Coastal

Folks -

Right now I'm sitting next to a redheaded Jew as she beats a poor defenseless keyboard to death in Montañita Ecuador, the center of Ecuadorian surfing. We're nearing the end of week 2 of 5 on our southbound travels from Bogotá Colombia to Cuzco Peru.

But first, our 2-day stay in Puerto Lopéz Ecuador. The trip began after a sleepless 12 hour bus ride from Quito. Next time I'll take Dramamine. The dusty town of Puerto Lopéz is gateway to Ecuador's National Parque de Machalilla - home to a dry coastal forest (think Mojave desert brush fire heaven) and seasonal breeding ground of humpback whales (think dorks).

Monday, we body surfed in the Playa de los Frailes and yesterday saw humpback whales en route to and from Isla de la Plata - where I danced with blue footed boobies and Linda made giant albatross parents nervous as she clicked photos of their fledglings just beside the trail path.

When heading back to the mainland, we saw a whole flock of birds diving into a school of fish below, which were also being devoured by a carpet of dolphins sweeping across the ocean. They happily swam and jumped alongside our boat, bellies full. We passed them and turn around - only to see three humpback whales gallivanting about. Pictures to come!

Right now, in the surf capital of Montañita Ecuador, we're waiting for the tide to rise. Surf conditions here are okay - we're currently in their winter overcast off season, but I'm sure the place remains laid back and liquor full year round. One more day in the surf, soon to Guayaquil Ecuador.

Best,
Jackie

Image from: jackie

Isla

Image from: jackie

Feet Onboard

Boating to Isla de la Plata with Linda.

Image from: jackie

Towns

Hi folks -

We're just flying right through Ecuador...

Right now I'm in Quito. It's a beautiful city enclosed by a cauldron of mountains, volcanoes, and a massive statue of Mary overlooking the city (and my hostel in the Old Town).

Yesterday we had a great view from the bell towers of a Basilica in the middle of Quito. I rang the bells to celebrate the treacherous climb through winding stairs, steps and wooden planks...

Today we're going to enjoy the New Town in the north, ride in the ciclovia bike paths, and eat a 4-course lunch.

Next - to humpback whale watching and the best surf in Ecuador on the Southern coast!

Best,
Jackie

Image from: jackie

Cielo

Image from: jackie