PTP Squad 2017!
It’s been a while, huh? I’m sure time has flown by, just like it did when we were all together in Bahia Ballena. Whether we were planting trees, learning how to surf, checking out monkeys, or simply chilling in the pool – the time passed super fast, and that’s the reason for this time capsule letter! Although it may seem like ages ago, the time we shared together and impacts we made are definitely worth taking a minute to remember.
You guys made an incredible imprint on the community and environment during your time in the PTP program. The trees you transplanted are being maintained and growing into healthy adolescent plants, now in the National Park Marino Ballena. The time spent creating and painting tree protectors are doing their job well and can be reused to help us continue the reforestation project. The plastic whale is a spectacle for the entire country!
Let’s also not forget all the knowledge you gained on the trip that has now encouraged you to refuse and reduce your own plastic consumption. Now you’re aware of how so many little actions can affect the ocean. When you guys think back on our trip together, there’s probably a ton of fun (and hilarious) moments that come to mind first. We saw monkeys, coati, crocodiles, exotic birds, a sloth, turtles, whales, a red eyed tree frog, and dolphins! We learned how to dance and sang karaoke style on our bus rides.
We played endless card games, and ate incredible meals (shout out to Sonya and Joans, the real MVP’s). We jumped off rocks into rivers next to waterfalls. We cooked a traditional meal, and went out for pizza. Best of all, we shared music, games, and tons of great stories. The mentors–Hannah and Desiree– loved being able to share these experiences with you guys. Thanks for all the hard work you did while you were here and thanks for making it so fun and memorable!
Some special moments from our trip:
– The adventurous (and rainy!) boat ride to and from Corcovado National Park
– Seeing a school of dolphins play just feet away from our boat – Seeing a mother and baby humpback diving around us
– Learning from Alban and his majestic hair
– Going “Boom, Boom” on the zipline and flying through the mountains, howling and conquering fears
– Ogres, Wizards, and Elves “SAME THING”!
– Watching howler monkeys play in the trees around us
Saludos! Keep shining.
-Hannah Calloway, International Director
Feeling nostalgic? You can experience that same sense of friendship and adventure abroad again! Check out all our new destinations for Summer 2018, or enroll now.