DAY 2: I AM SUCH A TOURIST

Today we visited the Belize Botanic Gardens where we learned about Belize’s native species. I discovered that many of the plants in Belize are used for medicinal purposes and they are kept outside of houses and incorporated into landscapes in case of emergency. After touring the gardens, we stopped at Clarissa Falls Restaurant where we were served a traditional Mestizo lunch (served family style). I was shocked to find that the food we were served possessed very little spices (I was expecting hot and spicy) – but it was still scrumptious! After stuffing our faces, we visited the river/falls that was located below the restaurant to take photos and explore. Our final stop of the day was the Xunantunich Archaeological Site – but not before we crossed a river on a ferry that was operated by a gentleman who was manually winding/cranking a pulley to cross the river. It was the craziest thing! At the Xunantunich Archaeological Site, I found out about the Mayan culture and how important the underworld was to the people here. I enjoyed hiking (although I felt I was dying) to the top of the temple to capture images of the scenery. I saw Belize’s beautiful scenery, mountains, buildings, etc. for miles upon miles. I was even able to see a town in Guatemala! As we made our trek back to our vehicle, we heard these awful screeching sounds and John (tour guide) proceeded to tell us they were monkeys. I wish we could have seen one but it was still exciting to hear them! Throughout the day, I observed Victor (our driver) speaking to every person he came in contact with and even stopping on the road to say hello and talk to strangers. This is certainly something we wouldn’t see in America.

The activity with the greatest significance to me today was when we tasted the traditional foods the Belizeans consume. This was meaningful to me because I enjoy trying new things and by now, I’m sure you can tell that I’m obsessed with all things food! Today I also furthered my knowledge on Belize’s education system. The churches control the schools and curriculum is required to be taught in English. I found out that 98% of government funding for education goes to teacher salaries rather than new technology for classrooms. Today I also learned that males and females still have very specific roles in this country – the female is to raise the children and the male is to provide for the family.

Tomorrow I hope to learn more about agricultural education and how farmers and agriculturists educate their consumers about issues affecting agriculture!

#Food #CentralAmerica #Mayan #Belize #BotanicGardens #Education