Life In Venezuela

Here we don't say "Gut Shabbos", for political reasons! The entire country smells from oil, seriously. Going in the hallway of our apt. building, we smelled it. The people are pretty layed back, to the extent that Rabbi Shui was able to make the same joke twice, ("That we should keep up to our nationality, and its never too late. and even the morning of camp, you can sign up!") and have people laugh both times. (Friday night, and Shabbos day.)

The Shul is gets a nice crowd on Shabbos, as well as 3 Minyanim daily. (Shachris 7 am. Poor us!) The Shul is also half Sfardi, so it keeps everything interesting.The exchange rate is 2500 Bolivares to the dollar!! So now walking around with 100 Grand in your pocket is normal! (and that's in only 2 Bills!)

Also for those familiar with Español, we have to learn the new dialect. With all the Y`s and H`s. But much less foul language. Also using words we never used before, like "Coger". It`s not that hard, just takes a bit of time. Also they don't kiss so much like Argentina, they just put they're hands on the other guys shoulder. The Shul has it`s magnets, one of which writes a column weekly in the newspaper, and published a book of the articles. He gave each of us a autographed copy of the book.

Being that the whole city is in a valley, from the area of the Shul / Our Apt. / The Camp has a beautiful view, down to the city, and up to the mountains. Both by day and night.

That's it for now. Coming soon, Report and photos of the first day.