By Callie Penick

Today in Guatemala we went exploring two towns that showed me different perspectives. San Marcos was quiet and peaceful, but it also surprised me with an amazing cliff-jumping spot on old Mayan ruins. The town felt small and tucked away, almost like a hidden place on the lake. Because it was so tiny, we actually had to split into small groups to find places to eat since the restaurants didn’t have much room. It was different, but also nice because it made the stop feel even more personal. After lunch, almost everyone ended up getting gelato before heading back to the ferry, which added to the calm, simple vibe of San Marcos. Even with its peaceful atmosphere, the cliff jumping made the town feel exciting and unforgettable. I also loved walking around the town after lunch, noticing the welcoming people and quiet streets, which made it feel even more special.

San Juan, on the other hand, was full of culture and tourists, and we were taught how cotton is cleaned, spun, and turned into colorful yarn. Walking through the town, everything felt more alive and busy. People were selling handmade items, colors hung everywhere, and the sound of conversations filled the streets. Watching the women show us how they turned cotton into yarn by hand made me realize how much patience and tradition goes into something that seems so simple. It was fascinating to see how this process has been done for generations and is still a big part of their life in the town today.

Today, I realized that taking a ferry from one town to another reveals just how different these towns can be from each other. As our boat approached San Marcos, the town appeared small and peaceful. Its quiet shoreline welcomed us with a sense of calm. But on the ride to the next town, the difference came clear right away. This town was larger, louder, and filled with tourists. When I stepped off the ferry, its energy replaced the calm town I had just left. It felt like going from one world to another in just a short boat ride.

Traveling to these towns in Guatemala made me realize that small towns, no matter where you are in the world, hold their own kind of beauty. San Marcos helped show me the peace in quiet spaces, and San Juan showed me the strength and traditions of the community. When I think about home for me, Mathews, VA, I saw the same things. Calm mornings, staying connected, and friendly people. Even though Mathews looks nothing like these towns in Guatemala, the feeling of closeness and simplicity is the same. Seeing these qualities in a completely different place helped me appreciate home even more. It made me realize that no matter where I travel, I can always find little towns that remind me of home and teach me new things at the same time.