Transition

I first noticed the transition as I entered the Miami airport. More people spoke Spanish. There were more Spanish signs and announcements. Then, as I entered the area for international departures, I became a minority who looked different from, and who did not understand most of what was being spoken by, the people around me. When I entered the airplane the stewardess addressed me in Spanish, and after noticing my blank look, switched to English and directed me to my seat. All this was fine. Part of what I hope to accomplish in this experience is to gain some understanding of what it is like for people to enter a new country/culture without knowledge of the language or customs. I expect to be uncomfortable - even though I know the extent of my unease will be tempered by my education, some basic understanding of Spanish, and being around people who do speak some English.

The flight was uneventful. I read part of the way and slept during the remainder of the time. I was a bit intrigued by the duct tape repair to the airplane ceiling panel - the first time I have seen that. A stewardess told me the type of the aircraft was quite old.

When I entered the Guatemala airport my cultural transition experience took a reverse turn as my eyes caught sight of a McDonalds restaurant - go figure!! Going through immigration and customs was a breeze. Jeff and Soila Eshleman met me at the Guatemala airport. It was not long until I was soundly asleep in the CASAS guesthouse.