Today is May 16th, and I’ve been abroad for twelve days now—time is just flying by. When I first landed in Belize, I was full of emotions: excitement, nervousness, anxiousness—all hitting me at once. This is my first time outside the country alone and my very first solo flight, so it was a huge relief just to feel solid ground again. 

Stepping into a completely new world with a group of people I had only met once before was daunting. But those strangers quickly became my lifeline, my companions, and now, my friends. 

Belize has been nothing short of magical. Back home, I used to admire the stars on clear nights—there wasn’t much light pollution where I grew up. But what I see here is beyond comparison. The moon glows with an intensity that lights up the entire beach at night, and the stars sparkle like they’ve been polished just for us. It’s a sky that makes you feel small in the best way possible. 

The people here have been just as beautiful as the scenery. During our first week, the local guides welcomed us with such warmth. One of them, Hubert, stood out. He took all of us under his wing, sharing stories, showing us hidden gems, and treating us like family. He makes it feel truly like a home.

Every day here feels like a gift. I came looking for a new experience, but Belize is giving me something even more meaningful—a sense of connection, wonder, and peace.