Today we had an incredible tour of Cotopaxi volcano. Cotopaxi means “the neck of the moon” and is a sacred mountain, a place of the gods and sender of rain for the Andean people. It did feel very spiritual being in this ancient place. We were mostly alone with our sweet guide, Wilson. We did run into a group of mountain climbers at lunch, but not many folks around.

We just came from Galapagos. Oh my. One of the most spectacular places on the planet. It was discovered by Charles Darwin in 1835. He was there via the HMS Beagle for only 5 weeks, but it contributed to his theory of evolution by natural selection.

Galapagos is 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador…volcanic islands famous for unique plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. It’s a living laboratory today and is a national park highly protected by the government and conservation organizations. They really do an incredible job of sustainability.

We flew into San Cristobal, saw many, many sea lions, went to the beaches and had a tour of turtle breeding centers. We stopped at a volcanic crater to watch the frigate birds take a shower in the water. Frigate birds are pretty rude-they steal food straight out of the mouths of other birds. But they are cool.

We were so lucky that the sky cleared to allow us to witness the lunar eclipse around 2.30am and I set some intentions. We’ll see. Eclipses are powerful.

Took a speed boat which is a whole thing to get from island to island. It’s a bizarre system that the locals have figured out. You stand in line, get a tag, get shuttled to a water taxi and then over to a bigger boat. Don’t forget to pay the $1 to the water taxi! You are potentially getting wet the whole time. Once you get on the main boat, it takes 2-3 hours to get to the next island. Depending on weather, it could be a smooth ride or holy hell. We needed two boats to get back to our island on the last day. It was pouring rain the whole time. The seas were rough. The boat would go over waves and your body would lift up a lot and then be thrown back down on the seat. Jeff, sweet soul, helped a fellow passenger throw up. Others were leaning over the back puking. Connie and I were holding on for dear life. This was a two hour and then second boat was three hours. We were soaked and all our luggage as well. Not the best day of the trip.

Besides that, Galapagos is so worth it. The place is pristine, the people have such pride and prioritize the eco system, animals and plants over the dollar. The oceans are clean compared to Thailand where the pollution is at an all time high and also the tourists.

Ok! Let’s talk about the blue footed boobies! This was my motivation for going to Galapagos and they did not disappoint! The birds are the cutest, in my opinion in the world. The male does a big show and dance for his female prospect. He is showing off his very blue feet. They are blue because of their diet and the carotenoids. The more blue, the healthier the bird and hopefully he will be able to provide for her. Connie, Jeff and I took a boat out with a small group. We got to see these birds hanging out with penguins. The only warm water penguins on earth. It was magical. Then we snorkeled with sea turtles, beautiful circus fish and one shark. Yikes! I’m not the best at snorkeling, but this was amazing. A large turtle popped up directly behind me. Connie got a laugh. Huge highlight.

For my birders at home. Wow. Ecuador is the 4th most diverse place for birds. I saw so many gorgeous birds.

We rode bikes on Isabela Island to the Wall of tears. A preacher in the 1950’s tortured police and army members who made mistakes. These men were shipped to Galapagos. They were forced to build a wall of volcanic rocks. The prisoners were crying in the extreme heat and many died building this wall that was for no reason.

International travel helps me connect the dots about the world, but also about my life. It is so important to learn about other cultures in my opinion. Americans have a lot, a lot to learn how others do things. Our way is obviously not the best on many topics. I’m grateful to have this snapshot of Ecuadorian history and lifestyle. I would say it’s one of my favorite countries to visit.

Travel Tips

When you are in this part of the world, prepare to be wet. And not just a little wet. Soaked to the bone with wet luggage, feet in wet shoes all day that are like pickles at the end of the day. Bring ziplock bags for phones and passports.

The local guides were crucial to our understanding of the culture and environment. We grew very attached to them. They were like living google but way more knowledgeable.

We head home tomorrow to a nation under fire and being destroyed by a rogue government.

A constitutional crisis.

I have business issues and personal challenges.

And I have faith. We can do hard things.

Until next time. Croatia? Who’s in?!