On June 15th, 2009, I departed on an amazing adventure with a group of people from Raleigh, NC to a foreign land, widely known as El Salvador. They called us the “AIM team,” “Ambassadors In Mission,” or sometimes we were identified as “that group of people with the brown shirts.” Our main goal while in this land was to partner with an organization called “Castillo del Rey,” translated as “King’s Castle,” and present programs that included skits, songs, and games, to display the gospel of Jesus Christ to children and adults alike.
While reflecting on this missions trip, I discovered many fundamental details that made this trip an exceptional success.First of all, one has to have an open mind towards living with others.For example, we were a group of approximately 50 people, sharing two toilets and two showers for five of the ten days we stayed in country; quite hard to imagine, but with an organized schedule of who showered when, we did it.Being the huge group that we were, we traveled by way of two buses the entire time we were in El Salvador.There wasn’t much to do on the bus besides talk or conserve energy by sleeping, but some of us found interesting ways to make use of that time…by pulling pranks, of course!One of the nationals was “conserving energy” on the floor of the bus, (picture 1), when one of the girls squirted water on his face, continuing the water-bottle fight they had started (on the bus) last night.
Secondly, I recommend that one know how to improvise when going to El Salvador; trust me, the need will arise.One time, we had many children ready to watch the program, but the sound system wouldn’t work.We found a broom, formed a circle with the children, and made up a game to entertain them while the sound system was being worked on (picture 2).Another time, one of the clown make-up artists wasn’t happy with the way she had done one clown’s make-up, so she started to wipe it off once we were on the bus.What she didn’t know was that the other bus had the box full of make-up, and we had none; therefore, we were forced to improvise (picture 3).
I end with this final tip: every trip to El Salvador should consist of some fun, whether it is the random act of learning a new trick, or going to a resort to relax for a day.While eating lunch one day, one of our leaders taught us how to whistle with our hands; it sounds impossible to do, but after one learns the trick, it’s pretty fun.The YouTube video shown below shows one of our team members producing this train-whistle sound, using our leader’s trick.We spent the last day of our stay in El Salvador at a resort, complete with an amazing view of the ocean, shaded hammocks, a delectable lunch, a kiddy pool and a spectacular water slide.What made this water slide exceptional were the adventures the life guards let us have on it.I’ve been on my fair share of water slides in America, but none of the life guards there could ever compare to the ones at this resort.These life guards let us get away with wrestling down the slide (picture 4), and speeding down it in long, crazy groups (picture 5), sometimes backwards!
In El Salvador, I experienced life-changing events with an AIM team (picture 6) I care about, something I consider to be the biggest key of all.
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0 Replies to “The Keys to a Successful Trip to El Salvador”
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I had the chance to experience Denmark during the Christmas season, and it’s something I’ll always hold close to my heart. Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen felt like stepping into a storybook. The way the entire park was dressed in soft, glowing lights, handmade decorations, and the comforting scent of mulled wine in the air made every moment feel special.
There’s a unique warmth about this place that isn’t just from the cocoa or winter drinks, but from the people, the laughter, and the little traditions scattered around every corner. Watching families gather, children’s faces light up at the sight of the reindeer, and the simple joy of wandering through beautifully decorated stalls reminded me how lovely the holiday season can be.
It’s not just about the decorations or the rides — it’s the feeling of togetherness, the calm, and the way time seems to slow down so you can really take in the small, meaningful moments. I left with a heart full of good memories and a deep appreciation for the charm and kindness of Danish traditions.
If you ever get the chance to visit, I promise it’s a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
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Thank you for such praise, I am glad I could present the material in a way that made you want to see and experience St. Augustine’s Black history for yourself.
Of course, this beach town has lots more to offer but if you are willing to walk the lanes and dig a little bit, the history of the first Blacks and how much they contributed to protecting the colony is fascinating.
Hope you get there and enjoy your trip.
Your trip sounds absolutely incredible! Lisbon is truly a magical city, and your experience during the EuroCup must have made it even more special. If anyone reading this is planning a trip to Lisbon, I highly recommend taking a free walking tour to explore the city’s rich history, charming streets, and hidden gems with a local guide. You can check out this great option: https://www.guruwalk.com/lisbon. It’s a fantastic way to get an insider’s perspective on the city!
It’s iin reality a great and helpful piece oof info.
I’m satisfied that you shared this helpful information with us.
Please keep us informed like this. Thank you for sharing
Great content for cruise lovers !! One of the most advantage of cruising is you do not have to pick your luggages every day , and every day you discover a new country. Although one day is not enough to see everything it gives an idea about a country ! With my experience since 2007, 99,9% of my guest said that Kusadasi/Turkey is their favorite port among all the other ports. Because we have a lot of options for every traveler. The most popular places , if your ship is docking at Kusadasi, is Ephesus ancient city which is only 25 min. drive away. Ephesus was the 4th largest ancient city of the world in 2 c AD.Most of the ruins are reconstructed and gives an idea about Roman’ glorious times. If you ever visit Ephesus, I suggest you to see Terrace Houses , where the rich were living and houses are decorated with beautiful mosaics and frescoes from 3rd c AD.If you want to add a spiritual break , thats House of Virgin Mary is there. It is believed that she was taken by St. John the apostle to there.Another place you must see Ephesus Museum.. Forget all that boring museums you have seen . While guiding , I explain the most interesting artifacts , including original staue of Artemis. BTW. did you know that one of seven wonders of ancient world was located there? Well… not so much left , but it is still worth to be seen. If you ever visit Kusadasi,and want to have private tour, please feel free to contact with me ! I am very happy to answer your questions and customize your trip to Ephesus. Please visit my website,not only for Ephesus trip but also to get an idea about my beloved country Turkey/Turkiye. You can see different types of tours that I organize. Archaeological , culinary or lets customize your tour to Turkey together!! luxurytoursofturkey.com/