Journeying through an exotic foreign land with unfamiliar peoples can oftentimes be frustrating. Hence when planning a trip, in order to assure an un-forgetful and educational experience, tour guides come in hand. Luckily, our group was blessed to have a credible, witty and knowledgeable tour guide; Papo. While exploring a diverse selection of Puerto Rican destinations, Papo was our leading light, with continuous relevant information concerned with his beautiful Island. Papo also coaches students how to grow into reliable tour guides; from witnessing his perfection and awareness of all the Island can offer, there is no doubt he will generate a new generation of proud tourist guides.
On December 31, 2009 Papo guided us through the distinctive and historic site of Fort St. Cristobal. Among the many things I learned from him, the following is a synopsis of the thorough and meticulous crafting of the mine tunnel, which was most intriguing. For starters, this marvelous and massive fort took 200 years to entirely finish since each time an intruder attempted to invade, the Spanish continued to expand. Strolling through the dim mine tunnels was one of the most captivating experience the fort offered. The tactical manner of which it was built clearly shows deep strategic planning on part of the Spanish. Since electricity hadn’t been invented yet, torches were used for light. A downside to this included excessive smoke buildup, however, considering their brilliant technique, the Spanish built openings in the ceilings of the tunnel which permitted air exchange, light, and even communication with soldiers on the other side. Furthermore, with no air conditioning, slits were made on one side of the tunnel, specifically the ocean side, allowing the cool breeze of ocean wind to fill the tunnel.
Further into the tunnel arriving at the dark, diminutive dungeon was surreal. Prisoners were fed bread and water, without being given the opportunity to use a specified area for defecation. With no choice the prisoners were living in their own excess waste, which consequently raised the amount of disease spreading amongst them.
As the in depth analysis of this breathtaking tour led by Papo came to an end, I found myself left with a sudden appreciation for history and all its complexities. That, is the essential enchanting touch of a tour guide like Papo.
What a lovely and lyrical piece. Your tribute to Papo is so sweet.
ReplyDeletePapo comes alive as an essential part of the trip that makes all the difference. It breaks the stereotypes of the boring tour guides whom we all try to avoid. He is informative and entertaining. Good for him and for you.
ReplyDelete