Going into Panama, I thought to myself that it was going to be an unfamiliar environment that I couldn?t fit into. I only wanted to learn from this study abroad program and try new food. The first day after our plane ride, we were able to travel around Panama in the bus and I figured that it is somewhat identical to the environment I?m used to. I lived in Vietnam for my first 5 years of age, and this is the first time I?ve seen an environment slightly identical to my home country despite traveling all around the United States all of my life. I felt a familiar sense of home. During our visit, I saw how the currency and value of things are similar to those in the United States. Everything I bought in Panama was either close to or less than the price shown in the United States. I was tempted to buy an ample amount of products just because they were inexpensive. I hope that as Panama grows, the prices will remain stable.
I also saw how the Panamanians preserved their heritage through the ruins and monumental locations we visited. They, like the United States, preserved their historic sites. I was able to learn about Panama’s history firsthand. I appreciated the many vistas I was able to see while on the bus and outside. This country is stunning, and I couldn’t take my gaze away from the mountain and sea views. Everything I experienced so far was bizarre and even though I am out of shape, I got my way through Ancon Hill and stepped on rocks to get to the waterfall in the Embera Indigenous Village. I am so proud of myself for exercising my cardio. This experience has been truly one of a kind and I enjoyed every moment I experienced.
