Kathmandu— In a rare cross-cultural journey, an 84-year-old Nepali woman traveled across the United States in the 1980s, experiencing American life firsthand. Vishnu Maya Gurung, known as “Aama,” was invited on the trip by Broughton Coburn, a former Peace Corps volunteer who had lived in her village in Nepal’s Syanja district during the 1970s.
Over the course of her journey, Aama visited iconic landmarks such as Disneyland, Yellowstone National Park, and Niagara Falls. She also observed modern American agriculture, including high-speed wheat farming. However, what stood out most to her was not the country’s technological advancements but the warmth and generosity of its people.
Coburn, who initially went to Nepal to teach, later reflected on the journey’s deeper impact. “I went to Nepal to teach, but I ended up learning. Aama came to America to learn, but she ended up teaching,” he said.
Aama’s visit highlighted the power of cultural exchange, showcasing how human connections can bridge vast differences. Her journey remains a testament to the lasting impact of people-to-people diplomacy.
