We started our day at the high school and got picked up by one of these typical yellow American school buses. I was very excited to experience the real American field trip vibe. But having sat on one of these, I can say for certain that they aren’t the most comfortable seats there are. Well, after a 90-minute ride, we were thoroughly shaken and happy to step out of the bus and continue on foot. Luckily, the dark clouds had vanished from the sky and we could enjoy our arrival at Plymouth Patuxet in bright sunshine and with a beautiful view on the Atlantic ocean. 

I've always wanted to catch a glimpse of the past and travel back in time. Today this was possible! 

  

On Plymouth Patuxet there is an accurate replica of one of the first villages in the USA, originally founded by the first European settlers in 1620. There were actors who, by wearing the appropriate clothing and by using the language of the first settlers, really made us believe that we had landed in the year 1620. 

  

Additionally, we could visit a house as it was used by the Wampanoag, a Native American tribe. On the site, we were able to talk to representatives of the tribe and ask them questions. This led to many interesting discussions. 

 

  

Besides getting engaged in many exciting conversations, you could also participate interactively in the everyday life of the first settlers. 

  

For example, you could help them cook or simply play the same games as the children did at that time.  And for those who were already too tired or a little hungry, the cafeteria and the Gift Shop offered the perfect place to get a break. 

Just after we arrived back in Reading, I went to the cross-country meet of my host sister. The meet was held in a beautiful location. Surrounded by trees whose leaves were starting to turn orange and with the last rays of sunshine on our skin, we cheered for all the runners from Reading Memorial High School. 

  

All in all, it was yet another beautiful fall day here in Boston.

Anna