Why did you choose Global Citizen Adventure Corps?
It was a trip where I knew I'd be safe. Everything was planned and I wasn't the one who had to do the planning. I like that a lot! I also knew Oaxaca was a locale for many artisans, great food, and good music -- all things I enjoy.
What was your favorite part about Mexico?
We took a cooking class which was absolutely fabulous. Our instructor led us through all the steps to make an amazing Oaxacan meal of about eight courses, all locally produced. When I sat down at the table and saw what we had accomplished, I was astounded that our group - some of whom were young students and inexperienced cooks -- were able to create such a feast.
What point during your trip made it extraordinary?
We went to a local school where we had a drum circle with all ages in the circle, enjoyed a fabulous meal provided by one of our partners, and we, in turn, offered a sewing lesson and a math lesson. All of the children and their parents seemed eager to be with us. We were warmly embraced. I felt that while Mexico was giving much to me, I was able to give a little back.
Martha Edinger sharing her sewing skills with students and families during a service project in Oaxaca, Mexico
How did the local staff support you throughout your stay?
The people at the hotel were wonderful offering a great breakfast as well as assistance for all our needs. Our drivers were wonderful. Our guide who is deeply involved in the community was knowledgeable about where to go and seemed very connected to the people we met. I was pleased with the thought that had obviously gone into building these partnerships.
What was the one thing you regretted during your time abroad? What did you realize?
I would have bought that set of coffee cups I saw! We found them at an artisan's market and I was impressed; however, I passed on them. Then when I realized I had missed an opportunity and tried to go back, the artist was gone. So I took away a great reminder to not put off what you know is right in the moment.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
We were only there for a week so "typical" wasn't really an option. But we would have a great start with a delicious breakfast with local fruit and specialties, then we would walk around the plaza which was in festival mode. We usually did something fun, something where we learned about the culture, and we did service for three of the days.
Martha Edinger and her GCAC group explored the town square, enjoying a glimpse of local life and customs.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time in Mexico?
Just "being." I find great enjoyment in taking in the music that the festival atmosphere provided and seeing the local people interacting with each other.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
We stayed in a hotel that gives a percentage of their profits back into the community. The rooms were clean and modern and very comfortable. The layout was great as was the food.
What tip or advice would you give future participants about your program before it begins?
Take good walking shoes! But also, you will have opportunities with GCAC that you won't have with other tour groups. You WILL interact with the local culture - something I have rarely had the option of doing with a cruise. And service is a part of what GCAC is about. So we don't just go and see something. We go and leave something behind because we have gotten to know people and listened to their stories and learned from them but shared our knowledge and skills as well.
Would you recommend Global Citizen Adventure Corps? Why?
Definitely! GCAC provides a different product that a "typical tour" experience. They set the cost as low as they can to allow more people to go. The price is all-inclusive so you are not constantly stressing about conversions and tipping because that's being handled. The leaders are educators and it shows because of how well-rounded the activities are and how they adjust for people's understanding of culture and practices. I learned a great deal and would love to return to Mexico.
Martha Edinger observing a Mexican artisan at work, combining her passion for supporting arts and education.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
To see that there are other ways of doing things other than how we do them at home - that kind of learning is invaluable. Perspective is powerful. Discovering a new culture and seeing life through their eyes if only for a few days is exceptional.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
I'm more aware when I see a news story from a country that I've traveled to. I'm more interested in following up and seeing what happened and how it may have affected where I was. I think about the people I met and how now they are more than just words on a page.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel is different experiences than what I see and do every day. Architecture in ancient cities, agriculture in simple villages, art in markets, food that is harvested locally and made by hand -- all make for adding meaning to my life. I'm enriched by travel.
