Overcoming Isolation

During the pandemic the term ‘isolation’ took on an uncomfortable meaning, one that most of us became all too familiar with. While preparing for my time abroad, I spent time emotionally preparing myself for several aspects of the program. I mentally prepared myself for trying and eating new foods, for missing home, and for feeling …

Dunes & Deserts

During our excursion in the south of Jordan, we visited Wadi Rum, Jordan’s most famous desert. Wadi Rum is famous around the world, and chances are you have probably seen it on the big screen once or twice. The Martian, Transformers Revenge of the Fallen, Rogue One: Star Wars, Aladdin, The Rise of Skywalker, and …

Petra

If you have ever seen Indiana Jones, you’ve seen Petra. Located in Southern Jordan, Petra is known as one of the seven wonders of the world. Its history dates back to as early as 7000 BC, settled by the Nabateans around 3000 BC. Just a thousand years later it was developed as the main trading …

My First Jordanian Wedding

On Our Way My ears are still thumping from last night when I had the privilege of attending my first Jordanian and Muslim wedding. After a week of orientation, I was picked up from the Grand Hyatt in Jabal, Amman, and swept to Sweileh, a neighborhood in northwestern Amman. At 4:30, I rode with my …

Two Days ’til Takeoff

Hey guys, I’m Leah, and in just a few days, I will be writing to you from Amman, Jordan! I am going into my senior year here at Hope College and will be wrapping up my degree in Global Studies and Spanish. It has been a wild few years on campus, and I am so …

Hello Nepal and My Sweet Host Family

During these past few weeks, I have transitioned from Chile to Nepal. While some parts of transitioning are challenging, I have had an amazing experience. I live with my host dad and his mom who are Newari, and my host mom who is Japanese. I have two host siblings, a little sister who is four, …

Jordan: Meandering around the Middle East

It’s finally Spring Break at CYA!! For our week off, my friend Shea and I decided on a non-traditional spring break location and go to Jordan! Jordan might be the most beautiful, incredible place I have been so far, which is really saying something after traveling around Greece. The culture is very different here, which …