It has been 2 months since I left the comfort and monotony of my life in the United States to board my 30-hour flight to Cambodia. I had yet to ever venture into a third world country and was filled mixed emotions, worries and excitement. What I didn’t expect though, was for my experiences in the 3 weeks I spent in Siem Reap to forever change my life, my beliefs and myself.
I arrived at the airport and was greeted by my EDventure leaders Cari and Jamie and introduced to my fellow travelers, who I would later call my family. One of the things I cherish most about my experiences with EDventure was the close-knit support system I gained with the people with whom I spent those two weeks. We went from 8 strangers to 8 best friends.
Living, teaching and becoming accustomed to the Khmer culture, food and language was something that I will never forget. It not only helped me to fully experience this foreign country but also will help me be more confident during future travels and in every day life. I learned to communicate with people of extremely different cultures and background and how to submerge myself in their culture. EDventure does not give you the luxury of a five star hotel or the comfort of tourist locations. The program lets you live and experience the true and authentic culture and live off the land. EDventure gives you the opportunity to broaden your perspectives on life and interact with people who can teach you more than you could ever teach them.
One day, I spent my time walking around the marketplace, not to shop or sight see, but to talk to the local people. The Khmer people are all so kind and friendly and excited to speak English to you. I spoke to one man who dreams of traveling to America. He works 2 jobs and goes to school and shared stories of his life with me. At the end of our conversation, he thanked me for taking time to talk to him. I thought this was ridiculous. I was the one who should be thankful. To meet such a man with great hopes and drive who educated me about his country, his life and himself.
EDventure gave me the pleasure of doing real and permanent good. It is an organization that strives to help those less fortunate, but in return helps the fortunate volunteers as well. The program was safe, well organized and brought me happiness, great friends and lifelong memories.
I will forever be grateful to EDventure for opening my eyes to the different experiences that wait for me in the world. For helping me realize there are bigger issues than what is inside my blessed life. For making me realize how lucky I am and that my education should not be taken for granted. And for widening my horizons to the amazing people and cultures that are out there for me to learn from.
– Grace Healey
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