EIL Intercultural Learning

Hey everyone, While I have an opportunity I thought I'd drop a line and talk a small bit about the social aspect of 'teaching while traveling'. Of course, you would have to try quite hard to go to another country and not meet anyone new but I have to say the social culture of Ecuador is unlike any other I know. I knew, seeing as this was the first time I was to leave Europe, I would notice some differences and indeed some stereotypes. Which really is true. My first two weeks, in Quito, allowed me to get to know other volunteers in the school. But it was difficult to meet people from Ecuador as Quito can be a tourist zone. However, when I reached Puerto Quito I got to know more Ecuadorian people, which for me is an essential part of this exchange.

My first proper South American style fiesta was on my second weekend here. The fiesta of the 'Virgin del Carmen'. This is a big date in the Puerto Quito calendar. A religious festival with a latino twist. All of the 4000 residents flood out into the streets for a night of music, talking and of course, dancing! There were performers on the stage dancing Marimba, Salsa and Reggaeton. If you have never encountered Reggaeton music I suggest you look it up. And if you think you can dance come and give this a try. Of course, in the name of social and cultural exchanges I gave it a try. Unfortunately, I dont have any photos of this travesty and for the sake of my reputation here, I hope no one else does haha. If I had ever doubted it before I now know I was not born to be a Reggaeton dancer! But asides from this the night was absolutely fantastic. Families and friends of all ages were dancing away into the early hours of the morning. The atmosphere was fantastic, everyone was there to enjoy the night. And as the crowds began to disperse I was even allowed to DJ a little (Reggaeton dancer and DJ are two careers I won't be pursuing).

Last weekend, with friends from the language school, I was able to visit the pacific coast. At the moment it is the vacation season in Quito and the holiday town of Atacames was alive with people and music. Once again a fantastic time. We went to Mompiche, an amazing palm fringed beach. And seeing as there is a world class surf spot there it could only be good. Unfortunately, there was NO surf to be had the time I was there. Eitherway, the weekend was great and I even got sunburn as a souveiner. Good times!

For now I am in my last week here in Puerto Quito. But there is still alot more to do, it is sports week in my school and I was made 'El Padrino' of a class here. I'm not entirely sure what this means. I'm sure this will involve more ritualistic embarassment but I am loving every second here. It will be a shame to leave. So until my next post!

Hasta Luego!