The Happiest Place in the World

Well guys, I'm back at the grind (haha) and I'm here to let you in on my experience!
 
On December 29th, I left my family with tears in my eyes. This time leaving was so much harder. I spent the last few weeks with my friends and family. When I went to Ecuador the first time, I was so excited to start my new journey - and in the end it was incredible. This time was different. Not only was I sad to leave my family knowing that my brother would possibly be moving back home (and therefor I'd miss out on seeing my nephew grow), I was also nervous about how little I really knew about where I would be living.
 
I'll be honest, Colombia wasn't my first option. First, I didn't know anything about the country. Second, I didn't have much contact with the school I will be completing the practicum at and relied on my amazing profesora and friend. I figured, if she thinks it's a great idea, then I should too. But you know, all the negativity about Colombia made my decision even harder. Having family disagree with my decision and literally everyone's worried face when I told them where I was going made me doubt myself a little. So yeah, I shed a few tears when I had to leave.
 
Now that I am here? Man, I am so glad I didn't second guess myself (completely).
 
Life is here is quite a bit different. Aside from the +20 to +30 weather and enormity of the city (I think I've got the metro down now), the way people go about seems so much more tranquil. For example, tomorrow, teachers start school. Kids come the 19th. Do I know what I am teaching? Not yet. So that gives me 5 days to complete all my planning. Doesn't seem bad right? 5 days to plan. Well, it's a little different when back at home my friend have been planning for the last month.
 
I think one of the biggest lessons I'll learn here is how to be relaxed, to be patient, trust that things will work out. What is worrying going to do anyway? Maybe that's why they say Colombians are the happiest people.
 
I read an article the other day in the paper about this. It mentioned that happiness isn't necessarily related to the quality of life - I think I can see why. I've met now a few Colombians who have lived in the United States for years. Now they are back in Colombia. Why? Because there, everything is work, work, work. They mentioned that they missed out on time with their family and doing the things they enjoy. So they moved back. Back to a place that allows them more of a life outside of work. The article also mentioned that the majority of Colombians would stay here but if they could go anywhere else they would first choose Canada (go us!)
 
So why are Colombians so happy and what are they doing to improve?
 
Please read this with the knowledge that this is one local's story and that facts are explained in a very simplistic manner. Anyway, this is what I learnt on my Real City Tour from our guide Hernan.
 
Firstly, Colombians have selective memory. The country has a complicated history of violence. Instead of focusing on such traumatic events, they prefer to reminisce on the positive and look optimistically into the future.
 
A (very) Quick History Lesson (even quicker than Hernan's already quick version):
In the 1800's the land is settled by the Spaniards and their geography leaves them isolated for many years. In the 1850's the coffee industry explodes. In the 1980's the drug cartel appears.   The liberals elected a new president but he was assassinated. Liberals thought the Conservatives killed him so the liberals retaliated by murdering the Conservatives. The conflict went on between the two sides for ten years. Many people were affected by the violence and frustrated that they government wasn't doing anything to stop the attacks. The people banded together to create an illegal army - the guerilla (we will call this the left). The ones in danger from the guerilla also banded together (we will call this the right). Then comes in the drug cartel. So, now we have 4 parties involved; the government, the right, the left, and the drugs. Now, money will be the cause for the escalation of violence. Before it was politics and now it's business (the left and right continue to fight over the money). I find it quite interesting how Hernan explained that Colombia is the country at fault for the drugs. Yes, it's a country with the resources to produce such drugs, however, society runs on supply and demand. Colombia is blamed because they have the supply.In this time, the city was a lot more dangerous than it is now. There have recently been so many more developments throughout the city that makes it a more hopeful place. This is one of the reasons I like it so much.

 Parque de las Luces

As Hernan remembers from his childhood, this park usted to be a park of fear where you could not walk. Now, this square is filled with pillars that light up at night. What once was bad, has been turned into something good.

Democratic architecture has been built throughout the city to change the previous negative connotations.

One of my favorite places was San Anthony Square. Not because of its charm, or amazing views, but because of what it represents. This park is a symbol of the city's past and future.  Below, on the left, you can see one of famous artist Boltero's sculptures destroyed from a bombing. After the bombing, Boltero decided to leave the sculpture in place to show what people could do. Beside it, however, he created a replica sculpture. Hernan explained the one on the left is a symbol of his youth. The one on the right is a symbol of the new city.

Since Medellin is so mountainous, they have also built outdoor escalators to help people arrive quickly to their homes (rather than walking up the mountain). It is a way to connect all people to the city; "it makes the poorer people feel like they belong."

 

The metro is also another way of connecting the city. It's actually the nicest for of public transport that I have ever been on. Everything is so clean. Hernan says, "it's our way to connect to happiness, this is why you will never see vandalism." They also have cable cars that run up the mountain. For us tourists its a nice view - but I talked to the locals and they described how much easier it makes their life. It is quick and efficient unlike the buses they used to take, if not walking, through the winding steep hills.
 
A huge public library was also built up on the mountain. They provide not only books, but classes and music as well. (The big black shapes in the background of the photo below)
 








 





















What I like most about all of this, is that the people have remained positive and happy through all of this and that they are still trying to improve the quality of life for everyone. I think we can all learn from that.

Outcome

I must apologize to all of you who were keeping up with me on my adventure to Ecuador. It has been over three months since I have been back. It's been even longer since I have updated you on my trip. Since I have been home, I got a job, went on a few weekend trips, and now I am busy hitting the books. 

But I am sure you don't want to hear about that stuff. 

To summarize the last part of my trip.. I made my way from the south of the country, into the cloud forest, along the coast, and finally back to the amazon where I left my heart. 

Oh, and of course the Galapagos... A highlight of the trip.

I met many amazing people along the way. I met people who both directly and indirectly change my life; changed my thinking, my perspectives, my beliefs and values, my hopes and desired.

Each experience challenged me to face my fears, express my emotions honestly, and to believe in myself. 

I didn't just jump off a bridge. I faced a fear. Took a risk. 

I didn't just sit on the wrong bus and wind up 1 hour in the wrong direction.

 I made a choice and followed through until the end.

I didn't just tube down a river. I scraped my knees and hit the rocks. But I got back up after every bump.

I didn't just follow a boy. I followed my heart. Trusted myself. 

I didn't just live in a stranger's house. I made friends. Family.  

I didn't just give up when I was lost, confused, alone.

And in the end I felt incredibly free. I felt like me.

This experience has changed who I am as a person. I am confident, brave, trusting, compassionate. I am me. I am finally the person I have always wanted to be.

I am now able to continue my journey to self discovery.

Where will I end up next?

Vilcabamba

I left Loja Friday night to Vilcabamba. I took a taxi up the mountain to Hostal Izhcayluma. It was dark, but I knew the place was going to be gorgeous as the driveway was enclosed by forestry. I was a little concerned about the distance from the town, but I certainly do not regret staying at this retreat! I can't even begin to explain how incredible it is.

Bar area 

View from the Dining room

In the morning I woke up and ate a delicious breakfast - fresh squeezed juice, fresh fruit and bread, crepes, and coffee. I met some friends the night before and we decided to go on a hike. It was a 5 hour hike in the mountains and was called Izhcayluma Loop. Since the altitude is much higher than Guayaquil.. I had a really hard time (no, it wasn't because I am so out of shape.... and i blame my STILL achy muscles on the altitude as well.)

Just a little sketchy....

After our hike, we went for some well deserved pizza and beer at local restaurant. My friends had some Snake Liquor which was.... interesting. I think after dinner everyone was a little tipsy. The rest of the night was dancing. The next day was spent relaxing by the pool and figuring out where I will go next!

Looks tasty right?

Loja - Day 1

So I know its been a super long time since I have written, but I feel like now is a good time. 

I am at an internet cafe around the corner from my cheap little hostel in Loja. 

This is the first time I have travelled alone. All alone. I took a bus from Guayaquil at 11pm last night to travel 8 hours to get here. I made sure to get a seat at the front so that if I needed, I could easily ask the driver a question. After about ten minutes, one of the drivers asked me to move to he could fully recline his chair to sleep. I was a little reluctant because I really like sitting on the right side of the bus. More comfy to sleep. Anyway, I moved and it turned out to be for the better. There was no one sitting next to me the whole ride so I could sleep in any position I wanted. It was probably one of the better sleeps I have had on a bus! Some stranger kindly woke me up in the morning to let me know we had made it.

I grabbed my very full backpackers back pack that I bought for $23 at the market in Guayaquil, and stood awkwardly at the corner thinking... hmm, I wonder where I should go. People were rushing to get into a taxi, and there was me, Gringa Kelsey standing all alone, probably looking really lost, trying to decide where to go. I started to walk, then stopped myself because in reality, I had no idea where anything was. So I decided to hop in a taxi. I asked him if he could take me to an "economic hostal." It didn´t take long before he dropped me off. It was only 7 in the morning so when I went to check in, there were no beds. I went to the hostal next door. It really isn´t great to be honest, a room with a bed and a tv. Oh. And the window opens up to the shared bathroom (if I would have known that at first, I probably wouldn´t have taken it. Lesson learned... look around a little better.) Anyway, I was trying to ask the lady at the front desk if she had a map and which places I should go to. But she didn´t understand me. Huh, I could have sworn she looked like she spoke spanish! I know for certain it wasnt because of my lack speach!! She ended up being really unfriendly and I totally wanted to switch hotels but I didn´t want to lug my bag around a place I didn´t know. 

I started walking hoping that I could find some of the things I researched earlier. When I realized I had been walking for a really long time and probably wouldn´t find anything, I took a taxi to the Botanical Gardens. I felt really awkward and alone. It was just such a weird feeling being on my own in a place I didn´t know. I was unimpressed by the gardens and decided to leave. The man gave me a map as I was leaving. THANK GOODNESS! That map saved the trip. I was so annoyed before that I didn´t know what I was doing.. but as soon as I got that, I was good to go!

So I went to the Puerta de la Ciudad. There was a small art gallery, cafe, and a lookout. I indulged in all. After that I followed the map to some tourist desinations thinking I would end up back around the area of my hostal. BUT JOKES. I didn´t actually know where my hostal was on the map. So I literally ended up walking to the other end of the city. Clearly I took a taxi back. Good thing they are cheap in Ecuador...

Puerta de la Ciudad

This river runs through the city. There is another one aswell. I saw a dead dog in it today.
At first I thought it was wood. Nope. It was sad. And gross. Sorry for sharing that with you.

I realized I had a lot of time left before it would get dark and since I actually knew where my hostal was this time, I went out walking again. I went to two really cool look out point. So much walking today! 

View from one look out

I was sitting in the park colouring.. and Maria Jose came to join me! 

Although it was a pretty rocky morning, the day ended up being really good and I really think I am going to like travelling my myself!

Casa Cuna

I know my adventures that you have read about sound super fun and amazing. But as my friend pointed out, there is more to Ecuador than those touristic attractions. There is so much that I don't even know about; politics, economy, etc. However, what I can tell you is part of my daily routine at Sociedad de Pericultura Casa Cuna. 


Casa Cuna was "created in order to promote the development of children during their different stages of growth and learning." Their focus is to "educate children who will be able to develop the demands that the world presents." In theory, their philosophy would create the perfect atmosphere for children to acquire life skills. I am not here to bash Casa Cuna, but the impoverished conditions Ecuador faces creates a less-than-ideal atmosphere for the children.

I was completely shocked when I arrived my first day. Tes, Jenna and I took a taxi our first day, so there would be no confusion and we wouldn't get lost. The staff speak little to no English so I was a little out of my league at first. They led us to a cramped room where around ten cribs were evenly spaced. There were two babies, and maybe eight toddlers. This wouldn't be an issue if there was more than one staff. I don't know how she would be able to handle working with so many children all on her own.

Being slightly germophobic, it was really hard for me to, well, even touch anything. The sanitation of the building greatly lacks in comparison with Canada. That is probably what made it so hard for me; I compared everything with Canada.

I know I shouldn't make these comparisons because this is their way of life. These are the circumstances they face day to day. I need to understand that it is just different. But at the same time, I think it is important for you to fully understand the conditions here.
-In Canada there is maybe 4 children per staff. Here, there are ten or more.
-In Canada, you use a mop to wash the floor. Here, you use a cloth that resembles paper towel, rinse it in the sink, and let it dry for the next day.
-In Canada, you use disinfectant to wash the counters. Here, you don't was the counters. The rare case that you do, it is will a reused piece of paper towel.
-In Canada, you change your child's diaper by using wipes. Here, you place the child under the tap. The combination of water and your hand take care of the mess.
-In Canada, children wash their hands regularly. Especially before a meal. Here, I don't think I have seen soap for the kids to wash with.
-In Canada, if a child is sick, they generally stay home until they are well. Here, the staff use one single spoon to administer medications.
-In Canada, children use toilet paper after they go to the bathroom. Here, dip-drying is common. Toilet paper is rare to find in the building.

Don't get me wrong, there are a lot of great things here as well. Most of the staff seem friendly and helpful with the students. Aside from the daycare, there are also older kids who do more learning activities. They (and I) participate in crafts, dancing, or other games. In fact, I am probably learning just as much as they are or more! One day, I gathered the children and tried to teach them their colours. It was very hard especially with the language barrier, but also very fun at the same time! 

I think I have become more accepting of their ways - although I still shower when I return home, I am pushing my germophobia aside!

There is so much that we take for granted in Canada. We should not only be extremely grateful for the things we have, we should also take advantage of our prosperity, and use it to aid others. Together we have raised money in order to do so. I have been thinking about the best way to utilize the money: 

-Deposit the sum into their account and the organization can use the money where they most need it
-Purchase supplies as needed (I have already used some of the money toward baby wipes)
-The staff have also suggested an air conditioner as the temperatures are quite high in Guayaquil. Generally, they cost over $600. Although we have raised that much (check the donations page), I will be completing other volunteer work throughout my stay here. (Building a house in which they recommend you donate $150 and also nature conservation in the Galapagos). 

I would really like to hear your feedback or if you have any other options. We have raised the money as a team, and I think it is really important that you have a say in where it should be spent! Leave me a comment or a message on Facebook if you can't comment here, and together we can decide the best option!

Baños y Ambato

February  8-12th

So this weekend, us Gringos went to Baños for the weekend to partake in the festivities surrounding Carnival. I talked to some Ecuadorian students at university, but they didn't actually know why they celebrate Carnival; 2 days off of school - who cares why?! Originally, Carnival took place in the days preceding the Lent. Carnival is a Catholic holiday that is supposed to celebrate the 40 days of abstention and penitence to remember Christ's crucifixion. Here in Ecuador, the traditions of Carnival apparently come before the arrival of Catholicism. Celebrating the second moon of the year, indigenous tribes would through flour, flowers, and water. Although my host mother warned me about the weekend - I still was not expecting what was about to happen.

We left for Baños on Friday morning. We wanted to go early so that we could do things in the day. We were the first group to go! (Although most of the international students went, we all left at different times and stayed at different hostels. We would meet up here and there, but wouldn't always all be together.) Once we got to Baños, our friends checked into their hostel. I couldn't check into mine yet because someone else made the reservations and to be honest, I didn't even know the name of where I was staying. So after we checked into the hostel, we went back out to explore the town. 

Making Candy! Very popular here!

Manual Labour

What was the first thing we came across? Puenting. I was kind of shocked when we walked up to this bridge and people were jumping off of it. Um,  can you say sketchy? I was thinking that maybe if it were through a tour company, it would have been more legit. But my friends wanted to do it! I stood by and took pictures while they all jumped off a bridge. For one, I wanted to make sure it was safe - so let them go first right?? Second, I wanted to know what it felt like or if it hurt at all. Where I was standing to watch, some guy asked me if I was going to jump. I responded with, I don't know, I am scared. Well, at least that is what I thought I said... In reality I said "Yo tengo mierda" instead of "Yo tengo miedo." Which translates to "I have shit."  So sorry dude, I can't jump because I HAVE SHIT. 

At least I jumped into a nice view!

That's me, right before jumping!!

Anyway, the feeling of jumping was really cool. The guy made you feel comfortable with what you were doing before you did it and let you practice your body position and when to jump. Once I stood up onto the ledge I was a bit scared, but ready! I was so excited. My friends kept saying don't look down. I was like, are you kidding?! I want to look! The fall was really short but I got some good butterflies! After the fall, you swing back and forth like a pendulum, it was so beautiful! It was one of those, I am in Ecuador moments. A moment when you feel overwhelmed, shocked, excited completely satisfied with every decision you have ever made and you realize how truly amazing you life is! I can't even describe to the fullest the sensation of an I am in Ecuador moment. Those moments seemed to happen a lot this weekend!

After jumping off a bridge, we walked around the town looking for a restaurant that looked appealing. I ordered a salad but when I got it, it was disgusting. It was like lettuce soaked in salt water. I couldn't eat it, so Andrea, one of the Mexicans asked if I could exchange it. (Sometimes it's nice to have them as a Spanish back up, but then it doesn't us try as hard!) From picking at everyone else's food (here, if you order something, it isn't yours - it's everyone's) I wasn't really hungry anymore, so when the waitress came back, I ordered a banana split. Since Tayt didn't like her lasagna (which was like cheese soup with a couple noodles at the bottom), I started to eat that as well. Banana split and lasagna - good combination. 

View of the Park from the restaurant

The church!! It was my reference point
 for how to get back to my hostel!

We were so full after dinner, but decided to get into our bikinis and head to the hot springs anyway. We had to buy a shower cap to get into the pool. It was quite the sexy look! The first bath we went to was super super hot. It took a long time to get into but once you made it, it was really nice! It almost felt like I was drunk - the heat and the altitude mix for a dizzying feeling. It was crazy. When we  got too hot, we dunked ourselves in the freezing bath. It was very cold but felt so good! Everyone was like, of course you like it - you are from Canada. 

Heeeeeey sexy ladays!

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The next day, we got up early to head out for a bike ride through the mountains. I was nervous about it because I don't really like bike riding. Why? Because I am a lazy SOB. Plus it hurts my butt! But it was actually not hard. Most of it was down hill so it was super fun. It was a little scary because you are basically riding your bike down a mountain on the side of the highway. Cars are zooming by and it was a little rainy. However, every now and then, there were little side roads that were only for bikes. It would have been nice to have that the whole way, but it was an experience nonetheless! Our first stop was to Canopy (zip-lining!) It was kind of crazy - again there was this little stand on the side of the road with a cord to the other side of the mountain. I made sure someone else went before me! It was different than the other zip lines I have done - you laid on your stomach and got to fly through the air like super man! It was so cool. The only problem was that it when you fly through the air, the rain drops are like daggers slicing through your face. Okay, maybe it wasn't that bad... 

Getting ready!

No turning back!!

We continued on our bike ride to see what else we could see. The views were stunning! We made it to this one area where we dropped off our bikes and went for a walk along the river. Eventually you walk down by a massive waterfall. The water wasn't too huge, but the fall was! It was absolutely incredible! I ate a sandwich while admiring the view! So prefect!! 

I am in Ecuador Moment

MIRA!!! INCREDIBLE!!!

Oh, I forgot to mention that we watched a cow being killed - I have a video with some awesome commentary if you want to see it! It was crazy because it was right out in the open, with tourists casually walking by!

Once we were done there, we decided we would take a bus back to the town. There was no way I would be biking back up that mountain!! It was so weird how you find a bus. We basically stopped every second person to ask what bus we needed to take. What we found was a truck - it reminded me of movies where the Mexicans are trying to get across the border - you just hop into the back of a truck and ride along! Speaking of Mexicans, Andrea pulled out an apple and loaded it with chili powder... you know you are Mexican when.... It was quite funny. I tried a bit but I personally didn't like it. I think most of the others did though!

Later in the afternoon, we went Canyoning down a waterfall. I was actually quite scared! It was different than rock climbing because you go down instead of up and you are in a waterfall. I was really bad at it... I fell twice! And I am pretty sure I was the only one who did. After I fell twice, in a row to boot, the guy asked me why I couldn't do it. Um, I don't freeking know, why don't you tell me since I am the one who has never done this before!! It was a cool experience, but I didn't enjoy it as much as the other activities. My camera started to die while here so I started to be really conservative with my photo taking (and of course I forgot my charger!) 

We so hot in our wet, wet-suits! I also really like how creepy Tes looks!
Andrea, Hannah, Me, Tes, Tayt

All ready to go!

Waterslide down the water fall!

At one point, we had to jump off the edge, while the guide lowered us down!

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On Sunday, we  got up early and headed to Ambato. We were supposed to see a parade "Fiesta de las Flores y de las Frutas" but unfortunately we missed it. I think it must have just finished when we were getting there because the streets were still super busy.

Okay! How to survive Carnival.

1. Wear clothes that you don't mind getting disgusting and bring a second set

2. Don't do anything nice with yourself because you will get disgusting (Makeup will be down your face)

3. Don't even bother trying to clean yourself - it's really just a waste of time

4. Don't be a Gringo, because that makes you a huge target

5. Be armed at all times

6. Be prepared for war!

7. Don't have sympathy for the kids

8. Saying "please don't" doesn't help

9. Wear goggles - your face is the target

10. Always be looking - you might need to turn your face last minute - they come from every direction

11. If you think someone won't shoot you, they are winning - of course they will get you.

12. Enjoy yourself! Laugh! (But not with your mouth open) 

13. Don't get mad when you get attacked after you have already dried off.

So these people stopped us on the road, handed Tayt the baby and asked if they could take pictures with us!! It was so funny! They wanted multiple poses with multiple people! HIGH-LA-RI-USSSS!

The rest of the day we walked around the city and saw events to do with the fruits and flowers.

-We walked through a park with monuments and other statues. 

-We went to a museum with incredible flower arrangements and other art work. 

-Saw performances by artists mainly dancing around the square, but also charicatures and handicrafts

-I really enjoyed the night there. All the vendors had their products on the streets and I go crazy for that stuff! I didn't buy a lot, but I really enjoy looking at everything!

All in all, it was a good weekend and a very different experience! One that I will never forget!

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The last day of fun activities!! In the morning, me and Hannah went shopping in all the little stores around the town. There were a bunch of souvenir stores and also a little market. Seriously, markets are probably one of my favorite things about South America. Even though most of the stores are the same, every now and then you see something that catches your eye and you just have to have it! In this particular market I saw something I have never seen before... I watched a mother have her baby girls ears pierced! Normally, I don't like when babies have their ears pierced  but to do it in the market?! That is taking it to a whole 'nother level!  I am mostly concerned about sanitation!!

In the afternoon we went rafting. They gave us a big speech about safety after we got our wet suits on. I was nervous because it was all in Spanish. He talked really slow so I understood most of it. When I didn't know what he was saying, I would ask someone beside me. I think a lot of my nerves were because it seemed so serious. I was scared I wouldn't be able to do it properly! There were about six other boats that were also on the river - it would have been nice if it was just us, but they added some excitement (read on). Before we got into the river, we had to practice our rowing. I am glad I was sitting at the back of the raft so no one could see when I failed! Once we got onto the river, I realized that it wasn't so serious. Our guide was really quite fun! At one point, he stood on the edge of the raft. I took my paddle and poked his butt. He totally milked it and jumped into the water! After a bit, he was like "Oh my god, what is this, what is this?! He moved my foot as if he needed to look for something. (For those of you who have never rafted, you tuck your foot under a rope to help keep you balanced.) He then proceeded to push my in the river. It was actually kind of funny! The scariest part was when three other people fell off another raft. We were really close to them, so our guide threw out a rope to one of the swimmer and attempted to pull him in. As he was doing so, our raft got stuck in on a rock. I looked over to see if everyone was okay, and one of our guys was ass up in the air! Rescue one, loose one, I guess that is the way it goes! The other guy rode with us for a bit until we caught up with his raft. It was pretty intense! I wish I had a video, it was like a waterfall of events! At one point, we had to get out and walk because the rapids were too intense. Most of the way, we were riding in level 3, and at times level 4. It was so much fun though! When we finished, we went for Empanadas and hot chocolate! The hot chocolate was nice because it was so cold afterwards! 

Quote of the day, "Oh my gato."

Baños was such an amazing place and I am super excited to go  back! I made some great new friends and now have connections with the tour company! I can't wait to go to the jungle!

Cuenca, Cajas, Ingapirca

February 1, 2, 3

This weekend, the university organized a tour to Cuenca for the international students. Since the cost was high, Tayt, Tes, and I decided that we would go on our own. We figured we would not only save money, but it would be a lot less stressful in a small group. 

We took a bus from Guayaquil to Cuenca on Friday. It only cost around $7.50 and took about 4 or so hours. Luckily I have a special gift that allows me to sleep in buses! The night before we left, we went out for a couple drinks. Our plan was to be home at midnight, but a friend took us to play pool in the city. After chatting with the very cute bartender, and a couple of cocktails we went for a burger and didn't get home until 4 in the morning. Again, I am very lucky that I can sleep on the bus!

When we got to Cuenca, we took a cab to our hostel. It was called Cafecito. It cost around $8 a person per night. It was a cute little hostel - there were two bunk beds and one single one. The first night, we shared the room with a Chilean guy... we didn't talk to him much though. We spent the day touring the town. I love the architecture of the buildings, it was so gorgeous!

I always wonder what is in street vendor food...? A bowl of mixed meet anyone?

We climbed up a bunch of stairs and seen this amazing view

I think this is the perfect picture! I was so shocked by how small this lady was, and no, she wasn't a kid!

 What I liked most about Cuenca was that you would walk everywhere. You would talk down the street and then BAM! There was a gorgeous cathedral or some sort of building. Such a gorgeous place! We also went to an art gallery of Nelson Roman. Not all of his art was to my liking, but nonetheless it was very interesting.

On Saturday we went to Parque Nacional Cajas. We took another bus there. We didn't have to pay to hike there. I read online that if your have a group of more than twenty people or if you hike for more than a few hours, you need a guide, but for where we went, we didn't. They told us the trail we were on would be about a forty minute hike. Somehow we turned it into 2.5 or 3 hours. 

We went of the trail a little and got to this amazing view! It gave me such an overwhelming feeling -  I was breath-taken.

Since we found such an incredible spot, we decided to have a little pic-nick.  We stopped at a supermarket and bought some groceries before leaving Cuenca. Since I can't eat apples with my braces, I enjoyed a tomato instead!

I tried to climb this rock.. but I failed. So this is the best I got - beside it.

From Cajas we went back to Cuenca and stopped at a Market. I was looking for shoes and tank-tops but they are expensive - the one thing Ecuador needs is a Walmart! I only ended up getting some nail polish - about time! My feet were looking ratchet (as my American friends would say).

On Sunday, we went to Ingapirca. Not far outside of Cuenca, Ingapirca still contains Incan ruins. It only cost $3 to enter because we were students. After we got our tickets, we walked to the gate - they told us we needed a guide to enter the ruins. We latched onto this group but the guide spoke only Spanish. I actually understood quite a bit of what she was saying. But once I lost track of what she way saying, it was hard to understand again. Luckily, the group of students from UEES were at the ruins! We ditched our Spanish guide and latched onto them instead. Unfortunately  I was feeling quite ill, so it was really hard to pay attention to what the guide was saying. I know that the site is in the shape of a Puma, with the main temple as the brain.

Gringas trying to read along in English instead of listening to the Spanish guide

I felt really silly with my double back packs!

The brain of the Puma

 

We had to leave the ruins at 1pm or the bus would leave without us. It wasn't a very long ride from the ruins to the next sit (at least that's what they told me - I slept again). At this point I felt really sick. Tayt and Tes stopped for lunch at a little diner - I don't think I would have eaten there even if I wasn't sick.There was no terminal in this town. The bus dropped us off on the street and then we waited on the corner for another bus. One taxi driver spoke English and helped us find which bus we needed. It seemed like it took a long time to find a bus that went to Guayaquil. Some of the buses were full, and some just weren't going to Guayaquil.

Waiting at the corner to be picked up - not as easy as you would think

This was a little store right behind where were waiting. Tasty hey?!

 Finally we got onto a bus... however... This driver didn't care if the bus was full or not. We had to stand in the isle (with about ten other people) because all the chairs were taking. I felt as though I was going to hurl, so i sat down on the floor and used my camera bag as a pillow. I managed to sleep a little bit but couldn't avoid feeling sick. Eventually, one lady let me sit in her seat so I could look out the window. I told the driver I was going to throw up and he handed me a bag - it made me laugh. (I thought maybe he would stop so I could puke outside but nope!) Anyway - first time I've ever thrown up on a bus! I apologized to the guy beside me because I am sure that was no fun for him. I did however sleep the rest of the way back!

Me and Tayt cuddling in the isle. Best bus ride ever. 

Overall, the trip was amazing. Everything was perfect until I got sick on Sunday. I don't know if it was something I ate or altitude or motion sickness but hopefully it doesn't happen again!