Since early September, we have been in one of our favorite
places in the world, Southern Spain. Also known as Andalucía, this
region stretches from the
the sunny shores of the Mediterranean on its southern border to the
Atlantic
coast below Portugal on its western border. The arid yet
flourishing mountain valleys of Granada Province are to the east.
Andalucía offers an incredible wealth of
culture
and history. We take regular trips to experience
some of the amazing treasures from Spain's rich past, from walking
through Medieval Castles, exploring Roman Ruins, or visiting Baroque
Cathedrals to taking
lessons in the gypsy rhythms of the Flamenco Guitar or watching a
Bullfight, there is no end to the opportunities for new experiences.
Being
a travel-based program, we are accustomed
to settling into new places for a semester. Each new place has its
excitement
and its challenges, both culturally and often in terms of the basic
infrastructure (such as establishing internet connection to be able to
regularly post blog updates such as this one!). However, no matter where
we are, we
have invariably had great luck in finding spectacular places to live. We
have settled into two quiet villas that sits between two ridges,
with a perfect view of the Mediterranean sunset. On the only neighboring
property, there
is a 500 year old torre, or tower, that rises
above the seascape. This watch tower was used to guard against the invading
ships coming from the Barbary Coast of Africa. Below the house, there is
an
trail that goes down to the beach, where we spend time snorkeling,
marveling at the marine life, and avoiding
the jelly fish.
As
always, our
students continue to progress with their academic course work, record
music and practice Spanish. One of our 16 year
old students is quickly mastering the genre of Dubstep; while were
initially skeptical
of this genre of music, due to its faddish nature and the use of
many detuned instruments, there is no question that he brings
awareness of
composition and skilled musicianship to all his songs. At the rate he is
going, he will have a full album ready for release this coming year.
Another 18 year old student continues to
wow with his skills on the guitar. At first, what was remarkable was his
speed, feel, and dexterity in playing solos and scales, but this is
being
overshadowed by his emerging talent as a singer and songwriter. A
Pathways staff member is also nearing completion of his own newest
album, a compilation of
original songs, many of which feature former Pathways students.
We
are excited to be moving to Panama after the new year! This new
location in Central America will allow us to explore the rainforest and to continue with
Spanish Immersion and music as well as bring us a host of community
service opportunities.
Tel: (208) 980-7173
Email: pathwaysedu@yahoo.com
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