Tuesday, Travel Day

 

Today is Tuesday July 15th. Everyone stayed in a hotel right out side of Dulles Airport. I really like that we stayed a night before, it helped the day go by smother, and it allowed everyone to grow closer to each other. 

We arrived at the Airport at about 5:50 am. We got through all the checking stations and got time to eat and rest. We then boarded the airplane and had a long trip to the Dominican Republic. We arrived and had some free time. Everyone went to the pool, swam at the beach, ate, played games, or took a nap. We then had our first dinner together and it was nice to have a good meal with the whole group. We then had our evening reflection meeting. I think traveling was very smooth and arriving to the hotel was very nice and not too crazy. It was a fun and interesting journey being here for the first day. The land is very well taken care of and the hotel is just beautiful.

Riley Mcsherry, Dinwiddie

Today was our travel day. We started bright and early and headed to Dulles International Airport. Getting through security at the airport was smooth, and then we boarded the plane. I narrowly avoided paying a $100 overweight luggage fee since my bag weighed exactly 50 pounds. A special thanks to Ryley for making room for some of my extra belongings!

 Upon landing in the Dominican Republic, I experienced a bit of culture shock. We exited the plane directly onto the tarmac, and I was immediately struck by the bright colors and unique architecture of the airport. Inside, I noticed that everything was in Spanish, which was a bit overwhelming; however, I discovered that I remembered more from my high school Spanish classes than I expected!

After making our way to the resort, I spent time with both my friends and some new acquaintances I just met. Those of us who are “first years” have really bonded during this experience thus far. Overall, the day was fun and interesting, and I am so excited for the week ahead!!

Logan Walton, Alleghany County

Today was the first day for our trip to the Dominican Republic. We woke up very early to get to the airport in Dulles, which was exciting, but we were also slightly tired. I have been on this trip before, so I was slightly prepared, though.

We made it through the airport with no problems, and got breakfast there, and then boarded our flight. I was pleasantly surprised; we were all able to sit very close to each other! In other years, we had been all spread out, so I enjoyed being close.

We got to the Dominican with no problem, and delivered our supplies to the Foundation, and went to our hotel, the Westin. It is really beautiful and right on the beach! We spent the afternoon at the pool and the beach there, and all had dinner together there. From what it has been so far, I can’t wait for the rest of this week!

Cash Chambers, Returning delegate from Highland Co.