What inspired you to go abroad?
Traveling has always been an interest of mine. I have been working on improving my Spanish and wanted to see the beautiful country of Ecuador. I have never been to Ecuador, so I added it to my list. I was a bit worried at first, as I had heard that South America can be dangerous, but I was surprised by how safe I was during my time there.
Why did you choose Fundación Bolivar Education?
They have a lot of experience in the business (I believe they have been doing this for more than 20 years), and it really shows. Their professionalism and level of expertise put my mind at ease when I was over there. This allowed me to focus more on enjoying my time there and being a part of their culture.
What was your favorite part about Ecuador?
Probably the biodiversity. There aren’t many places you can experience jungles, beaches, and mountains all in one country. One day, you’re exploring a cloud forest, the next you’re hiking a volcano. You can explore the Amazon rainforest and then see the incredible Galápagos Islands. My only regret is that my trip was too short!
Action shot zip lining!
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
Probably the people I interacted with. I couldn’t have had a better homestay host. Monika made me feel right at home and also made sure I didn’t miss out on any of the must-do experiences around Quito. Now I realize that it can’t all be packed into 1 week, so I will definitely be making a return trip!
How did local staff support you throughout your Spanish Learning Program?
They were always there for me for whatever I needed, and I felt very well supported. From the second I was met and picked up at the airport, to the second I was dropped back off at the airport, I was never alone. Every day, at all times, at any time, their staff was there if I needed anything, which was nice to have support around the clock.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I definitely wish I would have stayed longer than my one-week stay! I was there for about a week, which was awesome, but I would have stayed longer because there was definitely more to do and see. It would be impossible to say that you saw all Ecuador has to offer in merely one week’s time.
Describe what a typical day in your life in Ecuador looked like.
All three meals a day were prepared for us at the homestay, unless of course, we were exploring restaurants in the area. All transportation to the school and other places we would visit was covered as well. All that I had to worry about was being in the right place at the right time, which was nice.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
I really liked exploring whether it be new places to eat with new foods, new museums throughout the city, or beautiful places of nature. I went tubing and zip-lining, which was really fun, and I would definitely do it again. I also toured a beautiful butterfly garden, which was really fun.
Tubing!
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
Instead of staying in a hotel, I was fortunate to have a real homestay experience. I really liked the entire experience—getting to know the family and volunteers there, and enjoying the delicious food together really made me feel like I had the true Ecuadorian experience, as if I were a local.
What is one thing every future participant should know before their program begins?
I don’t think a week is long enough; I would suggest more than one week. And I would definitely suggest taking the Spanish lessons with the foundation while you are staying here as well. A couple of the Spanish lessons go a long way in getting around the country, and they do a great job teaching according to your level.
Would you recommend learning Spanish in Quito, Ecuador, to others? Why?
I often think some people overlook Quito (and Ecuador in general), but it is one of the hidden gems of the world and a must-see! Just the fact that Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world is awesome. You can experience the jungle, beach/coast, and mountains all in one trip!
Another tubing action shot!
What do you feel is the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?
I would say that the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is being immersed in new ways of life and experiencing cultures you would never normally interact with. It expands your horizons and gives you a new perspective on life. Also, developing various types of friendships with different people you would have never met otherwise!
Now that you're home, how has your time in Ecuador impacted your life?
I would say that my time abroad has definitely given me some awesome new memories I never would have made had I decided not to go. I see things from a new perspective, and now can’t wait to go back! It’s a decision I was originally on the fence about, but I am so glad I made the choice to go and experience Ecuador.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel to me means being able to experience brand new cultures and help other people in any way I can. It is one of the easiest ways to put yourself out there, meet other people, and experience new things that you would have never done had you not signed up to go.
