Santiago de Chile

 Cerro San Cristobal

La Moneda Palace

Buenas Dias! Today was my last day of WorldTeach orientation! We have been super busy since arrival going through all kinds of teacher training and preparation for our roles as English teachers for Ingles Abres Puertas. This weekend we move to a new hostel in Santiago and meet up with many other volunteers participating in the program. Sad to leave our lovely hostel, but excited to meet more volunteers and get moving towards my host family and host school scenario! I still do not know where I am headed next weekend, but I did find out that I was placed in region 5 - Valpo and am very excited about this! I will post details when I get them!

Tonight is my last spanish lesson as well - my spanish tutor's name is Arnavik, and he is a wonderful funny man who is very patient! Chilean spanish is unlike any other kind of spanish, and there are many words in Chile that means things here, but not anywhere else:) Chilenismos are everywhere and we have been learning many of them this week. My favorite thus far is 'es lo que hay (po)' - which means, "eh, it is what it is!" This week we have met many so many Chileans eager to help you and be patient with you, they are always reminding me to cover my purse and be careful - so sweet:)

What else? I have begun to adjust to the idea that white bread is my new staple, i also have fallen in love with a particular empanada (similar to a pita pocket? sort of...) "napolitana". And there is more fruit than I have ever experienced. Walking down the street there are vendors of every kind all over. It is also very hot and very sunny! I must say, coming from Minnesota, it is quite nice!! The sun really does feel hotter here though, and I have already achieved my signature "lobster" status amongst the group:)

I already feel that this group of people from WorldTeach are my new family, they are such amazing accomplished people that I am honored to work with. We have had a blast this entire week getting to know everyone and I am looking forward to the adventures that await us! Will write more soon, as for tonight, I am headed to my first asado (barbeque) on the roof of Heather's (my field director) apartment here in Santiago!