PTPI's EXPERIENCE Student Travel Programs

EXPERIENCE: Peru

2009-11-23T09:29:00.000-08:00

PTPI is excited to announce that July 13 - 23 will find 20 students ages 16-18 years old EXPERIENCING all that Peru has to offer!

Students may apply on-line by December 7, 2009 to be a part of this incredible delegation.

Please visit the EXPERIENCE: Peru Event Page for full program details, including our itinerary.

Our Final Day

2009-07-31T14:36:00.000-07:00

July 25, 2009

Our final day began with a much appreciated 7:00 AM wake-up call, and after a quick breakfast, we boarded our bus and departed for the Aldeas S.O.S orphanage. Anticipation on the bus grew until we finally arrived.

As we walked into the orphanage and witnessed the excited children, we knew exactly why we had an extra hour of sleep. We spent the next few hours laughing and playing with children, who appreciated every minute of it. Helping us at the orphanage were local Costa Rican Boy and Girl scouts. Many of the scouts spoke English well enough to hold a conversation with, but some scouts were a different story. Fortunately, even those of us who had only learned a limited amount of broken Spanish over the last ten days were able to communicate well enough to joke and have fun. The scouts helped us plant trees and supervised activities such as arts and crafts. Though difficult, leaving the orphanage was a touching moment for both the children and us. We made our goodbyes last as long as possible before loading the bus and returning to our hotel.

Our final night came to a close with an emotional closing ceremony. We said our farewells to our beloved leaders and Mary Eisenhower opened the microphone to questions allowing each of us to get to know her a little better. After the Q & A session, we broke up into teams and took an “exam” to see exactly how well we’d gotten to know each other over the past ten days. After learning the… substandard… results, the leaders each spoke about the trip and what it meant to them and some of the delegates also took part in sharing their final thoughts. In keeping with the trip’s rollercoaster of emotion, the ceremonies ended with a final dance party – GYFHC Delegate, David, leading the way and one of our last acts as the 2009 GYFHC delegation, a group hug.

-By Elliott Wall (Mexico, MO)

Back Home

2009-07-26T21:09:00.000-07:00

After a long day of travel, our GYFHC Costa Rica delegation has returned and all delegates are making their way back to their home towns. Another successful GYFHC!

"A small group of thoughtful people could change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."
--Margaret Mead

At the Airport

2009-07-26T08:04:00.000-07:00

All delegates are checked in and through security at the San Jose airport. Our flight to Dallas is currently on time.

Back to San Jose - 7/24/09

2009-07-25T17:11:00.001-07:00

Today, we left beautiful Monteverde for San Jose. Our 4 hour, uneventful bus ride took us to the Britt Coffee Plantation where we ate lunch and toured the facility. While on the tour, we learned about the legend of coffee, the different stages of harvesting and roasting, as well as how to tell a good cup of coffee from a bad one; additionally, we learned how coffee is one of the major exports of Costa Rica, and how it helps to sustain the country. At the conclusion of the tour, we all had the opportunity to purchase coffee straight from the source!

Next, we checked in at the Intercontinental Hotel, where we were greeted by PTPI's President and CEO, Mary Jean Eisenhower. The whole delegation had the opportunity to meet with Mary to fill her in on our Costa Rican experience thus far,and to let her know of all the sites we have seen and service projects we have completed.

To wrap up the day, we all visited Pueblo Antiguo, which is a unique cultural center representing historical San Jose. The goal of Pueblo Antiguo is to recreate what San Jose's main square was like between 1880 and 1930, but the coolest part about Pueblo Antiguo is that all of the proceeds generated benefit the National Children's Hospital. During our visit we attended folk show where we were able to experience authentic Costa Rican music and dance and we concluded our time there with an authentic dinner. It was a great evening!

By GYFHC Delegates Alyssa Vigliotti and Sarah Mathiesen

Magical Moments in the Monteverde Cloud Forest

2009-07-24T22:32:00.000-07:00

Thursday July 23, 2009

Day eight started off with a rush. After enjoying the blue morning sky, our delegation began our zip lining tour of the Monteverde Cloud Forest. The tour started off slowly with the completion of what we had thought to be only three short zip lines. Soon after finishing the first three lines, we found ourselves zipping across tree tops in many different ways: upside-down, backwards, and in pairs. To complete our tour, we each plummeted off of what was likely a 30 ft platform to find ourselves dangling from the “Tarzan Swing.” This was certainly, for me, the best way to start off a great day.
After lunch, our delegation split into two groups to complete our service projects. One group left to join Willow Zuchowski, a famous botanist, and the other to help construct a handicapped-accessible viewing platform in the Children’s Eternal Rainforest for the Monteverde Conservation League. The group that went to work with Willow, the botanist, gathered materials for the construction of a garden and removed grasses in order to create a path with benches to view their hard work.
The other group, who went to build the viewing platform, had quite a bit in store for them. The work mainly consisted of digging 18, 2 foot deep holes in which to place the very large supporting wooden poles of the platform. In addition, delegates cleared brush, moved large rocks, carried wood –and whatever else was needed.
Needless to say, after planting 500 trees yesterday, creating a garden and digging the holes for the poles today, GYFHC Costa Rica delegates are certainly qualified for strenuous yard work. We left the service sites today feeling exhausted but happy for a job well done and knowing our contributions will help the Monteverde Conservation League. This may easily be our favorite humanitarian project we have completed so far.
- GYFHC delegates Madison Taylor & Sarah Mathiesen

Children´s Eternal Rainforest

2009-07-24T05:40:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Today was probably one of the days that "hit the heart" the most. We began with a delicious breakfast as usual. The delegation then headed to the Children´s Eternal Rainforest. An informative briefing held by the VP, Bob Law, and Mia Robert informed us about about every aspect of the rainforest from funding, to cost, to the volunteer opportunities available. During all of this, the bugs were attacking us and we were all so eager to begin our hike. The delegation split, and the hike began. Personally, our group had an advantage of a $2000 telescope to assist our vision! We were able to see a vast group of insects and birds. It was very interesting to see how different the species are from the U.S.

After the hike, the group reconvened for lunch. We then returned to give the Children´s Eternal Rainforest a "gift" of a bunch of trees. When I say "bunch" I mean 300 plus! We established an efficient system for planting and each individual person played a massive part. (By the way, we all went into this project thinking we were each only planting two trees or so. We were happy to say that we planted many more!)

After covering ourselves in bugs, dirt, vines, etc. the group freshened up for dinner and some cultural interaction with fellow delegate and Monteverde resident, Daniel Vargas´ friends. That was most definitely a good time as we played all sorts of teambuilding games that Daniel helped facilitate.

The food is great here, the environment is fantastic, but most importantly the memories we are creating will stay with us forever.
By GYFHC Delegates Stephanie Rodriguez and Gen Montreuil

On Our Way to Monteverde

2009-07-22T16:14:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

After waking up to the sounds of the birds chirping, cows mooing and monkeys chattering away, our delegation left LaFortuna for Monteverde. We traveled through the windy roads and lush jungles and farmlands to arrive at our hotel. Though the rain kept us from our second ziplining adventure, instead we had the opportunity to come together as a delegation and get to know one another through some rainy-day activities. It was indeed another amazing day in Costa Rica...

Costa Rican Adventures

2009-07-22T16:01:00.000-07:00

Monday June 20th

After chilling our room to a wintry 16 degrees we scampered off to breakfast early only to discover that yet again we were the last ones to arrive. Sitting by ourselves like loners we enjoyed yet another delicious breakfast at the Volcano Lodge. The coffee was FANTASTIC and their fruit is like nothing you can imagine! To our utter shock, there was blue sky and for the first time we could almost clearly see the peak of the volcano that we previously thought was a conspiracy for tourism.
We then transferred to the large bus and headed off to the Sky Tram and Sky Trek zip lining outdoor adventure zone. After harnessing up and being attached to heavy metal zip lining equipment we headed off to the gondolas and began our 12 minute ascent to the top of the tour. On our way up we learned that the lake we were so avidly taking pictures of was actually man made. It supplies over 70% of Costa Rica’s energy needs while wind turbines provide close to the other 30%. Once at the top we enjoyed delicious strawberry smoothies before learning how to properly descend the mountain. In order to complete the excursion we had to learn how to get into the correct position which required leaning back into the fetal position so that you had enough speed to make it across the valleys. Although many of us were petrified to take the leap of faith off the ledge we put those fears on the back-burner as we were more concerned about escaping the swarm of beetles that seemed to stalk our delegation down the lines. The zip line trail consisted of 8 lines, two of which were practice lines. Many of the lines took over 30 seconds to cross and one was nearly a mile long and took us at speeds that topped 30 mph. One trail was over 550 feet in the air! The views were breathtaking and nothing you can ever imagine unless you have personally zip lined down yourself!

After we completed the ride down we ate lunch and were fortunate enough to see multiple howler monkeys hanging out and playing in the trees. Our guide Fernando, who is totally awesome, made calls to the monkeys which were thoroughly entertaining. We then got onto the bus and headed out for our hike near the Arenal Volcano. We sat at a lookout point and listened to hear the rocks that fell from the volcano. While some of us were eager to collect volcanic rocks, many of us were tired and enjoyed the relaxing view. Unfortunately and unexpectedly a fierce rain storm blew in and drenched all hope we had to go on our hike.

Unable to begin our hike in the typhoon style rain we headed off to LaFortuna for a shopping extravaganza. After an hour and a half of shopping we returned to the hotel and met with our small groups to continue our discussions about our sustainability projects. Each group met for an hour and discussed and fine-tuned their projects with the readily available assistance of our gracious leaders! During our free time before dinner many of us went down to the river to play in the water and climb on the rocks. Elliot and Daniel, the monkeys that they are, crossed the river and explored a cave that in reality was a four foot hole in the side of the bank wall. Many stayed near the shore while others watched a waterfall.
We went out to dinner for the first time tonight outside our hotel and everyone dressed for the occasion. Instead of our regular baggy t-shirts and shorts, we wore our “fancy clothes” and dined on delicious steak decorated with a carved cucumber and melon ball. Many delegates ordered (non-alcoholic) pina coladas which were presented in whole pineapples! While we dined, a man played a metal xylophone. During dessert one of the waitresses even grabbed David to dance to the music --which was totally adorable and cute.

After a long day of sun and rain we were relieved to see a crystal clear sky with millions of beautiful stars lighting the sky! Although we couldn’t see the lava flow from the volcano its eerie black silhouette still made a powerful statement. Though we hit some sour notes, and I’m not talking about the star fruit, the day was an overwhelming success! Our experiences here have truly been life changing and they will stay with us forever.

GYFHC Delegates, Katie Pearson and Alice Whitten

Making a Difference for the Maleku's

2009-07-20T06:26:00.000-07:00

An interview with Daniel Vargas, our delegate from Costa Rica and resident translator, revealed that the highlight of today was “dancing with the Maleku kids.” His opinion conflicted with mine; I believed the days’ highlight to be the hot spring surprise.

Today began with another early morning wakeup call – 6:00 AM. We all gathered for breakfast and gazed upon the roosting iguanas joining us for breakfast, for the last time. It was our last meal at the Tilajari Hotel. Butterfly gardens, memorable talks, and unripe star fruit are all things that remain in our memories from the Tilajari.

Our bus departed at 7:30 for the Maleku Indian school. New friends and old friends greeted us with, a now common, Costa Rican amiability. We arrived sporting yesterday’s painting clothes. Blue was the dominant color of our work. Blue doors. Blue walls. Blue hands. Blue stains. Everyone worked together and, at the end, we finished painting the entire school which consisted of three buildings. Due to the overnight drenching of the land and descention of many “gatos y peros,” at times “la pintura no quiere pagar.” I learned the phrase from one of the local community members who got his hands dirty with us and helped us in our efforts to beautify the school. We did what we could to saturate the wall in paint, hoping it was a sustainable coating. Ourselves saturated in blue paint stains, we departed our friends of the Maleku tribe.

Shrouded in whisps of cool, grey clouds, the renown and active Arenal Volcano was shrouded from our view. We arrived at the Volcano Lodge and ate lunch in Styrofoam containers. I didn’t realize the material our lunches were served in until Daniel Vargas made a comment about the millions of years of decomposition required. I later regretted the container of the tasty and small, avocado, cheese, and tomato sandwich served to me.

My moment of the day occurred in our next activity: hot springs - a surprise that our tour guide, Fernando announced! The cascading water rushed down waterfalls. 10 different pools awaited our wading pleasure. Volcanic rock and undisturbed habitat surrounded us. The air smelt of faint sulfur. The hot springs made for an incredible afternoon. We also tried strange fruits without English translations. “Cas” and “Sour Sop” were the delegate favorites. Our stay was not to be spoiled by the intrusion of a snake onto one of the numerous palm trees; however, it was shortly removed.

Today, I had time to reflect and realized that all the people so foreign to each other three days before, were now a tight knit group of companions. The rain began to fall as I thought about the nature surrounding us. We are so fortunate to experience Costa Rica like this.

After we returned to the Volcano Lodge, we had a buffet dinner and headed into our second Sustainability Session. Our awesome delegation leader, Rod Hister, gave an empowering presentation entitled “Making a difference: What I can do.” Our discussions ranged from fundraising to addressing needs. We will meet more in the next few days to develop a project about how we can make a difference; we will then present this to the group.

Undoubtedly, the day was filled with a variety of inside jokes that classify as, “you had to be there” moments. Just an idea of our inside jokes of July 19th for those not on the trip and incapable of fully understanding the meaning or humor – cottage cheese, lemon lime, woods to grandmother’s house, and Patrick is an accessory. You can only wonder!
- David Hines

Day Two in Costa Rica: Jacob's Thoughts...

2009-07-19T17:38:00.000-07:00

Today I woke up, got dressed, went outside to another cloudy and rainy morning, but man it’s beautiful. I went down by the river right by the hotel. I ended up chilling down there for about an hour, listening and singing to my I-pod and watching the rain come down. After that, the whole group went to breakfast, which was muy bien!

Then we took off to go visit with a tribe indigenous to Costa Rica, called the Maleku tribe. This group has about 600 people in it and they have been trying and working very hard to sustain their culture. They live entirely off the land and make masks and various items such as cups out of a vegetable called a gourd. The tribe has absolutely the nicest people I’ve ever met before. Then, after we met and they talked about their culture, we went not far away to their school. Right by their school, we planted trees and we also painted the school. We met and donated to the students of the school; it was a really great experience. So far I personally LOVE Costa Rica. Even though it’s only been a couple days, it’s a magical place.
Peace,
Jacob Lichtenberger

The Perfect First Day-- Pura Vida!

2009-07-18T15:50:00.000-07:00

Pura Vida! Once again, People to People International starts a GYFHC off perfectly. Our delegation began our day with a bus ride through the Alajuela Region to the Arenal Region of Costa Rica. The three hour bus ride gave us plenty of time to get to know our fellow delegates as well as getting familiar with the Costa Rican culture. Our tour guide, Fernando, was very eager to share with us the meaning behind the Costa Rican Colones (the local currency) and popular Spanish phrases used throughout the country. Our delegation listened carefully to Fernando as he spoke about the diverse climates, cultures, and people who make up Costa Rica. Costa Rica is similar to America in a way because it doesn’t matter what skin color you have or where your family originated from. Fernando explained that even though his grandparents came from Jamaica he is still 100% Costa Rican. The pride Fernando for his country made it very easy for him to share with us all Costa Rica has to offer. I know my group is very lucky to have him for our tour guide.

In the afternoon our delegation arrived at the Arenal Volcano National Park. Everyone came prepared to face the ever so changing Costa Rican weather. After trekking down 650 steep stairs, we finally were able to see the spectacular view of the LaFortuna Waterfall. At this moment it finally sank in that I was in a different country. The sparkling water and vibrant green environment made for great pictures and even greater sight seeing. After our waterfall visit our group hopped back on the bus and headed for the Tilajari Hotel.

The first activity at the Tilajari hotel was a team building scavenger hunt. The leaders split all 31 of us students up into three teams, the green frogs, the blue monkeys, and the red toucans. Our teams were faced with different challenges, including building a small traditional ox cart, recalling Costa Rican facts we learned earlier in the day, and looking for parrot figures in the trees. Participating in these challenges was not only fun but it also gave students a chance to use their leadership and communication skills. All three groups worked well together, and in the end, the blue monkeys won! The prize for the group was that each student received a Costa Rica t-shirt. After the scavenger hunt our delegation had dinner at the hotel. Me gusta comida de Costa Rica!

The last activity of the night was a dialogue interaction with local students. Delegation Leader Brandon Wiley did a great job bringing together us American students and the Costa Rican students. We were able to discuss our culture and typical lifestyles. Brandon also posed a question to us that let us share what we love about our country and if we could change one thing what would it be. Later we found it difficult to keep the conversation going between the local students because we did not know much Spanish and they found it difficult to keep up with our fast American speaking habits. Music proved to be the key for all students to open up to each other and bond over a common interest. Despite the language barrier we all became close and were excited to find out that we would see each other again the next day. People to People’s mission of peace through understanding was achieved tonight through smiles, laughter, dancing, and friendship. I am anticipating an amazing trip with this delegation of 31 diverse individuals.
- Maddie Fumi,GYFHC Delegate (Lansing, Illinois)

No Cell Phone Service

2009-07-17T17:34:00.000-07:00

We had a great day visiting the beautiful LaFortuna Waterfall, and are now checked in and having dinner at our tropical Arenal Region hotel, The Tilajari. As an FYI, there is no cell phone reception at the hotel. In case of an emergency, please call the Tilajari directly and asked to be connected to your students room, or to Sarah and Katherine´s room.

We plan on posting more details of the day (along with photos!) later tonight, so stay tuned!

In San Jose

2009-07-16T20:54:00.000-07:00

We are safe in San Jose! All delegates have checked in to our hotel, and we anticipate getting a great night's sleep. More to come tomorrow as we travel to the Arenal region!

Waiting to Depart!

2009-07-16T12:07:00.000-07:00

GYFHC delegates are all through security and awaiting an on time departure to San Jose!

The Final Countdown!

2009-07-07T12:09:00.001-07:00

Our delegation of students is set to depart next week for PTPI's Global Youth Forum Humanitarian Conference to Costa Rica. Check back during our travels for daily updates. In the meantime, feel free to check out this press release about the exciting adventure we have ahead of ourselves!

News Release Details

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2009 GYFHC - Costa Rica!!

2008-12-10T07:44:00.000-08:00

PTPI is excited to let you all know that the 2009 GYFHC will travel to incredible Costa Rica! The program will travel July 16 - 26, and is open to high school students who will be 16-18 years old during our travel dates.

To see all of the trip details, and to apply, click HERE

Memories of Egypt - A Reflection

2008-09-16T15:47:00.000-07:00

Pyramids, camels, and sand dunes come to mind when people think of Egypt. However, these symbols became just minor details on my own journey within this African country…

Before my trip to Egypt, I served as a student ambassador with People to People for five years, and traveled to over fifteen countries. For my sixth and final trip, I wanted to do more than visit governmental buildings and take pictures next to popular tourist spots! I wanted to fully immerse myself in the country, the culture, and the typical life of an Egyptian; more than that, I wanted to create a positive change in the society I visited. As a middle class, Caucasian teen attending a private boarding school in one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, I have been blessed with a privileged life. People to People’s Global Youth Forum gave me the chance to fulfill the obligation I knew I had: to use all that I had been given, and to improve the world by helping people who occupy it with me.
During my travels to Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, I participated in many humanitarian efforts. From boxing meals at food banks to visiting the mentally handicapped, I was able to assist people in ways that I had never experienced before. The most anticipated activity, however, was our People to People visit to the Awlady Orphanage in Cairo. My passion for working with children only catalyzed my excitement days before, but not even anxiousness could have prepared me for the emotional impact of finding joy among the destitute. Walking up the tree-lined street, I could hear the faint sound of children laughing in the distance. The white-picketed fence enclosed an Eden of swings, slides, and sand boxes. A picture of Cinderella had been painted on the side of a building. Although the temperature was hot outside, the orphanage gave off a new type of warmth that began in my heart, and slowly seeped throughout my body. When we finally reached the building, the humble, innocent faces of Egyptian children greeted us. The first thing I noticed was the smile each child wore. What is it about a child’s smile that makes a heart melt? We had only just arrived and already the children were ecstatic.
Leila was a six-year-old girl with wild, dark curly hair. Her eyes were dark chocolate, her nose was small, and her grin lit up the entirety of her face. Leila was the most beautiful child I had ever met. Without warning, she smashed her delicate face into my hip. “Opa, Opa!” she cried, flailing her arms upward as she giggled. I reached down to pick up her tiny body and placed her in my lap. From that moment onward, we were inseparable. We danced, we walked, we sang, we laughed. Twirling Leila around the yard made my day all the while I was trying to better hers. This little girl lived the grim beginning of a Cinderella story: no surplus of toys, no wide assortment of clothes, no education, no family. Leila’s story might not end with ‘happily ever after’, but I like to think that our day did. Spending time with the children and their governesses in Cairo made me realize how often I had gone through the motions of living without truly feeling. I realized how often I lost myself in the chaos of daily life. Those few hours with Leila and the children of Awlady Orphanage taught me more about myself than any class ever could… It took me seventeen years to realize how little my privileged lifestyle had done for my emotional state.

Traveling to Egypt was a rewarding experience. However, the moments I remember most are not about standing in front of ancient monuments, but the moments I spent serving others, and learning about a much worthier cause: true happiness.

- Amanda Bruening, GYFHC Delegate (Grand Blanc, MI, USA)
** Amanda is in the above picture (far left) at the Awlady Orphanage in Cairo

Back in the USA

2008-08-03T17:47:00.000-07:00

Our Egypt Air flight arrived in NYC safely and all delegates are en route to their home cities.

On Board

2008-08-03T00:05:00.000-07:00

We are on board our flight, and are anticipating an on time departure.

Back in Cairo

2008-08-02T02:04:00.001-07:00

We have landed safely back in Cairo and are looking forward to a full day: a tour of Islamic Cairo, a visit to the Khan el Khalili Bazaar and a traditional dinner in an Egyptian home!

An Aswan Adventure...& Nubian Nights

2008-08-02T00:48:00.000-07:00

Thursday July 31st, 2008

Awaking at our normal time of 7:30 after a well-deserved night’s rest, our delegation reminisced about our Egyptian-themed costume party and dinner the previous night. Although the morning may be tough for some, not one of us could deny the sense of excitement about the upcoming day. After breakfast, one hours worth of free time was allotted, then we departed our boat for a local primary school in Aswan. Our delegation was warmly greeted by about 30 brightly smiling faces, ecstatic to meet us.
Ms. Dalia Khalil, from the organization,iEARN Egypt, encouraged our youth to be more globally-conscious students. Ms. Khalil also stressed the importance of our youths’ participation in a world that needs a lot more peace. After the presentation, peace trees were planted in the school’s garden as a symbol of a uniting force between American and Egyptian students. Many delegates also enjoyed an exciting game of football (what we call soccer!) with the Egyptian students. Lunch was enjoyed aboard the ship, followed by a restful afternoon of packing and sun-bathing! In the late aftrnoon, the delegation responded with alacrity while boarding the traditional Egyptian sailboat called a felucca. Cruising around the Nile River, traditional Nubian songs were sung, and coffee and tea were savored. Immediately following, we traveled to a traditional Nubian village. Greeted by the village in their “party attire”, our delegation was treated like royalty, enjoying Karkedeh (hibiscus juice), tea, and cookies. We were shown around the conventional single-story, brightly painted Nubian home by the village’s leader named Akim. The house was centered around a courtyard and constructed of mud brick; apparently it only took four months to build. The village put on a show of lively drum beating, rhythmic singing, and festive dancing. It was not long before everybody was up dancing and singing along with the entire village. We soon departed the community, but nobody was ready to say goodbye. We all concurred that the visit was a successful one, where peace was achieved by simple actions of kindness and understanding.
When we returned to our boat, our farewell dinner included an a la carte selection of salmon or a sirloin steak. Dessert was such a treat: three cakes in the shapes of the Great Pyramids of Giza filled with sorbet; everybody was very impressed and it was a great way to end our stay on our ship, the Nile Adventurer. As the omnipotent sun of Egypt set, saying farewell to 105+ degree temperatures, the city in which we were staying began to come alive with people filling the streets because it is too hot to venture outside during daylight.
Our evening excursion was the Sound and Light show at Philae temple. We all piled into a small motorboat and five minutes later, we arrived at the island on which Philae stands. We were all thrilled by the lively animation accompanied by a light show. The story was of goddess Isis giving birth to Horus was depicted, along with the brief history of Ancient Egypt. It was midnight before we were to retire,all exhausted yet happy in recalling all of the day's excitement.
- Tyler York (Somerdale, NJ Delegate)

A Heartfelt Visit to Kom Ombo

2008-07-31T05:17:00.000-07:00

Egypt Blog for July 30, 2008
This morning started off with a test as our amazing Egyptologists, Aki Allam and Ahmed Dabess, quizzed us on our knowledge of Egypt. Questions derived from our tours and pre-trip research, and according to the Egyptologists, we passed! We then had a GYFHC session on religion, Christianity, Islam and others. We found the group discussion meaningful because we got to share our thoughts and feelings on all the different types of religions. It also broke some of the miscommunication and misunderstanding between them all.
We then visited Kom Ombo Temple, which was dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek. One of the most unique aspects about this temple, compared to the others, was that there was one section for medicine. During these times, crowds of ill citizens were flowing into the streets outside the temple.
Soon after, we loaded the buses to head to the Kom Ombo orphanage. When we arrived, the children had enormous smiles on their faces and they started to take pictures of us. During this time of one-on-one communication, cultural barriers were broken as we introduced ourselves to the children and started conversations with them. A feeling of mutual understanding spread among the entire group. Shortly after our introductions and brief conversations, we presented the orphanage with gifts of new uniforms for each student. These uniforms were handed out by a lucky handful of GYFHC delegates who had the privilege of seeing the glowing face of each child as he or she took the gift. Perhaps the most touching moment, however, came towards the end of our meeting when both Egyptian and American students spoke, expressing their appreciation for the other.
With hearts filled with both joy and sorrow, we departed the orphanage and returned to the ship for an evening of traditional Egyptian celebration, which included: food, music, and dancing. Dressed in traditional Egyptian attire of galabeyyas, everyone enjoyed themselves dancing the night away.
-Elliott Wall (Mexico, Missouri Delegate) & Erin Lee (Pawcatuck, CT Delegate)

Sailing to Edfu

2008-07-31T05:16:00.000-07:00

July 29th, 2008

Salaam Alykom…today is July 29th, the halfway landmark of our trip. We began sailing to Edfu at 4:00 am during our trip to the world of snoozes, snores, and sleepy satisfaction. When we awoke, the buffet breakfast on board simply expanded from corner to corner with breads, fruits, and cheeses. Afterwards, we split into groups that either went for cooking lessons or Arabic lessons. Those of us who started with the Arabic lessons learned a variety of words ranging from “ana khywaisa” (I am good (f)) to “gameel awi” (very beautiful). As we finished laughing at our multiple mispronunciations, it was time for the one-on-one session with Mary Jean Eisenhower. We sat in a circle and individually answered a set of questions Ms. Eisenhower posed including “who are your friends…what can’t you live without…what is your passion…what advice would you give to Ms. Eisenhower?”. From this discussion, we learned more about ourselves and everyone than we knew before. Ms. Eisenhower enlightened the same vital fact about each of us: we are our own best friends, and we depend on others to bring out unique qualities in each one of us. Some of the pieces of advice that we shared with Ms. Eisenhower reiterated in similar statements of how it is better to drink tea versus coffee, how it is important to share what you learn with others, and how it is important to live your life to the fullest. We all came together through sharing knowledge, stories, and passions. Then, we marched directly towards our human instinct which was calling us through different aromas and flavors. Later, we switched groups and went to do cooking lessons. The Egyptian cooking lessons included the delightful and delectable dishes of Baba Ghanoush, Okra, and Om Ali Pastry. We finished savoring our last bites of the impeccable dishes, and left our eating workout for a mental workout.

Split into teams and armed with a single sheet of listed items, we competed to win not only glory but also our lives as we struggled to safely reach our mother spaceship from a foreign planet. (In case you are confused, this was from an problem-solving game called “Moon Expedition!”) After the winners were announced, we parted our ways to spend our free time in ways such as sunbathing or sleeping or drinking tea. The next stop was the Edfu Temple: the largest, most completely preserved Pharaonic-albeit Greek-built- temple in Egypt and the amazing Temple of Horus at Edfu. We all were simply blown away by the multiple columns, statues of Horus, and remains of colors found in various niches around the temple. Horus, omniscient throughout the temple, was the hawk-headed god, and the earliest state god of Egypt, who was closely connected with the king. Coming back from the wind and the warmth of the Temple, we gladly slumped into our chairs to enjoy yet another extraordinary buffet. Secretly, we tiptoed to the lounge to practice for the next day’s history test; we simultaneously whispered the secret passwords and entered a battlefield equipped only with the past history lessons that we previously learned which had actually made it through the intricate canals neatly situated in our brain. Through the game, we all relearned important facts of Egyptian history and revisited the ancient times. Sleepily, we trudged back to our rooms, and we peacefully slept knowing we would ace the History test.

-Tanushree Mondkar (La Canada, California USA Delegate)

Valley of the Kings

2008-07-31T05:11:00.000-07:00

Rising before even the sun god could blink his weary eyes and shine down upon the land of Egypt, we packed our bags and boarded our buses for our flight to Luxor. Taking in the last sights of Cairo we departed. After our arrival in Luxor, we visited the Valley of the Kings, the place where the famous archaeologist Carter discovered Egypt’s glittering ambassador, the Golden Boy, Pharaoh Tutankhamen and his many treasures. Once protected by the anonymity of the shifting sands, the painted carvings found inside the tombs of Ramses I and Ramses III are as vivid as they are enigmatic; their scenes depicting triumph and warning in blues, yellows, reds and more.
Transferring to the temple of Pharaoh Hatshepsut, this immense structure was erected to honor the woman strong enough to be Egypt’s first female Pharaoh and maternal enough to nurture it into bloom. From a distance we took pictures of its unique architecture towering above as if it was created by the gods of Egypt and not its people. The columns of the Temple were strong and powerful --just like the woman they were meant to honor. Stopping at the Colossi of Memnon we viewed the two seated statues considered ancient even by the ancients. The Greek soldiers stationed there often reported hearing the sounds of ethereal wailing as if the statues themselves where mourning.
We once again boarded our buses and traveled to a historical burial ground, the Valley of the Queens holding beauty and mystery in their expansive caverns. We visited the tomb of a small child of the Pharaoh who died before his time. His grieving father had a tomb built near his mother so that the boy would not be afraid. Again the vibrant painted carvings held knowledge that they shared only at their discretion, the Mona Lisa’s of the past held our imaginations without competition. Now tired and sand-blown we made our way to our beautiful cruise boat. The Nile Adventurer would now be our home until reaching Aswan. The beautiful curves making it look like a yacht and the friendly crew making it feel like home. Exploring the ship and anticipating tomorrow’s adventure is all that is left yet to do. In the land of the Pharaohs all is well and life is good.

Sarah Shaw (Collegeville, Pennsylvania, USA Delegate)

Making a Difference in Cairo

2008-07-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

July 27, 2008

"Wow." That is basically the majority of the reactions received from delegates after today’s sequence of events. The humanitarian aspects of the GYFHC have truly been brought forward today with two extremely moving activities.
Starting with the Right to Live Association, we eagerly approached this school for mentally disabled students in Cairo where multiple powerful interactions immediately came into play. We spent the morning doing arts and crafts and playing basketball with the students, not only breaking the barriers of language or culture, but we also found multiple ways to communicate despite the different levels of thinking that occurred in the room.
It was incredible. The feelings and expressions shared between all individual in the building, the students, teachers, leaders, and delegates. Our time there was based around art and games, but it went much deeper than that, accepting the uniqueness of each individual and really achieving our goal of impacting their lives and leaving a lasting handprint on their--and our-- hearts. After our discussion later tonight, it’s easy to say that each and every one of us was affected by the people and experiences we encountered today.
Something as simple as a touch, eye contact, or making someone laugh, forms a smile that will undoubtedly spark another smile and that cycle will never end. It is the most amazing feeling to be able to share some part of what makes you glow from inside out and direct it towards others. That train of giving love never ends and always comes back in return. As a delegation, we all encountered a “wow” moment of the day, if not more than one. Having the priviledge to work with these students and make a difference in their lives was only the beginning through our journey of life changing events.
These powerful moments could have rooted from the Right to Live Association or from working at the Egyptian Food Bank, which we visited after lunch. We were determined, and that’s an understatement, to pack as many boxes as we could to send off to families throughout Egypt. In helping this NGO reach their goal of combating all hunger and starvation in Egypt by the year of 2025, we did what we could to help them in their mission of fighting “Together against Hunger.”
After some dedicated hard work, a lot of love, and devotion, we broke any previous records this food bank held by packing around 850 boxes in only an hour. This food is enough to feed over 4000 people in Egypt for an entire month. It’s pretty amazing to think that the power of one, all joined together in a delegation of under 40, can accomplish something this affective for thousands of individuals, sending the message of peace across the world.
Whether it was from working with the mentally disabled students, admiring their teachers and the way they dedicated sharing their lives with the students, or helping to provide food to thousands of people, it’s safe to say that we all were touched today, and that includes everyone on the receiving end as well. Today was a day filled with humanitarian activities, which is the base of our trip through Egypt. It doesn’t stop here, definitely not with this group!
- written by Alexa Varano, New Jersey Delegate

Arrived in Luxor

2008-07-27T21:59:00.000-07:00

We have safely arrived in Luxor and are looking forward to a full day of exploring the Valley of the Kings!

Day Two

2008-07-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

All delegates are in their rooms after an amazing second day in Cairo - we will post more details tomorrow from Luxor!

An Amazing Start to Our Adventure!

2008-07-26T14:44:00.000-07:00

There’s no way you can prepare yourself for the experience of the Pyramids and the Sphinx until you have seen them firsthand! Pulling up to the Pyramids, all my preconceived notions disappeared. It was truly the most magnificent sight I’ve ever seen.”

- Abbe Stern, GYFHC Delegate

Our Egyptian adventure got off to an amazing start, as many of our dreams came true all in day one! After a 7 am wake-up call and breakfast at the hotel, we were off to the Mena House Hotel. A former palace, the hotel is located in the shadows of the Pyramids. Once settling into one of the ornate meeting rooms, we welcomed the famed Director General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Dr. Zahi Hawass. For over 30 years, Dr. Hawass has been involved in some of the most important archaeological digs in Egypt. He has been featured on a number of documentaries on the History Channel, National Geographic and the Discovery Channel. For nearly an hour, he spoke to us about his experiences in Egypt and some of his most prized discoveries. His passion and excitement for his work was evident demonstrating his points with beautiful pictures and video. In one photograph, it shows him looking into the face of the famed mummy of King Tutankhamen, who they now believe died after an accident, as opposed to the theory that he may have been murdered.

Dr. Hawass entertained questions at the conclusion and then asked us a question. He asked if we planned on “touching the Sphinx.” We all looked at each other, unsure what to say. When he was informed that we would be traveling to the Pyramids and Sphinx, he asked for some paper and wrote us a note to grant us special permission to enter the lower level to actually touch the Sphinx! Our guide told us that this is a very special experience, as most tourists can only view the Sphinx from a distance. Already, the trip was beginning to exceed expectations!

We left the Mena House Hotel and traveled to the Pyramids. Driving up to the Pyramid complex, we saw the three immense structures. The Great Pyramid, built in the name of the pharaoh Khufu, towered above us as we walked to the base. Covering nearly 13 acres, it took approximately 20 years to build and utilized the efforts of over 10,000 workers. The area where the pyramids are located is referred to as a necropolis, or city of the dead, in Greek. The blocks weighed anywhere between 2 ½ to 15 tons each! The Great Pyramid measures about 137 meters high. The group split up into two smaller groups. One group entered the second pyramid, ducking low to navigate through a dark, scary passageway on way to the burial room. The second group journeyed around to the back of the pyramids on camel-back. As we slowly lopped along in the Sahara, the magnificent pyramids served as the background to a hot afternoon of about 90 degrees.

From the pyramid complex, we headed to our VIP experience at the Sphinx! We entered a special side entrance down to the base of the Sphinx, under the watchful eye of the security guards. We walked down wooden planks and stairs to the bottom. Looking up to the half man/half-lion sculpture was truly impressive. The head of the pharaoh represents wisdom, while the lion body represents power. The Sphinx is said to guard the pyramids. We took numerous pictures and heard about the history of the structure and the efforts to maintain it. It came time to leave these wondrous sites and take in some local cuisine for lunch. We ate at a local family restaurant, where we watched them make handmade pita bread and were served chicken cooked over an open-pit fire. The air-conditioned restaurant was a nice respite from the desert heat and gave us a chance to recall our unbelievable morning.

The afternoon brought us to the Egyptian Museum. The Museum houses over 120,000 artifacts in over 107 halls. While it was somewhat crowded (and not air conditioned!), it was impressive to see such a wide variety of ancient artifacts in one place. The artifacts ranged from the highly decorated, burial coffins of pharaohs to more common items, such as small mirrors, pottery and games such as senet. The highlight of the tour, of course, were the artifacts collected from the tomb of King Tut. We heard about the findings of famed archaeologist Howard Carter. When first opening the tomb on King Tut, Carter was asked what he saw through a small opening in the tomb. His reply, “I see wonderful things,” was true, as we examined gold plated coffins, gold medallions and the famed gold burial mask. Unfortunately, pictures are not permitted in the museum. However, it is safe to say that the images of his gold sarcophagus and burial mask will be emblazed in our memories forever.

We took our coach back to the hotel, winding through busy Cairo traffic. One early observation we’ve made is that traffic and driving is very different in Egypt. You must not be faint of heart when weaving in and out of traffic. In fact, we’re not sure if they even have turn signals! Dinner was held at the hotel, with a small ice breaker activity to start. About a dozen Egyptians from the Pharaohs of Peace Adult Chapter, the Sadat Peace Keepers Student Chapter, and Act of Change Student Chapter all attended the dinner and shared stories with the delegates. A special dancing performance entertained the group, as the “whirling dervishes” sang, danced and whirled their way around the room! The night ended with students mingling with the Egyptian students and discussing a variety of topics, including pop culture, religion and customs.

Needless to say, our first full day in Egypt has already been one of the more memorable days of our humanitarian mission. Tomorrow, we will have first-hand opportunities to work at a food bank and a program that works with mentally challenged children. As we lay our heads on our pillows tonight, we will easily have a greater appreciation for Egyptian culture, history and our great fortune to be here experiencing it all.

At Hotel

2008-07-25T05:49:00.000-07:00

We are all checked in and settled at our Cairo hotel. We will have a brief orientation from our Egyptologists, an early dinner and then off to bed for much needed rest. Tomorrow morning we will visit the Pyramids of Giza!

In Cairo!

2008-07-25T02:40:00.000-07:00

Our plane has safely landed in Cairo. More to come!

On Time Departure

2008-07-24T14:26:00.000-07:00

All GYFHC delegates are checked in and through security. We are preparing to board for an on time departure to Cairo!

PTPI's 2008 GYFHC is Coming Up!!

2008-07-01T14:10:00.001-07:00

The delegates of the 2008 GYFHC will meet in New York City three short weeks from now to embark on the adventure of a lifetime! We invite you to share in their experience as they travel through Egypt on a remarkable cultural, historical and humanitarian mission.

Be a part of the Journey!

July 24 - August 3, 2008

"What Has the 2007 GYFHC Meant to You?"

2007-07-31T18:57:00.000-07:00

"What Has the 2007 GYFHC Meant to You?"

Following ten days in Warsaw, Krakow, and Prague (including a two-day study program at Auschwitz), the student delegates of the 2007 People to People International (PTPI) Global Youth Forum Humanitarian Conference were asked to reflect on their time in these wonderful countries and to write a brief explanation of what the program has meant to them. Below are their responses…

“To me, the GYFHC is a trip that has completely changed my life. I came into this trip knowing it would affect my life but I never expected it to so drastically change me forever. This experience really made me look into my life. I learned from the different people how important simple acts of kindness can change someone’s life. I learned the importance of friendship and to never let go of important people. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the people I’ve met. They will forever be a part of my heart and I will always treasure these memories.”
-PTPI Delegate

“This GYFHC experience is impossible to explain, define, or relate to anyone that hasn’t been fortunate enough to experience it firsthand. The friendships made, stories shared, memories created, and lives touched will remain with me for the rest of my life. This conference has opened my eyes to the horrors of the past and how blessed I am to be here. I’ve met some truly amazing people and witnessed the effects that hatred can have on the world, even when it seems insignificant. My greatest hope is that the understanding and compassion doesn’t end here but is the beginning of a movement against the ignorance, prejudice, and apathy that plagues the world today.”
-PTPI Delegate

“The GYFHC has changed so many different portions of my life, I can not even fathom the way I will act and feel after this trip. I have not only made new friends, but have found a greater inner being in myself. For the first time in a very long time I have been able to experience things that my ancestors experienced. It also opened my mind to new ways of thinking. I feel that in many ways the people whom I have traveled with have changed me in ways that I can not describe. My time spent at Auschwitz was a time where I felt most connected to my friends and the leaders. I feel that I must mention a friend of mine. He has taught me so much, so for this I say ‘thank you.’ Many of my other friends were either there when I was down or they gave me a good laugh. I feel that this was the best of all GYFHC’s I’ve been on!”
-PTPI Delegate

“This GYFHC has taught me so much about life and has changed me forever. I truly understand for the first time in my life both how insignificant I am and also how much change I can create in the world if I put my mind to it. I feel that I am like an atom –practically nothing on its own, but when split or cracked it can be extremely powerful – and this GYFHC was the first crack in the wall that I have hidden behind for so many years. I thank God that I was able to attend this year’s GYFHC and that it was changed from Morocco to Poland and the Czech Republic.”
-PTPI Delegate

“To me, the GYFHC is a way of life. I sometimes wonder what my life would be like had I never gone on one of these trips. I don’t like what I imagine. I’ve realized through my travels with this program that people all generally yearn for the same things in life. We all want to experience love, have happiness, and see our friends and family live in a peaceful world. Although the details of how a person achieves these emotions differ, I believe that once they are achieved the feeling we have in our hearts is the same as the people standing next to us. I hope that one day the world is able to be at peace the way these trips have allowed me to be in my heart.”
-PTPI Delegate

“To reflect on these PTPI trips inevitably imparts to me a feeling of ineffable awe each time. Exceeding expectations isn’t the goal but is always the result and I am indubitably left with more knowledge about myself through other people. It isn’t the activities of the trip that causes veritable brilliance, but the undeniable connection between people to people. I thank you all.”

-PTPI Delegate

“Love, as I learned it, is effectively willing the true good of the beloved. This definition of love is the essence of this year’s GYFHC. This group was small so everyone really got to know each other over these two weeks. There were many times during the trip that the delegates performed the action that I believe is love. Whether it [was a delegate] giving his sandals to [another delegate] after hers broke at Auschwitz, or [a delegate] taking the time to find a complement for each person on the trip, or [delegates] gaining a bond that will last a lifetime, everyone on this trip has, whether they know it or not, has learned the true meaning of love. A four letter word: L-O-V-E, with an 8-word definition, is a lesson that 34 students and adults have learned and will last a lifetime. LOVE and its true definition is what PTPI’s GYFHC 2007 to Poland and the Czech Republic has meant to me.”
-PTPI Delegate

“Compassion. Kindness. Sincerity. Understanding one another. Understanding myself. These are the lessons I learned on this GYFHC and I will never forget them.”
-PTPI Delegate

“The renewal of the human spirit. I have heard of this clichéd event happening for many different people at many different times and places but I had never entirely believed it was possible until I came to Eastern Europe with the GYFHC. I saw it in two ways, the first of which was experiencing the exponential growth that Poland and the Czech Republic have enjoyed. These two countries have suffered from oppression for centuries, and faced human rights violations under Nazi and then Soviet rule. Yet even with the horrors of the Holocaust dominating their past, these nations have been able to move forward with creating a better future for their citizens. The advent of free-market capitalism can be seen in the cranes that are currently building skyscrapers in Warsaw and Prague. The future of Poland and the Czech Republic is bright and I look forward to visiting these countries in the future.
The second way that I have seen the renewal of the human spirit is through the experiences of my fellow delegates. Although I cannot go into detail about some of the things I learned out of respect for my fellow delegates, I am proud to know such courageous people who have endured so many hardships to get to where they are today. God bless and I wish you all the best of luck.”
-PTPI Delegate

“Even the smallest actions can change lives. Nobody is too small to make a difference. The one action that will validate humans for years to come is not the amount of money they have or the material possessions they amass; rather validation as a person will come from the amount you give back to others.”
-PTPI Delegate

“The amazing thing about the People to People International experience is not about the exotic places one goes and the beautiful things one sees. People to People International is about exactly what its name implies – people sharing, growing, learning and influencing other people. The experiences I’ve had on this trip have far surpassed any previous trips and any expectations I had. The individuals in this group are so diverse, yet surprisingly the same. They are the same in the sense that they want to help, understand and appreciate people. Because of the wonderful kids on this trip, I have been helped, understood and appreciated much more than I ever have in my life. It is for that reason that I will forever remember and will forever be indebted to the people from the GYFHC 2007.”
-PTPI Delegate

“This GYFHC Adventure has been the greatest experience in my life thus far. I was struggling with ADHD, friendship issues and some devastating events in my life. This all combined together and made life very difficult and lonely. On this trip, however, someone reached out and touched my hand and my heart and for the first time in nearly one and a half lonely years, I was included in a group and before long, my friendships spread, eventually encompassing all the GYFHC delegates. This experience was only made possible by the superb leadership of the delegation leaders who cared so much they enabled all GYFHC delegates to not only change the world, but to change ourselves. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “Many people will walk in and out of your lives, but only friends will leave footprints on the heart.” For the first time, in a very long time, I am content and proud of who and what makes me, me. Thank you People to People and all the GYFHC delegates and staff!”
-PTPI Delegate

“Finding who I am has never been a simple task. I’ve made my way through many different groups, my likes and dislikes have changed, but one thing about myself never has: the passion and love that burns inside my heart when I make a difference in someone’s life. People to People International has enabled me to find individuals who share that interest. Every time I lend my hand out to someone in need or the love of someone else is extended to me, pieces of my heart seem to place together. I have come to the realization that I am not who I am because of my own doing. Every person in this world who has crossed my path has added on to my being, which means I will never truly find and settle with who I am. The more and more unique individuals from all around the world, with all different backgrounds and experiences, will continue to change who I am, as I will do to them. If one smile can change someone’s life, imagine what two can do. Then take it one step further and you can imagine that peace is not impossible. PTPI has made that perfectly clear to me. Now it is time for us to make it clear to the rest of the world.”
-PTPI Delegate

“As much as I love singer/songwriter John Mayer he couldn’t be more wrong when he wrote the lyrics “we’re waiting on the world to change.” We CAN’T wait, and this trip has made this so clear to me. How can we expect a change to happen in the world if everyone is “waiting for the world to change.” We have to be the change we want to see in our family, school, community, nation and the world. And honestly, we have been waiting long enough. This trip focused a lot on the Holocaust. The world knew what was happening in Europe and with Hitler and they just waited for the world to change. Now, our country, along with the countless others know what is going on in Iraq, Darfur, etc. and once again everyone is “waiting” for others to stop the violence. How long is our world going to wait? When is someone going to start that change? This trip has inspired at least me to stop “waiting” for the world to change…I know I want to and will make a change.”
-PTPI Delegate

“Over the last two weeks, this GYFHC has allowed me to see so many things. Mostly, that life is about decisions and actions. Also, that life is always worth the friendships we make or lose, the decisions that change our lives, and especially, is always worth that which we fight through. Spending time in Poland and the Czech Republic with every person here, as well as experiencing all that we have, has allowed me to come to understand these things about in general.
We are all so fortunate to have been on this journey. It has changed, in my opinion, each and every one of us in ways that others, and even ourselves, cannot fully understand. Experiences that change us so deeply are gifts that should be remembered for the rest of our lives and are meant to be shared and experienced by others as well.”
-PTPI Delegate

“It’s hard for me to write down what this trip means to me because words cannot even describe it. I have learned so much in these 12 days than I ever could have imagined. I never knew that a simple gesture, such as holding someone when they’re upset, can change their life. I thank all of you on this trip for changing my life and helping me discover the potential I have in making a difference in the world around me. I will remember this trip and these memories all of us have created forever.”
-PTPI Delegate

“What GYFHC means to me is knowing that no matter what I do or what I symbolize that people will always love me. When we were at Auschwitz and I gave my sandals to [another delegate] I didn’t give them to her to get attention from the leaders or Mary, I did it because that’s what the GYFHC stands for to me. It stands for doing something without being told or wondering what people will say about you or if all of your friends think you’re weird. It’s impossible for me to say what GYFHC means to me in a paragraph because everybody is my paragraph. There are no words to say it.”
-PTPI Delegate

“This GYFHC trip has made me realize that there are good people in the world. When I mean ‘good’ I simply mean those who care for others and are able to look past their own social spheres or levels of comfort. It has made me reflect upon my own little bubble back home. I now know how I’ve blocked people out of social circles or had fun at another person’s expense. Looking at the compassion of the other delegates on this trip has given me the desire to change certain habits that I thought of as harmless. I think I understand now that people are messy and chaotic entities of emotion and logic who simply want to feel cared for. Tough I don’t think I’ve solidified my beliefs as an individual yet, I do feel the need to do good in the world. I feel that this trip has given me a direction and a drive to not only control my anger that I feel for events like the Holocaust, but also the ability to translate this anger into clear, rational, practical but also caring and sympathetic solutions for the problems of the world.”
-PTPI Delegate

“The GYFHC to me is a new beginning. It means meeting new people, making new friends and meeting new kinds of personalities. At my school everyone knows me for what I acted like since Kindergarten, but at GYFHC I was able to get a new start and everyone knows me for what my personality is now. A big goal of GYFHC is that you get to meet new people – U.S. delegates & those of our host countries - who don’t know anything about you, so they don’t have an opinion about you until they meet you. I’ve learned I am capable with many personalities and can gain friendships through reaching out.”
-PTPI Delegate

“This year’s GYFHC is hard to explain in words alone. Our group meetings on the second to last night of the trip said more than I could ever squeeze into a single paragraph bounded by the limitations of our dictionary and written and I know that nobody outside of that meeting will be able to understand the emotions felt in that room. I felt the compassion that everyone felt for each other, for the value of human life, and the need for us to understand one another despite our many differences. I never realized the true meaning of love and how much a person can love another person, not in the sense of physical attraction, but rather the spiritual connecting and deep compassion toe be with each other and to act upon the same ideals than in any other instance in my life. I discovered the true meaning of the idea of compassion which made me realize that there is hope for us, as human beings, to achieve peaceful relationships as long as we continue to make such meaningful connection, change lives the way we have, and spread the heartfelt love for on another that was so contagious at this year’s GYFHC. I have found new friends, brothers, sisters, mentors who I have experienced as some of the most memorable feelings and connections that I will remember for the rest of my life. I will remember you all in everything I do until I die and I thank you all for changing my life permanently.”
-PTPI Delegate

“From being here at GYFHC I have learned so much. Not only have I reunited with old friends but I have also made several new friends and gained a better understanding of what it means to have a true friend.”
-PTPI Delegate

“Days go by, and slowly I begin to store all of my incredible memories, but then comes the summer, a time to unwind for most. But ever since 2002, summer is a time of discovery. Because of People to People I can share everything. This organization is so near to my heart, tears swell in my eyes and a frog occupies my throat whenever I look back on my memories. It has been something that I hold in my heart. I discover the world and embark on the adventure that is life, simply through my passport I can tell stories for hours. I let myself go on these journeys and the time flies... I can discover new states, new people, new emotions and myself all through these trips. I mainly don’t want to grow up because these experiences may become more distant to me. But I will never forget. This is a refreshing time that in a couple summers, I will no longer have the opportunity to do, but look at pictures and remind myself. And with tears in my soul, I intend to share that my strength comes from these programs, and I never want to leave, I will always be with the people I’ve met and the places I’ve seen.”
-PTPI Delegate

“This GYFHC has helped me find religion within myself. Growing up in a family with mixed religions, I never could really identify myself with any of them. In my early teenage years, I decided to be agnostic and didn’t really know what to believe. On this trip, I found a spiritual identity with Christianity and I feel more complete. I feel that without this trip I would not have found such a spiritual identity.”
-PTPI Delegate

“Well where do I start? There is so much that I learned about myself and everyone else on this trip. What I have learned about myself is that I don’t need to depend on other people to do things for me. I am more self-confident about myself. I also see people in a different way now from this time at GYF. Everyone can do some good things in their lives; they just have to find their inner self – which, for me, was hard. There are also a lot of things I liked about the people on this trip that made it worthwhile to go on. I will never regret this trip. If it could be longer I would want it that way. I want to see everyone some time sooner or later in life. I will always remember the summer of 2007 because of the people and all the good memories that I made. I love all of you.”
-PTPI Delegate

“I really was able to reflect on who I am and who I want to be. This trip took me out of normal life and helped me know who I want to be after this trip.”
-PTPI Delegate

“I learned who I am in a deeper sense than flesh and blood but in an emotional and mental way. I learned more about relationships and people in general which gave me a deeper understanding of myself. I also relearned that humor never fails.”
-PTPI Delegate

Back in the USA!

2007-07-21T12:27:00.000-07:00

All delegates arrived safely in New York City at JFK and have either been picked up or are checked in for their afternoon flights home. There were many hugs and tears as everyone said their good-byes and went their separate ways. It's hard to believe our two weeks together and the GYFHC has come to an end. But we'll have our memories and our new friends for a long time to come...

En route to NYC

2007-07-20T22:54:00.001-07:00

GYFHC delegates are onboard our trans-atlantic flight from Frankfurt to New York and are anticipating an on-time arrival.

In Frankfurt

2007-07-20T22:54:00.000-07:00

We have left Prague & are safely in the Frankfurt airport awaiting the departure of our flight to New York.

GYFHC Closing Ceremonies

2007-07-20T17:27:00.000-07:00

Today was our last day in Prague. As an end of trip reward we were given two hours of time to shop and explore this beautiful city on our own. Wandering through the quaint streets of Prague gave us the opportunity to truly experience the culture of Prague and the Czech Republic.
After our final lunch, we returned to the hotel in order to reflect on the past two weeks in the closing ceremonies. Closing ceremonies allowed the delegates to share their reflections written the day before. The thoughts shared by all allowed the delegation as a whole to understand why everyone attended the trip and what each will take out of their experience. All had an opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings and how they have each been affected by the experience.
For dinner, we headed out to the Czech countryside for a folklore dinner and dancing show. At frequent points during the dinner dancers came out to perform, performing different types of dances in traditional costume. In the end, most delegates chose to spend our final meal bonding with fellow delegates and trying to enjoy our last hours together.
The last day in Prague gave each of us a chance to reflect individually our experiences in Poland and the Czech Republic. Each person brought something different to the delegation and made the trip unique. Every single person in this delegation has affected me personally, whether they are aware of it or not. Without everyone attending this trip, the experience for me would not have been the same. More than anything else, the interactions with my fellow delegates and others that I have met during my travels have allowed me to fully understand not only the cultures of Poland and the Czech Republic but the cultures of everyone that I have met during these two weeks. Whether it was during a sweltering 7 hour train ride or meeting with Polish youth, the experiences have allowed me to understand more about people and human nature, while also teaching me more about myself as a person. The ability to go to Auschwitz allowed me to experience something that was so much bigger than me. Experiencing a small portion of the trials and tribulations that the people who suffered during the Holocaust went through, taught me a new perspective on the things that are currently going on in my life. I would like to thank everyone in this fantastic delegation and all the people we have met along the way for truly helping to change my life.

By Carolyn Hill

Open Mic

2007-07-20T17:26:00.000-07:00

Our day started out with a walking tour of Prague. The tour was based on the Charles Bridge where we saw another beautiful view of the city. On the bridge many famous buildings were visible and our tour guide pointed them out to us. The tour guide also showed us the statues on the bridge and explained their significance to Prague.
After lunch and a short shopping break, our tour continued. The focus was on the Jewish community in Prague especially in the time of the ghettos. We started in a synagogue that was converted to a museum. There were many artifacts from the ghettos and information about the history of the Jewish culture in the Prague and the Czech Republic.
We then moved on to a memorial of those who perished during their time in the Jewish ghettos. The memorial was a large, bare building. On the walls were listed the names of all the Czechs who perished in the ghettos. It was moving to see all the names and it was a subtle reminder to us all of our visit to Auschwitz. Outside the memorial was a Jewish cemetery. Our guide explained many of the Jewish traditions of death and burial.
Our tour ended with a visit to two synagogues. The first was the oldest active synagogue in Europe. We then moved on to the Spanish/Moorish synagogue. Our tour guide explained the Moorish influence and pointed out the differences in the two synagogues.
We returned to the hotel and later in the evening we started the closing ceremonies for the trip with “Open Mic”. For those who have never attended the GYFs, Open Mic is an opportunity for all the delegates to share their experience(s) of the trip. We were asked some specific questions about activities on the trip and everyone was given the chance to put their two cents in. We often got off topic, but at some point during the evening every delegate had explained how our trip had effected their life and what they would take away from the experience.
For the first time on the trip, we received homework. Everyone seemed a little disappointed, but when Rod explained what it was, our opinions changed. We were asked to write anything from one sentence to a paragraph about the impact the GYFHC had on our lives. We all left in silence and found our own areas around the hotel to reflect and write. With this second to last day and the opportunity to share our emotions and reflect together on the trip, we the delegates have been able to grow even closer. We thought saying good-bye would be hard before, but after all the sharing today, it will be even more difficult.

By Maria Sewell

Meeting with a Prince

2007-07-20T17:23:00.000-07:00

Today was our first full day in Prague. We were able to experience the city through an historical tram ride from the station Klamovka to Prazsky Hrad. It was a 50 year old wooden tram, equipped with our own personal accordion player, who played the Great American Classics “When the Saints Go Marching In” and “The Chicken Dance.” Looking outside the windows, we saw a city where new and old come together. There are small “mom and pop” stores right next to headquarters of major corporations like AstraZeneca and Canon. Ancient churches and monuments are scattered throughout Prague. We passed by the famous Charles Bridge, a 650-year-old stone bridge that was graced with the presence of Harry Potter ads and a Subway restaurant. Construction dots the landscape of this fast-growing city, with gigantic cranes towering over the skyline. This fast-paced renewal of post-Communist Prague, however, has brought out the darker side of modernization, made evident by never-ending murals of graffiti adorning Prague’s buildings.
At last we reach Prazsky Hrad, otherwise known as Prague Castle. Outside the castle, we waited entirely too long for people to exchange their money at awful rates. We walked by the Royal Garden, a beautiful arrangement of blooming flowers and entangling vines created in the 16th century. Within the walls of the castle, the dark, ornate spires of St. Vitus Cathedral stand tall against the bright blue sky. Started in the 10th century, construction of the cathedral was delayed by constant warfare and financial strains. It was not fully completed until 1929 and is comprised of styles from the Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque periods.
Prague Castle is still used today as the center of the Czech National Government. Mathias Gate, a beautiful entryway built in 1614, leads the way to the Presidential Complex. President Vaclav Klaus has his main offices within the sprawling complex, and the Ministry of Finance, among others, is located nearby. When President Klaus is at home in Prague, the Presidential Flag flies. This flag bears the coat of arms of the city of Prague and of the territories of Bohemia and Moravia.
The castle itself is situated on a hill that overlooks the entire city, with a gorgeous view as far as the eye can see. We can see a few skyscrapers throughout the city, and the cranes we saw earlier reveal the future locations of ever more modern structures. The windows of the castle were made in the Renaissance style, and actually have a storied history. In May 1618, two Catholic emissaries sent to visit with the Protestant King of Bohemia were thrown out of a window of the castle in what came to be known as the Defenestration of Prague. The two men were saved by landing in a pile of horse manure, but this event would be the immediate catalyst igniting the Thirty Years’ War, a brutal religious war between the Catholic and Protestant states of Europe whose ferocity would not be matched until the Two World Wars nearly three centuries later.
After lunch, we took a 45 minute bus ride to Melnik Castle. Prince Jiří Lobkowicz is the current owner of the castle, which had been taken from his family by the Communists in 1945, but was subsequently returned to him in 1992 following the fall of the Communist regime in what was then Czechoslovakia. The Prince is a member of the Order of Malta, a Catholic organization that is considered a sovereign entity and has observer status within the United Nations.
The Order conducts humanitarian efforts throughout the Czech Republic and the entire world. This includes providing spiritual support for families who have members with Alzheimer’s and providing handicapped children with transportation to nearby public schools. In addition, the organization has operations in Afghanistan and in regions that were affected by the December 2004 tsunamis in Southeast Asia. One of the interesting things about the organization, however, Today was our first full day in Prague. We were able to experience the city through an historical tram ride from the station Klamovka to Prazsky Hrad. It was a 50 year old wooden tram, equipped with our own personal accordion player, who played the Great American Classics “When the Saints Go Marching In” and “The Chicken Dance.” Looking outside the windows, we saw a city where new and old come together. There are small “mom and pop” stores right next to headquarters of major corporations like AstraZeneca and Canon. Ancient churches and monuments are scattered throughout Prague. We passed by the famous Charles Bridge, a 650-year-old stone bridge that was graced with the presence of Harry Potter ads and a Subway restaurant. Construction dots the landscape of this fast-growing city, with gigantic cranes towering over the skyline. This fast-paced renewal of post-Communist Prague, however, has brought out the darker side of modernization, made evident by never-ending murals of graffiti adorning Prague’s buildings.
At last we reach Prazsky Hrad, otherwise known as Prague Castle. Outside the castle, we waited entirely too long for people to exchange their money at awful rates. We walked by the Royal Garden, a beautiful arrangement of blooming flowers and entangling vines created in the 16th century. Within the walls of the castle, the dark, ornate spires of St. Vitus Cathedral stand tall against the bright blue sky. Started in the 10th century, construction of the cathedral was delayed by constant warfare and financial strains. It was not fully completed until 1929 and is comprised of styles from the Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque periods.
Prague Castle is still used today as the center of the Czech National Government. Mathias Gate, a beautiful entryway built in 1614, leads the way to the Presidential Complex. President Vaclav Klaus has his main offices within the sprawling complex, and the Ministry of Finance, among others, is located nearby. When President Klaus is at home in Prague, the Presidential Flag flies. This flag bears the coat of arms of the city of Prague and of the territories of Bohemia and Moravia.
The castle itself is situated on a hill that overlooks the entire city, with a gorgeous view as far as the eye can see. We can see a few skyscrapers throughout the city, and the cranes we saw earlier reveal the future locations of ever more modern structures. The windows of the castle were made in the Renaissance style, and actually have a storied history. In May 1618, two Catholic emissaries sent to visit with the Protestant King of Bohemia were thrown out of a window of the castle in what came to be known as the Defenestration of Prague. The two men were saved by landing in a pile of horse manure, but this event would be the immediate catalyst igniting the Thirty Years’ War, a brutal religious war between the Catholic and Protestant states of Europe whose ferocity would not be matched until the Two World Wars nearly three centuries later.
After lunch, we took a 45 minute bus ride to Melnik Castle. Prince Jiří Lobkowicz is the current owner of the castle, which had been taken from his family by the Communists in 1945, but was subsequently returned to him in 1992 following the fall of the Communist regime in what was then Czechoslovakia. The Prince is a member of the Order of Malta, a Catholic organization that is considered a sovereign entity and has observer status within the United Nations.
The Order conducts humanitarian efforts throughout the Czech Republic and the entire world. This includes providing spiritual support for families who have members with Alzheimer’s and providing handicapped children with transportation to nearby public schools. In addition, the organization has operations in Afghanistan and in regions that were affected by the December 2004 tsunamis in Southeast Asia. One of the interesting things about the organization, however, is that they adhere strictly to Catholic doctrine, although they don’t actively proselytize their religion. For example, the Order runs a maternity hospital in Palestine, but refuses to conduct abortions at the hospital. After learning about the Order, we were given a tour of the beautiful castle by none other than the Prince himself. The property was first built in the 9thCentury and was originally built of wood. Ownership of the castle was determined by the unification of two of the territory’s seven ruling clans. The castle was controlled by the Bohemian queens and princesses until the 15th century, but ownership continuously changed, especially during times of war. The current family took control of the castle in the 17th century, although they lost control during the Communist era. Overall, the day was one of the more exciting, albeit busy, days of our trip to Eastern Europe. We learned a great deal while getting to experience the sheer beauty of Prague during our first day in this elegant city. is that they adhere strictly to Catholic doctrine, although they don’t actively proselytize their religion. For example, the Order runs a maternity hospital in Palestine, but refuses to conduct abortions at the hospital.

After learning about the Order, we were given a tour of the beautiful castle by none other than the Prince himself. The property was first built in the 9thCentury and was originally built of wood. Ownership of the castle was determined by the unification of two of the territory’s seven ruling clans. The castle was controlled by the Bohemian queens and princesses until the 15th century, but ownership continuously changed, especially during times of war. The current family took control of the castle in the 17th century, although they lost control during the Communist era. Overall, the day was one of the more exciting, albeit busy, days of our trip to Eastern Europe. We learned a great deal while getting to experience the sheer beauty of Prague during our first day in this elegant city.

By Prateek Kumar and Sarah Buonacore

Seeing Prague on the Vltava River

2007-07-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

After a very early morning departure, we left Krakow for Prague via train. After arriving in Prague, we were treated to a dinner boat tour of Prague on the Vltava River. It was a lovely evening & a beautiful way to see Prague on our first day here!

Polish Dancers

2007-07-19T00:02:00.000-07:00

We thought you'd like to see a few pictures of the Polish dancing from Monday. Enjoy!

En route to Prague

2007-07-16T22:14:00.000-07:00

All delegates are safely aboard our train to Prague. We greatly enjoyed our time in Poland, and will post more from Prague!

Birkenau

2007-07-16T15:48:00.000-07:00

The endless roads of the Polish countryside led us back to the town of Oswiecim this morning. We arrived at Auschwitz and entered through the gates of Birkenau, our eyes heavy with the burden of yesterday's beautiful and terrible knowledge, switfly and sadly studied the barracks behind the barbed wire of intolerance. Some were empty and some were no longer standing. Others contained remnants of their former functions; triple-stacked children's beds and holes in stone once used as toilets. Several of the delegates remarked on their odd state of mind, on how it was so peculiar standing in the middle of a vast camp of death and seeing butterflies, wildflowers, and the sun in its quiet benign blue sky, shining hot upon our brows and backs, contrasted with the cool green grass beneath our feet. There was a contageous sadness that stirred among us. Our guide, Sebastian, began talking about irony; about how soap dishes were installed in the camp sinks while the prisoners were never given soap; about how one man survived in Birkenau for over a year and a half while upon his transfer to another camp, he perished over complications from a broken leg. After lending our ears to more survivors' stories and walking to and from the memorial site, we lunched and then attended a lecture given by a Polish historian. He said he wished us to see Auschwitz as a mirror; to see the humanity of the tragedy within its brick walls. "This crime was committed by people - by human beings," he said. Ninety-five percent of the six million people the country of Poland lost to the Holocaust were civilians. It was possibly only until that moment that some of us realized the depth of what took place where we stood over sixty years ago. "The floor we are walking on is filled with human suffering." It was more truth than we could ever hope to hold in our naive hands, let alone comprehend.

The day closed on a much lighter note. We watched and performed traditional Polish dances. It was a good way to end the day: happy to be with friends, amongst the beauty of Krakow and and grateful to be so free and alive.

-By Taylor Riley

Auschwitz, A Day of Remembrance

2007-07-15T23:29:00.000-07:00

“Arbeit Macht Frei.” Work makes you free. These words passed over our heads as we entered the gates of Auschwitz. We walked along the rocky, dirty road where prisoners were herded like cattle 65 years ago. We stood in the largest of 9000 camps, where prisoners were subjected to hunger, thirst, punishments, medical experiments, torture and extermination. The dirt road is lined with rows of brick buildings that had different uses in the past. Hans Frank, Governor-General of Nazi-occupied Poland, voiced that “Jews are a race that must be totally exterminated,” and it is recorded that one million Jews were killed at Auschwitz. The tour guide gave us the approximated statistics that one million of the 1.5 million killed at Auschwitz were Jews and most of whom suffocated in the gas chambers immediately following their arrival.

We were led to a building that houses artifacts that were found during the liberation of Auschwitz by the Soviets on January 27, 1945. On the liberation day, only 7,500 prisoners were found, while 130,000 had evacuated prior to the Soviet invasion. Records state that approximately 232,000 children were deported to Auschwitz, although only 650 were liberated, and 450 were under 15 years old. The building contained two tons of human hair and seven tons were discovered during the liberation. The delegation viewed an obscene amount of glasses, crutches, false legs back and leg braces, pots, pans and suitcases that belonged to Auschwitz victims. The exhibit contained over 40,000 pairs of shoes. Original outfits of the prisoners were on display and marked with the prisoners’ numbers and a distinguishing mark to categorize each person as a Jew, homosexual, Jehovah’s Witness, Soviet prisoner of war, gypsy, antisocial, political prisoner or criminal.

We were informed of the average day of a prisoner that consisted of sleep until 4 or 5 in the morning, work and eating 1500-1700 calories. Some of the buildings’ interior walls were lined with pictures of prisoners, taken by the Nazis upon arrival, which displayed their names and information.

Many of the students were disgusted to learn that only 10% of those who participated in the administration of Auschwitz were charged with crimes against humanity. We passed by Block 10, which is a building characterized for its medical experiments. Some experiments consisted of sterilizing Jewish women, experimenting on twins and triplets, and attempting to alter eye color; most of these experiments were performed by the “Angel of Death”, Dr. Josef Mengele, the highest-ranking Nazi official to escape justice. We then entered Block 11, also known as the “Block of Death”, which housed the camp prison, starvation cells, and a suffocation cell called the “dark cell”. One record states that one day 39 prisoners were placed into the “dark cell”, and the following day only 19 remained alive.

The tour concluded with a walk through of the gas chamber and crematorium. With our silent steps, we entered the room where 2000 deportees were killed with the arrival of every train. During use of the chambers, the door would be locked and Cyclone B, a granulated gas, would be released into the chamber. After 15-20 minutes, the chamber was opened and the corpses were stripped of their gold teeth, hair and jewelry. Prisoners had to move the corpses through a door into the crematorium where the corpses were burned until they became ashes that were poured into the nearby rivers. Many students became numb with the realization of the horrors that took place at Auschwitz as they entered the same room that thousands of victims never exited.

- By Monica Colon

“All of us have studied the Holocaust in school but could not fully understand what happened prior to setting foot in the camp. Seeing the site of such atrocities makes us wonder how something like this could have gone on for so long. Having visited Auschwitz I, we have a greater understanding of George Santayana’s famous quote, ‘The one who does not remember history is bound to live through it again.’”

-Prateek Kumar

Our Day in Krakow

2007-07-15T23:27:00.000-07:00

After a five hour bus ride we arrived at our next destination, Krakow, Poland. Once we arrived, we walked through the Old Town of Krakow to get to the restaurant for lunch. Our short walk through the Old Town showed us the drastic differences between Krakow and the city we just visited, Warsaw. While Warsaw has more skyscrapers, Krakow has a preserved medieval charm. Lunch gave us the opportunity to converse with three Polish students who had joined us from the nearby town of Gliwice – and who are part of the PTPI Gliwice Chapter. We discussed the various cultures and differences and discussed our interests.

After finishing lunch we walked to Wawel Hill on which the Royal Castle is located. The tapestries and sculptures in the castle dated back to the 17th Century. The tapestries were created off three major themes: mythology, the Bible and nature. The castle was designed by two Italian architects and it took 12 years to build. The castle served as Nazi headquarters during World War II. Afterwards we went to St. Mary’s Basilica in the main market square of Krakow. The Basilica serves as the highest point in all of Krakow. They blow the bugle every hour and have one of the largest bells in the world. The alter is opened and closed every day and depicts the three wise men, the resurrection and the twelve apostles with the Virgin Mary. The stained glass window is one of the oldest in Europe, as Krakow was spared during the bombings of WWII.

As the day wound down, we were given the chance to explore Old Town in Krakow and shop for souvenirs. After an enchanting visit in the Old Town, we got together in small delegation meetings to prepare for tomorrow’s start of our two day study tour of Auschwitz.

-By Carolyn Hill

Warsaw - Past and Present

2007-07-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

Today, our delegation explored the turbulent history experienced by the Polish capital city of Warsaw. Warsaw history has been marked by conquest, destruction and perseverance. Our focus for the tour today was primarily visiting the old Jewish settlements and the area known as the "Jewish Ghetto" during the World War II occupation by Nazi Germany.

Our terrific guide, Anna, provided us with a wealth of information regarding Warsaw, but specifically, the plight of the Jews. The day began at the main square of the Jewish Ghetto, marked by a monument depicting the Jewish Uprising, an attempt to overthrow the Nazi control of Warsaw in 1943. Following our visit to the square, we spent time at the Jewish Institute. We watched a video depicting the invasion of the Nazis and the phasing out of civil liberties and rights for the Jewish living in Poland. Warsaw, for example, once was the home for the second largest population of Jewish citizens in the World, second only to New York City. Nearly 400,000 Jews lived in Warsaw at the start of World War II. Today, less than 150 are officially registered at the one remaining synagogue in town. The video we watched was quite graphic and depicted the horrible conditions they were expected to endure in the Ghetto. The video went into depth about how they were forced out of their homes and became victims of hunger, thirst and eventually, death. The time spent at the Jewish Institute left many of us breathless and disgusted by the actions taken against the Jews. Some students are worried that our upcoming visit to Auschwitz will be even more overwhelming. Luckily, we will have each other to lean on.

We visited the oldest synagogue and only one to survive World War II. The delegation also traveled to the only remaining portion of the wall that enclosed the Jewish Ghetto. The Jews were expected to pay for the construction of the wall and also made to build the wall themselves, segregating them from the rest of Warsaw. The wall was easily four times the height of an average person. We concluded our lessons on Jewish history by going to the Jewish Cemetery that was located inside the Ghetto and was partially destroyed because Hitler wanted to use the headstones from the graves to lay as the ground for a square bearing his name.

The morning was a moving experience and required us to relax a little bit. What better way to do this, than by going to lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe! After dining on a HUGE meal, we got some free time to do some shopping in the local mall. Some student delegates found bargains, while others were content just window shopping.

The favorite part of the day for many of the delegates was our dinner interaction with several Polish students. We drove into the countryside to a small restaurant/lodge where we were welcomed by a group of Polish students from around the Warsaw area. They offered us a traditional drink and fresh-baked bread, which was to be dipped in a salt. The lodge also served as an example of how a traditional farm would have operated. The group got a horse-drawn carriage ride around the grounds to a cookery area where we each cooked our own piece of Polish sausage over an open flame. This was then followed by a series of sporting competitions involving the American and Polish students. The games included milking a goat, churning butter, a 4-person ski relay, keg rolling with one foot and a tug-o-war. We then enjoyed a barbecue of meat and chicken, with Polish traditional foods such as potato pancakes. Throughout the evening, American and Polish students talked about popular television shows, music and hopes for their future. We learned that our lives are not that different, even though we are on different parts of the globe. The day concluded with the exchange of email addresses and warm goodbyes. We were all appreciative that the Polish students shared their culture and history with us.

By Monica Colon

Warsaw Humanitarian Project

2007-07-12T13:33:00.000-07:00

This morning we had the chance to experience true Warsaw, and its natural beauty produced by its local people (and now People to People). The group was given the opportunity to put its own stamp on Warsaw today. We made our indelible mark by refurbishing and painting a fence outside a school here in Warsaw. This newly painted fence will now be enjoyed by current and future students attending the school.

First, we needed to remove several years of rust that had built up on this fence that surrounded the school. Once removed, a fresh coat of bright green paint was applied to the fence. As American students on their summer holiday, we hope our resilient effort will be recognized and appreciated. While painting the fence, one would have witnessed team work at its best. Our group dynamics allowed us to synchronize our efforts to resurrecting the old fence. We all felt good as we saw the progress of our work and the difference we were making.

Later this evening, we were accompanied by Ms. Mary Jean Eisenhower for a delectable feast of traditional Polish foods at a local restaurant. It was an intriguing 3 course meal accompanied by incredible conversation supplied by the students and leaders. It’s been interesting to experience the intellect and insights each delegate brings to the conversation. Our group is quite diverse – ranging from a free-market radical to strong-willed environmentalists, with everything else in-between. Our diversely opinionated group allows for some of the deepest conversations and makes you never want to make a trip to the bathroom, in fear that you will miss something.

The most important conversation of the day came at the close of the day with Ms. Eisenhower. She addressed all of the delegates, giving us some history behind the founding of People to People by her grandfather, President Eisenhower. She explained that his experience during World War II and his experience in the concentration camps led him to think of creating People to People. Ms. Eisenhower exuded her passion for her grandfather’s work and the subsequent mission that People to People stands for. While tour the death camps after the war, President Eisenhower made to sure to invite the press and take numerous pictures to ensure that the tragedy that took place at the hands of the Nazi’s would never be forgotten. His main fear was that some day, people would not believe the event of the Holocaust did not happen or could be repeated. Ms. Eisenhower concluded her remarks by sharing her favorite quote from her grandfather, “Humankind will always want peace and eventually world leaders will just have to give it to them.” Today was a great day from start to finish, as our delegation lived PTPI’s mission – “Peace through Understanding.”

By: AJ Rodrigues and Carolina Cadavid

First Day in Warsaw!

2007-07-12T13:28:00.000-07:00

As we arrived to Warsaw, Poland, after a very long flight, we prepared for the activities of the day ahead. Our first activity was a brief tour of the Old Town of Warsaw, which included many historic buildings and a tour of the Royal Palace. The Royal Palace consisted of numerous rooms that were extravagantly decorated with paintings that depict historic events and many leaders of Poland.

After walking through the Royal Palace we ventured through the old city and stopped to eat lunch at a small restaurant. Once our meals were finished we continued our tour. One place that was particularly interesting was a large square that had been destroyed by the Nazi’s who had invaded Poland during World War II. Because of records taken prior to its destruction, the square was completely rebuilt to resemble what it had once been, a square consisting of colorful buildings that encompass a fountain of a mermaid which, according to legend, was said to defend Warsaw. After that we left the Old Town to see the walls that surround it and learned more about its history.

On our bus ride back to the hotel we saw several memorials and statues that represented important parts of Poland’s history. After learning more about history we ate dinner and headed to a conference room to meet with the local PTPI Warsaw Chapter and listened to presentations given by its members. Each presentation gave our group information about Poland’s history, economy, and just about anything else they felt we needed to know.

So far we cannot wait for the other activities coming up on the rest of our trip!

By: Madison Taylor

Safe in Warsaw

2007-07-10T22:12:00.001-07:00

All GYFHC delegates have arrived safely in Warsaw! We are checked in to our hotel and are now out in the city for lunch and a city tour.

In Frankfurt

2007-07-10T22:12:00.000-07:00

All GYFHC delegates have arrived safely in Frankfurt and we are waiting at our gate for our on time departure to Warsaw. Stay tuned!

Departure Day at JFK

2007-07-10T12:06:00.000-07:00

All GYFHC delegates & leaders arrived at JFK airport in NYC and are waiting anxiously to depart for Poland (via Frankfort)! The flight is on time & we're ready to go! Meanwhile, we're having fun passing the time until we leave. We'll keep you updated when we are safely on the ground in Warsaw!

All Delegates are in NYC!

2007-07-09T18:44:00.001-07:00

All GYFHC delegates have made it safe and sound to New York City! We have just finished up a great evening of icebreakers, introductions and orientation. We will go through some more detailed prep-work before we depart for Poland tomorrow afternoon...stay tuned for more exciting details of our adventure!

It is time...the 2007 GYFHC!

2007-06-20T10:10:00.000-07:00

We invite you to join us on our journey through the magical cities of Warsaw, Krakow and Prague, including a moving two-day study program in Auschwitz. PTPI's President and CEO, Mary Jean Eisenhower, will be leading a delegation of approximately 30 students through these culturally and historically rich cities in Poland and the Czech Republic July 9 - 21, 2007 - come along for the ride!

Our Russian Journey Comes to An End

2006-07-27T08:37:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, July 25th

After a thankfully long rest the night before and a somewhat slow start in the morning, we began our last full day in St. Petersburg (and in Russia) by departing for the Hermitage art museum.
Although we arrived at the Hermitage approximately five or ten minutes before it opened, the queue for entrance already stretched far down the sidewalk with different groups. Fortunately, once the doors opened, we made steady progress.

Our guides told us on the bus ride to the museum that “hermitage” was a French word meaning “place for a hermit” – nuns dwell in a convent; birds, in an aviary; hermits, in a hermitage. A hermitage would be a place where someone would go to be alone. This name may have been very apt in Catherine the Great’s time, when the collection was exclusively for herself and her close friends, but now it’s practically a misnomer. We fought swarms of Asian and European tourist groups with gibberish English on their clothing, and an assumed right of passage that apparently included dividing every surrounding group into confused fragments.
Unlike most of the American museums I’ve visited in my lifetime, which are freezing in order to better preserve their collection somehow, the inside of the Hermitage was rather uncomfortably warm. It may have been an understandable issue of getting air conditioning in a centuries-old building, but I can’t be certain.

The rooms were enormous, full of intricate plasterwork – much of which gilded with delicate gold leaf (sheets of gold thinner than a human hair) in the Rococo style seen in Versailles. In the first few halls, the ceilings were so high that the larger plasterworks on the ceilings and the tops of the walls were simply a painted façade, and it was difficult to tell the difference.

Even after hearing so many times how many millions of pieces the Hermitage has in its collection (nearly three, by the way), it was difficult for me to grasp its scale until we walked up one floor to view a collection (that of Western impressionists) in person. Renoir, Delacroix, Van Gogh, Picasso – some works that I’d never dreamed I’d see outside of replication, and some I’d never even heard of before (although after basking in them, I couldn’t imagine why not). According to our guide, it was fashionable among Russian nobles during that period to invite impressionist artists to their palaces to paint for them privately, which explains the extraordinary impressionist exhibit.
When one-on-one with these paintings, I began to see how the name “Hermitage” could still be accurate – I could get lost in each one and let the world pass me by, like falling in love for an instant over and over. Maybe it was just my taste, or perhaps my generation, but I seemed to connect more with the contemporary and/or expressive artwork than with any portrait of saints or nobility, no matter how masterfully executed.
The rooms flowed together dizzyingly. If I had to navigate the building myself, I knew I would be lost forever. I suddenly felt surges of gratitude towards our guide.
History flowed, too, in these halls – in overlapping layers spanning from the most ancient times to the present. By entering this museum and examining its contents we were, in essence, communicating with the dead. I was reminded of the movie “Russian Ark” – that Russian art-house film shot in one continuous take through the Hermitage, in which ghosts of the past interact with anyone who would listen.
We entered the 1812 room, a hall in which hung portraits commemorating all officers who participated in the war against Napoleon. In some places hung empty frames, with only a name and green backing – these portraits were among those damaged in the museum fire. Their names remain as a gesture of respect. I almost started to look for the name of Nikolay Rostov before remembering he was fictional.

The Hermitage consists of several buildings: the Winder Palace; the New, Old, and Small Hermitages; and the Hermitage Theater. The Winter Palace is the largest of the buildings, and is where we spent the most time; we also visited the Small Hermitage which, despite being small compared to the other museum buildings, is still expansive by nearly any other standard. We saw the ballroom. It was covered in gilt, plasterwork, marble, columns, crystal – it was as if we were inside an enormous Faberge egg. The ballroom’s star attractions were its mosaics and its peacock clock. The latter was a shining entourage of life-sized animatronic creatures – birds, squirrels, mushrooms, all of which were to move in a synchronized routine on every hour. The clock is amazingly still in working condition – however, it is now set to chime only once a week, to slow its wear.
Opposite the peacock clock was the mosaic floor-tile, copied from one in Greco-Roman ruins. A smaller version of the same mosaic is found on a nearby table, which was worked on simultaneously. The detail and fluid shading stunned me. I could relate possibly too well to their creators – as strong as my obsessive-compulsive tendencies are, I could easily imagine myself piecing together miniature pictures with bits of glass if locked in a room with a bunch of tile for several years.

As we exited the main part of the museum through an Egyptian exhibit, we were given about half an hour of free time in which we could visit the museum’s internet café and gift shops – of course, rounding everyone up after the half-hour proved to be a muddled task, as some (including myself) were still stuck in the line to pay. We headed outside in the Palace Square to the barely-organized chaos of group photo-taking (some of which partially included a man dressed as a buccaneer), and then boarded the busses once more to go to lunch.

After having our meals, we all split up into our groups and ventured out into St. Petersburg. Near the restaurant, was a church that our guide said was a “must” to visit. This church was Church of the Resurrection of Christ (or Church of the Spilled Blood). The entire interior of this Russian orthodox church was covered in mosaics. It took 12 years to apply it all to the massive space inside. The result was pure magnificence! We wound up our day in the market square adjacent to the church. Many of us spent our final rubles on last minute gifts and souvenirs from the stalls along the square.

The evening was a special one as it was our GYFHC dinner closing ceremony. We enjoyed our last Russian meal which was topped by the commemorative cake celebrating 50 years of People to People. We saved the best for last by having all students participate in the “web of friendship,” where we created a string “web” to symbolize the friendships we made and the ties that bound us all on this trip. We each gave a part of the string to someone special within the delegation. Once the heartfelt thoughts were expressed, we cut pieces of the string so we could give them to others to remember us and the last week and a half by. (Mary Eisenhower was by far the most popular recipient!) This journey has left us with so many memories, so many friends. And it will leave us changed forever.

-Written by Laura Webb & Veronica Agard

En route to New York City!

2006-07-26T06:36:00.000-07:00

Aeroflot #315 departed Moscow a little late, but as of 9:30 a.m. (Eastern time) the flight is estimated to land in NYC at 4:56 p.m. -- only 16 minutes late!

If you are meeting your son and/or daughter at JFK, we advise you to check with the airlines directly for further updates as we get closer to their arrival time. Information can also be found at http://www.aeroflot.aero/eng/

Orphanage Visit

2006-07-25T07:17:00.000-07:00

This morning was slightly earlier than usual. After the rushed, slightly crowded breakfast, we crammed into the elevators, and as we reached street level we discovered that only two buses were functioning (instead of three). As the buses departed for the orphanage, piled high with gifts and people, we couldn’t help but realize that this was going to be a challenging day. During the ride out to Pavlovsk, we witnessed some of the most charming countryside views of our journey. We passed one palace of Catherine the Great, with a beautiful landscape garden that resembled a picturesque forest, among other palaces of previous czars.
As the buses pulled in to the cluster of stucco building surrounded by unkempt greenery, the previous feeling of anticipation only grew. Very soon we were split up into groups and went our separate ways. We could clearly see from the children waving from windows and standing by the sides of paths that our presence was not only anticipated, but welcomed. Soon we learned that the children in the orphanage all suffered from a mental and/or physical disability. A façade of suns, moons, and clouds greeted us as we entered the dimly lit foyer. We were then brought up to the second story and shown several rooms. We witnessed a bedroom for fifteen toddlers, a small classroom, and a physical therapy room, clearly fitted for no more than one adult. It was after all this that we finally saw a room with children.
The instant the first unfamiliar face entered the room, the toddlers’ eyes blazed with excitement and joy. After a sea of waving, the first gift was given. It is impossible to describe the gratitude and life gleaming in the eyes of this child and all whom we saw. We moved through the narrow hallway into a large room we all assumed was a nursery. However, we quickly discovered that this room ranged from toddlers to a sixteen-year-old named Sophia. These children were the most severely disabled in the facility, and out of the fourteen children in the room, one had minimal language skills. Many of the delegates stood paralyzed at the door, while others, in their element, went up and immediately made a connection. The German volunteers who were nursing these children were clearly grateful for our help and kindness.
As we walked through the facility, visiting several other buildings and many different rooms and faces, we understood that, while the facility was lacking many necessities, the administration and workers clearly cared about the well-being and life of the children in their care. As the tour wound to a close, the entire delegation was brought into a sun-drenched auditorium. Peeking out of two doors, we saw children in interesting costumes. As we quieted down, the director of Orphanage #4, gave a touching speech and Mary Eisenhower presented her with a donation from the delegation. After this, we were informed that there would be a performance for us. As music emanated from the gleaming stereo, twelve orphans took to the floor, performing a gypsy dance, a traditional Russian dance, and a gymnastics performance. The swirling costumes were wonderful, and the dances were more than could have been imagined. Finally, our visit was winding down. Half of the group played soccer with the orphans, while the other half purchased beadwork made by the children. After over-staying the allotted time by an hour and a half, it was time to say our heavy-hearted goodbyes. As we boarded the buses, no one was left unaffected.
After lunch, we began truly experiencing St. Petersburg. The first stop of the tour was the immense St. Isaac’s Cathedral. Even at the price of 50 rubles, most people chose to keep their cameras snapping as they gazed up at the sky-high domes and intricate mosaics that made up the walls and ceilings of our surroundings. After gazing in window boxes for souvenirs, we went on to our second stop at the Neva River. This more than picturesque scene overlooking the Hermitage Museum, the Chamber of Curiosity, and Peter and Paul Fortress, was truly wonderful, even when only experienced for our five to seven minute photo opportunity. Our final stop was the Peter and Paul Fortress, where we saw the tomb of Anastasia, Peter the Great, and many other ruling families. After viewing the impossibly high gold spire of the Peter and Paul Fortress, we proceeded back to the hotel. After a leisurely dinner, we were allowed free time to explore the surrounding shops. After some unique shopping experiences, we proceeded back to the hotel for group meetings. During this meeting, we were more fully informed about the variety of programs PTPI offers and how to get involved in them. Then we broke up into small groups and listed ideas for how to carry the message of the GYFHC to our friends and families. After a touching group hug, we were sent off to bed.

Written by Kevin Harrington and Danielle Dennison

First Day in St. Petersburg

2006-07-25T07:13:00.000-07:00

With three days left, we gathered our luggage to depart the hotel in Novgorod. With only 32 days of sunshine a year in St. Petersburg, the clear blue sky that greeted us was considered lucky beyond belief. Our three hour drive to the city known as the Window to the West opened our eyes to the beautiful wonders Russia has to offer. Although enchanted by the birch trees and wildflowers along the way, our eyes were opened to the vast economic gap in Russian society when we passed the homes of the less fortunate. Alumni delegates shared their memories of previous low income communities they have seen in South Africa and China with the new ambassadors. As we entered the city, which Russians call the brain of the country, we were filled with eagerness and anticipation.
Before we arrived in St. Petersburg, we had no concrete perception of the city’s true splendor. When we finally entered the colorful city, full of new construction and transportation, we realized the lively metropolitan atmosphere. Lunch at the Stolichnyi Restaurant stayed true to our typical meals containing bread, tomatoes, cabbage, meat, and sour cream. After lunch, we headed to the summer palace built by Peter the Great in Peterhof, where we received a VIP tour of the grounds. The tour consisted not only of gardens, but also the underground water systems which supply the 150 fountains and 5 cascades that characterize this paradise. The Greek and Roman influence found throughout the art and architecture, combined with the bright yellow façade of the palace, typical of Russian buildings, left us in awe. At this picturesque haven, we learned of Peter the Great’s infamous sense of humor when we became drenched by different surprise fountains. At the conclusion of our tour, we were taken to enjoy tea and coffee, as well as other refreshments such as ice cream and delicious blueberry crumb cake. Instead of taking a bus back to the hotel in St. Petersburg, located across the street from the Gulf of Finland, we had the opportunity to take a hydrofoil (high-speed ferry).
As we got off the boat and loaded the bus for a short ride to the hotel through the heart of the city, we were all happy to enjoy a leisurely dinner and relax with each other. As our day concluded with a group (programming) meeting, we reflected upon our new perspective of this fairytale city, experiencing the aspects of Russian society, such as how their traffic lights have visual timers and their White Nights have helped to keep the excitement alive, while we learn about the unique Russian culture. As we continue our journey, leaving the cities we have cherished and the wonderful people we have met, we can only hope that our futures will be filled with such unimaginable and beautiful friendships once more.

Written by: Raine Dalton and Caitlin Rudin

Novgorod the Great!

2006-07-22T22:27:00.000-07:00

Every new day on this trip blows me away, and today was no exception. First thing this morning we drove to a Russian Day Camp where we participated in a survival rally with the students. It was very challenging and a real bonding experience. The students joined us for lunch, and then we learned how to make traditional Russian crafts. I spent hour learning about traditional clothing and then we made matrozka dolls.

We also had the opportunity to attend a panel discussion with the Russian students to discuss cultural, social, and political issues in both America and Russia. Several important issues came up including education, terrorism, and the impact the media has on society. It was a unique and amazing experience to learn about all the differences between the two countries, yet also to discover that we share many of the same concerns and ideas.

For dinner we ate shish kabobs with our new Russian friends and afterwards we participated in many traditional Russian dances. It was such a cultural experience and really fun too! As we were leaving, we gave each of the students a People to People International shirt and they gave us a Russian craft back. They really are such nice people, and I’m so thankful to have had the opportunity to spend time with them while breaking down stereotypes. As we have all truly learned this week, understanding really is the key to peace.

Written by Jenna Ciancia

Train Ride to Novgorod

2006-07-22T22:15:00.000-07:00

On Friday morning at 5:50 a.m. our overnight train arrived to Novgorod from Moscow. Many of us had not gotten much sleep the night before because of the excitement of the train ride. The rhythm of the train did manage to lull some of us to sleep. Our minds were preoccupied with thoughts of our new Russian friends, Eugene, Egor and Elly leaving us the night before. Even though in the morning we were tired, it was a experience we won’t forgot. Not many people can say that they traveled six hundred miles across Russia on an iron horse with seventy five new friends. When we got to the Barista Palace in Novgorod we checked in, met our new roommates, and went downstairs for breakfast. After our delicious breakfast we explored the grounds of the Barista. We boarded our buses and headed out to discover what the historic city of Novgorod had in store for us. We quickly realized why this quaint modern day city is referred to as “Novgorod the great.” We toured the Kremlin, visited Saint Sophia Cathedral, several churches and many other beautiful sites. We had the privilege of going to the Museum of Wooden Architecture. It was a row of authentic wooden structures which gave us a glimpse of how people in this region lived long ago. They say a true traveler takes a part of each place they visit with them and leaves a part behind…I know now I will definitely take a part of Novgorod with me…and only hope that tomorrow I’ll be able to leave a part of me behind…

Written by Brianna Lanpert

PTPI's Moscow Chapter Introduces us to New Friends

2006-07-21T13:00:00.000-07:00

This morning with the oddly familiar ring of our wake-up calls, we awoke, sleepy and aware that our last day in Moscow was upon us. After breakfast we were off to our first stop of the day…a visit with Moscow’s PTPI Chapter in the small town of Krasnaya Pakhra!

Upon arriving in Krasnaya Pakhra, we were excitedly greeted by shouts of heavily accented “hellos!” from the 65 Russian youth that we would be interacting with throughout the day. The town’s mayor began by presenting the traditional Russian welcoming gift of bread and salt to Mary Eisenhower on behalf of our group. We were then treated to a performance of traditional Russian folk music and dancing by local youth dressed in traditional Russian attire.

Next came the opportunity we had all been awaiting: our first chance to interact with Russian youth, which turned into an experience that none of us will soon forget. Despite the language barrier, connections were made through non-verbal communications. We explored our similarities and our differences, attempted a few Russian phrases and found that a smile and a laugh can go a long way.

After a small lunch of traditional Russian food, with all our new Russian friends of course, we participated in a competition of local activities including crafts, music, doll making, painting, and singing with teams consisting of both our group and Russian students. At the conclusion of the events, the team with the highest score was announced and together we all stood as we sang a Russian song we had all been taught earlier in the day. After a group photo, we said our farewells with many hugs and tears. Hesitantly we boarded our buses and began our ride back to Moscow for dinner and a relaxing evening shopping in the Arbat District. From the beginning, this beautiful city with its famous sites, such as the Kremlin and Red Square, has stolen a special place in our hearts.

As we said our tearful goodbyes to our new friends, Egor & Eugene, at the platform of the train station, we couldn’t help but wonder what the next part of our adventure had in store for us. The one thing we are certain of is through these experiences we have made new friends that will last a lifetime.

Written by: Alexis Krell and Stephen Eckert

Off to Novgorod!

2006-07-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

PTPI GYFHC delegates are on their way to Novgorod via an overnight train.

We won't know about internet capabilities in Novgorod until arrival. If there isn't a good connection, there might not be a post for a few days! (We don't want anyone to worry!) Keep checking back though -- St. Petersburg is the next stop after Novgorod.

The PTPI Mission in Action

2006-07-19T21:56:00.000-07:00

This morning we began by traveling to the American Cultural Center to hear a presentation by a United States Foreign Service Officer currently working in the Economics Department of the American Embassy in Moscow. The officer spoke to us of her experiences in the Foreign Service and talked to us extensively about the G-8 Summit which recently concluded in St. Petersburg.

After our briefing and lunch, we journeyed to the Russian Children’s Clinical Hospital. It was in better condition than I had expected, though it still was not near as sterile or modern as most hospitals in the USA. When we arrived, we were brought into a large conference room and asked to take a seat amongst approximately 100 of the patients who were at the hospital for treatment. The Chief Physician welcomed our delegation (via a translator) to the hospital and Mary Jean Eisenhower, President and CEO of PTPI, presented a donation on behalf of the delegation to the hospital. Once this was finished, all of the Russian patients in the room came and gave each of us a bag that included a shirt, hat and pen. Many of the delegates, including myself, gave the Russian patients the gifts that we had brought for them in return.

We were then split into 6 groups and taken on walking tours through various wards of the hospital to meet more patients. Each and every delegate was touched on some level by the patients we interacted with and the things we witnessed while on our tour. The patients and their families were so thankful to us for being there, and we each were moved by specific interactions we each had with certain patients.

After dinner at the Hard Rock Café, we had the opportunity to go to the Moscow Circus. It was amazing and the things that the people and animals were doing were incredible. There were monkeys, elephants, dogs, trapeze artists, ice skaters, clowns and acrobats of all kinds! Overall, everyone had a good time and we returned to the hotel exhausted after another great day. This trip is amazing, and though we are sad to leave Moscow tomorrow evening, we know that Novgorod and St. Petersburg hold great things for us!

-Written by Amanda Kincaid and Erin Lee

The Heart of Moscow

2006-07-18T14:42:00.000-07:00

After the anticipation of two days, we finally were given the chance to spend a full day in Russia and experience its impressive architecture and unfamiliar culture. The experience up to today has been surreal, though today I think our American delegation began to grasp what this country is all about.

From our first night’s rest in the fantastic Renaissance Marriott Hotel, we went on our three buses with our respective groups and started our day. First, we visited the Moscow Kremlin and Armory with our Russian tour guides. The architecture and craftsmanship here is elaborately detailed and skillful unlike anywhere else in the world. We now understand the magnificence of Russian buildings and various artworks have gained international recognition as we were truly awed by the Kremlin and the treasures held in the Armory today. We went on to eat our lunch at a traditional Russian restaurant inside the Kremlin and our delegation got the chance to taste a foreign cuisine.

Next, we proceeded to the Red Square which was established in the 15th Century and presently serves as a popular meeting place for festivals and public gatherings. Standing in the center of Red Square we were left in awe by the sights of St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Tomb. They also had a mall foreign to any of those seen in the states, with the exception of all the American stores. It was during the excursion of our group through the mall that we truly realized how prevalent our country is in other cultures, though we see relatively nothing of many other cultures in the U.S. We continued on ward through our tightly scheduled day and found ourselves in the roadside shops of Sparrow Hills with the unique opportunity to view gothic skyscrapers of Moscow’s State University beyond the Moscow River. From bargaining with the Russian shop owners to getting ripped off, I think everyone enjoyed the adventure nonetheless.

Soon, we were boarding a boat for our arranged dinner cruise on the very river we had gazed at all day. It was during this boat voyage through the amazing sights and scenery of Russia’s awe-inspiring capital that we met with People to People International members from the Moscow Chapter and enjoyed again the Russian delicacies of mixed vegetables and interestingly shaped meat. It was a great ending to our first day in Moscow.

From our experiences today we have gained a glimpse at a very foreign yet enticing Russian culture, while also building friendships with Russians and fellow Americans alike that are bound to linger far beyond this journey. We can only predict a portion of what will happen next by glancing at our schedule, but the deeper connections we shall have and personal growth we feel will always surprise and inspire us. This, I think is the true purpose of People to People International.

-Written by Ryan MacDowell with assistance by Ali Hruschka

We are Here!

2006-07-17T11:29:00.000-07:00

Some of us smiled and some of us yawned, but deep down no matter how any of us felt, there was a tiny bit of excitement, an excitement noticeable to all as we stepped on that outrageous Russian airline, Aeroflot. It greeted us all with blue and orange leather seats, later found to be uncomfortable. Through that small, yet harsh 10 hour plane ride, sleeping occurred, friendships were made and "The Pacifier" in Russian was enjoyed by none. But in the end, it was not that bad because we arrived in Moscow safe and sound. Cranky and tired, all 80 of us stood on line for immigration, and then stood on line for immigration some more.

One after another, our access to an exciting journey in Russia was accepted; and on the other end of customs, Tatiana, one of our Moscow City Guides, awaited us. We followed Tatiana's voice (she told us she is too short to be followed by sight) outside of the airport doors and saw Moscow for the first time. As we boarded the buses for the hotel, Tatiana's voice rang out "Welcome to Moscow, we are in Moscow!"

Today's post provided by Kevin Williams and Ayn Wisler

Stay tuned as we begin our Russian Experience!!!

GYFHC Delegates Arrive in Moscow!

2006-07-17T05:40:00.000-07:00

A tired, but excited group of 76 delegates and 6 leaders have arrived in Moscow, checked into the Rennaissance Hotel and now have time to rest and relax before tonight's briefing!

A special representative from KMP Tours will visit the hotel and brief everyone on what to expect during the coming days. Stay tuned and watch for more details as their journey continues!

Getting Ready for the Big Day

2006-07-15T23:22:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to let you all know that all GYFHC delegates have arrived safely in NYC! We had a great day and wonderful evening getting to know one another. Tomorrow we head to the airport after spending the morning going over a few last details. We'll be back in touch when we land in RUSSIA!

2006-07-14T20:13:00.000-07:00

Dear GYFHC Delegates,

Well, your Delegation Leaders (minus Barb who will be joining us on Sunday) have arrived in New York City! We spent this evening preparing for your arrival tomorrow, and all cannot wait to meet you!

Safe travels to each of you as you journey to the Big Apple!!

In Anticipation,

Your 2006 GYFHC Delegation Leaders

Kay, Steve, Barb (represented by the gold lion), Brandon, Katherine and Sarah

Message from Mary Eisenhower

2006-07-06T09:23:00.000-07:00

Dear GYFHC Participants --

I can't believe we will be in Russia in just over a week! I am confident this will be an amazing program and am looking forward to spending time with each and everyone of you.

2006 marks the 50th Anniversary of PTPI's founding by my grandfather. It is especially important that we are returning to Russia since that was the location of our first citizen exchange program.

Our adventure in diplomacy, understanding, humanitarianism and friendship is just beginning.

Your partner in peace,

Mary Jean

The countdown begins!

2006-07-05T20:10:00.000-07:00

10 days and counting till we meet in New York! This will be a fantastic opportunity and experience. We hope you will encourage your friends and familiy to stay tuned to our blog and follow along on our journey throughout Russia. See you soon!

We're off to Russia in 2006!

2006-04-10T09:25:00.000-07:00

Get ready for the next exiciting adventure!

Read what happened on the 2005 GYFHC in South Africa! Cheetahs, lions, and some "Visine" moments.

2005-08-08T06:59:00.000-07:00

Thursday morning we loaded the bus and headed to the Aquila Safari and Game Lodge. On our way we made a pit stop at the Spier Wine Estate. Don't let the name fool you, for the Estate is not only a prominent vineyard in South Africa, but it also boasts programs for Eagle Encounters and Cheetah Experience. The Eagle Encounter program is a rehabilitation center for birds of prey but also works to educate the public on care of birds to preserve the "eco-environment". During our encounter, we were able to watch a trained handler demonstrate each bird"s unique talent, and some of us were lucky enough to participate in holding the birds for a few seconds. Afterwards, the group was met by two cheetahs, and each of us had the chance to pet one of the cheetahs (with careful instructions on the proper way to pet it of course). Of course no visit to a Wine Estate would be complete without a tour and brief history of the estate itself. After a brief tour, highlighted by the original cellar, a gabled barn dating back to 1856, the students enjoyed a taste of Spier's own red and white grape juice. Good stuff, I might add. If ever in South Africa again I would highly recommend visiting the Wine Estate. Not only is their so much history within a few acres, but the land (and hotel) are absolutely gorgeous (a few girls even commented that is the perfect place to have a wedding reception).

After a short two hour bus ride, we arrived at our final destination on the trip, the Aquila Safari and Game Lodge. Upon arrival, we were met by our tour guides for our first of two game drives. Because we only had a limited time before the sun went down, our first drive was only about an hour long. We witnessed hippos, ostrich, rhinos, and deer like animals while surrounded by the breathtaking majestic mountains, rivers and valleys. As the sun went down, our jeeps hobbled back to the main lodge. Students were assigned their rooms, adorable cottages decorated with rocks, natural woods and reeds to maintain a natural style. Upon gathering again, however, the only thing on everyone's mind was the outside rock showers!

Our final event that night was our reflection and debriefing session. While I would love to describe the feelings shared in the conference room that night, it is something I'm afraid I can't put into words. We were able to share final thoughts with out St. Cyprian's School counterparts, and able to reflect privately about how the trip had affected each of us personally. We discussed individual people who had made a difference in their respective community, and finally everyone (student and leader) were given the opportunity to address the delegation with some final words of wisdom. Everyone that participated felt so much emotion that night. We shared many laughs, lit up the room with countless smiles, and even shared a few tears (even if some wanted to blame it on Visine drops).

At 7:00 the next morning, we boarded the jeeps for our final two-hour game drive. While viewing the previously mentioned animals, the delegation also spied giraffes and lions (who were enjoying a nice meal at the time). There was even enough time to stop in the middle of the valley for some hot chocolate and coffee. At the conclusion of the game drive, the students (accompanied by an Aquila representative) were able to get up close and personal with some lion cubs. A quick two hour bus ride back to Cape Town and we found ourselves at the airport ready to return back to the United States. Or so we thought.

By now everyone has the details of the SAA strike, so I don't feel the need to go into detail about that. The entire PTPI staff deserves so much credit and thanks for the amazing way they handled the situation. In the end, everything worked out fine. We were able to enjoy another night in South Africa, we were put up in a very nice hotel, we got a few extra shopping hours, and finally Saturday afternoon we began our journey back to our homes. A 15 hour flight later, we landed safely in Atlanta, had the opportunity to say our last goodbyes and watched our delegation slowly dissipate by the hour, until all had made it safely back to their respective cities.

This trip was, in a word, incredible. For me, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity that I will never forget. The people we met, the classes we visited, the children we played with, the township we walked through, the places we saw, impacted every person on the trip. I doubt I can find a fellow delegation member that can say he/she left South Africa the same person that had arrived there ten days earlier. To Will, Sarah, Michelle, and Jewelee: thank you all so much for everything. I know its not easy keeping track of 45 kids everyday, but each one of you were always energetic, fun-loving, and there for us no matter what. I can't imagine taking this trip with any leader but you four. You are such amazing people. To my fellow students: we heard so many times that we were an awesome delegation, and we were, because of each one of you. Each person has so much talent and drive, and I have faith that you will make a giant impact on the world in your lifetime. Thank you for the memories, my experience would not have been the same without you. Good luck in all future endeavors, be safe, and always remember PTPI, Cape Town, South Africa 2005!!

-- Erin K.

Students on their way home!

2005-07-30T14:20:00.000-07:00

The students are now in route to Atlanta!

Updated Flight Information!

2005-07-29T11:17:00.000-07:00

Due to the cancellation of Friday's flight from Johannesburg to the United States, GYFHC delegates are spending the night in Cape Town. Parents are being notified of the change in plans and are encouraged to contact PTPI World Headquarters with questions.

PTPI officials have received assurance from South African Airways (www.flysaa.com) that flights will resume as scheduled on Saturday. The flight details remain the same - only 24 hours later.

Parents are asked to rebook domestic flights for Sunday and contact PTPI World Headquarters with confirmation. PTPI will refund domestic air costs incurred by this delay.

This evening, students will enjoy dinner courtesy of SAA and turn in early. Saturday's schedule includes breakfast and a tour of the waterway prior to their departure for the airport.

Our last full day in Cape Town.

2005-07-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

As a group, we had an amazing day today. We started off by taking a wakl around the different townships and seeing the different houses that hte peopl lived in. It was so shocking to me to see that 3 families lived in a 2-room flat. It blew my mind to see this because there's nowhere near enough room for 15 or so people to be living in that little of space. It was also very shocking to walk through a little shack, maybe 10 ft or so long and 8 ft wide, that a whole family had to live in without electricity or water. It broke my heart to see these mile long stretches of shacks that were falling apart that people had to call home.

Once we left the township, we went to visit Mama Amelia who has about 100 kids (more or less) who live with her. Mama Amelia was a wonderful woman to meet and inspired me greatly to help others because as one woman, she's helping up to 100 kids every day by cothing and feeding them and making their lives so much better just by loving them. Seeing how happy those kids were just to see other people who took interest in them and played with them and loved them changed my life forever.

Another important experience was visiting the hospital here in Cape Town and going to the children's ward where they took care of HIV/AIDS patients. Talking with a pediatrician and listening to what he had to say was amazing. Hearing that 25% of infected patients die before age 1 was just shocking to hear. It completely amazed me. Listening to him made me so excited to be able to go home and find out what I can do to help prevent this growing disease.

After all that, we went to St. Cyprian's School and had a discussion forum about may different topics and aspects of both South Africa and America. This was very interesting to listen to because we were able to listen to perspectives from both our fellow American students and the South African students. THis day has been amazing and has been a life-changing experience that I will always remember for the rest of my life.

-- Lindsay E.

We started out the day with a township walking tour. It included seeing some of the basics of the South African recycling company. There was a great difference between streets. It was almost like a wall was built in between the two. There was a distinct difference over household goods in the area and the amount of trash. Even when we came into the area our cameras were even an amazement to most of the kids. ONe of the kids actually came up to me, inspecting the camera amazed because it was nothing they had ever seen before. Just that excitement from the kids really made you wonder what their everyday lives must be like. Even though some of the homes weren't in great shape, they were like castles to most people in the area. It would include 1 refrigerator and a room for sleeping. A lot different from what we get in America. With the usual average of 3 bedrooms and 2 baths and the most common: sinks, refrigerators, bathtubs, dishwashers. Many of which would seem like a dream to most of these people. It was such an enjoyable experience to notice the little things in life that we usually take for granted. OUr tour was supposed to be an hour but it ended up being two because of all the people we met. After that we hopped on the bus and went to lunch, and then headed to Mama Emilia's.

Mama Emilia hosts over 95 children that are unable to be taken care of by their parents or are orphaned. It was incredible in such a tiny house there was two washers and dryers, folded laundry and clean bedroms (approximately 7 bedrooms where all these kids shared beds. And only two bathrooms with two toilets and showers each and anoher room with one bath tub. We did a circle outside with the kids and played and danced with them for about 40 minutes. It was mazing how amused they were. AFter that we headed to the HIV hospital.

When we arrived at the hospital we had a South African doctor explain what some of the daily struggles were towards the children. Many cam in having AIDS rather than just HIV. Their mothers think it's just the flu and that it will be over with. Most of these children already live in poverty. They already deal with many hardships before the rality of AIDS hits them even harder. We learned that nearly 1 million infants are born every year with HIV and the disease orphans 1 child every 14 seconds. But what's even worse is most of the children that come in have already progressed in the disease and have AIDS. But what was so great about this hospital was that they have set up an organization called Kidzpositive. It has generated more than 1 million rand (which is roughly 6.2 rand for each US dollar) for over 90 women with HIV-positive children. Just 20 rands puts food on the table for 1 child for 2 weeks. We were able to participatein helping this organization by buying different pins in the shapes of flags, bracelets, keychains. Thisis how the organization has created such a name. These women bead all of these things to sell and over the past 3 years have generated over 1 million rand. These mothers generate between R100-R200 per week. Each AIDS beaded pin they make earns them 5 rand. In fact they even gave us a website were we can design our own beaded keychain and pre-order to sell at home. You can visit it at www.kidzpositive.org/beads. The hospital was amazing hbut we ended up not bein able to see the children. It was still worthwhile and after that we headed to the hotel for a little bit until we went to the St. Cyprian's School.

We ate a good dinner at the school and then had a forum discussing the topic of peace and main problems in the world today. We got to meet our paired African partners and got to know them even better then before. Afterwards we got to make a graffiti wall where we put whatever saying we wanted on our own brick. Afterwards we got to hang out with everyone for a while. Overall, the day was so worthwhile it's hard to even sum up but Africa is definately one of the most amazing places I have ever been.

-- Emily K.

The difference between seeing and doing.

2005-07-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

Arriving in Atlanta, I had the assumption that our trip to Cape Town was just another People to People trip around the world. I was quick to discover that I was very wrong. I was embarking upon one of the most crucial experiences in my life, one that would help me better understand another culture, yet help me better understand my own culture as well.

I have also learned a lot about myself by seeing what others have or don't have. For instance, today we went to a place called Tsonga, a place of houses filled with varying economic statuses. The wealthy lived in homes costing approximately R 180,000 (around $30,000 US) - the price of a nice car back home. There were hostels, which were a step lower than what we know as small appartments; however, each housed 3 families in one room (they were built to house 2 - 3 men per room) and they shared all facilities from toiletries to kitchen use. The next step below the hostels were for the families that were in hostels but were fed up with them - as a result, they constructed "informal" houses. We, as Americans, would consider them 'shacks." Seeing the conditions in which they live really put things in perspective for me, but at the same time it added a different perspective and made me realize how ignorant so much of the US and other parts of the world are to the struggles and conditions these people face.

After Tsonga, we had a nice quiet lunch on our way to Mama Amelia's, a house in which a generous woman houses 95 orphans. At Mama Amelia's, we saw the house and played games with the children. For me, this is the hardest part, seeing the smiles on the children's faces while they are playing. I know that this may seem a little strange, but these children have nothign, not even hope, but this is the only life that they know. Therefore, they have no other alternative but to go on as best they can. This is what is sad to be because they worry about eating, losing their houses, goign to school, the simplest things. These are such basic necessities that many of us have come to take for granted. A typical day for me at home consisted of me working out, playing hockey, and thinking about my friends. After seeing these types of situations here in South Africa, I am ashamed to admit that. However, I am eternally grateful to know that I can help make a difference here. Whethere it is bringing awareness to perils they face, collecting supplies, or returning someday myself, every little thing counts.

After Mama Amelia's, we went to the hospital to learn about an HIV/AIDS clinic called "Kidspozitive". This only confirmed my desire to do more. HIV and AIDS affects over 25 million people in Africa, 5 million alone in South Africa. Astounding numbers, terrifying and shocking, but inspiring me to challenge myself to help.

I have learned so much about the history of South Africa and the resilient spirit of its people just in the short time I have been here. I have come to have a great deal of respect not only for its people but also its leaders because they are so passionate about their country that their leadership reflects the spirit of the people. I like to think of the struggles of South Africa aas running a race. THey knew where the finish line was but they were stuck at the starting line. The day in 1994 that Nelson Mandela cast the first vote in South African history celebrated the victory and establishment of democracy in their country. By casting that vote, Mandela fired the shotgun that sent the runners off. The people of Africa continue to run that race. Despite the difficulties they face, the people are making great strides towards urbanization and living standards with the help of love and peace. I truly believe they will make it, and when they come around the last turn and are in the straightaway they will finish strong with the help and support of their people, because of the vision and peseverence they showed in their fight for freedom.

I have come to realize that htis was not a trip but rather a mission. Our mission and our motto is "peace through understanding" but to achieve that goal we must first understand it before we can spread it. And having seen and experienced the things we have over these last few days here having little time for reflection in our busy days I realized that I have a responsibility as a human to love, respect and help others. I know how much this experience has meant to me and what I havetaken away from it that I truly believe I have benefited more than the kids we help. History helps us from repeating our mistakes but I believe that reading about events in a book is not enough. There is a difference between reading and actually seeing, but furthermore there is an even greater difference often overlooked. The difference btween seeing and doing.

-- Brandon E.

Waving goodbye.

2005-07-27T10:03:00.000-07:00

Just a fraction of Mama Emilia's 95+ children waving goodbye as they sang a song.

Hoops for Hope

2005-07-27T09:50:00.001-07:00

Photos!

2005-07-27T09:50:00.000-07:00

We're finally able to share some pictures with you. Enjoy and see you soon!!

Draft Agreement reached to end SAA Strike

2005-07-27T05:42:00.000-07:00

The following article can be found in its entirety online at
IOL: South Africa http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13; and
Mail and Guardian Online http://www.mg.co.za/articlePage.aspx?articleid=246528&area=/breaking_news/breaking_news__business/

Draft agreement reached to end SAA strike

By Jenni Evans

An agreement in principle has been drafted to resolve the dispute between South African Airways and striking unions, the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration said on Wednesday."Significant progress has been made towards resolution of the dispute. An in principle agreement has been drafted, the contents of which cannot be disclosed at this stage." the CCMA said in a press statement.The parties would convene at 9am on Thursday after consulting with their principals.

United Association of SA spokesperson Andre Venter said the union would recommend acceptance of the agreement. "Hopefully we will sign the agreement."As an act of good faith, it was also hoped that members would return to their posts on Wednesday, he said. The proposal would be explained to members through delegates as well as through email and sms.

Spokespeople for the SA Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) and SAA were not immediately available to comment. The parties have agreed that details of the draft agreement not be revealed to the media.

The full article can be found online. We will continue to post updates about the strike as we learn them.

Life-changing moments.

2005-07-26T13:54:00.000-07:00

On the plane from Johannesburg to Cape Town, a man sitting behind me asked what my business was in South Africa. Well, that's easy, I began, I was part of a group of students from around the US to actively experience the culture, history, and people of South Africa. I continued to rattle off on how we would be doing some local philanthropic, work when he stopped me in mid-sentence. "Why?" he asked.

I stopped dead in my verbal tracks. That one word rang in my ears and in the silence that followed. It still burns in my heart today. "I don't know." I answered. To make a difference - I could have said - to learn something new, to help someone in need - ANYTHING but "I don't know."

But then again, how would I have known then the burning in my soul now? How could I hoave known my true intentions since the match of passion had not yet stuck? Truely, I had come to see something I have not before, but now I understand I was meant to be here to feel something I hadn't before. To feel the anguish and celebration from Robben Island, to feel the welcome joy at St. Cyprian's, to feel the hand of a child grasping mine to run and play basketball on a make-shift court, to feel the hot tears running down my face at St. George's Cathedral after hearing about the struggles of apartheid. How could I have known?

Today has been memorable. It has been life-changing. Eye-opening. Ground-breaking. Cataclysmic. In short, fabulous.

To those who made it possible for us to be here, I want to thank you. On behalf of all us students, we are eternally grateful. Why did you allow your sons and daughters to go on this far-away journey? You don't know? I hope, like me, you know now why we are here - not only to change the lives of those around us, but to have our own lives changed.

-- Heather M.

Today I really enjoyed the exhibit The Hands that Shape Humanity, an exhibit featuring more than 50 of the greatest humanitarians. It seemed to inspire everyone to reach their potential. I loved how some of the people recognized were not those one would normally think of. We also met with an Anglican Reverand. It struck me how she spoke of the Day of Purple Rain, in which the South African government sprayed purple paint over all protesters. It was as if the government needed a new skin color (purple) to objectify their fellow countrymen. However fulfilling those things were, our trip inside the heart of Cape Town's poverty was even more astonishing. Children walked around barefoot, hungry, and only had a small metal hoop to shoot basketballs through, yet still smiling. Although several of us left somewhat depressed, we were intently motivated to raise awareness.

It seems that the days just get better as they pass, so we all (however tired we may be) cannot wait to wak up every morning.

-- Lindley

Today was another amazing day in Cape Town. Rev. Villien Harber shared her anti-apartheid experience with us. It was a great experience to hear what great experience to hear what Rev. Harber actually went through herself. The exhibit of "Hands that Shaped Humanity" was interesting to actually see who are well-known activists. Each exhibit had qotes from the various activists that has a general meaning in today's society. One quote that was stated by Desmond Tutu is "The one who is your enemy is really a friend waiting to be made." Can be applied to the past and the present.

After the exhibit we took the bus to Green Market Square right in the Center Town of Cape Town. Each person was able to buy a lot of African gifts to take back to the U.S. Once we arrived in the township of Khilasheia we made our way to the primary school in the area. The children welcomed us with open arms and were so happy they had visitors. Hoops for Hope is a wonderful organization for young children in the townships. They shared their 7 keys to success with us and even did different basketball strategies with the children. They were having so much fun with us playing basketball with them.

Tonight we watched "Yesterday" which was a true based South AFrican movie that gives a perfect example of what Africans go through when it comes to AIDS/HIV. Most people were very overwhelmed with how HIV/AIDS can change a person's life. Today was a very heartwarming day.

-- Sasha S.

Of all the powerful things that we have experienced so far on this trip, today's schedule blew the others out of the water. We had the priviledge to visit a school where the "Hoops for Hope" program was in action. This program teaches life skills to underpriviledged children through basketball, and it was an honor to be part of such a worthy cause. When our bus pulled up to the school, we were greated by many adorable, smiling faces. Less than 5 minutes into the visit, we were all enchanted by these vibrant and cheerful children. The simple pleasure they took in spending an afternoon playing basketball was overwhealming, and it was an experience we will never forget.

-- Lexie K.

Monday: a third perspective

2005-07-25T16:06:00.000-07:00

Monday, July 25th 2005, a day that has defined the difference between life and a mre existence. What we have sees this day will remain in my dreams and heart for centuries.

6:00. Wake up call. The sky is black, the air crisp w/ southern winter. I told myself six hours is plenty. A warm shower ignites my eyes and sparks my dendrites, slowly defrosting my toes.

7:00. Breakfast: gourmet omelets prepared by black culinary students. Short but sweet, I clear my tray at the bidding of our leader.

7:30. Bus ride: a quick hop to St. Cyprian's School for class and conversation. The group splits into two groups to attend a UNESCO slavery class relating to the istory of the school itself. The land on which the school lies contains the early secrts of South African slave trade. Bones, names, and overhead: precursors to a powerful discussion about slavery today, AIDS, the problems with sex education.

11:00. Tea time and muffins with our beautiful hostesses. I exchange gifts with my Pen Pal as she leads me to my next adventure. Unfortunately the Afrikaans teacher is absent so class has been cancelled. Keira (my Pen Pal) inquires about my political affiliation and the next 45 minutes are effectively consumed with talk of Government, Bush, Sudan, and many other digressions of important trivials. My next class consists of Oedipus and Hamlet.

12:25. Robben Island. Whether or not our group travels to this famous island depends entirely upon the rain. Fortunately the rains come 15 minutes late destroying our hopes for a dry ferry ride. Robben Island is considered the origin of the current South African Government. The trees, rocks, and edifices shout stories of injustice, Mandela, and triumph. Our tour guide touched everyone's heart with the examples of his own imprisonment within B Block of the Robben Island maximum security prison. I do not believe anyone will take the night sky and the tickle of grass between our toes for granted ever again.

4:30. PTPI leaves Robben Island humbles and grateful. A cloth of clouds curls over the sharp edge of Table Mountain as we bound over shark infested waters. I can almost imagine myself swimming to freedom; KFC only 7 km away. As we pull into the harbour a dead bird floats in the water. It has choked on the masses of trash floating in the shadows of skyscrapers; a grating reminder of the work that needs to be done.

5:30. We are greeted with open arms and minds, yet again, by our accommodating hostesses. Over the next hours we are engaged in dance and the perceptions of our two contrasting cultures and similar humanitarian goals. We end the night with a traditional South African Braii (barbeque) and an exilerating hands on display of local drums. Through the rythms of dance and bongos an experience that will be remembered by all.

Monday, July 25th, 2005. Life in South Africa is truly amazing and unique for this small group of youthful activists.

Sincerely,
Jeff C.

St. Cyprian's, Robben Island, and Drum Cafe

2005-07-25T13:58:00.000-07:00

Today was definately an amazing day. This morning we went to classes with the students from St. Cyprian's School. The first class I went to was "Maths" in which we studied how to solve equations by inspection. Next I went to History, in which we discussed Apartheid and whether it should be taught in grades 9 or 10. My partner was Katrin, who was very nice and very helpful.

My group then moved on to the UNESCO Slavery Workshop. We learned about the conditions the slaves were kept in, the differences between the meats the owners and the slaves ate, and the lineage of slaves all the way from today to the 1600s.

After lunch we took the bus to the V&A Waterfront and got on the ferry to Robben Island. We took a tour of the island: we saw the lime quary, the medium security prison, the house where a prisoner was kept for SIX years, not being allowed to speak to anyone. We also went on a tour of the Maximum Security Prison where Nelson Mandela stayed for 17 YEARS! It was absolutely AMAZING to see his and his friends' cells. Chills ran through me when we walked through the cells and saw the mats where they slept.

This day was fabulous and I will never forget it. On man who stayed with Nelson Mandela actually told us his story. It touched my heart deeply. This day is perfect to tell to my grandchildren in sixty years.

-- Kristin M.

Today we're going back to St. Cyprian's to be int he students classes. I got to give Thuli my gift! I got her a beanie baby bear and eagle, and "I heart NY" wristband, a "Big Apple" pen, a keychain, and a set of drumsticks that has patriotic stuff on it. :) Elizabeth (my roomie) thinks it's cool. I put in a little card too...

...I just got back from meeting with Thuli. She loves the gifts! I went to her math class, and they're doing algebra, so I felt smart! :) Then she had gym, but we left and walked and talked. They love 50 Cent & Ludacris. That's cool. It was interesting to hear what they though of us. They like David Beckham & Usher. I showed them pictures from my mini photo album. They think my dad :) and my friend are cute. It was a lot of fun. (If my mom and dad are reading) I love you guys but I still have to buy a phone card...

...By far the best part of Robben Island was meeting and talking to our tour guide, Kgotso "Glen" Ntsoelengoz. Now that's an interesting last name. When he was 15 in Soweto students protested that they didn't want to learn in Afrikaans (a Dutch-based language) so the government came and used guns, tear gas, and brute force to end the protesting. Many young people were killed. So later on he trained with the ANC as a soldier, as he said he couldn't sit back and do nothing. He wanted to be a part of the struggle. After his training in Botswana his unit was sold out by an insider. They all went to court and were found guilty and sentenced to 25 years each. Kgotso was only a few cells away from Nelson Mandela. He talked about things he wanted to see when he got out: the night sky and the stars. Just to see what they look like. People need to appreciate the little things. We also saw where Nelson buried a manuscript of his memoir "Long Walk to Freedom". It was a little corner of a garden, but he had another copy. He used the extra when the original was destroyed. It was amazing to see what Kgotso has been through and how it has changed for the better. To me, there were two major extremes: being tortured tot he point where you can't scream, and you can't cry, to having a little 7 year old girl that's his pride and joy. The best part is, when I asked him for his full name at the end, he said "You will not forget me." I never will. Now I really wish we could go to Soweto...

...I feel so hyped up! Woot woot! We ate at our braii with the St. Cyprian's students and got to know one another. Fun fun. Then we had the Drum Cafe visit us! My fellow marching band kids will be proud. Go East Ramapo! We got authentic drums and had a big party! It was a lot of fun and all of our hands are turning colors. Then I went up for a solo thing with some other peeps and danced all over the place. I then passed my maracas off to Will for his turn to dance. The rest is history.

-- Veronica A.

****

We have taken a million pictures, but haven't been able to upload them yet. However, we should be able to get them online on Wednesday, so stay tuned!!!

Our First Full Day!

2005-07-24T13:43:00.000-07:00

Africa itself is so breathtaking. To think of all the history that has taken place here is just so unreal. This morning the group had its own short history lesson from one of the tour guide/St. Cyprian's School teachers, Dave. With our new brief info we had, we headed off to our first stop, Table Mountain. The name pretty much describes how it looks yet just seeing it by Cape Town and sitting quietly by the ocean, it was quite a sight! Everyone pretty much made their way around on the paths, taking pictures along the way.

After that little adventure, we were back on the bus for a tour of the apartheid city. Throughout the city Dave pointed out sites that held history in itself and the not so great sites to see. It makes your heart hurt to see such poverty. The shacks lined up everywhere on the inside and outside of the town. Most are unemployed and even some turn to the drug business. It makes me want to do something for these jpeople, to make a good impact on their life. To us living in America, poverty isn't so open and exposed to us. Thus we hardly acknowledge it. Very saddening to know.

The next stop for the group was seeing the penguins at Boulders Beach, where we also ate a packed lunch. Of course the penguins were cute and very adorable.

As for right now, we just left Cape Point. There we got our lovely group photo, plus other ones with our new friends we have all made so far. The waves crashing upon the rocks made for a gorgeous picture. Oh, also while leaving we had the opportunity to see some monkeys - was quite cool to me, haha. Now it's just driving back to our hotel, chilling out for two hours and then on to dinner. This day has been just pretty much laid back. Though I know I'm going to experience so much more than that while I'm here. I can't hardly wait. Maybe I'll touch someone's life for the best, this I hope for.

-- Jessica M.

After a miserable two days of being on a plane and a wonderful day of waiting for a delayed flight, it was great just to be in Africa. First we had a brief history of Cape Town, followed by a gondola ride to the top of Table Mountain. At the top was a panoramic view of Cape Town. Next was a tour of the town with a stop to see the penguins. Then went to Cape Hope, which is the farthest southwest point in S.A. After that we saw a bunch of babboons. Tonight we're goin to the African Cafe to sample many African dishes. Check in tomorrow to see how Monday went!!

-- Chas

GYFHC delegates in Capetown!

2005-07-23T14:00:00.000-07:00

2 p.m. Central Time

The British Airways flight has landed in Capetown and everyone is on the bus! The delegates will have a brief meeting with the South African students, have something to eat, and then check into their hotel for some much needed sleep! Their program will begin in full tomorrow morning.

Flight Delay to Capetown

2005-07-23T05:50:00.000-07:00

Due to strike action at South African Airways, students participating in the GYFHC were able to change to a British Airways flight from Johannesburg to Capetown. The new flight will arrive in Capetown at 7:10 p.m. local time. Will McDowell, PTPI's Managing Director of Youth Programs, who is leading this mission said that the folks at South African Airways and British Airways were extremely accommodating and helpful to make sure all the students were able to fly together to Capetown.

We will continue to closely monitor the situation for the students return flight. Stay tuned for other news and notes on the GYFHC!

Arrival in Atlanta

2005-07-22T05:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we arrived safely in Atlanta. When we arrived, we ate at a restaurant called Malone's. The rest of the night we shared our culture kits and learned about each other's culture as well as watched a movie about the Apartheid depression in South Africa.

Max

Join us for PTPI's first ever Global Youth Forum Humanitarian Conference!

2005-06-20T12:30:00.000-07:00

Join PTPI as 45 students discover South Africa this summer from July 21 - 30th. This adventure mixes education and humanitarism.