First, and this is very important if you ever travel to a Latin American country... Don't, under any circumstances refer to chicken buses as chicken buses. Apparently, it's really offensive to locals. I know what you're thinking-- no I didn't have to learn that the hard way. Luckily I said, "autobuses pollos" in front of my teacher, Rosa, and she kindly corrected me and explained that I shouldn't say that in front of anyone. The politically correct term is transporto publico. Makes sense.
Second, I realized how much I enjoy walking to get places. I was just on my way home, walking down the dirty cobblestone streets at twilight and I realized that there's something extremely enjoyable and adventuress in having to walk everywhere in a new place. It took me right back to Morelia where some of my fondest memories were walking and taking in my surroundings. I also recognized that this would never fly back home where there are so many places to be and much to do in very little time. I think that's why it's so enjoyable here, I have all the time in the world!
Third, traveling alone knows no age boundaries. I spent most of the day hanging out with a 60-something-year-old from Australia that I met on break at school. His name is Dave and he was showing me the ropes and imparting much wanted advice as this is his third time in Guatemala. He speaks pretty good Spanish and isn't afraid to chat anyone up. I admire his Spanish confidence :) Some day...
Fourth, I realized how rich a day you can have when you don't have an agenda. I ended up chatting with Dave in El Parque Central about his travel experiences and then went to a free lecture at a beautiful building that appeared to be the Spanish Embassy--don't hold me to that. The lecture was honoring the founder of a unique university and the director was speaking about their philosophy on education. I didn't catch a whole lot of what was said but I could definitely identify some themes and it was good practice listening. The building it was in was really beautiful. I plan to go back and see more of it. I would upload some pictures from my phone but I'm not that sophisticated of a blogger. Comment with instructions if you know how. Facebook will have to do for now.
Lastly, I learned that all dogs around the world get on the furniture when their owners are gone! Insert great picture of Nugget curled up on the patio chair. He didn't budge when I got home. In fact, I didn't even see him, but he sure got out of the chair fast when Guillermo and Alice got home :) Nod to Dallas and Rio!
Es todo para hoy! Check out the pics on Facebook.
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