Where Everybody Knows Your Name

Living as a minority in another country has opened my eyes in many ways to the struggles of immigrants living in the U.S.  Language and cultural barriers often seem completely overwhelming when trying to accomplish basic, routine tasks.  Just like in the U.S. there are some people who are wonderful and will do anything they can to help you.  There are also others who do not like gringos and will do anything they can to lie, cheat and make your life more difficult.  There are days when we all feel extremely frustrated with it all.

Thankfully, we have some places we can go to alleviate a little of the homesickness we often feel.  One of those places is our favorite hangout, La Palapa.  Picture an outdoor Cheers bar in the middle of Guatemala.  Not only do they have the best hamburger in Central America but it is a place where we can go at any time and talk with other expats from all over the world.  There is a common bond amongst the people on the bar stools in that we are all trying to live a simple life in one of the poorest yet most beautiful places on earth.

Every Thursday night is Trivia Night and anywhere from 25-40 internationals come out for completely random music, movies and (sadly no sports) questions.  The picture above is from one of our championship nights!  Each team pays Q50 to play and winners take home all the money.  It is amazing how just spending a night laughing and talking English can recharge the battery and lift our spirits.

One thing I am sure of is that when I return to the States, I will have an even deeper appreciate and understanding of those from another culture who uproot their lives and begin anew in another country.  Until then, I will remain grateful for the Guatemalan versions of Norm, Cliff, Sam and Diane.     - Brian