Cambio de la Guardia - Caitlin

In the U.S. we don't have anything very similar to the cambiar de la Guardia. It is a bit like the soldiers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. The U.S. places importance with those that sacrificed their lives, while the Cambiar de la Guardia seemed focused on the president more. It was large and extravagant, like the British guards are, but maybe even a bit more grandiose. Having the President walk out is a very powerful tool of communication.

The ceremony shows connection to the people. Correa wants the people to feel he is more accessible and human, just like they are. It is important for the people to have that connection to the president and that they are a part of life of Correa. The ceremony shows them the strength of the president and the army while connecting the people more. The Ecuadorians need the ceremony to see that they are important to the country and to Correa.

Public transportation is one of the most nerve-wracking things I have ever experienced. I have never been on a public bus, or in a taxi before this trip. Taking the bus the first day didn't seem that bad, and then the way back was packed full. Each time is a guessing game. Will I fit? I think it lines up with the different experiences with public transportation, crowds, pick-pocketing, etc. They keep taking leaps into the realm of transportation advancement. They are building a Metro so they will be more like other cities. There is a high population of Taxis, but you have to be cautious, just like anywhere. It has been a very interesting experience for me to travel via public transportation. With enough practice I can be just as good as a native.

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