Today, we went to a banana plantation and a pineapple plantation. Viewing bananas growing from the plant was incredible, and the rich green color was great. Their sustainability practices for reusing old trunks of the plant are efficient. The pineapple farm was one of my favorite tours the whole trip. Sitting in the cart behind a pulling tractor was great to look at all the scenery and avoid the rain. The tour guide serving freshly picked pineapples was delicious. That was the most unique action so far in this study abroad experience. Logically, all the equipment is provided to the workers on the pineapple plantation. Pants, boots, long sleeves, hats, and sunscreen are all necessities because of the tall and pointy plants. 

Threats each company faces include animals, insects, and disease. For bananas, moles eat the roots of the plantains. Bananas are also grown in the same type. The disease can affect the whole population, putting bananas at considerable risk. Chemicals are used to help prevent moles and insects from interfering. In pineapple fields, there are many insects, such as moths. Certain red plastic baggies with a scent attract the animals away. Plastic bags over pineapples signify they are organic. The best pineapples are large and appear consistent, giving the sweetest and juiciest taste. 

If I could choose a job, I would choose a banana plantation. Coffee plantations seem more tedious than the rest and risk a high chance of interacting with snakes. I also would like to work on something other than a pineapple plantation. Wearing gear head to toe and awkwardly maneuvering the fields would not be a job to desire. It’s more of a job through the process of elimination.