We woke up early in the morning at 5:15 am to get ready to head back home to the USA. One of the students couldn’t get into their safe to get his passport, so we considered leaving him behind but in the end he just met us at the airport. Everyone was nervous that their luggage was going to be over the 50 pound limit, but everyone made it through the baggage check successfully. Many people found savior in Dunkin Donuts and ran for coffee and bagels at the Panama Airport, but soon after we all got security checked again, boarded the plane, and headed to Atlanta which was our first stop to getting home. Our plane was scheduled to depart Panama at 8:35 and we soon made it home to Atlanta at noon. When the plane landed, everyone was so excited to turn their cell phones on. All of the students were ecstatic to hear the sounds of new text messages and emails coming through from their phones. After we left the plane, all of us had to go through some long steps in order to get through immigration. First we all had to go through international baggage claim, pick up our bags, and then recheck them. Many of us were nervous for this new experience but there were no problems. Next we had to re-enter customs and get security checked again. It was a very long process, but in the end we were happy to see the many things our country does to keep us safe.
From then on we ate food at the airport and waited until our 3:10 flight to Boston. After our smooth arrival to Logan Airport, it was a very easy process from getting our baggage claim to going home. For many of us this was going to be our final farewells, and the rest were heading on a bus back to Bryant. In the end going to Boston was a bittersweet arrival because we all were sad to be leaving each other for the first time in 2 weeks, as well as the realization that we had finally left the beautiful country of Panama. But we were still excited to finally come home, speak English, and see our families. It was hard on the Spanish minors because it was difficult for them to switch back to English rather than Spanish. Costa Rica and Panama had become such a big part of our lives during the past two weeks, that transitioning back to the English language was not easy. In Costa Rica and Panama we learned a lot about international business and trade, the Spanish language, the Spanish culture, and how it feels to get of our comfort zones and try new things. This trip also brought new friendships and created bigger bonds with our teachers as well as our other friends. It was amazing how this trip brought us together as a group which made this trip unforgettable. We both are also very excited to finally see the hundreds of pictures and the videos that were taken during the trip and hope these will take us back to all the site visits and memories we shared during our journey to Central America. Our trip to Costa Rica and Panama was one of the best experiences we’ve ever had and we appreciate the professors for bringing us on this most memorable adventure.
Melissa Claude and Casey Jackson
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Thursday, January 14, 2010
January 14th Last Day of Fun
Hola from Panama City,
We had another beautiful fun-filled day in the sun here in Panama. We toured the canal and were able to experience firsthand the incredible process of moving within the locks. It was incredible to see how such a small country like Panama is able to impact the world economy in such a huge way. While in the canal we past massive ships from all over the world and were able to wave to them from our tiny little tour boat; thankfully waves don't come in different languages, because we all have a tough enough time getting our Spanish across let alone Mandarin or Chinese (although Sam has been holding his own in that department). We soaked up the rays all day long and some have the red backed battle wounds to prove it, but I think it is safe to say that no one on this trip yearns for the snow just yet.
We have had our fair share of interesting characters on this trip whether it be the non-English-speaking cab drivers who drive like maniacs and dance with us to American music or the old man who made a fortune from the Bryant University female population shaking homemade maracas and singing in Spanish, our tour guide for the trip might take home the prize for being the most interesting character yet. Sounding like an exact replica of the late Paul Harvey with the vocals of Sinatra (more or less) this man kept the entire boat entertained for the full four hour excursion.
To wrap up the day's travels and unfortunately the entire trip we had a fantastic dinner provided to us by API our travel company, and had to say our sad goodbyes and thank yous to our favorite tour guide Esteban. There were fist-fights over the chocolate mousse but overall the dinner as well as the trip can definitely be considered a success.
We are all very sad to see this trip end and all wish we had at least a few more days in the warm weather (although a cute little hut in Manuel Antonio would be nice too) we are all glad of the new memories and friends that we have made along the way. To wrap up this lovely little blog session Sam Davidowitz has a poem he wants to share with everyone.
The Panama Canal is where we spent the day
Everyone got plenty of time to soak up the sun ray
It all started on the tour boat's docks
And proceeded to see the massive canal locks
No one knew what we would see on the boat
It sure is amazing to see such massive vessels float
Several hours later it was time to return
Not only was it a fun experience but much we all did learn
Four hours later it was time for the API dinner
We can all agree that Esteban is certainly a winner
I am starting to get sad thinking about this trip ending
I will miss my new friends and the time we have been sending
Tomorrow our group is leaving well before sunrise
Setting multiple alarms will be very wise
I can't wait to tell everybody about the fun I've had
Flying into wintry weather make us all very sad
(Joseph Buda, Sam Daviowitz, & Jennifer Gullotti)
We had another beautiful fun-filled day in the sun here in Panama. We toured the canal and were able to experience firsthand the incredible process of moving within the locks. It was incredible to see how such a small country like Panama is able to impact the world economy in such a huge way. While in the canal we past massive ships from all over the world and were able to wave to them from our tiny little tour boat; thankfully waves don't come in different languages, because we all have a tough enough time getting our Spanish across let alone Mandarin or Chinese (although Sam has been holding his own in that department). We soaked up the rays all day long and some have the red backed battle wounds to prove it, but I think it is safe to say that no one on this trip yearns for the snow just yet.
We have had our fair share of interesting characters on this trip whether it be the non-English-speaking cab drivers who drive like maniacs and dance with us to American music or the old man who made a fortune from the Bryant University female population shaking homemade maracas and singing in Spanish, our tour guide for the trip might take home the prize for being the most interesting character yet. Sounding like an exact replica of the late Paul Harvey with the vocals of Sinatra (more or less) this man kept the entire boat entertained for the full four hour excursion.
To wrap up the day's travels and unfortunately the entire trip we had a fantastic dinner provided to us by API our travel company, and had to say our sad goodbyes and thank yous to our favorite tour guide Esteban. There were fist-fights over the chocolate mousse but overall the dinner as well as the trip can definitely be considered a success.
We are all very sad to see this trip end and all wish we had at least a few more days in the warm weather (although a cute little hut in Manuel Antonio would be nice too) we are all glad of the new memories and friends that we have made along the way. To wrap up this lovely little blog session Sam Davidowitz has a poem he wants to share with everyone.
The Panama Canal is where we spent the day
Everyone got plenty of time to soak up the sun ray
It all started on the tour boat's docks
And proceeded to see the massive canal locks
No one knew what we would see on the boat
It sure is amazing to see such massive vessels float
Several hours later it was time to return
Not only was it a fun experience but much we all did learn
Four hours later it was time for the API dinner
We can all agree that Esteban is certainly a winner
I am starting to get sad thinking about this trip ending
I will miss my new friends and the time we have been sending
Tomorrow our group is leaving well before sunrise
Setting multiple alarms will be very wise
I can't wait to tell everybody about the fun I've had
Flying into wintry weather make us all very sad
(Joseph Buda, Sam Daviowitz, & Jennifer Gullotti)
January 13
Sorry for another late blog post.
Yesterday was one of our last full days in Panama. We started off the day by having breakfast at the hotel, and we needed to be on the bus by 9. Once we we are all on the bus we left for the Seafood Market. This was the first seafood market that I have ever been too, and it was definitely a unique experience. The seafood market had a very distinct smell. I had never seen so many different kinds of fish before. The restaurant was not open when we arrived, so we did not stay at the market as long as we expected.
After the seafood market we visited the National Artisan Market. This market had an assortment of different goods that were original to Panama. We were able to spend two hours at the market browsing all of the different shops. Once everyone was finished buying gifts we got back on the bus, and made our way back to the hotel.
We had the rest of the afternoon to explore the city. We were able to eat at some of the local Panamanian restaurants, and visit some of the local stores. Then we had the rest of the night to relax before our visit to the Panama Canal.
Bobby Dimke
Yesterday was one of our last full days in Panama. We started off the day by having breakfast at the hotel, and we needed to be on the bus by 9. Once we we are all on the bus we left for the Seafood Market. This was the first seafood market that I have ever been too, and it was definitely a unique experience. The seafood market had a very distinct smell. I had never seen so many different kinds of fish before. The restaurant was not open when we arrived, so we did not stay at the market as long as we expected.
After the seafood market we visited the National Artisan Market. This market had an assortment of different goods that were original to Panama. We were able to spend two hours at the market browsing all of the different shops. Once everyone was finished buying gifts we got back on the bus, and made our way back to the hotel.
We had the rest of the afternoon to explore the city. We were able to eat at some of the local Panamanian restaurants, and visit some of the local stores. Then we had the rest of the night to relax before our visit to the Panama Canal.
Bobby Dimke
Panama Canal
Today we were on the busses at 8am and drove to the docks to board our boat (previously owned by Al Capone) and set sail for the Panama Canal. It was a very nice little boat, mostly comprised of Bryant students, and the warm sun with a cool breeze made it a comfortable voyage. We got a nice breakfast and lunch while we entered the different locks of the canal. There were also hundreds of birds circling at each lock. Apparently, when they pump fresh water into the salt water, the fish in the locks cannot stand the shock and die, becoming easy targets for the seagulls. Our captain was quite a character, telling stories and singing songs throughout the trip. Afterwards, we went to the observatory area to see the canal with a bird´s eye view.
It´s amazing to think how fast this trip has gone by. Tonight we have our API send off dinner and then tomorrow we´re back to el norte to face the snow. Hopefully my Fedora hat will still look good in the cold weather. This is my second time leaving the country and it is also without a doubt the best time I´ve had in a long time. Going to the beach in January, eating authentic foods not found at home (mmm ceviche), actually using your Spanish skills to order dinner rather than vocab memorization, learning how to haggle in the market, and to top it off have an awesome guide like Esteban!!!... what more do you want out of a trip?
(Erik Budlong)
It´s amazing to think how fast this trip has gone by. Tonight we have our API send off dinner and then tomorrow we´re back to el norte to face the snow. Hopefully my Fedora hat will still look good in the cold weather. This is my second time leaving the country and it is also without a doubt the best time I´ve had in a long time. Going to the beach in January, eating authentic foods not found at home (mmm ceviche), actually using your Spanish skills to order dinner rather than vocab memorization, learning how to haggle in the market, and to top it off have an awesome guide like Esteban!!!... what more do you want out of a trip?
(Erik Budlong)
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Colon Free Trade Zone
Sorry for the late posting!
Tuesday we spent the majority of the day at the Colon Free Trade Zone. We boarded the bus bright and early with our tour guide for the day, Gustavo, who explained the history of Panama and how their culture has adapted to American values and trends. The drive out was an hour or so on the new highway that was finished only a few months ago, which cut down traveling time considerably.
On arriving, we met up with Julio, a Bryant alum, who owns a light shop, "Lamparama", in the Colon Free Trade Zone. After a presentation from the trade zone administrators, we visited the showrooms of multiple companies, including Julio's newly expanded Lamparama. Julio told us how his recent partnership with another company, Kennedy Center, has allowed his business to expand to almost twice the size in only a couple years. With this partnership, he was able to develop his own brand of light fixtures and fans, which he designs himself with the help of Chinese companies. For us, his presentation was the most interesting of the day not only because he became an extremely successful businessman, but also because he once was in our shoes and his entrepreneurial talent was very impressive.
After visiting the Colon Free Trade Zone, we drove out to Portobello, and visited Bateria de Santiago, a fortress once used to protect the town, which was a major port in the 15th century. The town is also famous for its "Black Christ" (Cristo de Negro) church, for whom they hold a celebration each year in October. The town's historical aspect was very interesting, but the highlight for many of us was the pet monkey we came upon. Tied by a leash to a porch, the adorable monkey drank many of our waterbottles and even posed for a picture with his arm around Dan. Needless to say, many pictures were taken. We ate nearby at a traditional Panamanian restaurant by the Caribbean Sea; the fish came with heads, but the scenery was beautiful. Although the menu required many people to step out of their comfort zones and try new foods, I think we can speak for everyone when we say it was a unique experience for all of us.
Can't wait for our last day in Panama on the Panama Canal!
-Michelle, Kevin, & Gabriella
Tuesday we spent the majority of the day at the Colon Free Trade Zone. We boarded the bus bright and early with our tour guide for the day, Gustavo, who explained the history of Panama and how their culture has adapted to American values and trends. The drive out was an hour or so on the new highway that was finished only a few months ago, which cut down traveling time considerably.
On arriving, we met up with Julio, a Bryant alum, who owns a light shop, "Lamparama", in the Colon Free Trade Zone. After a presentation from the trade zone administrators, we visited the showrooms of multiple companies, including Julio's newly expanded Lamparama. Julio told us how his recent partnership with another company, Kennedy Center, has allowed his business to expand to almost twice the size in only a couple years. With this partnership, he was able to develop his own brand of light fixtures and fans, which he designs himself with the help of Chinese companies. For us, his presentation was the most interesting of the day not only because he became an extremely successful businessman, but also because he once was in our shoes and his entrepreneurial talent was very impressive.
After visiting the Colon Free Trade Zone, we drove out to Portobello, and visited Bateria de Santiago, a fortress once used to protect the town, which was a major port in the 15th century. The town is also famous for its "Black Christ" (Cristo de Negro) church, for whom they hold a celebration each year in October. The town's historical aspect was very interesting, but the highlight for many of us was the pet monkey we came upon. Tied by a leash to a porch, the adorable monkey drank many of our waterbottles and even posed for a picture with his arm around Dan. Needless to say, many pictures were taken. We ate nearby at a traditional Panamanian restaurant by the Caribbean Sea; the fish came with heads, but the scenery was beautiful. Although the menu required many people to step out of their comfort zones and try new foods, I think we can speak for everyone when we say it was a unique experience for all of us.
Can't wait for our last day in Panama on the Panama Canal!
-Michelle, Kevin, & Gabriella
January 13th
Buenos tardes!
Today was definitely the most relaxed day of the trip so far. We boarded the bus at 9 am and headed for a seafood market. Despite the smell, it was interesting to see all the fish vendors with all of their different fish. We didn´t stay very long, considering there wasn´t much to look at, but it was a beautiful day out. On top of the seafood market there was a restaurant that serves fresh fish that they catch themselves. It was only about 9:30 in the morning when we arrived, however, so no one had a chance to experience any of the food.
After we left the fish market, we headed to an Artisans Market down the street to do some shopping. The market was full of unique, colorful souvenirs that we were able to purchase and barter for. There were items such as bags, wooden artifacts, paintings, t-shirts, and much more. We spent approximately 2 hours combing through the different sections of the market. All the items were relatively inexpensive, especially after you negotiated a lower price. The market is also called YMCA by many of the Panamanians because it is in a building that was formerly owned by the YMCA. Around noon, we loaded up the bus once again, and headed back to the hotel to grab lunch and have free time for the rest of the day and night.
We´re so excited for tomorrow´s trip to the Panama Canal. It´s hard to believe that it is our last day in Panama, considering all of Friday will be spent travelling home. It´s been a great, busy trip so far and tomorrow looks like it will be fun as well!
Hasta Luego, Megan Goodnow and Michaela Phillips
Today was definitely the most relaxed day of the trip so far. We boarded the bus at 9 am and headed for a seafood market. Despite the smell, it was interesting to see all the fish vendors with all of their different fish. We didn´t stay very long, considering there wasn´t much to look at, but it was a beautiful day out. On top of the seafood market there was a restaurant that serves fresh fish that they catch themselves. It was only about 9:30 in the morning when we arrived, however, so no one had a chance to experience any of the food.
After we left the fish market, we headed to an Artisans Market down the street to do some shopping. The market was full of unique, colorful souvenirs that we were able to purchase and barter for. There were items such as bags, wooden artifacts, paintings, t-shirts, and much more. We spent approximately 2 hours combing through the different sections of the market. All the items were relatively inexpensive, especially after you negotiated a lower price. The market is also called YMCA by many of the Panamanians because it is in a building that was formerly owned by the YMCA. Around noon, we loaded up the bus once again, and headed back to the hotel to grab lunch and have free time for the rest of the day and night.
We´re so excited for tomorrow´s trip to the Panama Canal. It´s hard to believe that it is our last day in Panama, considering all of Friday will be spent travelling home. It´s been a great, busy trip so far and tomorrow looks like it will be fun as well!
Hasta Luego, Megan Goodnow and Michaela Phillips
Monday, January 11, 2010
Alumni Dinner
Tonight we went to a restaurant overlooking the water. We watched the sunset before sitting down to eat with alumni from Bryant University. We all enjoyed a fabulous meal of pasta! We could chose the different sauces we wanted as well as the different noodles and additional toppings. This was by far the best meal we have had so far! We got to spend time with the students on the SIE trip as well as some alumni who live and work in Panama now. We met a few alumni who majored in management at Bryant and graduated in the 1980's. This was very interesting because we got their prospective on the working environment in other countries such as Pananma. They both were originally from Panama and traveled abroad when attending Bryant. This was helpful to some of the students who may be hesitant to study abroad or work abroad in the future. We all had a great time and were excited to make connections with those who have been in and out of Bryant and are now in the business world!
(Lindsay Jubb)
(Lindsay Jubb)
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