Margarita Island with my Students

November of 2022 I was asked if I would accompany some staff and students on a field trip to Isla de Margarita (Margarita Island) in January. After Googling it for 15 seconds, I quickly said yes. A work-sponsored trip to a beautiful place with awesome people? Don't mind if I do.

In this case, my usual avoidance of student-related activities outside of office hours was suspended as the kids were a part of the grade 11 and grade 12 cohorts at my school. And I rather like my grade 11 & 12 kids. They are good-natured, polite, and have a positive attitude about life. And they are pretty fun when they want to be. I actually enjoy teaching them.

With this in mind, the Margarita trip was a no-brainer.

We started the first day with a boat tour of some wetlands. Laguna de la Restinga National Park had snakes, starfish, pelicans, and a variety of other interesting species. This was followed up by a tour of a local aquatic museum.

The lead science teacher, Ms. Morón, said these ecosystems were her inspiration as a child to study science. I can't say I blame her.

That evening, Ms. Morón booked us a catamaran to go out and watch the sunset. It was a long day, but wonderful to reconnect with nature.

The following day we geared up with half a dozen 4x4 vehicles to tour the island. We essentially did a figure 8 and had lunch at western edge before heading back.

Filippo!

Reminded me a bit of Arizona. The arid landscape and cacti gave the island a desert feel.

And back to the water's edge.

Me and Claudio.

I got my snorkeling fix in and found some awesome shells. On one of our boat trips I was able to get some (subpar) videos of some cool fish and weird mammals splashing about.

Nearing the end of our excursion, we had the opportunity to visit some historical sites and lighthouses.

I got the hookup for special permission to run up the stairs of one of the lighthouses. Here was my view.

And old fortresses.

Me and Sebastian.

We finished it off with a hike to the island's "peak". It was great to get some exercise and a view the of island. The students kept saying how it was their favorite part of the whole thing. They seemed to enjoy it so much, they asked if instead of a graduation party, we all go on a hike instead. Our school's administrators said it was a great idea, so all graduation parties this year will be replaced by intense, 8-hour hikes up steep mountains.

Daniel, Jesus, and NIIIIIIICK!!!!

At the top.

Oh! And how could I forget our stop by Waterland to see some imprisoned dolphins.

Mother nature is wonderful. Every part of it.

Haha my students and colleagues hate these guys. I love them though. Like little dinosaurs getting it on!

Cheers to all my wonderful students and colleagues. Thanks for the great trip.