We kicked off another study abroad summer in Paros this week! We have 16 students this year eager to see the splendor of the island and document some of its archeological wonders. But not so fast… Unfortunately, for many of our students, the timing of their arrival coincided with a two-day ferry strike (that was extended to four) and an air traffic control slow-down. Let’s just say this resulted in a less than ideal first international travel experience for many, which included lost luggage, delayed flights, missed connections, and interminable waiting in various airports. But I am happy to report that as of last night everyone has finally arrived safely, with at least most of their sanity intact (if not their luggage.) This is the first time we have had any issues like this, and hopefully, it will be the last.
Earlier yesterday, with about half of our students on the island, we spent the day getting situated. We roamed Parikia and took care of the basics like showing students the way around, getting cash, buying groceries, and checking out restaurants. My favorite time yesterday was a couple of hours spent playing chess at The Micro Café. The Micro is owned and operated by Colin Brown, who did the voice over for our videos last year, and his wife, Stella. It was a favorite hang-out last year, and by all indications yesterday it will be again this summer. About eight of us played chess on two boards in what was spirited and fun time for all. I had not played chess in decades, and some students had never played before. So it was great to initiate the uninitiated and get to know one another over games. If that experience is any indication, our students will get along great.
As we sat there playing, it became one of those rare moments for me where I was undistracted by any other tasks or demands and was just enjoying the simple pleasure of being fully in the moment. Chess is much more fun than I remembered. Meanwhile, poor Albert was sitting at the Paros airport waiting 90 minutes for a delayed flight. I am sure Albert was in a moment too, just not a very pleasurable one. Sorry about that Albert. Next time I’ll take on a thankless task, and you can play chess.
Today we will give everyone the day off to recover and put their travel horrors behind them. Tomorrow we will have an official tour of the town and then get officially started with class on Saturday. So it is time to bring on the splendor and those archeological wonders!
Written by C. Thomas Lewis