This morning we all got up early, to go to Yosemite National Park. After a two hour ride, which most of us used to nap a little or watch a movie, we finally arrived at the park. We all were amazed by the view out of the window. First we all got the chance to talk to a park ranger, who told us about the bears and some other animals which live in the park. After that we all went to have an early lunch so we were ready for the hike. We took a shuttle to trail and it was already pretty hot in the valley. The trail was pretty steep and with the noise of the water getting louder, we knew we came closer to the waterfall. Even we all got soaked wet on the way up it was really worth it since we had an awesome view from up there over the valley. Some of us stayed up there for a little but most of us went down to rent a bike and enjoy a ride through the woods, where we could see some old Redwood trees. When everybody got to the restaurant, we all were pretty hungry and happy to go back to the hotel even though we could spend more time there. When we reached the hotel most of us jumped in the pool or got ready for San Fransisco.
Bente Christen from Germany
Felix Nordmeyer from Germany
Listening to a Ranger Bear Talk
A Real Bear Skull!
The group with a bear pelt.
Welcome to Yosemite's Vernal Falls
The water was sooo high!
What great views.
Relaxing on the Rock
Yosemite Hiking
Yosemite Baby!
Taking a Break on a Log
I want to ride my bicycle.
Ready to Ride
Hannes pouting while he waits for dinner.
Cool Dudes
The Ladies After a Long Day
Hi There! I'm the YFU Chaperone along for this trip - helping out the Belo staff. This is my first trip with Belo and my first time to the Southwest US - and I'm so amazed at how wonderful the experience has been! We've got a fantastic group of students - they are all so much fun, very respectful, and simply a joy to travel with! I wanted to take a moment tonight for the sake of all the parents reading, to let you know, from a parent's persepective, what a tremendous opportunity this has been for the students - I never imagined how first-rate the trip would be - with perfect attention to every detail to ensure the trip is fun and safe for everyone. The staff are very well-trained, with excellent understanding of teenagers and incredible knowledge of the places we are visiting. It is truly the trip of a lifetime and I hope my own children will be able to one-day participate in such an adventure. We've packed in every moment with one incredible experience after another - from the majesty of the Grand Canyon, to the glitz of Vegas, Star-studded Hollywood, magical Disneyland, and today's awe-inspiring hike up the massive falls of Yosemite - with one stop left in historic San Francisco still - I am grateful to Belo and all of the wonderful exchange students for making this a drean-come-true trip!
~Karen Maduschke,
YFU alumna, host mom, and volunteer for over 20 years
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