with Sergio and seeing all that he does for the people of Chiapas, I couldn't help but wonder: what will happen when he's gone?
Scott
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Free Day
Hello all,
Today is my first free day since arriving in Mexico so I finally have time to catch up on sleeep, laundry and blogging. Yesterday was a very busy day and our class did a lot of interesting stuff. When we went to the school to meet up with everyone, there was a massive military and police presence at the artesans market. It turns out, the military and police were setting up a secure area around the market because the president, Felipe Calderon, was on his was to San Cristobal to deliver a speach to the people. I believe the speech was related to the death of Bishop Samuel Ruiz, but I am not certain.
In the morning we went to a youth shelter called Casa de las Flores (house of the flowers) which is in downtown San Cristobal. This organization has been around for two years so it's still in the growing and building phase. Casa de las Flores is a safe place for the young people who are working on the street to go and have a shower, use the bathroom, read, play or sleep. At first there was a lot of violence in the shelter, but the woman who started the organization, Claudia, has taught the children ways of resolving issues without turning to violence. Most of the children who use the building have never been to school so Claudia is teaching them how to read, write and interact with other kids. As a result, they affectionately refer to her as maestra (teacher). The shelter has also recently adopted two cats which, so far, have been a good way of teaching the kids how to look after another living being. Right now, they have a courtyard with nothing in it, but there are plans for building a garden at some point. The majority of kids who use the shelter are shoe shine boys because they are the lowest on the social totem pole. At first there were a few girls that went to Casa de las Flores, however, not many go anymore since the shoe shine boys have "taken over". Overall, it seems like a very good organizartion that has a lot of potential to make a difference to the street kids of San Cristobal.
In the afternoon, Nancy and I started private Spanish lessons at the language school. The lesson yesterday was really good and I look forward to my next classes on Thursday and Friday. Hopefully I will be able to carry on a decent conversation in Spanish by the end of my trip.
After the Spanish lessons, we met back up with the group and realized that El Presidente, Felipe Calderon, was at the artesans market which is about 200 metres from the school. The class split up into two groups, went through checkpoints and security and managed to get within about 15 feet of him! It was a really neat experience and I, unfortunately, did not get my camera out in time to get a decent picture. Luckily, others in the class got some good ones so I am hoping to get copies from them.
In the evening we had the opportunity to meet up with a man named Sergio Castro. If you get the chance, you can youtube him (search for Sergio Castro Chiapas). Sergio is a trained veteranarian, but he has spent most of his life treating injuries and providing health care to indigenous people throughout the area that do not have access to doctors or health clinics. He travels to remote villages where he specializes in burn treatment since many indigenous people cook with open fires and often fall into them for various reasons (one big one being a parasite that causes seizures). We met Sergio at his museum in San Cristobal which he uses as a way to fund his medical supplies (he gets no funding from any level of government).The museum has the indigenous dress of almost all of the tribes in Chiapas as well as many different artifacts which have been donated to him by people who he has helped. I should also mention the Sergio speaks seven languages, including English. I just learned, about 30 minutes ago, that I will have the amazing opportunity to shadow Sergio on Friday with two other classmates and I am really looking forward to it.
Sorry that this has been such a long update, but I have been very busy and I had a lot to tell everyone. I hope you are enjoying the snow (ha ha)!
Scott
Today is my first free day since arriving in Mexico so I finally have time to catch up on sleeep, laundry and blogging. Yesterday was a very busy day and our class did a lot of interesting stuff. When we went to the school to meet up with everyone, there was a massive military and police presence at the artesans market. It turns out, the military and police were setting up a secure area around the market because the president, Felipe Calderon, was on his was to San Cristobal to deliver a speach to the people. I believe the speech was related to the death of Bishop Samuel Ruiz, but I am not certain.
In the morning we went to a youth shelter called Casa de las Flores (house of the flowers) which is in downtown San Cristobal. This organization has been around for two years so it's still in the growing and building phase. Casa de las Flores is a safe place for the young people who are working on the street to go and have a shower, use the bathroom, read, play or sleep. At first there was a lot of violence in the shelter, but the woman who started the organization, Claudia, has taught the children ways of resolving issues without turning to violence. Most of the children who use the building have never been to school so Claudia is teaching them how to read, write and interact with other kids. As a result, they affectionately refer to her as maestra (teacher). The shelter has also recently adopted two cats which, so far, have been a good way of teaching the kids how to look after another living being. Right now, they have a courtyard with nothing in it, but there are plans for building a garden at some point. The majority of kids who use the shelter are shoe shine boys because they are the lowest on the social totem pole. At first there were a few girls that went to Casa de las Flores, however, not many go anymore since the shoe shine boys have "taken over". Overall, it seems like a very good organizartion that has a lot of potential to make a difference to the street kids of San Cristobal.
In the afternoon, Nancy and I started private Spanish lessons at the language school. The lesson yesterday was really good and I look forward to my next classes on Thursday and Friday. Hopefully I will be able to carry on a decent conversation in Spanish by the end of my trip.
After the Spanish lessons, we met back up with the group and realized that El Presidente, Felipe Calderon, was at the artesans market which is about 200 metres from the school. The class split up into two groups, went through checkpoints and security and managed to get within about 15 feet of him! It was a really neat experience and I, unfortunately, did not get my camera out in time to get a decent picture. Luckily, others in the class got some good ones so I am hoping to get copies from them.
In the evening we had the opportunity to meet up with a man named Sergio Castro. If you get the chance, you can youtube him (search for Sergio Castro Chiapas). Sergio is a trained veteranarian, but he has spent most of his life treating injuries and providing health care to indigenous people throughout the area that do not have access to doctors or health clinics. He travels to remote villages where he specializes in burn treatment since many indigenous people cook with open fires and often fall into them for various reasons (one big one being a parasite that causes seizures). We met Sergio at his museum in San Cristobal which he uses as a way to fund his medical supplies (he gets no funding from any level of government).The museum has the indigenous dress of almost all of the tribes in Chiapas as well as many different artifacts which have been donated to him by people who he has helped. I should also mention the Sergio speaks seven languages, including English. I just learned, about 30 minutes ago, that I will have the amazing opportunity to shadow Sergio on Friday with two other classmates and I am really looking forward to it.
Sorry that this has been such a long update, but I have been very busy and I had a lot to tell everyone. I hope you are enjoying the snow (ha ha)!
Scott
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Update
Hello All,
It has been a while since we last talked. I apologize for not giving more updates, but the family I am living with does not have internet. The last few days have been quite busy so I have a lot to tell you. Day five (Jan 29) was moving day. On moving day people seemed to be dropping like flies and many different people from our group, including Nancy, were sick. Nancy and I were picked up at the hotel by our host mother Esmeralda and her two sons Jose (2 years old) and Aaron (15 years old). The family has a 12 year old housekeeper named Melissa and I am not sure whether or not she lives here (it’s a weird dynamic between her and the family). Also, none of them speak a word of English.
The house is really interesting. When you walk in there is a courtyard with a closed kitchen on the left and three bedrooms for students in a square around the courtyard. There is a family room across from my room and stairs that lead to the second floor where the family lives. My bedroom is quite large and has two beds, yet I have it to myself. Nancy’s room is much smaller but also nice. We also have a very nice woman from Halifax living here named Kim. She is taking classes at the language school and is fluent in Spanish which helps Nancy and I communicate with the family. I should also mention that Esmeralda is an awesome cook.
The past few days have been quite busy and I still have not had a day off to sleep and do laundry. Needless to say, my clothes are pretty nasty. We have had various guest speakers but the highlight for me so far has been the last two days. Yesterday (Jan 30) half of the group went to a village called Monte Zion which is about 30 minutes away from San Cristobal. This village is part of the Chamula indigenous group and they had been expelled from their community 15 years ago for converting religions to evangelicalism. When they were expelled, they were only able to take with them what they could carry and there was some violence against the people being kicked out. As a result, the entire community lives in extreme poverty. I won’t get into much more detail now, but what we did was sat down with a family in their home and spoke with them about how they live and then got a tour of the village.
Today (Jan 31) I went with Paul of the Arthur Frederick Community Builders to see one of his projects in the village of Temtoj. This project is one where he is teaming with a man named Peter to build them a water collection system that is aimed at getting them through the dry season. Previously, Paul built them a school and a playground so he has a good relationship with the people in the village. After Temtoj I went around with Paul and Peter and saw some different project that the AFCB had done years ago. Once I got back to the city and met up with the group, we had a presentation from an organization called Save the Children which focuses on education of vulnerable kids. All in all it was a good day.
If anyone has any questions, feel free to email me but don’t be offended if I don’t answer right away because I am finding it difficult to access the internet.
Adios,
Scott
Friday, January 28, 2011
Hello all,
Sorry about the lack of updates but we have been very busy over the last two days. I am going to make this relatively brief, however, since I am exhausted and should probably get some sleep. Yesterday (Thursday Jan 27) we split off into groups of three to go on a quest around the city of San Cristobal. It was really nice getting out of the larger group and into smaller ones since the groups of three allowed us to experience things that are not possible in a large group. For the quest, we were given a sheet with vague instructions and questions as well as a map. Essentially, we went to almost every major part of San Cristobal and learned a lot because of the question sheet which made us pay more attention to what was going on around us. It kind of felt like the amazing race and my group was the first to finish.
Today (Fri Jan 28) we went to the indigenous village of San Juan Chamula which is not too far from San Cristobal. This village has a rich and vibrant culture and very few people speak Spanish (the main language is Tzoltzil). We started by going into the church which is the cultural focal point so to speak and requires written permission and the paying of a fee to enter. Over the last 20 or so years, tourism has found this village and it is extremely sad to see how the culture is being lost and the people are starting to depend more on toursim.Even in the church, there were a lot of tourists being disrespectful and gawking at the people as they prayed. I reached the sad conclusion that in a generation or two the place will be radically different and what if left of the culture will be for the tourists to see as opposed to the people actually practising it. I highly recommend reading more on San Juan Chamula.
Tomorrow we will be moving into our family homes so I am not sure when my next update will be, but I will try to make it as soon as possible. If you have any questions, feel free to email me. Adios.
Scott
Sorry about the lack of updates but we have been very busy over the last two days. I am going to make this relatively brief, however, since I am exhausted and should probably get some sleep. Yesterday (Thursday Jan 27) we split off into groups of three to go on a quest around the city of San Cristobal. It was really nice getting out of the larger group and into smaller ones since the groups of three allowed us to experience things that are not possible in a large group. For the quest, we were given a sheet with vague instructions and questions as well as a map. Essentially, we went to almost every major part of San Cristobal and learned a lot because of the question sheet which made us pay more attention to what was going on around us. It kind of felt like the amazing race and my group was the first to finish.
Today (Fri Jan 28) we went to the indigenous village of San Juan Chamula which is not too far from San Cristobal. This village has a rich and vibrant culture and very few people speak Spanish (the main language is Tzoltzil). We started by going into the church which is the cultural focal point so to speak and requires written permission and the paying of a fee to enter. Over the last 20 or so years, tourism has found this village and it is extremely sad to see how the culture is being lost and the people are starting to depend more on toursim.Even in the church, there were a lot of tourists being disrespectful and gawking at the people as they prayed. I reached the sad conclusion that in a generation or two the place will be radically different and what if left of the culture will be for the tourists to see as opposed to the people actually practising it. I highly recommend reading more on San Juan Chamula.
Tomorrow we will be moving into our family homes so I am not sure when my next update will be, but I will try to make it as soon as possible. If you have any questions, feel free to email me. Adios.
Scott
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
San Cristobal de las Casas
Hello all,
We arrived today in San Cristobal after a relatively short bus ride from Tuxla Gutierrez. Today was an orientatation day where we moved into the hotel and walked around the city. We also went to the Treehouse Language School which is where we will be spending most of our group time together because from here on in we will split off into smaller groups and leave the large one behind. The funeral for archbishop Samuel Ruiz was today at the cathedral and we caught the tail end of the event (the picture on this blog is of the cathedral by the way). If you do not know who Samuel Ruiz is, he is most famous for being one of the main negotiators between the Zapatistas and the federal government and he is very much loved down here. If you do not know who the Zapatistas are, look it up. I am lucky to learn that over the next 3 days I will have free internet access because the hotel we are staying at has wifi. After the three days we are at the hotel, we will all move into our family homes. I will probably not write new posts every day but I will keep you up to date as much as possible. Adios.
Scott
We arrived today in San Cristobal after a relatively short bus ride from Tuxla Gutierrez. Today was an orientatation day where we moved into the hotel and walked around the city. We also went to the Treehouse Language School which is where we will be spending most of our group time together because from here on in we will split off into smaller groups and leave the large one behind. The funeral for archbishop Samuel Ruiz was today at the cathedral and we caught the tail end of the event (the picture on this blog is of the cathedral by the way). If you do not know who Samuel Ruiz is, he is most famous for being one of the main negotiators between the Zapatistas and the federal government and he is very much loved down here. If you do not know who the Zapatistas are, look it up. I am lucky to learn that over the next 3 days I will have free internet access because the hotel we are staying at has wifi. After the three days we are at the hotel, we will all move into our family homes. I will probably not write new posts every day but I will keep you up to date as much as possible. Adios.
Scott
Greetings From Tuxla Gutierez
Hello all,
We arrived in Tuxla late last night after a long day of travel. Today we will head out to San Cristobal de las Casas where we will spend the majority of our trip. The flight into Mexico City from Chicago was uneventful until the end where we had a lot of turbulence but amazing views of the massive urban sprawl, two volcanoes and smog. We had a long layover in Mexico City then we boarded our final plane for a while and came to the Chiapas state capital Tuxla Gutierez. I am not sure what kind of internet access I will be having from here on in but I will try to keep all of you posted as much as I can.
Scott
We arrived in Tuxla late last night after a long day of travel. Today we will head out to San Cristobal de las Casas where we will spend the majority of our trip. The flight into Mexico City from Chicago was uneventful until the end where we had a lot of turbulence but amazing views of the massive urban sprawl, two volcanoes and smog. We had a long layover in Mexico City then we boarded our final plane for a while and came to the Chiapas state capital Tuxla Gutierez. I am not sure what kind of internet access I will be having from here on in but I will try to keep all of you posted as much as I can.
Scott
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Our journey begins.
Hello all,
I have just found out that Pearson now has free wifi! Right now we are all sitting at the check in area waiting to go through US customs and security for our first flight to Chicago. More to come later.
I have just found out that Pearson now has free wifi! Right now we are all sitting at the check in area waiting to go through US customs and security for our first flight to Chicago. More to come later.
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