EIL Intercultural Learning

Hi everyone!  I'm Damien and I'm off to Ecuador in approximately ... 3 hours! The excitement! I'm flying to Quito to stay with my host family there for around 5 days before I go to my main homestay in the city of Riobamba, just south of Quito.

Now that I've been home for a week, slept for most of it, and sorted out the inevitable bits and pieces that occur when one is away, I'm ready to start writing about my experiences in Tokyo for the past five weeks (knowing me I'll forget them if I don't!). Taking inspiration from Aran's blog (which I strongly suggest you check out if you haven't already) I'm going to take a stab at writing a bit about Japanese culture, though I have a suspicion my efforts will pale in comparison.

Sampling the culture inclding the use of chopsticks in Hong Kong '09.

A photo of a local community gathering for a Guelaguetza celebration that take place in the region capital Oaxaca and throughout the state of Oaxaca in Mexico.

As part of 5 days of cultural orientation upon arrival, a group of volunteers learn to write their names.