Giving Thanks

LifeTRAVELED is thankful for courageous participants who immerse themselves in a new culture to challenge themselves and contribute to the United States’ efforts to promote peace and goodwill among nations through the connections made and experiences had on exchange visitor programs.

We invited our participants to share what they are most thankful for this season…

“As the season of Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself reflecting on the immense blessings that have enriched my life, and it is with a heart full of gratitude that I write down this letter.

And I am truly thankful for peace and democracy because these principles are seen as essential for stability, prosperity, and the protection of individual rights and freedoms.

I would like to express my gratitude for this year; the opportunity that I got the chance to go to the UNITED STATES and experience their culture is a indeed blessing and gratitude that I can cherish forever! Thank you to my Agent (Three Lions) and my Sponsor (LifeTraveled) for making it possible

And for the extraordinary generosity in extending a complimentary 30-day stay at the exquisite hotel has been nothing short of a profound gift (the Margaritaville Hotel). The warmth with which the company welcomed us and the genuine kindness exhibited by the staff have transformed my stay into a haven of comfort and joy. The commitment to hospitality goes beyond the walls of the hotel; it resonates in the hearts of those fortunate enough to experience it.

Equally deserving of my deepest thanks is my cherished Chef Instructors:  Chef Michael and Chef John. Their kindness, generosity, and exceptional understanding in imparting their culinary wisdom have been a guiding light on my educational journey. Each lesson is not just an academic experience but a masterclass in empathy and encouragement. Their dedication to nurturing a love for the culinary arts is truly commendable.

Truly, it is a grateful feeling to experience to work with my Cheffys: Jenny for all the generosity kindness she always gave me and for always making me laugh thank you so much you didn’t know how grateful I am for making my day at ease; for Perla for always being kind and sharing your knowledge and wisdom on how you do your preparation thank you so much I learned a lot to all your ideas; for Ruben because without you I won’t be the best version of myself specially when it comes in cooking; for Maria for giving me a BIG HUG whenever she’s coming it makes me feel comfortable like I am; for Fayza I really appreciate all the kindness you showered to me. I am grateful that I have you all for being my coworker to being my big sisters who always there for me. I DO APPRECIATE ALL YOUR EFFORTS I will cherish you all forever!

And last but not the least I AM FOREVER GRATEFUL for my family and partner for their unconditional love and support they gave to me. I am forever blessed for having them in my life and specially to our almighty God. I am super blessed for always guiding and protecting me throughout the day. Thank you so much for all the blessings. 

This Thanksgiving, I count these experiences among my many blessings, and it's only fitting to extend my heartfelt thanks to you and to everyone who put a big impact into my life. Your contributions have not only enriched my life but also created lasting memories that I will forever cherish.

May this season of Thanksgiving bring joy, abundance, and moments of reflection on the kindness that connects us all. Here's to expressing gratitude, creating memories, and savoring the richness of life.” Jemia, Intern

“Receiving a knife from the head chef is the most beautiful thing that has ever happened this is Thanksgiving for me. Thanks to all.” Vatsal, Trainee

“Here we get new friends from different countries but still everyone work like happily and help each that’s the very thankful for me to survive in USA.” Nikhil, Intern

“Thanksgiving for me is to appreciate each and everything which this life is offering me and just appreciating everybody in my life. I am really thankful to everyone who supports me in my life: my parents, my friends, and my family. This year is really life changing for me. I came to USA which I never thought that it will be possible, but my parents believed in me and my dream, so they always supported me. My friends always keep cheering me about everything I want. When I got here, everybody in my hotel supported me so much. I am really thankful for each and everything I am getting in my life.” Radheshyam, Intern

“Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends to spend time and express gratitude for the good things in life that God gave to us and also another thing I love about "thanksgiving" is the food!” Katelene, Intern

“I'm thankful for being able to successfully start my training in the US. During the pandemic, I sometimes felt it difficult to keep my motivation for challenging the training. But I was happy that my effort and endurance bore fruit.
I also really appreciate my family and friends encouraging me to chase my dream of going to the US.” Aimi, Trainee

“I am thankful to be in the United States this year. Thank you very much for giving me this opportunity. I never in my slightest dreams had thought that I would be here someday, But thanks to you , I am.” Gaurav, Intern

“Thanksgiving for me is the friends and experiences I encountered in Hawaii. I am grateful for the culture and experiences that I couldn't feel in Japan. I am also thankful for my family in Japan. I hope that the friends I met and my family are happy. Thank you!” Kazuhiro, Intern