Introducing Program Instructor Caitlin D: Central America Spring 2020

Buenas tardes a todos! 

My name is Caitlin and I’m going to be one of your program instructors during our 10-week adventure throughout Central America. I was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts but I now spend most of my time outside the USA and feel most at home when I’m on the open road. I studied Spanish and Studio Art at Skidmore College in upstate New York and after spending my junior year studying in Spain, I can’t seem to get rid of this wanderlust. I’ve been leading and developing student programs in Central and South America and Southeast Asia for the past ten years and I absolutely love being immersed in another culture and sharing my love of adventure, travel and cultural exchange with my groups. I’m also a yoga instructor and I thrive off of the peaceful energy that comes with compassion, connection, gratitude and self-love. 

Your other leader is Amelia and the both of us are super excited to meet you! We’re really looking forward to learning, trekking, diving, sailing, surfing, snorkeling, downward-dogging and exploring through these 4 amazing countries. We are both here to answer any questions you may have before you leave for Central America. I encourage you all to prepare yourselves as best as possible by reading some information about the history, culture and politics of the countries we'll be visiting (what are these Mayan ruins all about??), practicing a few key Spanish phrases and making sure you are staying active. Most importantly though, you should arrive in Tulum with an open mind and ready to soak up all that you can! 

As you are packing, please make sure to stick to the gear list and try to pack as light as possible. We will be mostly in warmer/tropical climates throughout our program (great for packing light!), but efficient layers are key for our time spent at higher elevations (mainly Guatemala), including the astounding Acatenango volcano we'll be trekking. You'll be surprised with how much you can live without (plus, you'll want to leave some room for the new stuff you'll find at the incredible markets we’ll visit)! The food is delicious in Central America and you will find most everything you'll need but past participants have suggested bringing some protein or cliff bars to stash away for some extra energy for hiking trips and travel days, as well as parts of the itinerary where we stay in more remote locations. Also, it's important to stay hydrated while you're here, so please make sure to be prepared and bring your filter water bottle along with another water bottle/nalgene. Feel free to bring something for group entertainment as well (Cards, Bananagrams, etc.)

Again, if you have any specific questions or need some advice about what to bring, don't hesitate to email me or get in touch on Facebook.  

Happy packing, safe travels, and we will see you in Cancun! Can’t wait!