May 22nd, 2018 - Sarah Wolfe


Today was Crunchy’s (James Vogel, aka Crunchy) birthday.

A few of us decided that we wanted to head to the plaza early and eat at KFC for dinner before we went to the bar. We had a lot of fun, especially those of us who ordered things that aren’t on the menu’s in America. But eating at an American restaurant in Peru got me thinking about the “McDonalds on every corner” idea and Peru’s economic dependence on tourism.

It still amazes me how much Peru relies on tourism. It’s the fourth largest source of income for their economy! The U.S. has touristy spots, but our economy isn’t dependent on tourism to the level that Peru’s is. Thus, I’ve been struggling to find comparisons for the new environment I am in here. I can’t help but think what would happen should a natural disaster hit Peru like it did in Puerto Rico. If no one came here to visit, what would happen? I would find the thought incredibly scary if I lived and worked here and my income depended on it. I was also amazed by how many of the Peruvian students we met with were studying tourism. It was interesting for me to see how what is important in one country is reflected in their college majors and also how different Peru major choices are from U.S. major choices.

I find this tourism topic incredibly interesting and look forward to doing some more research when I get home. As for chilling at KFC, I enjoyed speaking with my fellow classmates and having a chance to just chat while eating some good grub. We talked about a lot of things, but one of the subjects was who was looking forward to going back to the U.S. and who was not. Our group had mixed feelings, and I know for myself that I am conflicted as well. Part of me is excited to return and have hot water, food that I am used to, and to see the people I haven’t seen in forever. The other part of me wants to stay in Peru and keep exploring and blissfully ignoring my adult responsibilities. But alas, all good things must come to an end. It seems as though everybody missed home at least a little bit and I’m sure it will be nice to be back in our own homes, but I think we will all miss Peru once we get back. One day I hope to come back and do more hiking, specifically the Inca trail, and to fly an electric aircraft around the mountains. For now, I’ll be content with the amazing experience I’ve had, the great relationships I’ve formed, and the wonderful new way of life I’ve come to love.
Bre, Dominique, Kylie, and Marie

Taylor and Lauren

Me

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