RYE Event in Veracruz!

On Wednesday, September 14, all the exchange students in my district, 4190, came to Veracruz for our first event! Our event was from the 14th until Sunday, the 18th. I could go on and on about what we did, but that's not as exciting as the camaraderie and memories made. (If you want to see pictures, there are 200 of them at this link, I hope! https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150299599079779.338009.540949778)

Quick overview:

Wednesday was a welcome party at a hotel in the center of Veracruz. Thursday was a tour of the Baluarte of Santiago, a couple museums throughout the city, the aquarium, and free nieve (kind of like ice cream). Friday was a pool party at a Rotarian’s house. Saturday was the naval museum and later the pool. Sunday was goodbye to the Inbounds from other cities who were visiting.

There are around 45 students in my district, from all over the world. Highest in numbers is Brasil, closely followed by Germany, and then it's a tie for the rest of the countries. We have students from Finland, Taiwan, US, Australia, Turkey, and Hungary to name a few. I went to a few Rotary events at home, and Grand Rapids is definitely one of the most amazing things ever, but it's quite different from being in a smaller group of students from all over, while in another country. All languages could be heard, some students switching between 2 or 3, if not more. We exchanged pins and business cards, took millions of pictures, and somehow we were all able to talk to each other, using Spanish, English, charades, whatever it takes. There is something that brings exchange students together so quickly. It's knowing they understand what you are going through, and that they are also taking part in the same amazing experience at the same time. I know this brief overview doesn't begin to explain what it's like, but it's kind of indescribable. If you comment and ask specific questions about this post, I'll be sure to answer them!