PAX - Program of Academic Exchange is a program of PAX Laurasian Exchange and is designated by the U.S. Department of State as a J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program sponsor.

Dane experiences some of Earth's most beautiful places out west

We've had a wonderful time showing Naja, who is from Denmark, our area of the country. Here in southern Utah, we live relatively close to many national parks and monuments, so we've visited a few since she arrived in early August. One of Naja’s favorites was Bryce Canyon National Park. As it happens, it's one of our favorites too. So many beautiful vistas, and the weather was great. We also visited the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park, and took a day trip to Las Vegas during Labor Day weekend, shopping at a large mall, M&M World, Hershey World, visiting the fountains and Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio, and taking in the spectacle that is the Las Vegas Strip—brightly, busy, exaggerated.

It was different from anything Naja had seen before. It was great to see it new through her eyes. We also enjoy sharing information about Danish and American culture and discovering the differences and similarities between the two. We look forward to seeing what the coming months bring, with more travel, quiet family times, and cultural exchange.

—Amy Niemeyer (UT), host mom of Naja (Denmark)