Fortaleza has arrived!!

Hola familia y amigos! 

Fortaleza has arrived safely in Nicaragua (with all our stuff)! We're currently getting settled into our hostel, and are getting ready to head to our first meal together. We had a successful night of travel, navigating the airport and getting to know more about each other.  We are doing well, albeit a little sleepy. Check back in over the next few days to hear more about our beginning adventures, after we catch up on sleep. :)

With love, 

The Fortaleza Cohort. 

The Final Countdown (bah bah bah bahhhh)

Hello!  Fearless leaders Rachel and Topher here with a pre-departure update from Portland.  For the past 10 days we have been planning and organizing our trip with the support of the amazing staff of Carpe Diem Headquarters here in Portland.

A few highlights of our training include spending a week at a rain-drenched riverside retreat center in Corbett, showing off our sweet skills in a laughter-filled game night, and binging on American comfort foods in our hostel (see photo evidence below). 

Having first been exposed to international living on a study-abroad year in Costa Rica during high school, Topher is getting pumped to be back in the land of rainforests and gallo pinto. Rachel also lived in Costa Rica for a year teaching English, and enjoyed her forays into Nicaragua while there. She is excited to transform into her Spanish speaking alter-ego “Raquelita” and laugh with all the monkeys.

It's hard to believe that in a few short days, we will finally be all together as a group embarking on a truly amazing adventure. We can’t wait to experience the wonder that is travel with all of you as we all grow, learn, and transform together.

Hasta prontito, y con mucho cariño,

Rachel and Topher

Teamwork makes the dream work. 

Teamwork makes the dream work.