Day Two

Today we toured around Masaya and Granada to get a good perspective of Nicaragua. We started out buying breakfast at the market, went to the political prison Coyotepe, took a Spanish lesson and went to see the Masaya Volcano. It was a very busy day but we had a lot of fun. We also started an album on the app PhotoCircle to share our photos. If you'd like access please text or email Zoe Keenan for the link.

Lexi's Reflection for today:
Today was mainly for exploration, furthering our knowledge of the history and culture. The day began with coyotepe, and it was heavy. We took a flashlight and headed into the cells underground. It was covered in graffiti, and as we traveled further the conditions were harsher. 40 people in a space no larger than a shed. Mental and physical torture for people willing to speak out against the regime, it makes me think about the freedoms we take for granted. The words "I want to die" were scratched into the wall and blood stains dribbled down, the horror these people experienced was so difficult to fathom, and this is a part of recent history. We also saw the volcano today and it was the most beautiful sight, with the lava glowing.

Hannah K's Reflection for today's activities:
Surreal. That is the word I am using to describe today. Coyotepe was intense but gave us an interesting insight to Nicaraguan history and the struggle of many against a regime. The Masaya market was bustling and wonderful, but what really amazed me was the volcano. Never in my life had I ever envisioned myself standing at the edge of an active volcano and looking down at lava smoking and bubbling. The Masaya volcano was the most awe inspiring sight I have ever seen. Our group soon discovered that UN scientists are trying to harness geothermal energy from this volcano to help sustain a portion of Nicaragua. By 2025 the country will hopefully be totally dependent on renewable energy resources. I could not help but feel an abundance of respect and admiration both for the volcano and this beautiful country that is ever trying to better itself.


Lexi's Reflection for Day One:
The plan tide was mildly terrifying but we arrived in Managua, and it was an absolute culture shock the moment we stepped off the plane. We soon meet our driver and had to hustle into the van, and as we drove we saw buildings with paint chipping women selling fruit and endless amounts of stray dogs. Even though it was apparent that Nicaragua was hectic, and less kept, it held a certain type of beauty. The lush greens and countless trees, this place is unique in the way bright colors litter the city and artisan crafts are frequent. The hostile is not elegant in the same way a five start hotel is but warm, in weather and it's welcoming nature hammocks swing in the common area and plants grow in the center, I have never seen a place as inviting, there are murals in every room with brilliant concept and color, and it makes me wonder why we don't learn more about others culture.