“The Christmas party organized by Kalahari was very nice and welcoming. I really enjoyed the food and had the opportunity to meet people from different parts of the world.”
-Fabiana Guillen
Work & Travel
Your Stories
Real Stories, Real People
Where Cultures Met at Midnight
“One of the most beautiful experiences of the program was during Christmas. We were given a turkey, and we all cooked together. While waiting for midnight, we shared our cultures, traditions, and special moments, making the celebration warm and meaningful.”
-Stephanie Caceres, Peru
Work & Travel
Christmas Time – Alondra
“On Christmas Eve everyone was reunited and cooked together. Along with friends from Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Malaysia, we baked a turkey with homemade dressings and spent the entire night enjoying each other’s company. The best part of the program is the friends I make along the way. I had the opportunity to meet truly amazing people, and I feel very fortunate to have them in my life.”
-Alondra Alarcon, Peru
Work & Travel
A World of Opportunity: Inside the J-1 Trainee Experience
“I feel extremely excited, happy, and grateful to be part of the J-1 training program. This is a wonderful opportunity for me to grow both professionally and personally. I’m truly thankful for the chance to learn, develop new skills, and experience such an amazing program.”
-Carlos Jaimes Soto
Hospitality and Culinary Trainee USA
From Venezuela to the USA: A Culinary Internship
“My J-1 program in the USA was incredible and truly changed my life for the better. Everywhere I go, I always recommend your organization.”
–Eduardo Leslie, Venezuela
Hospitality and Culinary Internship USA
From Indonesia to the USA: A Culinary Internship
The most rewarding experience for me was receiving the Flex and Flow Award at The Abbey. It was a meaningful recognition for my hard work and adaptability, and it made me feel truly appreciated as part of the team. I also had several memorable experiences outside of work. I went on a trip to Las Vegas, enjoyed a cruise on Lake Geneva, and explored Chicago during winter. These activities were unforgettable and gave me the chance to appreciate different cities and environments in the United States. Another highlight has been meeting and connecting with friends from many different countries. Being surrounded by people from diverse cultures has made my experience even more enjoyable and has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
-Kadek Agus Eka Prananda
Hospitality and Culinary Internship USA
From South Africa to the USA: A Culinary Internship Journey
My most memorable experience was seeing snow for the first time and exploring downtown Chicago. These moments, along with experiencing U.S. culture, have been the highlight of the program so far.
– Asisipho Mateta
Hospitality and Culinary Internship USA
I’m learning a lot and gaining more experience in my career!
- Paula Ruiz, Ecuador
Hospitality & Culinary Internship USA
From Dominican Republic to the USA: A Culinary Internship Journey
My most rewarding experiences are the richness of cultural exchange, professional growth, incredible gastronomy, and improvement in the English language.
– Marco Medina
Hospitality and Culinary Internship USA
From Kazakhstan to the USA: A Culinary Internship Journey
I really enjoy learning new things every day and working with people from all over the world. The program gives me a chance to improve my skills and discover more about American hospitality.
– Amina Bissengali
Hospitality and Culinary Internship USA
It gives me more than just professional training
This program is not only about work for me; it’s about inspiration for my future. I want to open my own business one day, and everything I’m learning and experiencing here motivates me to dream bigger.
– Takhmina Turkmanova
Hospitality and Culinary Internship USA
Learning , connecting with people and sharing cross cultural activities made this program truly meaningful for me
– Ryan De Guia, Philippines
Teacher Exchange USA
The Highlight of My J1 Journey
The best highlight of my J1 exchange program was the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture while forming meaningful connections with people from all over the world.
– Rheeza Aoalin, Philippines
Self arranged J1-Visa Program
I am excited and looking forward to share these experiences way back home!
The best highlight of the programs has been the balance between social life and work. Exploring places here in Hawaii has allowed me to experience the richness of Hawaiian culture while maintaining focus on my teaching responsibilities and be able to share these to my students. These moments have made my time here truly fulfilling.
– Mary Fritz Ongcoy, Philippines
Teacher Exchange USA
Growth and Teamwork at the Hotel
This month, the hotel has been very busy, and I’m still learning a lot. My chefs continue to teach me something new every day, which I enjoy the most. My co-workers are also very humble and generous when it comes to giving advice and sharing their knowledge. Since it’s my last month, I’ve had the opportunity to work in different stations throughout the hotel.
– Mary Elisha Cordova, Philippines
Self arranged J1-Visa Program
