Paige Oswald – “On the first day we got to see the house in San Clemente where the hosts live. They had guests staying with them from California. We got to talk to them and ask them how they like Ecuador. Then we saw a traditional dance that is preformed for the holiday of Inti Raymi. This is a celebration where they thank their Gods for the food provided over the past year. This was my favorite part of the session. The family danced, sang, and played instruments in a circle, even the youngest children participated!”
Sophia Raimondi – “The first night was very eye-opening. It was eye-opening to see how, no matter one’s culture or lifestyle or background, we can all connect and relate to one another through food and music. First, through the food and the drink brought out during the dance. The food that the women from California talked about all sounded amazing. Food is something that connects all the people who live in Ecuador, as well as people visiting. It gives people of different backgrounds to bond and relate, and I was interested to see them get so excited to tell their favorite food and explain the flavor to us.”
“The second eye-opening event was the music. I was interested to see that the youngest musician was 5 years old. I was also interested to see how they danced and what they wore to dance. This was also an event that connected all the people there, but also made us viewing from home feel connected. We could actually feel like we were there listening and watching them live. I also want to say thank you so much for this experience to begin with. I am enjoying it so much and am so interested in other cultures from around the world. “
Jaden Garret – “We spent our first day in Ecuador learning about the indigenous Kichwa people and their culture. Inti Raymi, also known as the Festival of the Sun, is their most celebrated festival of the year. It involves music, dance, and giving thanks to the sun and nature for all it provides. Next, we took a look at the practice of embroidery and how it is rooted in years of tradition, being passed from one generation to the next. Lastly, we learned about carpentry and the immense time and effort put into creating these amazing works of art. I really enjoyed and appreciated the culture and tradition-oriented lifestyle of the Kichwa people. Additionally, I was amazed at the creativity and craftsmanship of the embroidery and carpentry. The time and effort put into these crafts is what makes them special. This was a great way to start our trip through Ecuador.”
John Indjeian – “I have to say, going on the virtual tour to Ecuador has been a fun experience so far. It was a very atmospheric night watching the musicians sing and dance, giving us a glimpse of the Inti Raymi festival. The costumes, especially the headpiece, really stuck out to me, making me want to learn more about the Inca culture. The craftsmanship of the tables and doors was also well designed, making me wish the US had more handcrafted arts and furniture.”
Nicole Amulevicz – “I honestly really felt welcomed into the Ecuadorian home and culture; it seems like such a warm and inviting place. The culture just seems so fun, from the music and dancing to all the traditions they follow. I wish it were more like that over here. I also thought it was really cool hearing about the different foods they have; it made me want to try everything, especially the empanadas. I already love empanadas, and I just know they would be 10 times better there. I’m not sure how to spell the name, but it sounded really intriguing: it’s made of bread symbolizing the body of the deceased person, with guava, fruit-flavored, or chocolate filling, with the frosted faces on top.”
“Also, one of the girls staying there mentioned that the people there are a lot nicer and friendlier than people are here in the U.S, and I’ve actually heard that before, too. It was interesting to hear it firsthand. I also enjoyed hearing how they stayed in different parts, like the city area, and how different it is all around.”
Megan Damico – “After spending the first day in Ecuador, it truly felt like I was not in my home, but I was there. We got to see inside our host home. Our tour guide was hosting students from the United States. Also, it was raining in Ecuador so badly, but it almost made me have to look outside here to make sure it was not raining here. We saw the cultural dancing, and it was amazing. We saw that the homemade things were amazing. The homemade woodwork was amazing. The jewelry is nice too. Then getting to interact with the student who was visiting from California was interesting. I look forward to the whole week.”