I absolutely loved Bella Vista. It was spectacular. The rain forrest was unlike anything I have ever seen. I remember sitting on the bus, looking out of the window and thinking to myself that the view was like something out of a Jurassic Park movie. When I stepped off the bus, I realized that I was not in Quito anymore. I could feel the humidity; I could smell the flowers and trees. I was in heaven.



My favorite part of Bella Vista when we climbed the waterfall. It was absolutely amazing how beautiful the water was. When it was my turn, I remember having to reach extra far to grab the rope since it wasn't in arms reach. I wasn't scared, but instead, exhausted. It was a lot of work to climb the waterfall but it was well worth it.The most challenging aspect of the trip was having to stand under the waterfall. BRR!!! The water was absolutely freezing. I was so glad I took off my shirt before going in the waterfall. I remember the moment perfectly when I got under the waterfall. The water hit me with great force. I was in shock for a few moments. The water was so cold, that I lost my breath for a few seconds. But after I went to the waterfall, I was so glad that I stood under the waterfall. If I hadn't gone under the waterfall, I think I would have regretted not going under the waterfall for the rest of my time.


One of the aspects of communication that has really changed my perception is individualism vs. collectivism. I was so surprised this morning to find my host family sitting around and talking--with no worries whatsoever. They were sharing memories and adding to the family bond. In the U.S., my family struggles to sit down and actually take the time to spend tie with each other. We are so concerned with what is next on the agenda and so concerned with what "I need to do," the key word being "I. Instead, my host family works together as a family. I am truly grateful to have such good role models to model after.
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