My last day... :'(

Even though my last day officially was two days ago, I wanted to make sure that I updated this blog because I really did so much! On my last day I had the opportunity to explore the Zócalo, which really is the town center of Oaxaca. In this area there is a great deal of small merchants, music, cafés and wonderful places to just take in all the culture. I was able to see the large Day of the Dead display! Speaking of Day of the Dead, did you know that, in Spanish, it is actually referred to as Día de Muertos. Yet, when it is translated to English, we say Day of the Dead, and then, those who speak English translate it back to Spanish, say Día de LOS Muertos. We actually put the article, los, in it! 

While in Oaxaca, I had the opportunity to stay in a home setting which has so many benefits! I was able to speak Spanish daily, interact with locals, observe the local architecture and really enjoy authentic Oaxacan cuisine. We stayed in the San Felipe area and so we would have to take a taxi or bus down to the Zócalo.

The taxi has set prices (although was a bit elevated for the holiday) and a one way trip cost about $150MXN (150 Mexican Pesos - $8.33 USD). Once I felt comfortable taking the bus, I would take that and a one way trip cost $8MXN (8 Mexico Pesos - $0.45 USD). Here are some of the pictures from the display.

After the day at the Zócalo, we ended the evening with some official Mariachi music. They were absolutely amazing!

I am so grateful to be able to have taken this trip. I am the sole Spanish instructor at my institution, and, as a result, I do not have the opportunity to speak Spanish daily to collaborate. Additionally, to truly be bilingual, it is nearly impossible to not learn the culture. However, to really appreciate the culture, one must do more than just read about it. One must engage in it and live it. For example, "The difference between two cultures is more than just difference in language, food and personal habits. Culture reflects deep in one’s perceptions, the way a person sees things, his or her beliefs and values which have a big influence on their lives. Those who experience other cultures in person can truly understand other people better," (7 Reasons to Study a Language Abroad | Gostudylink, n.d.). Additionally, "When you study a language abroad you will develop new skills and gain different experience. This is something a regular classroom setting at home will not provide you! The entirely different cultural setting and the new ‘scenery’ is scary at first but it can also be exciting and valuable," (7 Reasons to Study a Language Abroad | Gostudylink, n.d.). While taking a trip abroad may seem like a vacation, it truly gave me an opportunity to expand my knowledge, enhance my speaking skills, and broaden my cultural experiences all of which is what I do in my career. I also hope that my students gained valuable knowledge through this blog. For my students, do you agree with my analysis regarding how this experience enhances my teaching abilities considering the field that I am in? Why or why not? Incorporate research and earn 20 bonus points on your current week's MSL homework.