I Was There: Travel Writing in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico state of mind

2007-06-04T04:36:00.001-06:00

By: Slater Rhea

June 2, 2007

Riding the bus to the airport was a surreal event. Having been up late the night before finishing final group projects, I was wiped, buzzed with the raw static of only a couple of hours of sleep rudely interrupted. I was hot, sweaty, and sticky from the humidity of that morning.

a night out with some of our ladies in Old San Juan

Heaven had opened up the night before and let fall a real torrent of rain. “Hot vapors come after the rain,” Robert Rabin had said the day before. He was our last tour guide, and though I had the sense that he was a bit of a hack, he had with certainty been right about that one thing – it was hot and humid after the rain.

I sat on the bus and thought back over time spent in Puerto Rico. It was a blur. I know – cleverly trite statement there.

Since I was a little boy, I have always tried to put for a second a recent experience out of my mind. I sit back and imagine the trip has not begun. I simply am, and try to put myself in the frame of mind that I was in before the experience even began. Then I look around and think to myself: “It’s over.”

It’s a weird, weird feeling that comes over me – it feels as though I’ve just traveled through time from before the trip to the end – sort of like when I run and dive into my pool back home. I jump head first, shifting my weight forward so that I flip under water. It disorients my body, and for a moment I feel weightless.

That’s the way it feels when I zone out and come back. I do both of these activities over and over. This trip is especially effective.

We saw so, so much, but when I think back on it, it happened in such a brief, intense time that it defies description; it overwhelms perception, and befuddles my capacity to remember it.

What is the reference point for such a vivid, dramatic experience taking place over such a time period? I have scarce answers.

Dianne poses in front of some bushes representative of the stunning flora of Puerto Rico

What I do know is this: that in that time, however short, I forged intense personal relationships, and that from strangers, I found great friends.

There’s a song that Elvis Presley sang in his later, darker years, it goes “Memories, pressed between the pages of my mind…” That’s sort of how I see this trip. The vivid imagery is there, made more vibrant, indeed pressed as flowers between pages of a book by the emotional reality of the experience.

The picture of the experience in my mind is as a blur now like a video recorded with too few frames, or more exactly, action which takes place between the frames, and defies our ability to record it.

One of those final mornings, after a rain and before the new day, I stood on the roof of our hotel, Casa Alta Vista and watched the sun rise. It was a moment of intense beauty which I will always remember colored by my feelings, of the isolation of our group within that culture, and of the communion that sprang there-from.

This is a scattered and disorganized piece, and I have no excuse for it, save that it is the way of things, an account, a try to explain, to take someone along on an experience, a slice of life; a disorienting, jarring, blurred, but beautiful thing.

sunrise from the roof of the Casa Alta Vista in Vieques, Puerto Rico

Reality teaches you to appreciate.

2007-06-03T13:18:00.001-06:00

By: Dawn Scales
June 1, 2007

It's the day after arrival back into the continental United States from Puerto Rico when I'm forced to recon with reality and attempt to start my car. I say a silent prayer and proceed to insert my key, I turn it and a false hope takes over my body. The sound of cranking spook my nerves but after seconds of time flew by I realized it wasn't turning over.
Next option: Walk.

Having too much fun at club Nuyorican in Old San Juan. Quick, hide the pina colada!

I think to myself maybe this is a blessing, "Relying on a piece of metal to get me about town only cripples me."

After walking almost every where in Puerto Rico the breeze and not so scorching weather here in Norman seem to be a blessing in disguise. Twenty minutes into my walk sweat starts dripping from my forehead and of course the arm pits. Let me remind you, I'm not walking for my amusement. I have to pick up a pay check from Burger King and meet with my boss Angela at my other job, News writer for the College of Arts and Sciences. I'm writing a special piece about my experience in Puerto Rico for their magazine Kaleidoscope, which isn't hard at all. I'm sure I could write for days about my experience.
About to pass is a Norman public transit bus with the words Lloyd Noble printed on the top for everyone to see. I figured it was heading from Lloyd Noble to the south oval of campus. I waved it down, not thinking it would stop but it did. I entered to find myself the only one riding and immediately asked the old white haired man what bus I would take to go to Wal-mart. I had to purchase some Cd's to copy all the Puerto Rico pictures I had stored on the Mac laptop Gaylord College had provided during our stay in the Caribbean. He said Alameda and suggested he could call and have it wait for me, fore it was leaving in less than 5 minutes. I said thanks but I had to take care of some other business first. I thought to myself, he was a nice little man.
After picking up my check and making it over to the Arts and Sciences building, only to find Angela was on lunch break, I headed over to catch the Alameda bus. I stepped onto the semi-packed bus and sat down. The bus pulled out of the south oval and I finally realized two blue eyes were peering up at me. The eyes of this three month old baby girl made my face light up, while her mom jokingly said to her, "It isn't nice to stare." At the moment I didn't mind. Only after I noticed her gaze hadn't parted my face nearly 10 minutes into the bus ride did I begin to feel a little bothered. I had spouted all the baby talk and smiles I could muster. Pleasing babies unless it's mine, so I'd like to imagine, seem to be a hard chore for me. Finally I was at the stop for Wal-Mart. After crossing busy 12th street, purchasing three blank Cd's and making my way back over to the stop I found myself sitting next to a guy I thought looked mighty familiar. Nevertheless I proceeded to make conversation as if I had never seen him before.
He looked African so I started off with, "Where are you from?"
"Angola," he replied. "Do you know where that's at?"
"Yea, Africa."
"Good, I've had some people ask me what city is that." We both shared a laugh and I told him some people are just ignorant.
He asked me what I thought of the weather, I said it wasn't that bad.
"It's hot," he said. "But not hotter than you." I thought to myself, it's probably hotter in Africa but of course I didn't voice that. I just told him that I just got back from Puerto Rico and the weather is noticeably hotter there. Only seconds later did I realize he was voicing a cheesy pick up line. I took the compliment and tried to move on as quickly as possible.
"So are you taking summer school?"
"Yea, history and math. Are you?"
"Well the trip to Puerto Rico was a class but other than that no I'm not taking any classes."
From there I asked him what his major was, which was petroleum engineering but he expressed to me that he would rather be majoring in civil construction. His father, is apparently controlling his decision and he added that people in his country are overly concerned about money. I felt for him. Especially after co horsed questioning when he brought out the fact that my major was journalism, I love what I do and the trip to Puerto Rico only enforced my convictions.

"We are total opposites. You love what you do and me on the other hand, I don't," he said in an accepting tone.

Top: Enjoying the water at the Camuy
Caves.
Bottom: Dianne and I making music with the local vendor along side the beach.

Stressful shopping

2007-05-30T21:05:00.000-06:00

By: Lauren Cave

With a list in hand of the people I wanted to purchase gifts for I headed to Viejo (Old) San Juan. Old San Juan is the home of shops, restaurants and bars. The goal is to get everyone something uniquely Puerto Rico.
Avoiding the tourist shops where shot glasses, bags, maracas and T-shirts splattered with psychedelic paint and Puerto Rico written across, are sold I ventured
into shops that had the “wow” items. Persistent in buying things that would prompt others to ask, “where did you get that fabulous bag?”
Looking at my list and taking a mental inventory of what people would like I realize fast that I must run damage control and put in a phone call, asking politely for my mother to put money in my account.
The names Vanessa, Hailey, (sisters) Clayton (brother), Jim (step-dad), mom and my two best friends, Matt and Adam were scribbled on the back of a receipt. Hailey is easily satisfied with some gaudy jewelry; Vanessa loves funky stuff to add to her eclectic apartment, which I helped decorate. Actually, I provided most of the décor from artwork and trinkets I brought from Spain.
Clayton, my difficult to shop for brother, would be satisfied with anything so maybe I would end up getting him the Puerto Rico graffiti T-shirt. Step-dad is completely content with food of any sort as long as it is sugary and bad for you. Does Puerto Rico have its own chocolate? Adam and Matt requested Don Q rum so picking it up last minute is no problem. Finally, my eyes reach Mom. Calling her to find out if there is anything she wants is out of the question. The answer is always “I just want you to have a great time and tell me everything when you get back.”

What a novel concept, however, I know her words are true do it does not clear the guilt I’d feel if I obeyed her. Also, it wouldn’t allow me the pleasure to see her reaction, which is always giddy excitement. I drive myself crazy every holiday season, birthday and trip. The worry over getting the best gift for others is a minor anxiety compared to the sheer stress I feel. I decide to let stores guide my decision.

A building in Old San Juan representative of the Spanish architectural influence.

Store one, Hecho a Mano (Made by hand), is filled with sarongs, jewelry, shoes and bags with Moroccan flair. I get caught up in talking myself in and out of buying a bag. Store after store I rationalize why I won’t pay more than $30 on anyone than my mom… and myself.
The open-air market in the Plaza de las Almas is filled with artisan booths with some junk, jewels, artwork and food. Approaching one vendor, I know I will be able to scratch a line through Hailey’s name. Necklaces with big, colorful beads, ranging in size and shape with earrings to match, line the table. The lady is proud to tell me it is all handmade by her husband and lets me get two for $25, a bargain and a curse because now I must decide which one is cuter for me to keep for myself. One down, seven to go, my family is way to large. Successfully, I knock out my step-dad’s gift quickly. Coffee with a hint of chocolate flavor, a dessert for breakfast, Jim will love it.
While waiting for the free trolley to take us to a different part of town I popped into a store cold Blue Lotus. Here I was able to buy my sister a mask at a bargain or at least in my budget for $30. Store after store I as able to get something that I was sure my family would like and that would be exclusively from Puerto Rico. Purchases of a ten-dollar T-shirt for my brother and alcohol for my friends proceeds the pouring, I decided to return to the hotel.
Once I get back to Hotel Miramar, I decided to fondle my purchases. After I show off my lovely purchases I realized I didn’t get anything for my mother. Immediately the stress sets in and I decide that I will not worry about it, there is always Vieques, where I may have no choice but to pay an arm and a leg for a gift. I look forward to desperately searching for the best gift for SharBear.

So THIS is Paradise...

2007-05-30T20:48:00.000-06:00

5/28/07

By: Kelley Davis

5:45 and that annoying phone alarm goes off that wakes me up most mornings. I hate that sound! I am definitely not a morning person, but once I put my feet on the ground and washed my face, I started to get excited about Vieques. What would it look like? So many say the beaches are the some of the best around, but will they really be that great? I would soon find out! Riding the ferry was an adventure for me! I love being out on the open seas and I love the rocking of the boat. I felt sorry for some of my fellow classmates who suffer from seasickness and had to take Dramamine. The whole concept of the ferry reminds me of cattle being herded into a huge trailer to head down the highway to be slaughtered. But luckily for us we were headed for what I would soon know as paradise instead of the meat grinder. We finally arrive in Vieques and we head to Casa Alta Vista. With its simple accommodations, it is the perfect place to stay in Vieques. Vieques is a simple place and that’s what I love about it. Kelly Ann, Lauren, Hayley and I immediately put on our suits and fled to the beach. We wanted to check out this paradise for ourselves! Well the rumors proved to be true! I have never seen such blue and green water and felt such fine sand in between my toes. Every shade of blue and green somehow made its way to this part of the ocean. While sweating and baking on my sarong/towel, I looked behind me to the giant palm trees and realized I must be on the set of a photo shoot for a post card for the best beach in the world! Was I really lying in the middle of a paradise? And this is a class that is offered in college? I like this course already…great curriculum! Now I now why every time I call my dad, he asks if I ever have class! What did I do so great to deserve this? As soon as I couldn’t take the heat of the sun anymore, I made my way to the water (a whopping ten steps) from my towel. The water quenched my skin’s thirst. The water was the perfect temperature. Not too cold, but also not warm. A tiny uninhabited island lies straight ahead of me and luscious green hills hug the beach on either side. Civilization was nowhere to be found, except for a couple of tents near the beach, where locals had been camping for it looked like days. Listening to Dave, Zeppelin, The Stones, and The Black Crowes on my iPod, and surrounded by great company, I could not have been more content with my life! I hope this day never ends…

Sunday Funday Part Two

2007-05-30T20:40:00.000-06:00

May 27, 2007

By: Kelley Davis

Waking up to our last full day in San Juan made me realize how fast our time here has gone by. It seems just like yesterday that we were all sitting in class for the first time together in Norman introducing ourselves. What an incredible experience San Juan has been for me. Old San Juan has definitely been the highlight of being in San Juan. With its old cobblestone, narrow roads, it reminds me of great classic movies. The city is so unique with it’s great dining and entertaining night life. After enjoying a relaxing and long lunch with KJW, Kelly Ann, Chelsea and Angie, Kelly Ann and I ventured off to contribute yet again to the San Juan economy. Sunday proved to be the most successful shopping day yet. My favorite stores to walk into are the stores with merchandise from India. I love the sound and the smells when I walk inside. The incense is burning and Indian guitars and high-pitched voices are heard throughout the store. I finally found presents for my fiancé and for my dad. Kelly Ann and I were extremely excited about our sarong purchases that we had been carefully watching for the perfect one in Old San Juan. We took the city bus to and from shopping, which was an experience in itself. I now know why so many people take the bus. Cabs are expensive and the bus is cheap. Duh? That night we went to eat at a wonderful restaurant, Amadeus. It had some of the best seafood ever! After dinner, I went with Kelly Ann and Lauren and sat outside on a lively patio at a hotel overlooking a wedding reception. We soaked in the fun going on downstairs. All of the sudden we heard what we thought was a marching band coming through the hotel. We look down and see about six drummers marching through the reception. I had never seen this before and I thought what a great idea that is to liven up a party! By the time we got home, I was so tired I fell right to sleep as my head hit the pillow. I was not looking forward to waking up at the crack of dawn Monday morning, but I am looking forward to Vieques, our last stop on this incredible journey

Clouds and Cookouts

2007-05-30T19:29:00.000-06:00

Monday, May 28, 2007
By Chelsea Young

It’s not always wild nights or an expensive dinner that creates a good time. Sometimes it’s the simpler things. Tired of spending money and wanting to savor the cool night after the sun had set, a few of us decided to have a cookout on the roof of Casa Alta Vista. Before class, Dawn, Angie, Jessica, and I made the 15-minute to the small grocery store in town. Stalking up on hot dogs, canned goods and chips we made our purchases and walked back, opening a Dorito’s bag along the way. After class we gathered up the food and took it to the roof. Kimberly and Haley met us there, and later, Kendal and Wes showed up with pizza.

A view of the Caribbean from the rooftop of Casa Alta Vista. This was taken before the night-time cookout.

The cooking got off to a slow start. For one, it was dark so we couldn’t see anything. Plus, we couldn’t get the grill to fire up. Finally we found candles and matches and got everything in order. With hot dogs and veggie burritos (idea courtesy of Angie), we all sat down to a table of chips and salsa and crackers and cheese to talk and relax after a day of travel and class. All was well; some ate hot dogs while Angie and I ate the burritos.

Sitting back I made a comment saying, “It’s raining” and Dawn said, “It’s just sprinkling.” Not a minute later the sprinkles because a downpour and in a frantic we all jumped up, grabbed what we could and ran downstairs. Moments later I went to the roof again to grab more, prepared to battle the storm, only to discover that the rain had stopped as soon as it had started. This was depressing because I’m sure we could have all stayed on the roof a lot longer.

Even though our time was short and sweet, it was nice to stay in and prepare our own dinner overlooking the waters of the Caribbean. Another plus? We all got to enjoy a Memorial Day cookout.

The Wonderful World of Technology or Not So Wonderful

2007-05-30T19:02:00.000-06:00

May 29, 2007

The Wonderful World of Technology or Not So Wonderful
Jessica D. Johnson

During this entire trip I’ve had access to technology and the ability to carry on with my life as if I am still in Oklahoma. I have attempted to catch up on old projects, and tie up loose ends, but today technology does not seem to be on my side; high price gadgets have failed me. Now, I am not a techie junkie. I don’t have a lot of gadgets, download millions of music or songs from the Internet, surf the net for hours on hours, and upload millions of pics on Facebook or MySpace. I have a friend who cried when the Mac representative told her she wouldn’t have her laptop for weeks because it crashed. She apparently downloaded too much crap from the Internet.
But, yesterday on our journey from San Juan to Vieques, my luxury has turned into my worst nightmare. Upon arrival I noticed my brand new “bling bling” Blackberry Pearl became sick during the nearly two hour Ferry ride and despite its good fight for survival – my cell stop breathing this morning and unfortunately, died this afternoon.

See how cute my "bling bling" is? Unfortunately, it's dead.

Talk about being cut off from the world, from my boyfriend who lives in New Jersey. Living more than a thousand miles apart, telephone conversations are relationship lifeline. In a long distance relationship every conversation, every email and every time you see each other is just as important as the last conversation, the last email and the last vacation spent together. Luckily for me, I head to New Jersey on Thursday, so I’ll soon be in the arms of the one I love, but until then I guess I will cut off from him and the rest of the world; this could be a good thing. Just think about it for a moment. I am in Puerto Rico, on the small island of Vieques. They are small shops here, a small green grocery store and white sandy beach, however my dilemma of the day is the fact that my technology including my MacBook Pro is not working right. At the moment I can only think about obligations that I need to fulfill and the fact that my phone and Internet access isn’t working is a pain.
Have I gotten so used to the luxuries in life that I don’t appreciate the most beautiful and simplest things? As much as I am ready to be in New Jersey with my boyfriend and visit my girlfriend Terra who lives in Philadelphia, who just had a baby girl Taegan. I am missing out on something really exciting and peaceful all at the same time.

This beautiful, alluring Caribbean beach lured me in. It literally called my name.

The fact is, I am convinced that I will miss these wonderful beaches, friendly people and mouth-watering plantains. While this trip has been a demanding adventure, in the most humid conditions it has definitely been a personal discovery. I guess I rediscovered what I already knew. Enjoy the moment and the beauty that is in front of you RIGHT NOW. So what if I don’t get to talk to James for a couple of days. Hey, I think I will head to the beach and study there. Tests await me on tomorrow.
Adios!

Why I Want to Va a Puerto Rico! (I'm good at Spanglish)

2007-05-30T18:43:00.000-06:00

By: Haley Hernandez
I will graduate with a minor in Spanish and last summer spent six weeks in Chile and Argentina. My experience last summer changed my life because it taught me a lot about myself and other cultures. I feel like the trip to Puerto Rico is my opportunity to combine journalism and my Spanish. Most importantly, I’m eager to learn about travel writing because that’s an important aspect of journalism but not a course available during the regular school semesters.
In the future, I plan to work for a television news station. No matter what station I work for, I know the importance of being bilingual and having worldly experience on top of excellent writing and reporting skills. I think the trip to Puerto Rico will not only help me work toward these goals but teach me so much more than I can even imagine.
This past fall semester as an intern at OU Nightly, it became clear that I want and need more hands on experience to know what I am good at and what I like. I am a firm believer that the best education is not always in a classroom and hope that I can have the privilege to study in Puerto Rico this summer to give me a journalistic experience that will help me to accomplish my goals by furthering my education in ways that are not possible sitting in a classroom.
I commit myself completely to everything I do and especially to furthering my education. I am a hard worker and I make it a point to learn from every experience. I would not take the learning experience in Puerto Rico lightly, instead I would use the two weeks as an intense training for what I want to do with my future.

Camuy Caves

2007-05-30T16:34:00.000-06:00

By: Dianne Lee
Parque De Las Cavernas Del Rio Camuy, or more commonly known as the Camuy Caves was the highlight of our Wednesday tour on May 23. It is the third largest cave system in the world. The cave was en route from San German to San Juan. It was mid-morning when we reached our destination. The caves were located deep in the middle of the forest, about 200 feet down where a trolley would shuttle us to the cave’s entrance. We waited for nearly an hour before hopping onto a trolley, which descended through the narrow winding roads carved out in the forest.

The moment I stepped into the Camuy Caves, I was squeezed through a narrow passage. Droplets of water from the numerous stalactites protruding from the ceiling fell on my head. After a brief maneuver through the passage to avoid the droplets, the entrance opened up to reveal a dimly lit cave as tall and as wide as a Carnival Cruise Lines ship. Of course I would have known the measurements of the caves had I been standing near our tour guide, Minerva. However, my hands were already slipping into my purse to pull out my faithful Canon SD600. I stood still and absorbed the majestic beauty of the caves. Stalactites hung from the ceiling, tiny hills sat on the uneven ground and sunlight streamed into the cave from the two huge opening. A thong of people past me, but I was rooted to the ground, as I attempted to hold the camera still for a couple of seconds to allow as much light to filter into the camera.

A view of the opening from inside the cave.

A couple of pictures of the same spot later, I was satisfied and proceeded slowly through the slippery ground to catch up with my tour guide where I soon learned that the caves are homes for bats and blind fish. The tour guide led us out of the second opening and we were greeted with a heavy downpour of water falling out of a blinding bright light – the sun. Nearby, a stream of pristine water flows over a sharp but bumpy slope where tourists humored themselves trying to find the best way to drink the water. I cupped the water in my hands and brought it to my mouth, only to have it spill all over my cheeks and chin. In the end, I only managed to gulp down a small amount of water with a taste of hand sanitizer that I had rubbed on my hands earlier. I decided to forgo the water experience and instead, captured silly pictures of others in the middle of their water quest. A short while later, the group retraced our steps out the first entrence and left the wonders of the caves behind as we returned to the real world.

"To know the place for the first time"

2007-05-30T09:56:00.000-06:00

By: Slater Rhea
May 24, 2007

I get in the cab – “Hey, buddy,” he repeats for the third time in a thick, Caribbean accent. He’s a thirty-something dark-skinned man from the Dominican Republic.

Short, wavy hair, pencil thin mustache, small gold earring, large gold ring on his pinky finger.

“Bobby” is his name – sounds like what he’s calling me. “You like smoke?” he asks me. I told him I had a cigar every now and then – nothing regular.

I’m not so sure he is talking about cigars – or cigarettes. Oh well. I’m in a daze.

A vacant street in Ponce, Puerto Rico illustrative of my time here on the island.

“Hotel Miramar,” I tell him. I’m spent, gone. I left the girls at the bar to go home and be. I went to go think by myself, and, I tell myself to look at our readings for class. But I don’t want to do any of it.

There’s a line in a Bob Dylan song, “My feet are so tired; my brain is so wired.” This is me.

Pale yellow buildings and white columns flash by the windows of the van. Green, brown, vines, palms, banyan trees, bougainvillea, key lime pie and canary painted limestone and concrete. Wrought-ironwork, pale orange and blue jean sodium bulb lamplight appear and go – flashing by like I were in one of those old-time cartoon machines – I think they called them zoetropes.

Guilty as I may feel to say so, I must confess that amid the dramatic scenery and historic grandeur of Puerto Rico, I have spent more time reflecting on my own feelings and within my own thoughts.

I find that most of my images of this island are in sort of a kaleidoscope form – wrapped around and back over themselves and mixed inextricably with my feelings at the time they came in.

Loneliness, intense longing for connection – call it homesickness – to be away from one’s end of the world and next to all but who may care; it is a powerful, deeply affecting state of mind in which to be.

“Where you from, buddy?”

“Louisiana”

“Oh – Luzianna! It’s pretty there.” Bobby or whoever is astute.

This is a pretty place, too. It’s a sad, sweet mix of color and feeling – a blur of a time spent on busses and shuttles and vans and taxis, catching the passing images in digest, sleeping as we can.

There is a trite quotation I learned back in high school and that receives all kinds of abuse by hacks and pseudo-intellectuals. T. S. Eliot famously wrote it. I just can’t get it out of my head.

“We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.”

A storefront on a busy night in Old San Juan

Washed Away

2007-05-29T19:14:00.000-06:00

By: Angela Fetty

It was completely dark; the only light in our hotel room was a sliver shining through the crack where the curtains did not touch. It was a dreaded moment, my body and mind did not want to wake up and I knew I was going to be cranky until I got that treasured cup of piping hot coffee with a splash of milk. After a freezing cold shower, which was not my desire, but the hot water had all been consumed because my roommate beat me to the punch; I rounded up all my belongings, preparing for our 6:15 departure. The excitement was mounting, in a matter of hours I was going to be dropped off on a tiny island, where I would be in paradise for three days.

The chewable raspberry Dramamine began to take affect and my eyelids began to close like an automatic garage door someone had the remote to; the bus trip was a blur. Our miniature bus pulled up to a ferry station as our driver José maneuvered through the bustling crowds of people all in need of a ticket to cross the large body of water. Women wore bikinis with simple cover-ups, leaving areas of skin exposed, their brown skin glistening in the morning sun, which captured the eyes of men swarming around them. Children formed circles, playing patty-cake, laughing, and running around uncontrollably. While waiting, my stomach cried out and instantly I had to listen, but the idea of eating worried me because my history of motion sickness is a long one and has haunted me ever since those excruciatingly curvy car rides in Germany’s Black Forest, so the option of eggs and toast was not a possibility. As I was meandering down the crammed street an aroma of sweet citrus engulfed me. A young man with dark tanned skin was positioned behind a raggedy blue station wagon with the back hatch swung open and oranges piled high in the back in open boxes. His worktable, protected by an umbrella, was invisible and was covered with already prepared oranges, strategically priced at only 50 cents each. I craved this orange and would have paid $2 at that moment if I could just consume a piece of fruit, it felt as if I had not had fresh fruit for an eternity. The oranges were peeled in a circular pattern by a hand-cranked machine. He grabbed the first orange he could reach, took a small black knife and cut the top off like it was a small pumpkin, while the veins in his muscular arm bulged and I could not tear my eyes away. I asked in Spanish how I ate this new delicacy, because it was unlike anything I had seen. With a combination of Spanish and sign language, he showed me and by the end I had mastered the task. Imagine the orange is a tube of toothpaste, squeezing and wiggling and pushing all the juice to the small opening at the top and slurping. Then, tearing apart the soft skin to eat the mangled innards of the juiceless fruit.

Right: Slurping up the juice created a rather large mess, especially when the juice squirted on Chelsea and her cute new bag! Oops!

Above: The treasured treat.

The journey on the ferry was as equally a blur as the bus ride, probably because of the other disgusting raspberry Dramamine I chewed. I am now in Vieques, an island only 21 miles wide, but amazing. I am greeted at the guesthouse, La Casa Alta Vista, meaning the tall house with a view and the name is not a lie, by a woman with a barefoot baby balanced on her hip. Her English is perfect and she tells the group what there is to do on the island, which is not much except for the beach. We are advised that food at the tourist restaurants is ridiculously expensive, especially for us poor college students. However, there is a grocery store within walking distance, as much of everything is, so we discuss grilling out on the roof for dinner. The store was not like a grocery store I am used to, the yogurt was expired, there was a bizarre smell lingering in the air, and the cheese was spotted with white fuzzy mold. However, keeping my eyes peeled for reasonably fresh food was not as much of a challenge as I anticipated and I purchased enough food for a cookout and for my next few days here on the island. Night fell over the island earlier than in Oklahoma and as we sat in the air-conditioned lobby/store/check-in area we were eager to be dismissed from class so we could fire up the grill and pig out.

Five of us ladies started the grill and sat in the darkness with only a small flame flickering from a candle on the roof. Sitting in a white plastic lawn chair, the breeze kissing my skin was more than I could have asked for. The view, overlooking the scattered houses and small shacks led straight to the ocean. The trees with orange, yellow, red, and purple flowers caught my peripheral vision and made me wish, ever so hard, that Oklahoma had this much color and beauty.

Right: Absolute perfect beauty in Vieques.

The night passed quickly while sitting on the balcony next to my room. Darkness enveloped the balcony, but while leaning over Dawn’s shoulder our computer cast a warm glow on our faces. As the night cooled and the breeze grew more powerful the urge to journey to the beach loomed over us. A quick stroll to the boardwalk led Dawn and I to an entrance to the beach, a set of stone stairs, dark and mysterious, with palm trees creating a tunnel to the sand. Stepping down into another world, the nearly full moon illuminated the sand and rocks and the waves splashed on the beach. My feet sank and were sucked up by the sand; the ocean was eating me. Over looking the glistening water, with reflections of the dark clouds and moon it was like no one else in the world existed except the two of us. The ocean was endless with no sign of life. If the ocean had swallowed me whole, tomorrow night another person would overlook the never-ending water and realize how massive the world is and how small we all are.

Taking Procrastination to a Whole New Level

2007-05-29T12:23:00.000-06:00

By: Haley Hernandez

Planes, buses, automobiles and ferries; the convenient ways we’ve found to travel across Puerto Rico… and make some people very motion sick. Fortunately I was drugged up on Dramamine yesterday morning so I slept through both the bus and the ferry which brought us to Vieques. This peaceful island is located an hour (by ferry) away from Fajardo, Puerto Rico.

right: Horses on the beach

We arrived yesterday at 11 a.m. and it was evident to me that this would be the most dangerous location to stop at of all the four places we’ve been. Not because there’s crime or malicious animals here in Vieques, but worse… there’s tempting beaches. Beautiful, gorgeous, plenty of temptation for procrastination sitting right across the street from everywhere we happen to be. Our hotel has a beautiful view of the ocean, restaurants have beautiful views of the ocean, and just about every time you stop to look up, you see phenomenal blue and green beaches that hardly seem real.
I couldn’t help it; there was no time for work yesterday. The beach was calling my name. My three roommates Kelly, Kelly Ann, Lauren and myself managed to swim, nap, talk, and listen to the music for two and a half hours in a spot far away from other people (as most things are here in Vieques) and we stood in awe of this place we all agreed must be the definition of paradise.
So, I didn’t get much studying in. I actually didn’t do much of anything else yesterday but stand and absorb the smell of salt, colors of blue and green, and the sound of the waves hitting against the shore less than a few feet away from palm trees. Although I might be regretting the procrastination now that I have a lot of work to do today, I made memories yesterday that I will always remember. The beaches of the Caribbean have set a standard in my head of what breathtaking beauty really looks like.

Me in heaven!!!

Exploring Old San Juan

2007-05-28T20:23:00.000-06:00

Saturday, May 26, 2007
By Chelsea Young

Oh, the joys of having free time. Shopping, dining, walking…it’s all a part of the quintessential Old San Juan experience. I only wish that I had had more time in this amazing city. I’m in awe of the culture that makes San Juan so lively and all that there is to do here.

On Saturday morning Angie, Jessica, Dianne, and I began the day with breakfast at the hotel and then took the bus (for only 50 cents) to the Castillo de San Cristóbal. This historical fort had beautiful views to the ocean and we were able to walk into the dungeons where the walls had ships drawn on them from old prisoners, showcasing their plans for escape. My favorite part of seeing this fort was the views from the sides of aqua water and bright green grass – that was absolutely stunning.

I'm standing near Castillo de San Cristóbal overlooking the ocean. What a view!

After the fort, the four of us took a trolley to the central part of Old San Juan for a shopping excursion, and an excursion it was. There are so many shops and boutiques in Old San Juan that we literally spent all day there. Those of us who aren’t vegetarians ate hot dogs from a hot dog stand for lunch. We went to the open-air market, souvenir stores and boutiques as well as “must see” stores like Señor Frogs, which was honestly not that impressive. I prefer local places that are more unique.

One of my most memorable moments was when Angie and I went into this dress store that was owned by an older couple. The store specialized in dresses all made from beautifully colored fabrics. We were determined to find dresses that fit, but after trying on clothes for over half an hour, we gave up and walked away empty handed. Although a depressing moment, looking back it was rather funny how much we just wanted a cheap dress despite how well it fit. Trust me, we both almost forfeited a proper fit for a good deal and that’s not always a good thing.

We spent a good amount of time in outlet stores, which is ironic since the merchandise can all be found near home in the continental United States. Even though I’d rather give my money to a local store I still spent money at the Polo store, which is probably something many tourists in Puerto Rico end up doing. Regardless of where everything I bought is from I look forward to the moments when I can tell people “I got that in Puerto Rico!”

After a long day of shopping we were definitely ready to sit back and relax at dinner, but we wanted something cheap since our pocket change was getting low and the numerous swipes on our credit cards left us a bit worried. We happened to be walking through Old San Juan when a man by the name of Lenny approached us. He was somewhat small with a long white beard and he was extremely friendly. Lenny handed out some cards to a restaurant called Café Amapola saying he owned the restaurant. We quizzed him about how much it would cost and he told us we could get rice, beans, sweet plantains for under 10 dollars. After that we were sold.

The restaurant overlooked the ocean and at Lenny’s suggestion, we sat on the terrace. Kendal, Wes, Kimberly, and Dawn were all also there so we sat with them and enjoyed good food and conversation. Lenny came to the restaurant and I know that he was happy we had decided to go to his restaurant and even happier that we loved the food. Later, after leaving the restaurant we saw Lenny on the streets again, trying to entice people to dine at his place.

Before going home we walked through the market again where a live band was playing and people of all ages were dancing. This was a true display of culture. Seeing all these people kicked back, relaxing and enjoying the music or moving their bodies in rhythm made me wish that our own culture was more like this, more carefree and about just living life. I’ll never forget this one old woman, who was so small and frail, but she was dancing away in the middle of the crowd.

Spending time in Old San Juan gave me a better idea of the Puerto Rican culture. I had so much fun in that part of the city and was able to immerse myself more in the Puerto Rican lifestyle by observation. Although I was completely exhausted by the end of the day, Saturday in Old San Juan was one of my most memorable times on the trip.

Do it the Puerto Rican Style

2007-05-28T18:37:00.000-06:00

By: Dianne Lee

I was still groggy when the bus left San German for San Juan. The night before, Kimberly and I had been stuck in the reception lounge after it started drizzling. It was then that I found myself trying to communicate with a couple of boys despite only knowing “Hola” and “Gracias.” Yet, fast-forward an hour later, we were hanging out a nearby parking lot where the university’s graduation stage stood. A car stereo provided us with repertoire music as we gathered in a circle and attempted to overcome language barriers. As usual, I pulled out my camera and suddenly, their eyes lit up.

A student making a funny face. Unfortunately, I forgot his name.

A smile is a universal language and we started going picture crazy. I watched, laughed and snapped pictures of the boys bribing the university police with alcohol, performing handstands, showing off their ‘sexy’ legs, and dancing to the music.

The initial group of students that started the party showing off their sexy legs.

Slowly, our group grew as a slow trickle of students started appearing at the parking lot. Some students had left their books behind to relax while others brought along their notes in hopes of studying at the same time. The university police cars kept stopping by the parking lots during their rounds and a few students would venture towards them and offer them alcohol. It was a form of corruption. Yet, it was moments like this that allowed me an insight into their culture – laid back. One police car even offered to buy ice after learning that the ice had melted.

Two students talking to the university police while the rest of the students continued chit chatting without a thought for the police.

By the time I left, the initial small group of seven had reached fifteen to twenty people. It was nearly three in the morning when I thanked them for their time and got ready to leave. They immediately began spluttering long sentences in Spanish, looking at me as if I understood them perfectly. I nodded my head and smiled. Ricky translated their farewells, good luck, safe trip and come back to San German for me. As I left the parking lot, I held on to my repertoire CD gift, and thought of how the students and I managed to overcome cultural barriers through a genuine interest and effort to learn about each other’s life and culture.

An overview picture of the students who were hanging out at the graduation stage in the parking lot.

In the Jungle, the Mighty Jungle...

2007-05-28T15:09:00.000-06:00

by Kimberly Querry
May 24, 2007

We started our second Thursday in Puerto Rico heading to El Yunque, the rain forest. Our driver Jose pointed out the “white land” as Indians used to refer to it. Just as it did back then, white clouds crowd the sky around its peak, giving the illusion of the forest reaching to the heavens. It is located on a mountain- like structure, which gives an ominous illusion to the local horizon. We reached the rain forest and began to travel the long narrow paths it contained. Looking around, we couldn’t help but notice the intense shades and tints of the colors surrounding the forest. Everything seemed more alive and vibrant; green was now a deep abyss of emeralds and limes. There were flowers of bright passion red and rosy cheek pink that colored the forest as if it were a painting canvas. We then climbed the rocks and ended up in the center of a waterfall, which proved quite dangerous. As we were climbing back to the path, my friends slid down the sharp rocks, one right after the other as if it were a warped game of dominoes, which are famous here. Luckily, everyone came away with a sense of gratitude for all of our limbs remaining connected to our persons. After we survived the slipping, the sliding, and the hike back to the bus at the top, we headed to the beach. The beach was not crowded like I had expected, but it also wasn’t sunny. The rain that occurred in the rain forest carried over towards the beach as if it were a predator stalking its college prey. We stayed out of the water, which many horror stories had been told to us about, and remained on safe, solid ground. It almost started to rain while we were soaking up what little rays of sun seeped through the cloud cover. At least there were no sunburns that day!

Fifty-One Nifty States

2007-05-28T14:17:00.000-06:00

By: Wes Ward
May 28, 2007

I now realize why it is that the United States is so interested in Puerto Rico, and why Puerto Rico has so much trouble deciding whether to be annexed into the union. After spending almost two weeks on the island, I have developed a theory.

Picture 1: El Capitolio houses the Senate and Representatives in separate wings.

In simple terms, Puerto Rican days and nights are full of life. Drinking, dancing, and ambiguity pack each sun filled day with a myriad of events and conflicting beliefs. The social standard in Puerto Rico is vastly different from that of the United States. The standards that have become familiar in the states seem to evoke Puerto Rican life as an illicit atmosphere.

In Puerto Rico, any day is acceptable to go out with friends and mingle with complete strangers while carousing the night away. Of the countless establishments on every street, people have the ability to choose where and when they will go, and are not limited in any way. Crowds of people, which are compromised of every generation, begin to dissipate long after midnight has passed and disperses entirely as the sun rises, dawning a new day.

Picture 2: A view of Old San Juan from Fort San Felipe del Morrow

There is no question of the carefree lifestyles being socially acceptable in Puerto Rico. The United States and Puerto Rico remain linked as a commonwealth because of the immense conflicting social taboos that push and pull each society into the unique relationship that has stagnated of late. Puerto Rico has been “given” the ability to choose its future, whether or not it includes a relationship with the U.S. In creating this link the U.S. government has created a fail-safe scenario in which every outcome becomes a win-win situation and has yet to be concluded. The lazier-faire attitude of America tugs on the foundations of which the U.S. was built and evolves into yet another accomplishment that the “greatest country in the world” may boast. Failure of the creation of an independent Puerto Rico is at fault of the Puerto Ricans, while annexation would mean the salvation and embrace of Puerto Rico and its heritage. I eagerly await the end result, which still looms in the unbalanced air.

Picture 3: The Puerto Rican Flag flies next to the United States Flag.

Drinking in Puerto Rico must be a hobby!

2007-05-28T13:34:00.000-06:00

By: Dawn Scales
Friday May 25, 2007

I woke up tired after a long night of partying on the town in San Juan. We were awakened by our room phone, which rang twice as Kendal slowly turned over to pick it up. It was our wake up call from the front desk that we had requested the night before. I laid there not wanting to get up but I knew it was a must to jump in the shower and get ready as quickly as possible for today was the day we would visit the TuTv channel 6 television station and Casa Bacardi, which I and others had been looking forward to visiting even before we had landed in Puerto Rico. It wasn’t a secret. Two free alcoholic beverages was enough information to get me there. But let me not get side tracked, let’s talk more about the station.
The station was not strictly television, housing a radio station as well. One station was devoted solely to classical music and the other was a form of entertainment targeting the older generation. From wall to wall were up to date equipment that would more than likely amaze radio personalities in the states. Let me not speak for others but it definitely impressed my little socks off.
Maritley Lasant, manager for public relations, was kind enough to explain the dynamics of the radio control rooms and shortly after Osualdo Perez Torres, director of the station, whisked us around the corner and up the stairs to show us the new master control room, which they had been renovating for close to a year and a half, Osualdo said. The room was state of the art, filled with the latest technology. Flat screen TV’s massed the far wall as we walked in, computers and ingesting equipment outlined two outside borders of the room.
As pretty and high tech as it looked it wasn’t actually working yet, next Thursday would be the first day they drop their old ways and begin a new. Dana Rosengard, one of our accompanying professors, asked some good questions and comments. Insinuated that this was now basically a one-man job. Jorge Jay Norate, master control assistant, objected and said they were not updating in order to reduce the people working there.
“It is intended to reduce the people errors that occur and speed up the process, but I don’t doubt that could happen it’s just not our focus,” he said.
After leaving the new master control room we entered into what will soon be the old one. After seeing the previous room this room seemed extra rickety and filled with outdated equipment that worked okay but not as efficient. After visiting the technical side we were able to go down and see a live show in the studio. I was amazed. The set was colorful and modern, very reminiscent of Puerto Rican culture and there was also a live band. From working in the newsroom on campus I know how things are basically run, hectic and busy. I definitely saw that but in the end things seem to come together and come out close to perfect. That’s exactly what happened.
A bartender was on set to show the viewers how to make pina coladas. Well after throwing in all the fruit and mixing it together the hosts had a chance to taste it. I literally thought one of them was going to get a brain freeze from drinking it so fast and in such large quantities. She couldn’t even talk for wanting to taste more. Shoot, the way she was sucking on that straw had me wanting some.
That was a nice end to visiting the station because shortly after that we were entering the gates of Casa Bacardi. Immediately our tour guide, Jose, was giving us two pink tickets for two rum drinks of our choice and a green ticket, which was our ticket to taking the tour.

Wes, Kendal and I show off our drinks in front of the Casa Bacardi gift store.

I learned a lot about the man behind the alcoholic beverages branded Bacardi and also how much risqué marketing goes behind supporting such a product. I felt like I was literally in the club during more than half the tour.

The bat symbol that brands every bottle of Bacardi is represented as a sculpture.

I left San German a different being.

2007-05-27T23:47:00.000-06:00

By: Dawn Scales
Wednesday May 23, 2007

There was no turning back, all our belongings, all 10 tons of extra baggage were packed and we were on our way to San Juan after spending four nights at the Universidad de Interamericana (University of Interamerican). Now that was an experience. Spending four days on a college campus in Puerto Rico really isn’t too different from spending time at OU. Many of the students were going through finals so staying out late was rumored not to be happening but every night there was a crowd of guys posted up in the game room or court yard. Most of the individuals that stayed in the dorm were athletes so they had no problem walking around with their shirts off or sporting skimpy little shorts. I was feeling the atmosphere though, even though I don’t speak fluent Spanish or even maintain adequate Spanish I was able to communicate with them. I knew enough words to get by and a few students that knew English that could help me out.

Students at the university made the visit worth while.

It was amazing how many students I came in contact with that didn’t speak English when speaking around a large group but once around a smaller group they would open up and by the end of the night they were speaking fluent English. I later found out that most of them were shy or not so sure about their English. I on the other hand would try anything to connect, throwing out words that weren’t conjugated and even acting out words. Basically I looked like a fool and then I would ask a person sitting right next to them a question and they would know how to understand and speak almost perfect English. That cracked me up really. I’m over here struggling and you’re secretly watching me probably thinking, “what the heck.”
The night before we left Steven, our host, gave Kendal and I some wise words to leave with.
“Do what you have to do to succeed, there will be people who will spite you and dislike you but in the end you have to be strong and do what you got to do,” he said.
I thought that was great how he cared that much to share those words, they struck me and added yet another factor to my loving Puerto Rico.
While in San German I also got my labret pierced. Yes, kind of a random act but I saw a flyer and noticed how cheap it was so I thought what would be better than to get a hole in Puerto Rico. So Angela and Jessica accompanied me while Rosa Sierra drew a dot underneath the middle of my lip and inside, clamped and thrust a needle from the outside through the inside of my lip. I thought it would hurt even more. It hurt but not as much as I thought.

Getting my labret pierced in San German was more than amazing. Rosa was off the chain.

That night the ball fell off and I found myself at the piercing shop the next day. After minutes of trying to reopen it Rosa had me fixed up and in no time conversation of religion had spawned, only because I initiated it of course. She immediately said she hated religion.
“People here are so judgmental and because I wear a lot of black I seem to be targeted a lot,” she said.
She followed by telling me a story about how she walked out of her shop one day and this woman handed her a flyer saying she was a sinner and she was going to hell if she didn’t follow the teachings of God.
“Religion is confusing and if God is going to send someone to hell because they follow a different teaching, I don’t want to be associated with a God like that.”
Despite her views religion seems to be ever present in every aspect of life. The art, the buildings, the numerous churches dispersed around the area, the jewelry and even the people walking around all scream religious affiliation.

Remembering my undergraduate days and understanding “race” during my visit in San German

2007-05-27T18:14:00.000-06:00

Jessica D. Johnson
May 27, 2007

Many people who know me- know that I am very proud of my undergraduate experience; I spent four wonderful years at Langston University before attending OU. I often reminisce and boost of the togetherness of students, the bonds and ongoing relationships with my professors and mentors, and the pride of attending a predominately black institution. My memories at Langston include small classes that created a family environment, eating home cooked meals with professors, excitedly watching the roaring Marching Pride band at football games, Greek parties and barbecues, and the countless hours in the Communication department.

During our four-day stay in San German at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico these memories were awakened and for a minute I remembered what it felt like to be in an environment where everyone looks like you and share a similar ethnic background. Although students may have been another hue, came from a different state, or had different parental upbringing, almost all students identified with being African-American. My initial purpose for attending this trip was to learn about another culture and study diversity issues while visiting Puerto Rico.
During my last night in San German, I sat and talked with Samuel, a freshman psychology major at Inter American. I felt we were old friends as he shared his life, the place where he grew up, his familial upbringing and college experiences at the university. He asked me about my family, values, religion and what Oklahoma was like. Later, the concept of race in the U.S. and Puerto Rico found its way into our conversation. Most people from the island consider themselves Puerto Rican regardless of their color. He explained there is no distinction among the people here in Puerto Rico; they are all one race of people. This was true as I watched Puerto Ricans interact with each other and other students who weren’t native Puerto Ricans in the dorm. Race is not a topic of discussion as Puerto Ricans are of African, European, and Indian descent.

Inter American is small and is a lot like Langston in many ways. Just as Langston is on a hill, the small main campus of Inter American is in the city of San German and is full of hills. After four days of walking, I should have lost at least ten pounds making my way up and down the hills on their campus and in the town. The students are also fashionable in their dress attire and have adopted the hip-hop culture in terms of dress and music. One student had a “bling bling” watch on and a Lacoste polo shirt and another male had rims on his car and blasted Eminem while driving on campus. The females aren’t far from being Fashionistas either in their cute tops and three inch hills.
The morning of our departure to San Juan, I stopped by the student center to have one more glimpse and to reminisce again of my undergraduate days. The student center features a sizable “Café” including the financial aid, admissions and study abroad offices and the university bookstore.

Students gathered to have breakfast before they headed to take finals and I boarded the bus to head to San Juan with a new perspective about race or “the lack of race”.

Mixing it Up in Puerto Rico

2007-05-27T13:24:00.000-06:00

By: Wes Ward
May 26, 2007

Picture 1: Statue that overlooks the Capitol building next to the ocean.

Puerto Rico is a melting pot of cultures, ages, and beliefs. Like the United States, this island is mixed heavily between diverse cultures and ethnicities. Architecture, dancing, and music are all entrenched with multiple identities, which blend into one vast and prideful identity.
The colors are rich and vibrant. Bright blue ocean waves splash the rocky coastlines that quickly become filled with abundant fields of green grasses that further inland transform into lush vegetation.

Picture 2: Mountains in El Yunque National Rain Forest.

The abundance of colors that the island displays creates a beautiful image for anyone’s delight. The people are as pale as the sun bleached sand that surrounds the island, but others have become as dark as the shadowy encasement of an underground cave. Although it is obvious that color and race are not as large a problem as it is in the United States, I do believe that this issue is a clear and defining symbol of Puerto Rico. I am not just describing the color of the people or the landscape, but of the culture itself.
Walking down a street in Puerto Rico a realization will hit you very quickly. The architecture is flooded with stylistic aesthetics influenced from countries throughout the world. Giant stone walls fortify the city of San Juan, not only creating a picturesque scene, but telling the story of its history and people. The language is different from the country to which it pays tribute, and the music is an eclectic mix of combined sounds heard throughout the world. The architecture paints a visual picture of what the world was, is and can be. One building will be painted a vibrant Easter egg blue, contrasting the adjacent building, which is composed entirely of a bright burning orange.

Picture 3: Calle de San Fransisco in San Jaun, Puerto Rico.

The colors and styles of the buildings brilliantly display the energy and abundance of life that floods the streets. Streets rumble with Reggaton as thundering bass and the incessant beat of drums blares from the odd assortment of cars on the streets. Off the streets and inside the beautiful buildings that house the cobbled streets, salsa and merengue music is softly echoed throughout the halls and plazas.
Flamenco dancing and Spanish revival architecture showcase the Spanish upbringings, while the influx of Burger Kings, Starbucks and gas guzzling Ford pickups showcase the industrial and commercial influence of the United States. The struggles of slavery through which Puerto Rico has endured, to the constant clashes over Independence or statehood; this island has prevailed and will continue to shine brightly in the Caribbean Seas.

Picture 3: Flamenco dancer performs for an audience at the local restaurant, Barrachina.

Rain in the Rain Forest...Who Would Have Guessed.

2007-05-27T12:01:00.000-06:00

Thursday May 24, 2997

By: Kendal Tate

After visiting a dry forest, it only seemed appropriate to tour an actual RAIN forest! Early this morning, I got ready to head out to the El Yunque Rain Forest. This place is absolutely breath taking. Our tour guide, Jose Morales, gave us a synopsis of what kinds of plants; birds, monkeys (that we were not allowed to photo because they have rabies and get mad, plus we didn’t see any) and insects are in the rain forest. The environment was so green and full of life and sounds.

Picture 1: Caterpillars in the rain forest, with the babies!

Along the way, Jose pointed out snails that were edible (if one were to be lost in the forest and needed to know how to survive) and where the poison ivy was located, as to avoid it at all costs! When our hike paused (on the path, that I do not believe is historic!) I was able to see the waterfalls. They are incredible; the water is ice blue and a wonderful cool temperature. As you can imagine, what makes more sense than rain in the rain forest? That’s right, while we were playing, photographing and recording the waterfalls; it started to pour down rain. I was prepared with my poncho in bag, but after sweating buckets it didn’t seem appropriate to let the rain get the best of me. Eventually, it did.

Picture 2: This is before I fell on the rock...KJW took a great shot of the waterfall!

After retrieving my camera from KJW, she took my photo in front of the giant waterfall, I was following Wes to another area that was beautiful. I laughed at him for slipping and falling down on a rock. Well I learned karma sucks, because after pointing and laughing at him, I did the exact same thing…I fell down really hard and spun ¼ of the way around. Wes tried to capture the shot on film, but failed. The next day, I had a bruise…a real documentation of my journey through the rain forest. Anyway, after hiking down the rainforest, and the millions of stairs…surprisingly yes there are stairs in the rain forest, I realized I would have to hike up those stairs! I was not a happy camper. But with KJW as the leader, the 30-minute hike seemed to take ten minutes. For every one step she took, I think I managed to take four! We finally made it back through the rain forest, and on the bus to head to the Luquillo Beach.

Picture 3: Bamboo plant in the rain forest, and what my cups are made out of.

Luquillo Beach is a beautiful beach with a view that goes for miles. The water seems endless and although the sky was covered with rain clouds, I was able to imagine what the sky would look like on a non-cloudy day. This beach had incredibly soft sand, palm trees to provide shade, and clear blue Atlantic Ocean water. Every beach we have been to so far has had beautiful, blue water. It must come with being on an island, everything is much more serene and peaceful. I spent my time on the beach not in the water, but enjoying the scenery and the towel I was laying on. I took a nap; I was exhausted from the hike through the rain forest, and nothing is better than a beach nap. Before loading onto the bus for San Juan, I found a cute, older gentleman selling bamboo cups. Now these were one-of-a-kind cups, nothing I had ever seen before. He was a very sweet man who let me choose my cups and for a reasonable price, I had a complete bamboo set. The man said that the cups should last a lifetime, and if I had any problems to give him a call (his card was included with a purchase.) After making my purchase, I headed to the bus to continue on our voyage toward San Juan, Puerto Rico.

San Juan Offers More Than Just Rum...

2007-05-27T10:59:00.000-06:00

Friday May 25, 2007

By: Kendal Tate

Today is going to be an exciting day, I have decided.

The day started out with a tour of TUTV channel 6, the Puerto Rican television and radio station. The station is amazing. First, we went into the rooms where the station broadcasts on the radio. We were able to meet the major voice of the station and get a glimpse of what is done on a daily basis. Then, we were able to look inside the script room, where about nine microphones (that look as though they are from the early 1900s) were actually digital. They reminded me of the microphone Christina Aguilera uses in her Candyman video. After looking in the radio rooms, we were ushered into the digital control room. Inside, there were flat screen monitors, several computers and “old equipment” with necessary information that was being transferred into the new wave of technology. Following this room was the “old control room” which was half the size with more equipment. There were only two computers, and half the monitors. This room will be out of date February 17, 2009. This is the date in which all studios are required to switch from Analog systems to the Digital systems. Our multiple tour guides showed us how the “old” equipment worked. With the punch of a few buttons, the tape was pulled out of its location, placed into the VCR and with another click, it would be broadcast. (He did not push that button, because other shows were on air, and that would have messed up the broadcast.) Our final room was the live broadcast technology room. This room was freezing, at one point the tour man gave his sweater to Angie because she was so cold! I felt like I needed 24 layers to be warm, it was that cold!! The behind the scenes people were slowly making their way into the control room for the live broadcast of a talk show that was to start at 1 P.M. The last stage of our tour consisted of watching a live broadcast of a popular talk show. The two women were very enthusiastic, even though I could not understand exactly what was being said.

Picture 1: The hosts at the beginning of the show

There was a male performer, who had an incredible voice, (of course he sang in Spanish), and swayed to his own music. After the performance, there was an interview with how to make an alcoholic beverage. After the two hosts downed the drink, it what seemed like 30 seconds, it was time for us to head to our next destination…Casa Bacardi.

Picture 2: The performer on the talk show, clapping and swaying to the music

The tour of Casa Bacardi was better than the one of Casa Seralles. I had no idea this brand of rum had so much history. It was not just my favorite because I was able to have two free samples, of which were both the best pina coladas I have ever tasted.

Picture 3: Casa Bacardi gift shop and me

The tour started with a historic video that explained how the rum has been in the family for over 130 years and originated in Cuba. At one point, there was an issue and the business almost went under. Due to extreme desire to make the rum a worldwide delight, family members revived the rum and their dream has come true. The distillery showcased the varieties of run and old photos of the original vision. The last phase of the tour was by far the most enthusiastic. The bartender, Thomas, explained the different types of rum Bacardi offers, and how to mix a proper Bacardi drink in the comfort of one’s own home. Thomas described that the classic Rum and Coke (not Rum and Diet Coke, Rum and Diet Rite, or Rum and Dr. Pepper) was named after “free Cuba” and the name stuck. When Thomas was finished explaining the drinks, one enters a room full of pictures, bottles and web videos. This is where one can email a video of about 30 seconds to two people with the bottles in the background. The tour ended at the gift shop.

Picture 4: Thomas explaining the four types of rum on the counter.

This day was my favorite, and I was so glad I was able to write about it because not only was it full of historical information, I was able to see the entire process of rum making. The tour of the TUTV, allowed me to see a live talk show, that only reminded me of the Ellen DeGeneres show. I was hoping the hosts would get up and dance the way Ellen does, but their version of dancing today was consuming a beverage as fast as possible, while avoiding a brain freeze!

"I am large, I contain multitudes."

2007-05-27T01:34:00.001-06:00

By: Slater Rhea

Today – Thursday May the 17th, our group toured breathtaking sites, including a Spanish revival mansion overlooking the historical port city of Ponce and the old town square. We browsed the galleries of the Ponce art museum where I saw a Eugene Delacroix painting, and more powerfully, a famous El Greco work.

(detail of El Greco's Saint Francis and Brother Leo Meditating, Museo de Arte, Ponce)

But amid all the history and splendor was the incidental communication, the everyday interactions between myself – ourselves – and people we would never see again.

There is a sense of eeriness, a strange and beautiful and scary sense of vulnerability that has come over me down here.

It came to me today as I was trying to find the words to order a hot dog from a man in the town square.

Being away from home and beyond my own culture, I feel myself always grasping for reference, meaning, shared feeling. It’s powerfully disarming.

I guess it’s what makes these trips particularly meaningful, why strangers turn into best friends and why passing connections take on greater meaning and sensitivity.

Scarcely have I felt stronger a sense of the diversity of life in America, and indeed in the world abroad than that which I have felt over the past days. At the same time, my imperial ignorance of Spanish has turned out to be a surprisingly worthy filter through which to experience life here on the island.

I have never known such a capacity for human connection as I have found ever so casually here, only in a few days within a world of individuals reaching across cultures and languages to communicate and share.

At the same time, I don’t think I’ve ever had a better understanding of Walt Whitman’s “Song of Myself,” in which the American spirit is expressed in the words “I am large, I contain multitudes.” What is evident, above all is the great breadth and expansion of our country, my America and theirs here.

In a moment outside one of our tourist stops, I casually asked our tour guide Francisco Jusino about national identity on the island. “It’s – well – it’s” he started out, then after a pause continued, “we are very proud of our local culture, but equally so that we are American. That American citizenship means a lot to me.”

Scarcely, I think, have I encountered greater eloquence than in the case of communications between two individuals – members of respective different cultures – speaking in broken languages. Perhaps it’s the economy of speech that comes from choosing the lowest common denominator to convey the essential.

Scarcely have I felt such a human connection to a stranger as when grasping and groping for the right words, and coming finally to a shared understanding. That understanding owes more to the non-vocal intimations of the face, of the eyes and the body, and maybe too of the soul.

That sense of communion has moved me, and is to me deeply connected to the physical beauty of this wonderful place.

(a fountain erupts in the town square adjacent to our hotel in Ponce)

Puerto Rico...Here I Come!!!

2007-05-26T18:08:00.000-06:00

By: Kelley Davis

I decided to sign up for this trip to Puerto Rico for several reasons. I have always wanted to study abroad during my time at OU, but I never had the opportunity. A semester abroad was too much time for me to be away from family and friends. Spending two weeks in Puerto Rico will give me a taste of what studying abroad is all about without having to be away for a semester. I almost minored in Spanish, so I definitely have a strong interest in the Spanish language and culture and I look forward to brushing up on my Spanish speaking skills during my stay in Puerto Rico.
Since I am a lover of the arts, I can’t wait to explore different art museums and learn about Puerto Rican artists in the area. But most of all, the thing that I am most excited about is immersing myself in the culture there and getting the most out of this trip as possible. I would much rather learn about a subject through a hands on experience and that is exactly what caught my eye about his trip. The fact that we are out exploring Puerto Rico and learning instead of sitting in a classroom all day really excites me. Writing is one of my passions. I write in a journal almost everyday, and so these course titles interested me as well. I look forward to traveling and exploring Puerto Rico with this group. This will be an experience that I will never forget and I will learn so much through this whole journey.

Onward March Towards San Juan May 23, 2007

2007-05-26T14:57:00.000-06:00

By: Kelly Ann McColm

After a delicious breakfast at McDonald’s, the trip to the Camuy Caves did not seem to be so early in the morning. From San German to the caves was about an hour and a half long drive, which most of the passengers mildly slept through. Upon arrival, there was a trolley, which transported the visitors to the entrance of the caves.
The Camuy Caves are some of the most naturally amazing wonders of Puerto Rico I have ever witnessed. The fact that the earth can create something like that on its own is incredible. The caves have a very ethereal like quality because of the darkness inside. Even on a bright, sunny day, it can be pitch black inside some areas of the caves, but people can fortunately see because of the strategically placed lights shining on certain formations of the rocks. In one of the deepest part of the caves, bats slumber above your head. At any one time, viewers can see a few flying to a new location within the cracks of the rocks. Towards the exit of the caves, there is a small reflecting pool, which perfectly captures the outside light in its reflection. The pool is shallow but the water, which is collecting in it, has been doing so for thousands of years. In a small area of the cave, you could look up and see an opening towards the sky. This captured an image of the white, marshmallow like clouds and sea blue sky perfectly.
After the caves, the bus lulled the passengers back to sleep while we were in route to San Juan.

What is a Territory?

2007-05-23T21:17:00.000-06:00

right: Alcaldia (mayor's office)

By: Haley Hernandez

Before I got to Puerto Rico I wondered what it would be like to be surrounded by the exotic Caribbean culture but technically still in the same nation. Although the culture is quite different from anything we experience in the United States, when people speak to me in English and I pay for things in American dollars, I don’t blink an eye and question which boundaries I’m within.
Today, Monday May 21, I had an interview with the vice-mayor of San German about this sensitive subject of whether or not Puerto Rico wants to become a state. Prior to today I tried to get opinions from nice people I’d meet from Puerto Rico and ask how they felt about this topic. Nobody responded with indifference. With most people that I questioned, it was obvious with their reaction that I struck a nerve of passion within them. I’d be answered with an eager positive response or with a jumble of frazzled English as people searched for the right words to tell me specifically why Puerto Rico should remain independent. So as I sat in the press room of the Alcaldia (Mayor’s office) I took some deep breaths and hoped he’d respect my desire to become more educated on this subject instead of shunning my questions which I’d already experienced others doing quickly when I brought up politics.
“In your opinion, do you think Puerto Rico should become the 51st state of the United States?” I asked.
Vice Mayor, Damien Morales gave me a patient smile as he explained this “ancient” and continuous question that floats over the heads of the Puerto Ricans on a daily basis. He said he believed the ties with the United States were strong enough as they are and felt they should remain independent.
However, the story takes on new meanings every day. I came into this excursion having very minimal information compared to what I know now. Every day I learn something new that changes the angle of the story. Either people telling me they didn’t want to be a state because they didn’t want English to be the main language spoken here or they wanted to be a state because they felt protected and wealthier as Americans. I’m enjoying learning more about this with each person I meet. Nonetheless, it doesn’t change the group’s question of “what is this?” Are we studying abroad, or not?

Travel writing excursion

2007-05-23T19:08:00.000-06:00

I am applying for this Travel Writing course in Puerto Rico for many different reasons. My future plans consist of moving to Italy to become a sports caster for a local news station. I realize that I will have to be very experienced in many different situations for this goal to be accomplished. I know international broadcasting is very difficult, and I need a lot of outside exposure. I believe this Puerto Rico trip would give me some of the exposure to different people, cultures, and languages that I need.
Being a freshman, I understand that most of the starting spots will go to upperclassman. I was told that I could wait to go, but I was never a very patient person. I’ve seen too many people’s dreams pass them by because they waited for a better time. I believe that there is nothing wrong with starting early; I think it actually helps you in the long run. I became involved with the broadcasts within the first two weeks I was here. I have been working part time, interning at the Nightly News, and working on the Sports Package for the past semester. I have big goals and dreams, and I have realized that I cannot accomplish them without other people’s help. I am doing everything in my power to make my goals a reality. I am planning on studying abroad in Italy the summer of my junior year, so I’m not sure that I will get the chance to go on another travel writing trip like this one. I would really appreciate it if you would consider me for a position on the team you are taking to Puerto Rico.

Posted by kimberly querry at 5:29 PM

Sunday Funday

2007-05-22T20:21:00.000-06:00

By: Kelley Davis

Sleeping in today was definitely a treat! After reading both textbooks for the class, we went to Casa Vieja for lunch. This restaurant sat in the middle of “downtown” San German. The city itself is very old, with much character. With cobblestone and brick narrow roads and houses and building that sit on hills and in valleys, the city is much different from Ponce. The houses on average are quite a bit smaller than in Ponce. The biggest house in the town is a good size house, but I would not consider it to be huge.
Café Vieja was so bright and vibrant inside and out on the patio. The patio was so cute and quaint with a small bar located outside as well. It seemed that the restaurant was family owned and operated. I picture them living upstairs above the restaurant. The nice lady that owned the restaurant was very gracious towards us. She passed out a flyer to all of us about their specials including “Ladies Night” and “Pasta and Martini Night”. I first noticed after sitting down at the long table the artwork on the walls. The artwork mainly focused on houses on the beach. Gabriela Cristina is the artist. The food was really good and we had some excellent eye candy (the waiter) during lunch.
I noticed while walking on the streets of San German that it was not nearly as humid as Ponce. Also, the air was not as polluted. The air had more of a clean smell and didn’t feel as thick on my face. I am assuming that the Universidad is a big portion of the population in San German.
After lunch, we headed back to the Universidad and I noticed a beautiful yellow church located in the town square. We also passed the tourist center and many other interesting buildings in the town square. We went into a market that had very fresh fruit. I bought bananas and pears, which were both so wonderful. The pear was my favorite because it was one of the juiciest pears I had ever eaten. Class was interesting today because as a class we are all gaining a better understanding of what travel writing is.
I am really enjoying staying in the dorms because it has forced me to use what little Spanish I know with the local students who live here. It has been interesting to watch the students interact with each other and I try so hard to pick up Spanish words by listening to conversations around me. Sitting in the courtyard checking my email has been a great way for me to talk to the Puerto Rican students. San German is a neat and unique town of Puerto Rico.
Sitting around the fountain in the courtyard is my favorite place in the dorms. One of the students needed help with Spanish homework, so Lauren willingly offered her services. José, another student who barely speaks any English sat by me while I emailed my parents and tried his best to read the email. I helped him with some English words and in return he helped me form some sentences in Spanish. I really enjoyed talking to José. He is a biology major here and runs track. Almost every male student athlete is a biology major and in excellent condition.

Point and Shoot

2007-05-22T09:48:00.001-06:00

By: Angela Fetty

Monday, May 21, 2007

Puerto Rico. There were dozens of ideas polluting my head about what the relatively small island of Puerto Rico would hold, and my anxiety was mounting. The possibilities were endless: a new culture, an opportunity to speak Spanish, meet new people, travel to an exotic place, and eat scrumptious food.
Well, this island and culture have consumed me. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of fascinating places and buildings to visit, and that is just the beginning.

San Germán de Auxerre Parrish
overlooks the town of San Germán's
main plaza and was built in 1688.

Today was one of the group’s ‘unstructured’ days, a day when we were not ushered around a town by a knowledgeable tour guide, but a day when we created our own adventure and everything was left up to circumstance.
The up-and-down trek to la plaza was excruciatingly hot even at 9:30 a.m.; while the sun pounded down on the back of my neck and shoulders I regretted not wearing my cute khaki hat with a built-in sweat band.
Puerto Rico, due to its rich religious roots, has gorgeous churches varying in color, size, and age, some have dramatic staircases leading to the giant painted wooden doors, resembling a climb to heaven, others are quant and less picturesque. In la plaza de San Germán sit two churches on either end, appearing to be in constant battle for beauty and attention, these probably are the most photographed buildings by the tourists who pit stop in Puerto Rico’s oldest city. The less dramatic and smaller church has been converted into a museum of religious artifacts, but was closed because Monday appears to be a relaxation day for many people in town. My small, bright, pink camera now possesses fantastic pictures. The museum church contrasted against the brilliant blue sky with its clay flowerpot colored walls and dozens upon dozens of stairs ascending to the dark wooden arched doors. The church across la plaza is situated atop a hill and what people may think of when they imagine a Spanish inspired Catholic church, it’s tall steeples, cupolas, and awe-inspiring crosses reach up to caress the sky, while the faded file folder colored walls with eggshell white trim attempt to attract members for their daily congregations. My love for photography paralyzes me at the outside of the churches for only minutes, until I capture that perfect picture, then my interest and attention dwindles quickly, there is no need to enter, and I must move on.

As the hours escaped me, the day was partially over. Returning to my simple aqua blue dorm room, on the campus of La Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico, I collapsed in the plastic wrapped bed and desired to take a longer than average catnap. But, the need to read, meet for class, and write this blog weighed on my mind.

La Porta Coeli is a symbol of the city of San German. It is the oldest religious structure outside of San Juan and was built in 1606.

Now, I sit in the courtyard reflecting on my adventures with the music of crickets echoing in my head, and the mosquitoes, which are not afraid to attack even with what is supposed to be OFF! (I’m assuming this is what I am supposed to yell when the spray does not work and they land on me to suck out all my life) jetting around my exposed skin. I cannot think of anywhere I would rather be and I have frame worthy photographs to always remember those beautiful church exteriors.

(More to come about other Puerto Rican adventures)

Puerto Rico..Here I Come!

2007-05-21T19:01:00.000-06:00

I was starving, and after plan X, we finally ended up at Chiles!

April 1, 2007
By: Kendal Tate

I am interested in the May Intersession Study Abroad in Puerto Rico because it will expose me to a new country. I will rely on the culture and its history to guide my writing. Puerto Rico is a different environment where I will be able to interact with new people who share a different culture and lifestyle from my own.
After taking several Spanish courses, I have come to appreciate the Hispanic culture. It is obviously very different from my own, and I love to learn about new cultures. With my Spanish background I have some feel for the Hispanic culture and lifestyle, and want to learn more.

One of my favorite cultural excursions occurred years ago in Japan. My aunt took me to visit a fifth grade classroom, similar to mine in the U.S. I knew no Japanese and the other fifth graders knew some English. We found common ground in Print Club, photos from a machine. I enjoyed spending time with my new friends because I learned some Japanese and how to communicate with students I did not know.
I have always wanted to visit a rain forest because they are so exotic and intriguing. I have seen personal pictures of friends who have been to a rain forest in Costa Rica. As beautiful as the photographs are, I am sure the country is even more stunning in person.

My long term goal, once I finish graduate school, is to be the editor-in-chief of a magazine. Magazines are always changing and only have a shelf-life of about a month. They are based on current issues and trends. New information is gathered and stories are created. This tour will allow me to see this process in full view.
With this experience, I will be able to report what I see, feel, smell, taste and hear. I will strive to write so the reader feels as though he/she is on this tour with me, experiencing the breadth of culture and beauty.
I am not an experienced travel writer, although I love to travel and look at travel brochures. I am an avid photographer with many albums documenting my friendships, interests, accomplishments, and travels.
I am currently a freelance writer for an Internet based sports company. In this job I interview current and former NCAA and Olympic gymnasts, gather data, and create articles that are published on an interactive website. I will bring this experience to Puerto Rico and look to expand my skills.
I enjoy working on a computer whether it is listening to music, keeping in touch with friends, or assembling a presentation. I have experience in creating a slideshow, complete with script and music.

This will be my first time to travel out of the United States by myself. I am a hardworking individual who is dedicated and focused on the task at hand. I learned commitment and dedication through my experience as a level 10 gymnast and a competitive cheerleader.

I will enjoy visiting Puerto Rico and hope to have the opportunity to write about my travels through this exotic country.

University life in San German

2007-05-21T13:46:00.000-06:00

By: Lauren Cave

After a night playing pool and communicating in broken Spanish with the students of the Interamerican University of San German, the concept of Puerto Rico technically being a part of the United States is becoming clear.
The university system is similar to that of the U.S., the most noticeable difference was that their final exams came later than ours. However, there are schools in the U.S. that are still in session, as well.
As my roommates and I distracted the students from their studies, we learned about the biggest track competition, Justas, which was held three weeks ago. Interamerican placed first at the competition that was held in Ponce. Watching video after video of Caesar winning the 40-meter hurdles, I was reminded of the Sooner football team and the sense of pride felt when the team wins a game. Caesar's ear-to-ear grin was not an arrogant one. He clicked video links of every race, each one highlighting his "amigo" crossing the finish line with sweat dripping down his body. This prideful, yet humble demeanor was shared among the other members who competed. They'd come watch the video and bashfully smile when one of them would praise their accomplishment.
The group of 12 boys that crowded the small courtyard all introduced his self to us and didn't hesitate to start conversation. Charlie did not waste anytime to ask for help on his English compositions and homework for his final that was the following day.
As a Spanish tutor, I offered my assistance, unaware of the huge difference in teaching someone my native language compared to a language I am still trying to perfect. Shamefully, trying to remember certain grammar rules was as hard as getting the students I tutor in the states to roll the letter R and pronounce double Ls as a Y.
The studying didn't last long as more boys left their room either from hearing the bustle of the courtyard or merely to take a study break. The music was turned up on the computers, clapping began as Charlie started dancing and Robert started flowing. The noise from clapping, singing and chanting drowned the giggles of my roommates and me. A universal language of college students hanging out and relaxing after a day of studying and attending classes was the only bond we shared. Yet, the bond was strong enough to make the evening the very enjoyable.
Because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory I think the dynamic is different than of other places. The feeling of traveling abroad is ever apparent as I walk down the narrow streets, translating the Spanish billboards in my head. But, the mentality of the people is that they are just like you. Visiting other Spanish speaking countries, my fair skin, blue eyes and fragmented Spanish gives me away immediately, yet here no explanation is needed for the geographic location of Oklahoma or Texas.

The first day in Puerto Rico

2007-05-20T20:53:00.001-06:00

A passing view of San Juan as the tour bus was driving through the city.

By: Dianne Lee

Palms trees swayed in the breeze. Outside the San Juan airport, the buildings were short and white. I started sweating under the thick, humid air and I found myself wondering why I was in Puerto Rico. I escaped the heat from Malaysia, my home country, only to find myself thrown back into the same environment. Suddenly, the vision of cool, dry air vanished. I was hot, uncomfortable, and sleepy. On top of that, I was dressed in a bright red shirt similar to thirteen other students and three professors that reads, "University of Oklahoma." The signal was loud and clear. We are tourists on a mission - travel writing.
Minnette Veléz-Conty, corporate communications manager of American Airlines, mentioned that Puerto Rico's economy depended on tourism and medical services. Judging from the friendly shy smiles of the Puerto Ricans, they seemed curious, yet at ease with the sight of foreigners.
After a brief meeting/lunch with Veléz-Conty, a mini bus whisked our group away to Ponce. I was exhausted from the night before, having staying up the night before to pack my luggage, and fell asleep on the bus. Soon, I was jolted awake by the constant banging of my head. I cracked one eye open reluctantly, and realized that the scenery had changed from the dusty, colorful San Juan city to a winding road of valleys and mountains. The sun was setting behind the mountains and the picturesque view gave me enough motivation to take out my camera and snap a couple of photographs.

A sun setting over the mountain.

Near evening, the mini bus stopped in front of a quaint little hotel, Hotel Melia, which was located on a side street in the Historical Zone that also included the “Parque de Bombas” of 1883 (Fire House), Serrallés Castle Museum, and the Plaza Las Delicias. The hotel itself had an interesting history. Hotel Melia is a family busines started more than eighty years ago by a Spaniard, Mr. Bartolo Melia. Today, the ownership falls into the hands of the third generation family. The hotel had a colonel touch in its architecture and its surroundings excluded a warm ambience. But perhaps, the most exciting news when checking into the hotel was the free wireless Internet connection.

The first view of Hotel Melia and the manager rushing out to greet us.

Standing outside my hotel room, I was greeted with the view of the Cathedral, El Vigia Cross and the Serrallés Castle.

A view from the hotel's corridor.

I did a quick exploration of my room excitedly, and found the toilet seats ‘sanitized’ as written on the piece of paper holding the toilet seat and cover together. I removed the paper, lifted the toilet cover and was repulsed to find a thin black hair sticking on the top of the toilet seat. However, I quickly got over the image and refreshed myself before heading to a nearby restaurant with the rest of the group for our first Puerto Rican dinner.
The sidewalks leading to the restaurant opened my eyes into the restored colonial architecture stores and homes. There were wooden or metal doors, intricate designed grill gates, tiny balconies and tall white columns. Some of the buildings were abandoned and covered with creepers, others were restored and painted in bright colors of pink, yellow, purple, blue, etc. The buildings emanated an enchanted feeling and I was left transfixed by the walk through time.
Fifteen minutes later, we reached the restaurant. It had an outdoor patio, a bar, and an indoor dinning area. Different kinds of animal skins and wooden signs with Spanish words adorned the walls.

A wooden sign that was hung up on the wall in the restaurant.

I flipped through the menu and ordered salmon with almond sauce, but found the best part of the meal to be the fresh bread roll dipped in olive oil.
With our bellies full, we strolled back to the hotel and headed to a nearby ice cream store, King’s Cream Helados, which served ice cream with a smooth and icy texture. I licked my almond ice cream cone guiltily after the heavy meal and checked out a majestic looking fountain before heading back to the hotel for a long hot bath and heightened anticipation for the second day.

Donde es el Puerto Rico

2007-05-20T19:23:00.000-06:00

by: Kimberly Querry

On our first full day in Ponce, we headed across the city to see new, along with the old sites. We began our tour of the town with the local streets accompanied by our guide Francisco. We simply glanced at the busy "dog market," as the locals like to say. The story behind the name of the almost ancient meat market goes along with the over population of dogs that still exists today. The dogs would wait outside the market until closing when the owners would throw out all of the old meat that didn't sell for the dogs to eat. We continued up the twisting streets to the Don Q rum factory. Don Q is supposed to be the best rum in the world, or so say the locals of the "rum capital of the world." Don Q rum is made with the richest and purest ingredients aged over time in wooden barrels to preserve the fullest taste in the process. The first family of rum used the image of Don Quixote as its mascot for the rum to show its obsessiveness with perfection. After we passed through the over flowing rum bottles and antiques of the castle, we headed to the cross on top of the hill. The cross can be seen for miles around the city, and the elevator to the top gives visitors a new definition of being "on top of the world." Overlooking Ponce, from the mountains to the Caribbean sea, allows many to see the grandness of their location. Coming back to solid ground, we soon had the pleasure of leisurely touring the central plaza with Francisco as we all ate Ponce's famous ice cream. The soft pineapple taste stayed with us as we moved from corner to corner of monuments. He explained the history of the plaza with its statues and buildings, and he also described the quirks of the buildings surrounding the square. His stories showed that even mistakes in architecture can still behold a beautiful, unique building even without the complete essence of perfection. As we moved from the plaza to the art museum, we reached paintings and sculptures that represented the culture of this tropical place. We did not realize we would soon encounter the culture we were being taught at the moment. We were told of a series of buildings that were reserved for a lane that represented the fire department's history. When we reached those buildings of black and red, the fire and ashes soon came alive as we had the pleasure of meeting a couple that lived in one of the houses. A charming couple that resided on 15th enero calle welcomed us into their home and gave us a glimpse into their family. While knowing little English, the old woman was able to tell us she was a fire fighter for over twenty five years. As Francisco relayed our questions, the couple only smiled when they were lost in translation. Their actions and appearances showed no frustration and complete friendliness to our group as our first full day came to a close. Tuesday we not only learned about the history of a culture, but we were lucky enough to experience it firsthand by meeting living embodiments of the virtues and historical pride Puerto Ricans hold dear.

So...I'm not from around here

2007-05-20T19:12:00.000-06:00

By Wes Ward
May 19, 2007

During the early hours of the last night in Ponce, a few of us decided to investigate the night scene. So today began with a bang at a popular nightclub called "Bar Code" and the surrounding establishments. Throughout my life I have always believed most Puerto Ricans to be admirable dancers and in search for another celebration. We quickly gathered that many Puerto Ricans rarely act in such ways in the southern portion of the island; the partiers are mainly focused in the north and this division has existed for some time. This inspired new inquiries that had to be considered and realized.

Picture 1: View of Ponce from Seralles Castle.

We ran into three gentlemen, Felix, Norman, and Louis who shared their insight into a world of taboo concerning Puerto Rican politics and the differences between north and south. Like many places throughout the world, Puerto Rico too is geographically divided among its people.
The three men each expressed their hopes and desires for the future of Puerto Rico as a state and concluded this to be the majority belief among all native. Their main concern seemed to be that of humanity and its incapability to rid itself of discrimination and the dire conditions it imposes upon others. Each of the three men stated hopes of one day becoming annexed into the United States because of the opportunities that have already been created. They have become unimpressed and disheartened by the process in which D.C. has incorporated and functions. Very few living on the island represent the alternative idea of becoming an independent state. Remaining a commonwealth is rarely associated with enthusiasm that thrives on this Caribbean island, but remains the harsh and unchanging truth in which they live. Puerto Ricans continue to debate and voice their opinion daily in hopes of one day become a true state.
Later that day I found myself fighting over possession of a bath towel in my room and soon discovered that the towel I had been fighting over was indeed a floor mat. I obviously know the truly important things over which to fight.

Picture 2: Puerto Rican man carries his belongings down the street.

Ponce…the Historicaly Dry City

2007-05-20T18:45:00.000-06:00

Friday May 18, 2007

Byline: Kendal Tate

Today, tours consisted of visiting the Tibes Indian Ceremonial Park and a hike through the dry forest in Ponce, Puerto Rico. The tour of the Tibes Indian Ceremonial Park was very interesting, as the Taino Indians were on the land 1,000 years before Christopher Columbus. The tour guide, Salvador Mas, was a passionate leader who truly enjoyed his job. He explained the importance of the trees, and how particular trees have an impact on the body. The trees aided in stomach pain, fixing the urinal tract, soothing a soar throat, and cleansing out the body of contamination. Further into the tour, Salvador explained how a woman, when angry, is the strongest. Over time, women who grounded spices and flour on the granite stone eventually wore it away due to the excessive pounding. Salvador explained the beauty these people sought, the flat head. At a very young age, a wooden board would be strapped to the head of a child and because the bones are still developing eventually the forehead will flatten.

Picture 1: Dawn and I in the canoe at Tibes Indian Ceremonial Park

During our walk, replications of huts and canoes were visible to walk through. The history of the Taino Indians customs and rituals was very interesting. Salvador often times side tracked from the history of the Taino Indians to tell personal stories about his pet tarantula, but the passion he has for his job is undeniable.

The hike through the dry forest was quite fascinating. According to Francisco Jusino, our tour guide, the dry forest receives 15 to 20 inches of rain a year. Imagine the size of a normal water bottle…that is the amount of rain the forest receives annually. There were various types of birds and plants throughout the hike. On a side path of the forest, I was able to climb up to the oldest tree on the island; it was over 800 years old. It was in a secluded area where its roots were not deep in the ground, but shallow and went to the sides. The tree was extremely large and rare. After taking a group picture, we headed back to the main path. Francisco showed us a leaf that was thick enough that one could write a letter and send it as a postcard. This was my favorite part of the hike because this was used to be the way to write messages. One would inscribe a message onto a leaf and send it to another person.

After spending three days spent in Ponce, I realized that the policia are incredibly visible. Everywhere I went I was able to easily locate the policia on foot, bike or vehicle. I asked Francisco, our tour guide, about the policia and why the patrol car lights are constantly flashing. Francisco told me that the policia like to be noticed by the people. If the lights are always on, then how would one know if he or she was getting pulled over? Again, Francisco had an answer. He said that if a person were to be pulled over, the siren would sound. While out for a Puerto Rican evening, I noticed that people congregate outside of the bars, while consuming their beverages. The policia are continually driving around the crowded bar areas (like Bar Code and Bumpers) and the Puerto Ricans are not concerned. In the states, if the police swarm a bar or local hang out area, the people scatter immediately, for fear of being caught using a fake I.D or being publicly intoxicated. People in Puerto Rico are not bothered by the policia, and continue about their evening; while the policia continue their rounds. I have observed that the Puerto Rican policia are visible to actually protect the citizens instead of trying to catch them in an illegal act and issue a ticket.

Ponce, Puerto Rico is a fascinating location that offers a wide variety of activities and historical museums.

Picture 2: Bumpers night club in Ponce, Puerto Rico.

Tiempos locos, locos en Puerto Rico!

2007-05-20T12:33:00.000-06:00

Me in the dry forest during a tour given by Fransisco.

By: Dawn Scales
Friday, May 18, 2007

Ponce, the second largest city in Puerto Rico, is where we have spent the first three nights of our stay. Francisco Jusino, dressed in crisp khakis and a polo shirt with Adventuras Travels sewn onto the left breast of the shirt, introduced himself after we loaded the bus to begin our first full day in Puerto Rico. After a day of his guiding, I was impressed. He wasn’t supposed to show us around the second day but Angela Fetty, graduate assistant, did some talking and convinced him to come if we gave him $2 each. We all put two bucks together and had the opportunity to enjoy Francisco for yet another day. The absence of Francisco would have hurt my heart. He speaks brilliant English and knows almost everything about everything. He is his own boss, selling his car and buying a van is how he first started his business, Aventuras Puerto Rico Tours.
We started out the day by taking a winding up hill road to the Caguana & Tibes Indian Parks where most of our cell phones lost signal. The fact that our phones aren’t a priority for an hour or so relieves me. We as citizens of the United States seem to be engulfed with issues concerning materialism, which are rooted from perceptions of self-image.
On the way there we witnessed three brown horses just walking side by side in the middle of the street and before taking eyes off of them they began to gallop onto the highway. Are you serious, were my thoughts.

On the way to the Caguana & Tibes Indian Park we witnessed three malnutritioned horses run onto the highway.

Upon arrival Salvador Mas, park tour guide, guided us into a small structure filled with wall-to-wall information on the early civilization of Taino Indians.

Salvador Mass explains the huts that original Indians resided in during our tour.

Salvador’s speech conveyed that of conviction and passion, not just for his job but also for the history of civilization.
“Beautiful African culture, just so beautiful, look at you, you’re beautiful,” Salvador said with such conviction.
We followed Mas across a bridge into the woods where he used imagery, mythical tones of speech and humor to keep everyone engaged. He speaks like a novel, Franciso said. Who knew there were hallucinogens used that were so potent it could kill you or better yet take you to a place where you see Gods and Spirits? I hate to admit it but when he said that my ears perked up. At one point Francisco picked up a baby lizard and told us when women would lose their earrings they would, well he didn’t finish he just put the baby lizard up to his ear and the lizard clinched on and dangled for moments. I had to do it.

After witnessing Fransisco let the lizard cling to his ear I wanted to experience the same.

Thus far Salvador would be the second best tour guide we’ve met, Francisco being the first of course. Following we grabbed a bite to eat and then headed to the Dry Rainforest where the sweat seemed to pour out of my body. Imagine a bottle of water, that’s how much rainfall the forest gets a year. That's how much water I didn't have yet lusted for.
Like Lauren said, “I would die.”
There are 100 or so different kinds of birds on the island and 50 are found in the forest, one was sighted but I missed it. Apparently they are most prevalent in the morning.
After spending all day filling our “cabezas” (heads) with much wanted information we were able to fill our stomachs with the islands best, a little rum. Kendal, Wes and I walked about a block left of our hotel and ran into a crowd of young looking natives, just standing. There dress definitely was reminiscent of Hip-Hop culture. Matching shirts, shoes, sunglasses at night and baggy clothes were all seen. At first we thought they were waiting to get into the clubs, which consisted of about three bars right on top of each other. No, they were just talking, watching and of course drinking in the middle of the street.
It was an awkward vibe. I was told something interesting by Norman, an English speaking native, who told me a majority of people know English they just choose not to speak it and act dumb when you say something to them.

From Ponce to San Germán and a Few Stops In-Between

2007-05-20T07:49:00.000-06:00

Haley and me posing in one of the huts at the Tibes Ceremonial Grounds in Ponce. I think we will all remember that day and our friend, Sal Mas, dearly.

Saturday, May 19, 2007
By Chelsea Young

My time on this island has felt like a whirlwind, going from activity to activity, place to place and discovering a new culture day by day. To fully experience something new, great attention and energy is required. Beginning class at eight o’clock in the morning and finishing the day’s activities late at night is tiresome, and it parallels the feelings travel writers often experience; the feeling of giving up a normal routine in an effort to challenge your mind and body. This feeling is most likely what travel writers of the past, like Thomas Nugent, felt during their explorations.

For the first time in my life I am being exposed to a culture other than my own, while forging new relationships and experiencing new things. The days activities included going to the Hacienda Buena Vista Coffee Plantation, visiting the Tibes Ceremonial Grounds and leaving Ponce and Hotel Melina and arriving in San Germán at the Universidad Interamerican de Puerto Rico. The coffee plantation provided examples of how coffee was made and also gave insight into the preservation of the environment. I expected the plantation to look more like a plantation, but instead it looked like a forest, with waterfalls and canopy trees. Along the way to San Germán, our driver, José, took us to a roadside stand where we bought freshly sliced pineapples. This was a picturesque moment because it was so indicative of a tropical place. José pointed out interesting sights while we drove and stopped at the top of a hill overlooking the ocean for us to take pictures.

I continue to be amazed at the vibrant aqua-colored water and the lush flora that are so characteristic of the island. Yet, each day I learn that Puerto Rico is more than just beaches and tropics. It is a culture filled with a rich history and people who are proud to share their heritage with others.

Arriving in Puerto Rico: May 16, 2007

2007-05-19T08:18:00.001-06:00

Waking up around 3:15a.m., I was still trying to finish packing my bag for two weeks in Puerto Rico. Arriving at the airport, I was too excited to be tired, but sitting on the plane was a different story. The second I fell into the seat, I passed out for the entire ride. The airport in Puerto Rico was a blur. While trying to observe my surroundings, I gathered my luggage and followed the group of students outside. Stepping out of the airport, I was greeted by the warm, humid air that is typical of summers in Puerto Rico. Driving through San Juan en route to Ponce, seeing the countryside, with its gently rolling hills, I already knew I was in paradise. The flora was very luscious and everything looked healthy and green, as if there had just been a downpour. The sun was out, though, and it looked like it was going to be a day of perfect weather. The heat and humidity does not bother, and I actually find it quite pleasant from the dry heat of Fort Worth, Texas. Arriving in Ponce, we pull up in front of the Hotel Melia, and it looks like a classic Puerto Rican hotel. The concierge is extremely friendly and welcomes us with a huge smile and warm hello. The rooms are small but cozy with a nice view of the town's skyline from the view of my balcony. By the time we were settled into our rooms, it was already dinner time. I meet the group in the lobby of the hotel, and we wander around the corner to an Argentinean restaurant, which is brightly lit with twinkle lights. We are led to the back of the restaurant and seated in an empty corner, except for one other couple. At dinner, we play interactive games and get to know everyone in the group a little bit better. After dinner, we walk past the hotel into King's Ice Cream shop. I try the Tamarindo flavor which has a slight cinnamon flavor. As I am finishing my ice cream while staring at a gorgeous fountain, which is brightly lit with multicolored lights, I can feel the get lag and lack of sleep kicking in. I saunter back to back to the hotel and fall into my bed into a deep sleep.

Anticipated Travels

2007-04-21T15:07:00.000-06:00

By: Angela Fetty

There are many reasons why I wish to attend the Puerto Rico study abroad trip. Traveling is one of my great passions. Growing up as a military child I have lived in many places and have seen things I only could have dreamed. This zeal for other places, cultures and adventures has led me to want to visit and see as many places as I possibly can. As an aspiring journalist, there is nothing more crucial than learning about other people and their customs. This experience enables the journalist to become less judgmental, better understanding of others, and better able to communicate. Traveling shows a journalist there is more to the world than just the United States and these countries are just as important.

As an undergraduate, I had three majors at Western Kentucky University: Photojournalism, News/Editorial (Print) and Spanish. Along with these, I minored in Women’s Studies. I have a desire to be a writer and photographer for a travel magazine, where I would love to cover Spanish speaking countries. That is way this class would be such a great opportunity. There is no other way I would like to spend my summer than to travel to Puerto Rico, meet new people, and take as many pictures as I possibly can. Please consider me for this trip, I am hard working and am able to handle the work load of a shortened course.

Why I want to Study in Puerto Rico

2007-04-15T14:03:00.000-06:00

I am attracted to the opportunity to visit a distant place, gain additional writing and professional experience and explore the beauty of Puerto Rico.

As a graduate student interested in diversity, this program will allow me to expand my knowledge of the historical and social aspects of Puerto Rico. I believe the best way to learn or study another culture is to examine or observe that culture for yourself.

The practical and professional experiences that will be gained during this adventure are exciting. After reviewing media projects completed by other students and similar audio slideshows on the New York Times Web site, I feel the projects assigned during the program would be a great benefit to me professionally. Many organizations produce internal print magazines; however, learning how to produce the same product as an audio slideshow could be of great value to potential employers and I.

Teamwork and the ability to get along well with others are important in any professional setting. Working with my peers always presents the opportunity to develop my leadership, communication, and teambuilding skills.
Negative and positive experiences, beliefs, attitudes are reflected through writing, and how professionals communicate with others. My mission is to expose myself to positive experiences that will enable me to mature as an individual both professionally and personally. I believe this study abroad program will fulfill this objective.

Studying abroad is an experience that will allow me to challenge my ideas, study another culture and explore other forms of media. I possess a variety of experiences and believe I would be an asset to this class and to my peers.

Puerto Rico + Travel Writing: A Journey to Take

2007-04-06T18:33:00.000-06:00

I'm eating an ice-cream cone on the plaza in Ponce. This was on our first night in Ponce and the ice-cream was a tasty treat after a long day!

By Chelsea Young

I imagine travel as exciting, humbling, and an experience worthwhile. I have always longed to travel outside of the United States, but have not had the opportunity to do so. I find other cultures and landscapes fascinating, and believe there is a greater world beyond that of my own to experience, communicate about and understand. Time and time again, while reading travel magazines or the newspaper’s travel section, I find myself drawn to the writing and eye-catching photography that accompanies each article. I strongly believe that participating in the “Communicating Culture: Travel Writing in Puerto Rico” program will give me a way to combine an interest, travel, with my area of study, journalism.

My experience in journalism is newspaper and magazine writing and design, and I would love to enhance that knowledge by learning the techniques of travel writing. I particularly enjoy creativity and using visual elements to tell a story, especially the way photographs and page design contribute to the form of journalism found in travel writing. Traveling another country and discovering its culture, while learning the techniques of travel writing would be of tremendous benefit in my exploration of this career track. The Puerto Rico journalism program would be rewarding in many ways, but perhaps the greatest would be deepening my knowledge of a subject I am passionate about and which may become a lifelong pursuit.

Traveling to Puerto Rico

2007-04-06T17:06:00.000-06:00

I decided to sign up for this trip to Puerto Rico for several reasons. I have always wanted to study abroad during my time at OU, but I never had the opportunity. A semester abroad was too much time for me to be away from family and friends. Spending two weeks in Puerto Rico will give me a taste of what studying abroad is all about without having to be away for a semester. I almost minored in Spanish, so I definitely have a strong interest in the Spanish language and culture and I look forward to brushing up on my Spanish speaking skills during my stay in Puerto Rico.
Since I am a lover of the arts, I can’t wait to explore different art museums and learn about Puerto Rican artists in the area. But most of all, the thing that I am most excited about is immersing myself in the culture there and getting the most out of this trip as possible. I would much rather learn about a subject through a hands on experience and that is exactly what caught my eye about his trip. The fact that we are out exploring Puerto Rico and learning instead of sitting in a classroom all day really excites me. Writing is one of my passions. I write in a journal almost everyday, and so these course titles interested me as well. I look forward to traveling and exploring Puerto Rico with this group. This will be an experience that I will never forget and I will learn so much through this whole journey.

Vamos a la playa!

2007-04-04T17:47:00.000-06:00

Since I was a snotty-nosed kid my lifelong dream has been to become a travel reporter. Telling people about fabulous destinations through stories, pictures, and souvenirs is something I love to do. Part of the reason is to encourage others to travel because in my opinion, it is the best way for people to learn about themselves.

Granted, traveling is supposed to be fun; with every new place providing an exhilarating experience, but the truth is, it is hard work. It is not for the timid; it is for the brave soul who dares to try the mystery meat, dares to climb the steep cliff, and for the person who will embrace every facet of the culture.

My interest in this program is beyond satisfying six hours of credits. I want to go to Puerto Rico because I have been patiently waiting to take a course like this since I was wide-eyed freshman. This opportunity would allow me to develop my skills in travel writing and broadcasting.

All things Latin fascinate me. The food, the people, the culture, the language, and history are all aspects that I am knowledgeable in, and I am eager to learn so much more. I love to be challenged and complete projects on a deadline. This trip will provide plenty of opportunities that will allow me to try something new, even if, I am hesitant.

I am eager to participate in this program because it is will serve as a catalyst to what follows graduation. My ultimate career goal is to have a travel show that mimics Anthony Bourdain.

I’m a fast, light packer, and I cannot wait for the adventures on the “Island of Enchantment.” ¡Buen viaje!

Excited about Puerto Rico

2007-04-03T15:24:00.000-06:00

The chance to study abroad for two weeks in Puerto Rico is one of the most amazing opportunities I have ever encountered. Besides the fact that I will be receiving six hours of credit, I will be participating in courses which apply directly to my major. After I have completed these two classes, my experiences at OU will be finished and I will be graduated and moving into reality. I cannot think of a better way to end my four years at this university than in Puerto Rico.
I studied abroad in Italy for a semester last spring, which was incredible, but I was not able to take journalism classes, which was slightly disappointing. I have always had a passion for traveling and writing and I think combining the two will make the classes more of a hands-on learning than sitting in a classroom listening to a lecture. I am very interested in pursuing a career in travel writing once I graduate and this will be a huge addition to my abroad experiences.
I have never visited Puerto Rico, but I have learned that the capital, San Juan, is rich in culture, both Spanish and American, which is where I think we will be spending most of our time. I know I will leave the country with an enhanced view of the Spanish civilization and what it involves. I am very excited about the knowledge I will gain about the people and society of Puerto Rico. Since I have heard about this trip, I have been researching the country and trying to gain important facts which I must know on arrival.
Traveling is my most favored hobby, whether I am going throughout a state, country, or the world. The opportunity that has presented itself is so incredible. I feel so fortunate knowing that I may have the chance to embark on this amazing trip to Puerto Rico, all while gaining my last hours of credit while attending OU.

The Why's of Wanting to go to Puerto Rico

2007-04-03T14:07:00.001-06:00

By: Dianne Lee

I am interested in the program because this is a once in a life-time opportunity to study abroad in a different culture. I have always been intrigue by cultures and this will be one way to gain more exposure about the world around me. The fact that I am from Malaysia also encourages me to take advantage of the courses offered here to enrich my student experiences at OU as well as to open up opportunities for me in the future as a travel writer.

I have traveled widely in the past to countries such as Australia and New Zealand. Taking this course is just another great way to put two of my passions together – traveling and writing. This will also give me a great chance to take my traveling experience up to a higher notch, where I could apply my writing skills to good use instead of being a mere tourist.

Besides that, this is the only study-aboard program that is relevant and suitable to my major. I have always wanted to study abroad, even after coming to America, but the duration and time have always been inappropriate. As this will be my last summer, I feel that it is time to take the leap and apply for this program because it will greatly benefit me in the long run.

In conclusion, I believe that JMC 4970/5970 is a fantastic program to be in because I will have the chance to experience a different culture and learn to write about it.

2007-04-02T23:12:00.000-06:00

I am earning my degree in journalism, and an intersession in Puerto Rico is a perfect opportunity for me. I will graduate with a minor in Spanish and last summer spent six weeks in Chile and Argentina. My experience last summer changed my life because it taught me a lot about myself and other cultures. I feel like the trip to Puerto Rico is my opportunity to combine journalism and my Spanish. Most importantly, I’m eager to learn about travel writing because that’s an important aspect of journalism but not a course available during the regular school semesters.
In the future, I plan to work for a television news station. No matter what station I work for, I know the importance of being bilingual and having worldly experience on top of excellent writing and reporting skills. I think the trip to Puerto Rico will not only help me work toward these goals but teach me so much more than I can even imagine.
This past fall semester as an intern at OU Nightly, it became clear that I want and need more hands on experience to know what I am good at and what I like. I am a firm believer that the best education is not always in a classroom and hope that I can have the privilege to study in Puerto Rico this summer to give me a journalistic experience that will help me to accomplish my goals by furthering my education in ways that are not possible sitting in a classroom.
I commit myself completely to everything I do and especially to furthering my education. I am a hard worker and I make it a point to learn from every experience. I would not take the learning experience in Puerto Rico lightly, instead I would use the two weeks as an intense training for what I want to do with my future.

I said it's time to leave the states!

2007-04-02T11:30:00.000-06:00

By: Dawn Scales
Jan. 28, 2006

For many years I have been interested in traveling and in the course of those years my passion for writing has definitely grown. I have obtained writing experience through reporting for two on-campus publications and a daily city newspaper. Taking that experience further is a constant need for me. Nurturing my skill, expanding the knowledge I know and encountering different cultures are all key as well. Traveling to San Juan, Puerto Rico will enable me to learn about the history of travel writing and its contemporary genres taught by Dr. Meta Carstarphen and Professor Kathryn Jenson White.
I always find myself researching, reporting and writing about issues that concern those of minority status, being those that have different ethnic backgrounds to those who are of completely different races. Even though English is required in all federal matters in Puerto Rico, Spanish is without a doubt the dominant language and I can’t wait to try out my two semesters of Spanish among native speakers. I think my longing to travel comes from wanting to connect the imagery I have seen with the actual encounter of a specific place and people. Being able to document happenings and creating bonds with individuals that I would otherwise not interact with is what keeps me going on a daily basis.
The Gaylord College, as I have noticed, works hard to provide further educational opportunities for us as students. I would like to have the pleasure of reaping the benefits of such scholastic programs.

So...I Want to be Around There

2007-04-01T16:42:00.000-06:00

By Wes Ward
April 1, 2007

Travel is an imperative experience to have, especially when new cultures are introduced. I enjoy communicating with people and experiencing new thoughts into which I can rediscover myself. Although I am not majoring in journalism I believe my experiences from this trip will be applied daily when I do become an architect and hopefully start my own firm someday. I expect to travel often throughout my life and must be proficient in effectively communicating in numerous ways.
For as long as I can remember I have been extremely fascinated with Latin American culture. I have taken several trips to Mexico and was once fortunate enough to sail on a cruise which explored the Caribbean and its diverse islands. The intense and brilliant sun exudes the energy displayed through the rhythmic lifestyles that many Latin Americans display so casually. Gracious and warming natives generate a rich environment filled with optimism and copious pleasures that I eagerly hope to experience.
Having studied architecture and history at the University of Oklahoma for three years now, no other area in the world has intrigued me more than that of Latin America. The history extends back thousands of years along with the architectural brilliance that contains influences from countless regions of the world. Like the countryside and surrounding waters, the history and architecture is full of life and discovery. I cannot begin to fathom the experiences I may have or whether I am fully capable of absolute appreciation of this opportunity but, the opportunity does greatly excite me.

The Importance of Travel Writing

2007-03-31T23:23:00.000-06:00

By: Slater Rhea

March 31, 2007

As an American, and one who wishes to write about and to comment on the human experience, I desire very deeply to understand the lives of those outside of my immediate culture. Because of want of commonality with others, and a kind of universal citizenship, it is useful, and often undertaken to visit other distinct communities, to observe, and to report one’s observations. “What does it mean to be a member of another society?” and “What does it mean to be American?” are important questions which this “travel writing” attempts to answer; they are questions I seek to answer in my life.

From Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Marble Faun and Henry James’ American which deal with American perspectives in Europe to Richard Engel’s War Zone Diary about daily life in modern Iraq, the genre know as “travel writing” has been vital to American and Western thought. Because it is by definition observation made by cultural outsiders it offers a perspective which is freshly observant. Subtle, important differences in societies’ ways of life become apparent, and the knowledge of these can be powerful to both cultures.

To my mind, some of the most deeply affecting and meaningful literature about American life has come from foreigners, or those otherwise alienated from society at large. Alexis de Toqueville, a French citizen wrote eloquently about the early American experiment, Anzia Yezierska wrote about trying to survive in depression era New York as a Russian woman immigrant, and Ralph Ellison, a man alienated by his race brought the absurdity of American racial strife and segregation into grand relief in his Invisible Man. These writings by outside observers have been vital to the discussion of American life, in its distinct beauty as well as in its flaws.

Travel writing is important because it is an examination of one culture through the perspective of another, so that when we write about other cultures, we are necessarily writing about our own. It informs us of what is different, and of what is common. Experience beyond personal frames of reference is informative of benefits within certain societies, and of grievances. It is worthy, and necessary, and to experience and share it is one of my true personal priorities.

My Application essay

2007-03-31T15:21:00.000-06:00

I am interested in the May Intersession Study Abroad in Puerto Rico because it will expose me to a new country. I will rely on the culture and its history to guide my writing. Puerto Rico is a different environment where I will be able to interact with new people who share a different culture and lifestyle from my own.
After taking several Spanish courses, I have come to appreciate the Hispanic culture. It is obviously very different from my own, and I love to learn about new cultures. With my Spanish background I have some feel for the Hispanic culture and lifestyle, and want to learn more.
One of my favorite cultural excursions occurred years ago in Japan. My aunt took me to visit a fifth grade classroom, similar to mine in the U.S. I knew no Japanese and the other fifth graders knew some English. We found common ground in Print Club, photos from a machine. I enjoyed spending time with my new friends because I learned some Japanese and how to communicate with students I did not know.
I have always wanted to visit a rain forest because they are so exotic and intriguing. I have seen personal pictures of friends who have been to a rain forest in Costa Rica. As beautiful as the photographs are, I am sure the country is even more stunning in person.
My long term goal, once I finish graduate school, is to be the editor-in-chief of a magazine. Magazines are always changing and only have a shelf-life of about a month. They are based on current issues and trends. New information is gathered and stories are created. This tour will allow me to see this process in full view.
With this experience, I will be able to report what I see, feel, smell, taste and hear. I will strive to write so the reader feels as though he/she is on this tour with me, experiencing the breadth of culture and beauty.
I am not an experienced travel writer, although I love to travel and look at travel brochures. I am an avid photographer with many albums documenting my friendships, interests, accomplishments, and travels.
I am currently a freelance writer for an Internet based sports company. In this job I interview current and former NCAA and Olympic gymnasts, gather data, and create articles that are published on an interactive website. I will bring this experience to Puerto Rico and look to expand my skills.
I enjoy working on a computer whether it is listening to music, keeping in touch with friends, or assembling a presentation. I have experience in creating a slideshow, complete with script and music.
This will be my first time to travel out of the United States by myself. I am a hardworking individual who is dedicated and focused on the task at hand. I learned commitment and dedication through my experience as a level 10 gymnast and a competitive cheerleader.
I will enjoy visiting Puerto Rico and hope to have the opportunity to write about my travels through this exotic country.

April musings

2007-03-31T10:59:00.000-06:00

We are a month away from our departure on May 16, 2007. These are random musings on the way to to our next class meeting scheduled for April 22, 2007.

Beginnings: Why we chose to go

2007-03-31T10:53:00.000-06:00

Students who joined this class were selected, in part, based upon an initial essay of interest. The reasons are varied, as are the ways in which they express themselves. Here are their voices and images, written pre-destination.