Costa Rica | Day 3

After an exciting first day in Costa Rica, we were ready for another day of adventures. The Stuart day group went to beautiful waterfalls by way of horseback riding. Each horse we were given had a unique personality, including Piojo and Gordojo, who loved to go fast. One particular horse named Tequila was notorious for its “loco” personality. Surrounded by gorgeous scenery and nature, jumping off the waterfall was both exhilarating and terrifying; it was an exciting experience for everyone. On the way back from the waterfalls, we were welcomed by the local community with a freshly made feast served with refreshing pineapple juice. We were surprised to see peacocks, macaw parrots, agouti and monkeys. When we arrived back at the hotel, the day groups went to their afternoon activities, including cooking, yoga and salsa dancing. To end the night, local dancers performed traditional dances, inviting students to try on their dresses and hats. This was a truly unforgettable day.

-Thea Pratt, Amelia Batt and Sofia Kozlova

Costa Rica | Day 2

I had so much fun on my day in Costa Rica. Waking up to the birds singing was truly stress-relieving after the tough trip to Costa Rica. I particularly enjoyed doing service today. Speaking with the children was not only a great way to practice Spanish but rather find yourself sharing love and respect with strangers with the simple intention of true integrity and sympathy. Overall, I enjoyed all the experiences today.

-Mateo D.

Costa Rica | Day 1

A quick update from Dominical!. 

The flights were on time, and the first group of students and chaperones arrived at our home for the week in time for lunch, a swim and to familiarize themselves with the property and the wildlife (we saw a toucan!). The second group has landed, on the bus and expected to arrive in the next hour. The weather is beautiful and we are excited to begin our rotations tomorrow and meet together as a full group later this evening. Photos will be posted to the blog this evening and blog posts and reflections tomorrow and the following days. 

¡Pura Vida! 

The Costa Rica Chaperone Team

EE primary research in Berlin

While in Berlin, I’ve loved experiencing the various styles of art and architecture throughout the city. Getting to see all the buildings I previously had only read about was a truly incredible experience! I am writing my EE on architecture and one of the buildings I’m analyzing is the Reichstag Building in Berlin. I found that having the lived experience of seeing the Reichstag Building has allowed me to have a clearer perspective and inspiration in furthering my research and general interest in architecture!

-Sydney

Hard work and Cooperation Payoff

After visiting two contemporary art museums yesterday, all 26 of us headed over to a protestant church in the absence of an American Thanksgiving. After many failed attempts at finding a venue, a very gracious pastor welcomed us with open arms into her space so that we could celebrate what we are grateful for. Several of us trekked over to a grocery store and picked up necessary supplies and then got to work on what would be our Thanksgiving feast. After almost two hours of slicing, stirring, and seasoning, we all sat down to eat and express our thanks. It was a long day but well worth it and it will certainly be a Thanksgiving to remember.

-Clara

See, think, feel.

Yesterday the group went to 2 amazing art museums with the curator, artist, poet, and writer Ann! Its was really inspiring to see how Berlin’s history has effected the production of art and art itself! Right now in IB, I am exploring the detrimental effects of war and how artists chose to portray it, so seeing Germany’s history depicted in art was inspiring and provided an interesting perspective to my exhibition. We also attended a “care” museum that focused on self care and awareness. There were many interactive experiences that really calmed us down and prepared us for the stressful Thanksgiving preparation that was coming!

-Callie

Walk the wall

Our first full day in Berlin was spent exploring the city in small groups. We visited many sights where we were able to explore Germany’s history. While Copenhagen felt like a place where we embraced its present culture, Berlin was a city where we immersed ourselves in its past. “It felt like a haunted city” and “A place where the cobblestones looked to be crying due to the melting snow”, as wisely stated by Ms. Mac and Dr. Jorgensen respectively. Although Berlin is a much bigger city than Copenhagen, it was still filled with quaint cafes and bakeries where we were able to have breakfast, and even a kebab kitchen where I enjoyed a delicious lunch. We ended the day watching a huge upset in the World Cup. It was great to able to wander the city and get a taste for all parts of German culture.

-Emil