Voyaging Abroad and Learning the Basics (5/8-5/9)

The first day had an atmosphere of excitement amongst students despite the 10+ hours of plane flights that students encountered. Students were immersed into Spanish culture rather quickly, as many travelers on the flight from Atlanta were Spanish speakers (as were the bi-lingual flight attendants and pilots, who had to communicate with a more diverse set of travelers than ones on a domestic flight). Nonetheless, it was an opportunity to practice Spanish speaking skills in order to be able to communicate with students and locals in Chile.

After the flight landed, it became a little overwhelming in the airport.
International flights have more rigid rules, as countries are protective of what is brought into their territories. Also, it was very crowded at the airport and many people were holding up signs with people’s names on them, almost like they were there to pick up celebrities. It felt surreal yet exhilarating at the same time, because students were already learning about Chilean culture. After everyone picked up their luggage and got through customs, students met with Camilo, the Chilean student who was met at the airport. After, students took a bus ride from Santiago to the hotel.

My first impression was that there was an abundance of beautiful scenery, from the Andes Mountains, to trees and plants. At this time, we were able to practice speaking Spanish with Camilo after everyone introduced themselves. I realized quickly that Chileans speak quickly and use slang that I am not use to hearing. This made the communication barrier more difficult, but Camilo also spoke English which lessened this barrier. After moving in, students were able to explore the city and find lunch for the first time. It was early afternoon, but not many restaurants were open which was surprising. We found a Mexican restaurant near our hotel that had menus entirely in Spanish. This was expected and a great opportunity to practice ordering food. Although the waiter had trouble understanding some students’ speaking, it was not an issue. The most interesting part of the meal was that water was served in a bottle and we were charged for it. I am use to having water for free and unlimited quantities. After lunch, most students took naps (although Chile does not have a siesta). It was only the first day and students wanted to be rested for the first day. At the introductory dinner, it was fun to eat as a group and experience ordering food together. When we were eating, there was a video playing of influential movies and music playing from the U.S. than the Chileans listened to and watched frequently. It was interesting to see this parallel between cultures.

After dinner, the group went to a gas station nearby to pick up snacks for the week. What was most interesting was that the gas station sold alcohol, which students were not use to in the U.S. Anyway, the first day in Chile was a learning experience that introduced Chilean culture, with similarities and differences to the U.S.