Altai Day 3-6

It was rainy yesterday and the day before, so we weren’t able to do a lot. However, yesterday afternoon we went to a ropes course, which was actually pretty impressive. Obviously, the safety standards aren’t comparable to the ones we have to follow in the US, but it looked reasonably safe. One thing I really like was that in America, the goal is for everyone to be challenged but ultimately complete the course, which means that some obstacles are not as hard as they could be. However, here they don’t care if people can’t make it through the obstacles, so there were some challenging ones. I had a blast, of course. The following day, we went on a hike to a grotto in the morning. The grotto itself wasn’t particularly impressive, but the hike was very nice. Later, we went on another hike to a mountain top that offers spectacular views of the surrounding areas. Although both hikes were probably only two or three miles each, they were super steep. Also, probably because trail-building in Russia occurs from locals using the paths, instead of a planned effort, none of the trails have switchbacks and instead just go straight up the mountain. It was exciting because I didn’t expect to be physically challenged here, but the leaders are serious about making sure the kids go on intense day hikes to prepare for our camping trip later.

Valeria at the Adventure Park

Dima and the other kids building a boat

At the top of the first hike

At the top of the second hike (same day!) with team leader Sasha

Same hike posing with fellow teacher Chloe

Apart from the excursions, daily life at camp is going well. Lessons are a struggle because the kids do not want to be in classes. There cabins are right across from the schoolroom, so sometimes they will ask to go to the bathroom and then just disappear. I’m not strict about attendance; I just try to tailor my lessons to the few kids who want to learn and only discipline the others if they are being disruptive. Outside of lessons, however, the camp is a lot of fun. I get to socialize with the kids a lot more, and I think they enjoy getting to know someone from another country. I haven’t gotten to know the older ones as well, but I’m tight with everyone under fourteen. The kids have also gotten slightly more enthusiastic about evening performances. A couple of the older kids got really into it, which means that the rest of their group pays attention when they perform. In general, this season is very different from last one. Although lessons are more frustrating, I enjoy every other aspect of this camp. Even the food is better here. It’s the same basic stuff, but the cook is great, so she is able to make things more edible. I’ve been here almost a week, and I haven’t had to open my cornflakes yet!