So today was my second lesson at the Ixchel Spanish school. I’m only studying for a week at 4 hours a day. So a total of 20 hours. Which is about the same amount of time I studied in Australia. Its all one on one and the school is quite packed. Must be well over 40 students and a teacher for each one of them. While i’m not only learning espanol i’m learning a bit from my teacher Luis as well. Plus he is learning all about the election in Australia and the drought.
We compared water bills as well. Q10 in Antigua and no water restrictions. I believe in Quetzales my bill would be close to Q450 per month and i can only use the water for a few things.
I have a stack of cards on them with verbs on them to learn them. Some are quite easy and others i still have no idea. Anyway i guess i have more homework tonight (tarea is espanol for homework).
Oh finally the sun came out today. I saw Volcan Agua. It’s a lot bigger in person than the photos show. It just towers above Antigua. It is extinct, so worrying parents relatives and friends can breathe a sigh of relief until tomorrow, when i go to Volcan Pacaya which is very much active and should be some lava to see.
Volcan Agua and the arch
I’ve also noticed i’m in a small travellers stereotype. You’ve got the students/backpackers/europeans who are all trying to live on $20 a day. I think i’ve over budgeted for Guatemala, which is good because Costa Rica is more expensive.
Not many people seem to travel on vacation from a paid job. Alot of retired people and a few RTWer’s but not many on a shortish trip.
Anyway its good I don’t have the stress of money everyone else seems to have. In fact the spanish school director looked shocked when i just paid him upfront in full.
That said i’m not about to book into expensive hotels. Not for me sorry. A nice basic hotel room is all i need.
I’m also able to afford the luxury of spending Q40 ($6) on meals. This morning I think i found one of the best omelettes ever. Not good for me mind you, but i’ll be back tomorrow. I got an omelette with cheese and bacon, a fruitcup, 2 slices of home baked bread and all the tea/coffee i could drink.
Have some postcards to write out. Don’t be offended if you don’t get one. Thats what this is for. But kids love postcards, so i’ll try and send one to those little rascals who love getting mail.
Adios.
The Arch in Antigua