Lucy, a recipient of an AFS scholarship, updates us on her time abroad in Bolivia so far:
Introduction: My Adventure Begins in Bolivia
When I first got here, I was told to fill out a form, which was fully in Spanish. I tried to call my mum or dad, but I realised that there was no reception and even in the airport no one spoke any English. I was so stressed – but I realised I just needed to stay calm and everything would work out, and it did!!
First Impressions: Culture Shocks and Kindness
I spent a few days in the capital city La Paz. Then I flew to meet my host family. They are wonderful, and even though there are many miscommunications, they always make me feel so welcome.
They have taken me to see many things already, like this cool historic convent. It was interesting to learn about how the nuns used to live.
But the highlight so far was seeing real dinosaur foot prints! I am still so stoked.
Carnival in Bolivia: Colour, Chaos, and Connection
Around the time I arrived, it was also Carnival, which is a few weeks of celebrations where people play with water and foam. Getting hit with water when the temperature is 10-13 degrees isn’t the most fun, but the foam is so fun, and the vibes are incredible. You just play around with random people, spraying them with foam and it always ends with a laugh.
Something else that was super interesting during Carinval, was that Bolivians light a fire with money, wax, and glitter as an offering to Pachamama, the Mother Earth.
Day-to-Day Life: From Meals to Motorists
I have experienced some big culture shocks, including when I noticed that it is normal to give someone a kiss on the cheek (even if you have never met them), wearing shoes in the house, and eating many meals every day. Here in Bolivia, I eat breakfast, lunch, a snack and drink at around 6 and then dinner. Dinner is super late, around 9:30 to 10pm.
Another thing that was a shock to me was that the cars do not care about you and will hit you, if you get in the way. Cars also beep so much! Even if a car just goes a bit too slow, there’s so much beeping!
School Life and Language Learning
School is going well. While there is a lot of homework, it helps me with my Spanish. I have made many friends, and I was even voted class queen! My Spanish is slowly coming along. I’m understanding way more than I expected to at the start.
Challenges: Living at Altitude
While I’m having a great time, I have had some difficulties getting used to the altitude. I have had a few headaches, and walking or talking leaves me a little out of breath.
Lucy
¿Quieres ser como Lucy? (Do you want to be like Lucy?)
Check out our exchange opportunities in Bolivia and other countries! AFS offers scholarships to help make it happen.
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