A Weekend of Learning, Bonding, and Sustainability: From Cassava to Carnival

Saturday: Cassava Factory and Glamping

On Saturday morning, we woke up earlier than usual, eager for our adventure. We hopped on the bus and headed to Mao for a unique experience combining learning and relaxation. Our destination: Glamping by the River Mao, a sustainable tourism initiative promoting eco-friendly travel and natural beauty.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the serene environment and the promise of a day filled with activities. Our first stop was the cassava factory. Here, we delved into the fascinating process of making cassava, from the initial stages to the final product. The highlight was getting hands-on experience, making our own cassava while dancing and having fun with our peers. The tour concluded with a delightful array of snacks: fresh cassava, guacamole, cream cheese, and fruit punch juice.

Next, we visited Presa de Monción, a beautiful spot perfect for taking photos. We even met a friendly dog who stole our hearts, making us all wish we could adopt him.

Our day continued with a delicious lunch and dessert by the river at the glamping site. Afterward, we enjoyed a refreshing swim in the river, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Sunday: Family Day

Sunday was all about family. We picked up the students and their host families house by house, heading to Villa Gonzalez, about 45 minutes from our homestays. The day promised joy and bonding.

We started with some snacks and fruits to energize ourselves before putting on our swimsuits and diving into the pool. The cool, fresh water was a blessing on the hot day. Spending time with our host families was a highlight, their presence making our day even better.

Students played various water games, building stronger bonds and capturing the moments with photos and videos. Lunch was a delightful buffet that everyone enjoyed. The happiness and gratitude expressed by the students and families were heartwarming.

Post-lunch, we returned to the pool, had a karaoke session, and indulged in delicious pizzas. It was a day filled with joy and laughter, creating memories that will stay in our hearts forever.

Monday: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Carnival Experience

Monday's focus was on environmental consciousness at Cometas de Esperanza. We started the day with a lively dance session before delving into discussions about the environment. The main activity revolved around the three R's: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Using empty water bottles, students painted and repurposed them, transforming "trash" into beautiful, creative artworks. The results were amazing, showcasing the students' creativity and imagination.

After this inspiring activity, we played sports like volleyball and football, reinforcing the lessons learned in previous sessions. In the afternoon, students attended a topic workshop followed by a break with provided snacks.

The day concluded with an exciting carnival experience. We learned about the origins of the Dominican Republic's carnival and its most famous celebration in La Vega. Consider visiting in February to witness the La Vega Carnival, where half a million people gather to see the mischievous "diablo cojuelos" and their colorful, elaborate costumes.

This day was packed with fun and learning, leaving us all with a sense of accomplishment and joy.