People-to-People MD06

Delegate News from July 30-31

Jul 31, 2006

News from the delegates on their experiences in Italy -- they seem to be having a great time there, but are about ready to head for home:

One delegate echoed the sentiments of many who said they were happy to arrive in Italy. He liked Florence, but by this time was getting a little homesick -- missing the comfort of being in his own room and sleeping in his own bed (without having to pack and unpack). Today he called from Rome, the Eternal City, and was very spirited. Tomorrow he's looking forward to visiting the Vatican, and then at long last to be on his way home.

Another delegate reported that a number of them went wall climbing, up to about 100 feet -- fortunately, everyone made it safely! Today they are setting up for their final activities in Rome, and are starting to pack. This delegate said she's ready to come home. She said they have to be at the airport on Wednesday at 4AM.

Another told about rappeling down a tower wall, making Italian pizza in their Tuscan cooking class ("I'm bringing home the recipe, Mom!"), visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa ("very cool"), and making the obligatory visit to the Trevi Fountain to wish for a return to Rome. Reflecting on the trip, he said he has taken about 400 pictures so far, has collected brochures on the places they've been, and has been writing in his journal every night. He has collected some T-shirts as souvenirs, including one celebrating the World Cup Champion Italian soccer team. He says he's tired of eating out --and when he comes home, he doesn't want to go out to dinner for at least a month!