4 Day Update - Back from the Jungle

Just got back from the jungle (no bites on either of us, surprisingly).
 NOTE:  I forgot to add the Quito photo album before leaving.  Thanks to Tundragirl, it is now up along with jungle pix.  Don't think we will have wifi in  the Galapagos either so tonight is my last shot at posting for a while.

Just found the link to the photos from our bike ride in Peru:  click here

Sunday, February 20

Bungle in the Jungle

We were all checked out and in the bus by 8:15. Driving through town, we noticed that all the avenues were closed down.  Sophia said that the close the large avenues on Sunday for bicyclists.  Right On!  Made a stop at a popular food market on the way to the airport. This place was amazing. Clean, bright, and the people were very friendly. Sophia gave a demonstration of some of the different fruits. Names I simply can't remember. Stopped by the herb guy and there was a big package of Maca! I scooped that right up. If you don't know what it is for, google it. I won't go into it here. I can hear the girls at Curves giggling now. I also bought a liquid extract from the Amazon Dragon's Blood tree. This little bottle is good for, and I am not making this up it is on the label, tuberculous, cancer, and acne! These people swear by it. For 4 bucks, how can you go wrong?

When we had our fill of the market, it was off to the little local airport, where they served free sandwiches, coffee, and fruit. The weather was good, which was fortunate. Sometimes they have to cancel flights if it is raining too hard. This is a DeHavilland 35 seater plane. Took some shots leaving Quito and then over the Nado River. Disembarked and boarded the jungle bus for a quick ride through town to meet our boat. Before boarding, we all had to be fitted for our jungle boots. OAT provides these so that you can walk around in the mud. Put mine on and everything was fine, until we were pretty set to go and I decided to see if my orthodic fit. Can't be do any walking without that. Uh Oh, no go!! They searched high and low for the next size up with no success. Finally someone had to go buy a pair. I was devestated that I held the whole group up because I didn't think of this earlier. However, I am thankful that I realized it in time. Got my spanking brand new boots - another perk - no prior sweaty feet. With lifevests donned, we were ready for our cruise down the Napo River. This river eventually leads into the Amazon. We sat in the back, so it was easy to have a little Jerry B. ceremony without disturbing anyone. As usual, I got teary, but it is nice to know that he is on his way to the Amazon River. Who would have thought?

Arrived at the lodge and immediately were served dinner. This country lives and breathes potatoes. I have no idea how many different varieties there are, but at every meal we seem to experience at least or one or two more, Settled into our little hut, which will be our home for the next three nights. Did I happen to mention that it is HOT here - 91 degrees and humid. The lodge is no big deal but very clean and pleasant with lots of individual huts. There is running hot water, but electricity only between 6 and 10 at night. Right now we are finally getting some quiet time to ourselves and trying not to move too much to stay cool. After the cool weather and high altitudes, our bodies need some adjustment to the climate. At 4pm, we are off for a short walk around the grounds. I wish this blog had sound. The sounds are incredible. More later.

4pm came and we suited up with our jungle gear and headed out. The highlights of this excursion were the Dragon's Blood tree, where my magic potion came from; the horse penis root, no explanation there you just have to look at the picture,the tarantula, always a pleasure, the fake banana flowers which are a gorgeous red, the shaman's hallucinogenic root, the walking tree that actually walks toward the sunlight, and the general atmosphere of being in the jungle.

Got back to the cabin and decided it was useless to shower, so we headed down to the main building and found some of our group enjoying cocktail hour. Joined right in with this mega bottle of beer for $3.00! Sophia gave a lecture on Ecuador - mostly about the political situation and the oil. Dinner was served soon. Family style with beef stew as an entree. Very tasty.  We walked back to our abode, and took a relaxing shower. The rains are back and we are not sure if we will be able to go bird watching at 6am - darn!

Next time... I have no clue

Monday, February 21

Jungle Tours

....and they say we'll have some fun if it's stop raining. Started raining soon after the thunder and lightning just as we finished dinner last night and continued heavily into the morning. The good news about the rain is that it is a whole lot cooler. The 6am bird watching was a no show. We managed to get ourselves out of bed by 7 but we were still the last ones at the breakfast table. It was back in the "bus" after breakfast and off to visit a school and a village home with a short jungle trek. We headed out in our jungle boat in the pouring rain. OAT also supplies great ponchos for these occassions. On our walk to the school, we came across a baby boa hanging in someone's yard. The man found this on his property and had to kill it in self defense. He had just finished skinning it when we arrived. He will bring it into to town and hopefully it will fetch a good price.

Because the rains were so heavy, there were only 4 kids in school instead of the usual 15. We had a great visit. The teacher was very well educated, and even though Sophia had to translate, he made himself understood. He teaches grades 1-7 and has to be nurse, counselor and administrator as well as teacher. The school had received 4 new computers, but the problem was keeping the electrcity on, and when it was on, it fluctuated. The group decided when we go back to Coca, We will all chip in and buy a UPS or something to regulate the power. By the time we left the school, the sun had come out and the ponchos came off.

It was time to go visit the Kitchu family down the road from the school. We were introduced to Christine who owns 9 acres of land and farms it with her husband for bananas, cocoa, and coffee. She also makes crafts and we all loaded up on handmade jewelry. Back in the boat and back to the lodge for lunch. After lunch we had a few minutes of free time and then it was off to go fishing. Well, Mr. Geoff was very happy. About 6 of us split up into 2 canoes and headed down the river with wooden poles with a piece of beef on the end. Not too long after we left the dock, I felt a giant hit and my line got completely stripped - hook and all. "Grande" said Hymie. "Yeah, but he got away". There were a few more hits but no keepers. The ride down the river was beautiful. So peaceful and serene just listening to the sounds of the jungle.

It was time to eat again and then off for another jungle walk to see some large birds and a night time paddle to possibly encounter a caymen or two. Well, we managed to see one big very beautiful bird and a very friendly turtle - oh yeah, there was also a toad. After paddling around the pond twice we were skunked out of seeing any caymens, but the fireflies around the edge of the water looked like little cities. Made it back to the lodge at around 7:30, ate dinner then showered up before lights out. As I sit in bed writing, my eyes are starting to close. It is not so humid tonight and we saw a few stars. Not sure if I'll make the 6am bird watching thing.

Next time .... Shamans and Cooking Class

Tuesday, February 22

Shamans and Cooking Class

Another cloudy day but not as hot. Got down to breakfast and met up with the 6am bird watchers. This bird watching takes place from the lodge, so it is no big excursion. Apparently, at 6am it was still dark so they didn't see much. There were some birds around by the time we got down there and we were able to spot a few. The toucans are the best. After breakfast, everyone enjoyed taking pictures with the lodge parrot. This guy loved getting on peoples shoulders. Although, Betsy had on her beads from yesterday's village visit, and the bird went to town on her neck. Missed that photo!

Some of the group has gathered to go off on another 3 hour jungle walk. Me and a few others have passed up this opportunity. My foot is starting to really bother me and I think the rest will do it good. These walks are can be painfully slow. They stopped every few feet to explain something - first Hymie talks in Spanish and then Sophia has to translate - meanwhile, we are all just standing there and that is what has been the most painful. Others feel the same way and they don't have any foot problems. Geoff went, so he will take the pictures and report back. I am taking this opportunity to catch up on my reading. Till later...

Lemon Ants - YUM

While Susan took it easy I went on the morning hike. Hymie showed us a few more herbal remedies for snake bites and sinus aches and things but also said that non-native people find these tougher to take compared to pharmacy drugs. Too much discomfort and bitter tastes involved. That's why they are not so popular outside the jungle. Hymie also discussed survival foods, like roots, edible leaves, fruits, and lemon ants that nest in some trees. They actually tasted quite good raw once you ignored what you were eating. Not everyone felt that way but I had seconds! I'm thinking trout, sauteed in butter and lemon ants. By the time we got back it was time for a normal lunch. This time corvina, a popular ocean fish.

Nap time after lunch until 3:30 and then down to the dock to head out for the cooking lesson and the shaman. The cooking started out tame enough. Geoff volunteered to help prepare the fish. Betsy got the task of slicing the slugs! Boy was she surprised. After slicing, she had to skewer them. The food was served using palm leaves as plates. The fish was very tasty but very bony. The slugs happened to be very tasty - bacon like flavor. Betsy even went back for seconds and Geoff had about half a dozen. 

After we had our fill on snacking, the shaman arrived. He looked vaguely familiar - I know I have seen his face around the lodge. We did the Q & A thing for a while and then he asked if anyone wanted healing. Stephanie (you all remember her) and I stepped right up and were the first to be "healed". No use explaining, just watch the video and the pix. Next up was the blow gun demonstration. This was pretty impressive. Everything is made from what is available in the jungle. They make a notch in the point of the dart with a paranha jaw, so that the poisoned tip would break off in the animal. Everyone had a shot at trying to blow and aim. After all that fun, it was back in the boat and off to the lodge for a quick shower and dinner. I had been complaining about all the beef meals at this lodge, although this afternoon we did get some good fish. For dinner it was beef again, however, I was given a vegetable stir fry thanks to Sophia.

Next time... Coca Town

Wednesday, February 23

Touring Coca Town

Back in the long boat to go back over to Coca Town to the airport.  Walked around town trying to find an electronics store that had an adequate UPS to give to the school we visited.  Had some luck at the second store we found.  The price was perfect, $75 - that made exactly $5 each (there are 15 of us).  Hymie will take it to the school tomorrow.  We all felt good about doing something other than pencils and erasers!  Toured some more and took some local pictures.  Hopped on the Jungle Bus to get to the airport.  Plane was delayed an hour.  Hung out at the cafe - Denny's - next door.  Ordered some fruit shakes, which were out of this world and chatted with Washington, and Ecuadorian who works for the government national oil.  Finally our plane arrived and we cleared our 7th flight with no problems.  Only 4 or so more planes to go!  We are back at the hotel.  Handed in our wash and reorganized to the trip to the Galapagos.  A lot of packing and repacking on this adventure.  I feel like we have been on several vacations packed into one.  We decided to skip the museum tour in Quito this afternoon.  I booked a massage and Geoff is relaxing.  We will be dining in another restaurant tonight.  Hope it's as good as the last one.

Just an update on the Adventures of S.... she survived the jungle with her trusty Kindle.. Although, not as adventurous as most, she did come to be healed by the shaman.  Did it help?  Who knows?   I think I may have forgotten to mention that her knitting needles were confiscated by security going into Ecuador leaving her defenseless.  Will let you know how it goes in the waters of the Galapagos.

Next time.... Off To See The Lizard

City Tour of Quito

Just got down from the steam room and sauna, so I will try to write this fast, as I really need some sleep. Please note there are new pictures in Quito photo album.  Also, this will be my last post until we return here in about 4 days.  I will keep writing though.

After breakfast, Sophia gave an orientation of what is coming up.  We also got to meet the new folks, Natalie, and Carol and Larry. They immediately blended right in with the group.  When that was all done, you guessed it, back on the bus!  Off we went, first stop the Crystal Palace.  This is quite a structure built by the architect who built the Eiffel Tower.  This building over looks all of the old city with great vistas and interesting sculptures.  The Quito Basilica was next.  Bought some shawls outside from the woman selling goods.  The Basilica's main features were the gargoyles and the stained glass.  One window, in particular, had all the variety of orchids that grow in Ecuador.  We moved on to the Historical Center of the Grand Plaza.  Here lies the Archbishops Palace and the National Building.  The Ecuadorian version of the Statute of Liberty lies here as well.  There was a World Press Photography exhibit going on so we took it all in. Back in the bus and a drive over to the San Francisco Plaza.  Here you could get a good shot of the Winged Virgin Mary.  Also took a tour of the Jesuit Church, where the walls are guilded with 24 carat gold!  There was a wonderful fair trade shop and Geoff picked up a real Panama hat.  Everyone agreed he looked dashing!

It was time for lunch, so headed over to the grounds of the museum of the Middle of the World. Where we were hosted by Maria, who cooked a fabulous lunch.  We tried goat, which was delicious, and some different types of  fruits and vegetables.  Really like the babaco, which is a papaya variety. Since Maria owns the grounds and the museum, we took a tour after lunch.  Ecuador lies right on the equator.  In fact that is how it got its name. Quito, means middle of the earth.  Qui meaning center and to, meaning earth.  You can actually feel the gravitational difference when you step across the line from north to south.   There is another monument about 150 meters away that was built before they could accurately measure the exact placement of the equator line.  This is the "official" tourist monument but we know better and so did the Incas.  All of their measurements were dead on.

On the way back, Sophia treated us for ice cream, which was more like a sherbet- no cream, no sugar, no milk - just pure fruit, made on the premises.  It all tasted great.  As soon as we got back, Geoff took off to try to find some glasses.  He ran into Sophia and she lead him to a mall with great success!  He can now see again.

We had a great day.  Sophia filled our heads with Ecuadorian history and many stories of Simon Bolivar and others past and present.  Our heads are swimming.  We topped off the day, with a lovely dinner at the hotel.  Geoff and I got the steak and it was delicious.  We have packed a small bag for the Amazon and are excited about our first trip into the jungle.   As for the Adventures of S, fortunately, no new disasters  to report. She did, however, get herself a hired gun.  Tonight she had a lovely massage and is resting comfortably. We will see what happens going down the Amazon.  Speaking of which, we have an early call tomorrow, so I will say good night.

Next time... Welcome to the Jungle!

Off to Quito, Ecuador

It was a Chinese fire drill getting up this morning at 5am.  I blew out 2 hairdryers and they came up with a third.  Then I realized in all the commotion of going back and forth to Machu Pichu last two days and me not feeling well, I forgot to take Jerry B. up there with me.  I know this may sound strange to some, but our dear friend passed about 2 years ago and we have been traveling with his ashes and spreading them all over the world.  He always wanted to travel and now he is.  Anyway, I felt awful, knowing that I am not coming back here any time soon.  On the bus ride to the airport, I talked to Benito about this as asked him if he would take some ashes up with him next time he goes.  He thought it was a beautiful thing. He asked me where and I said "you decide" - "OK, I will spread them around the Temple of the Sun, the most sacred place."  I really do think that he will do this.  I was overwhelmed with gratitude and even teared up a bit. Benito is truly a wonderful man and he was a great guide for us. I left Cuzco feeling much relieved that Jerry B. will be well taken care of.

We are now sitting at the Cuzco airport waiting to board the flight to Lima.  Only to sit there for three hours waiting to board the flight for Quito.  We are in Quito for 2 days and I hope we have a chance to come up for air.  At least be able to wash the traveling underpants!  Wake up calls have been so early and by the time we get back to the hotel all you want to do is crawl into bed and sleep.  This has been non-stop, but a great experience. Once again, I will say I am thankful for the folks we are traveling with.  They are very diverse but all get along - no stragglers in this group!  We will soon meet the rest of the group who will join us in Quito for the main tour. I think there are 3 or 4 of them. Machu Pichu was the optional pre-trip.

Hung around the Lima airport for a few hours before finally boarding the plane to Quito.  Geoff and I pulled out the netbook and watched NOVA's special on Darwin "What He Didn't Know".  All about his adventures in the Galapagos and evolution.  We recommend it highly plus a friend of ours has a son who is an actor in it.  The movie turned out to be longer than the flight.  When I opened the window, I was greeted with a spectactular view of a great mountain top.  The views going into Quito were tremendous.  Quito is the captitol of Equador.  There is an old part of the city, which we will see tomorrow, and a new part, which is where our hotel is located.  Sophia met us at the gate and we were off.  This hotel is a tres chic.  The rooms are huge.  Some of us decided to meet downstairs for a quick tour of the neighborhood with our guide, Sophia.  She explained that when they built the new part of the city, they were influenced by European archecture.  So although the churches and buildings have an old look, they were only built in the 1960's.

Got back to the hotel and freshened up for dinner.  Made a call to Pete, Geoff's brother,  to see if the softphone worked from the computer and it did.  Very cool. Went to Mama Clorinda where everyone ate pretty hearty and the food was great.  This city really rocks on Friday night, plus the full moon was out.  There was music and people everywhere.  Got back to the hotel and decided to take a tour of the gym and spa facilities.  Guess what? The sauna and steam were free!  Say no more - we'll be right back.  However, Geoff realized that he was missing one of the lenses from his glasses. Went to the desk and they called the restaurant.  No luck. Back upstairs to change and head for the sauna.  Met up with Betsy and Glen and had a nice sweat. This place was great.  coming back for the full works - massage, jacuzzi bath, and choclate strawberries when we get back from the jungle.  We were sufficiently cooked, so we headed back down to the desk to check and see if they heard from the restaurant about the lens. Still no luck.  He will have to get a pair of readers tomorrow.  Too bad. Oh yeah, this was after he forgot his Grand Lake Stream hat on the bus in Cuzco.  Think he got the Stephanie bug!  So now we hunt for a hat and glasses.  Oy vey.

For those keeping up with the Adventures of S, she got through today unscathed.  However, it seems her karma has been transfered to another, Marilyn, who went through the Lima Airport in a tizzy because her watch was missing, only to find that the velcro strap had stuck to her fleece jacket going through security.  It was hanging on her jacket the whole time.  Next when we arrived at the Quito airport, the zipper on her luggage broke.  Still working on how to either repair or replace that one.  Stephanie, however, has enjoyed a trouble free day.  No telling what tomorrow will bring.

Next time... Touring Quitor

Two Day Update

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

The Lost City of the Incas - Day 1

No wifi in Machu Pichu so this post will have to wait till we get back to Cuzco. I was also informed that we may have some new comers to this blog - friends and/or relatives of our fellow travelers. Welcome and please note that the photo albums are clickable on the left sidebar.  All comments are welcome just click below the post.

First, I will start with last night's dinner.  Finally tried the Alpaca and could have done without it.  I think it just wasn't cooked good.  Nobody really liked their food too much so we were all a bit disapointed.  Up until then the food had been great.  Ok enough of that.
Inca St. in Ollantaytambo

WOW! What a day.  It started for us about 1am when we both got hit with some sort of nasty bug.  All I can say is "Thank God for Cipro."  I won't bore all of you with the ugly details.  We did manage to have an extraordinary day even though we are a bit weary and very drained.Skipped breakfast, needless to say, and boarded the bus for a 2 hour ride to Ollantaytambo. Once there, Benito handed out our lunch boxes for the train ride up to Machu Pichu. Left our stuff in the bus for a short tour around this fascinating town.  We walked down the narrow Inca streets, visited an Inca home, and learned more about the culture and lives of the Inca. We were fortunate that the sun was out and it was warming up.

From here we took another van to the train station where we had about an hour to kill.  I finally had one of my protein bars and was feeling a bit better, so I grabbed some pix of the group and Bruce.  Bruce is from another OAT group and we sat with him on the plane over. He's from CT.  A real sweetie.  The train ride was amazing and extremely comfortable.  We sat and ate our lunch as we watched the Urubamaba River roll by.  This is the head water for the Amazon River, which happens to be the largest in the world.  Larger than all the US rivers put together.  We will get our shot at it next week.  The ride was about 1 hour or so long.  The sun kept teasing us - going in and out.  It would rain then it wouldn't then it would.  Ce la vie!

The Lost City of the Incas

Reached Machu Pichu and we all kept pinching ourselves that we were actually here. This is truly an awe inspiring place that one has to experience for themselves.  Words can not do it justice. The Incas were an amazing civilization. Machu Pichu was built as the King's summer get-away. You can be nothing but in awe of their archecture.  The giant stones so perfectly cut and positioned.  There was also a sundial that was positioned exactly between Machu Pichu (old mountain) and Wayna Pichu (Young Mountain) - and between Vericona Mountain and Puma Sillu Mountain.  A stone compass was also found with each corner pointing N,E,S,W. Benito put his own compass down and it read true north. The sun went in and the rain came out, aimed at theSouthern Cross.  But not much deterred us from pressing on.  The one good thing about going in the rainy season is that there are very few tourists, so at least they don't clutter the photography.  We walked up to the guard house which sits as a look out between the Inca trail and the trail going up Wayna Pichu. This is the highest point on Machu Pichu.  We have a great group and everyone did fine.  We stayed until the closing bell, trekked down and got our passports stamped with the Machu Pichu stamp.  Very cool.

Back in the bus and back into town to check into our hotel.  Everyone else went out to dinner tonight.  Geoff and I are staying in eating saltines!  I think our bodies need the rest.

Tomorrow we go back for round 2.  We were going to trek up the Sun Gate for some spectacular views but without the sun it probably won't be worth it.  So we voted on touring the lower part that we missed today.

This just in.... If you recall Stephanie, who lost her luggage, was not given a seat on the plane, and was bopped in the head with a ski pole getting off the plane, got bopped in the head again on the bus coming back from the mountain,  Hope this is the end of her misgivings there is a lot of time still left.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

The Lost City of the Incas - Day 2

Leisurely morning before boarding the bus back up the mountain.  Benito and Eddie took us on a tour of the lower Machu Pichu sites.  When we arrived the fog was moving in and the feeling was just overwhelmingly mystical. It was a sight you really don't see in the postcards. Going down beneath the Temple of the Sun, where they kept the virgins. We continued to a large opening where the people would gather for ceremonies.  Here, there once stood a great monolith with a hole for the sun to shine through.  However, within the last 8-10 years, the king and queen of Spain had it removed for their helipad.  Another interesting note we learned today - there was never any evidence of gold or silver found at Machu Pichu.  Only one gold bracelet was found by an American geologist while studying the drainage system of the terraces. This was found by the tree that sits in the middle of the site (put there only 20 years ago or so). On to the entrance for the Wayan Pichu Trail and then to the houses built from 2 stones with windows that looked through to each room and up to the Temple of the Three Windows. Eddie showed us to the mirror pools that they fill with clean water and they would reflect the stars. This was their astronomy tool.  Down to the Temple of the Condor. Looking closely you can see the two wings.  The head is on the ground.  There was, as always, the sacrificial altar.  Along the way, we passed not only some orchids, wild ginger, and a couple andean chincillas - not to forget the little millepede.  The rain, nothing new to us now, starting come down pretty hard and it was close to lunch.  Went to a very nice restaurant in town - had the chicken soup, trout, and to top it all off, quinoa mousse - which was to die for - have to get the recipe for that.

2000yr old pre-incan bowl

Back on the train to the bus which took us to one of the most beautiful ceramics shop I have ever seen.  We were fortunate enough to meet the owner, Paublo Seminario, internationally famous for bringing back customs of Incan and pre-Incan ceramics along with his contemporary works.  We were given a wonderful tour of the workshop studios, Where artists work among the flora and fauna and a parrot that says Hola!  All were thoroughly impressed, and bought lots souvenirs.

Right now, I am writing this on the bus ride back to Cusco.  We made one photo-op stop to get the glaciers of Mt. Vericona and Puma Wanka.  This is our last night in Cusco.  We are up at 5am tomorrow to catch an 8am plane to Quito, Ecuador.  The Amazon awaits.

BTW - Stephanie lost her luggage once again.  Happily she has gotten it back.  What will happen next in the adventures of S?

Next time..... Quito, Ecuador

Inca Ruins

NOTE:  Please check the Cuzco, Peru Photo Album for more pictures.

Miracles of miracles, the sun came out this morning. We were all loaded on the bus by 7:15am and headed out to Saqsayhuaman.  This is an archaeological site that they are continually working on.  The Inca archecture is amazing.  These stones are absolutely huge and perfecty cut. We walked around and took lots of pictures.  Then it was back in bus to go to Q'engo.  Here was a ruin of a great Puma.  The Incas worshipped, the puma, the condor, and the anaconda as well as the sun, moon, stars and earth. Benito lead down to the sacrificial caves where once a year they held their sacrifices.  They sacrificed black llamas and for special occassions, yes you guessed it, they brought out the virgin.  There is a picture of the sacrificial throne.

From the ruins we moved on to the so-called alpaca factory.  Not so much a factory but a store.  Looked around- some folks bought some stuff.  It waa back in the bus and up to our highest altitude 11,600 ft. to visit the giant Jesus Blanco on the hill, who happened to be a ironically enough, a muslim Jesus donated by some Palestinians.  Our next stop was the market.  This is a very colorful place.  Most folks come to here to grab a cheap meal as well as shop.  We learned about fruits, grains, and lots of corn.

It was lunch time by the time we left the market.  Benito took us to a family's house in a middle class neighborhood.  Our hosts were very generous and the food was delicious.  It was a very traditional Peruvian meal.  Purple corn drink, tasted like regular fruit driink.  Quinua soup to start.  Rice, some sort of corn and flour national dish, plus a corn tortilla, and an additional small piece of large kernal white corn. Dessert was even made from the purple corn, Lots of corn cooked lots of ways all very good Christine, our host, brought out the national entree of fried guinea pig.  We all got a good look before she hacked it up into pieces so we could try it. Can't say I got very excited about it.. The families raise their own guinea pigs, and we saw where this family was raising theirs.  All in all, it was an excellent experience.

We were dead tired when we got back to the hotel at 2ish.  But someone suggested the Inca Museum where they have an old mummy exhibit.  So we took a 30 minute recess and met them back down in the lobby.  It was pouring now and a cab was in order.  Got to the museum and the girls hired a guide.  This would have been great but he was explaining each piece of ceramic and every statute, that I just could not stand on my feet any longer.  Geoff and I pulled away from the group and did the museum on our own.  We were not allowed to take pictures inside so that is why I don't have any.  It is too bad because the mummies were amazing.  I can't even describe what they looked like.  The rain stopped and we hobbled back to the hotel.  They sent up some cocoa tea and we are now resting up before dinner.  This will be at a local restaurant tonight - we ordered the alpaca for dinner.  When in Rome!

Next time.... The Mystical Machu Pichu

Happy Valentine's Day

Ken & Geoff handing out cookies

Boarded the bus to the airport at 7:15am. Had a bit of a wait at the airport.  The folks who lost their luggage managed to retrieve it when we arrived.  Now Stephenie wasn't given a seat!!   Somehow she made it on the plane. Joyce was kind enough to bake some Valentine cookies before the trip and was handing them out at the airport.  We ran into another OAT group traveling to Cuzco and were on our plane.  Sat next to Bruce from Connecticut and talked through the whole flight.  Unfortunately, there was not much picture taking - since we saw nothing but clouds.

Arrived in Cuzco in the pouring rain. Benito, our tour guide, seems to be very informative and extremely helpful.  As soon as we got to the hotel, we were served cocoa tea for the altitude.  So far no one has gotten sick.  We settled into our rooms and then headed to lunch.Lunch was absolutely fabulous.  A small restaurant residing in a 17th century house.  There was a harp player who was wonderful.  His instrument was Andean Harp.  The food was delicious and we were all thoroughly impressed.

Next up a tour of the city.  The gods were with us and it stopped raining for our walking tour.  Cuzco is a fascinating city with a very rich history and culture.  Not to mention how picturesque it is - and the sun wasn't even shining.  We learned a lot from Benito and most of the tour was outside.  Eventually we went into the Temple of the Sun.  The Inca's would mummify their kings and have a duplicate made in gold.  The queens were in the Temple of the Moon building next door, their replicas were in silver.  The walls were also paved in either gold for male and silver for female.  The Spaniards melted down every piece of precious metal they could find.  Nothing was left.  The tour was wonderful.  It was getting late, and we headed back to the hotel.

Dinner was at the hotel tonight and, as usual, the food was delicious.  A couple of Peruvian musicians came in to entertain us and sell their CD.  We bought one at lunch but passed on this one - too many Beatle covers.

We did  so much today that this is really just a taste of what we learned.  I also have to say that we have a very nice group. All my worries were for naught - as usual.

Next time... Alpaca lunch?

Welcome to Lima

Touched down at 5:11 am right on time.  Have to say that the LAN plane was very nice.  We made it through customs with only one couple missing luggage. Since it was so early, it was hard to determine exactly what the weather was or would be. Arrived at our lovely Hotel Carmel and checked in to what feels like a suite.  This room is huge - with a kitchenette, jacuzzi tub - it is bright and sunny and just two blocks from the heart of Miraflores.  Took a short nap, when we awoke, the sun was up and the skies were clear and the temperature is a lovely 75 degrees.  We have to enjoy it now, because it is cold and raining where we are going next.

Stopped at the desk after breakfast for a map and guide book and headed out.  Our walk took us through Central Park and KennedyPark,which is surrounded by local artists selling their wares,  to the Municipal Building and a beautiful church that was in the middle ofSunday Mass. We ran into a bicycle advocate group that was holding a special event this weekend.  We were too late for the bike Lima tour, but we got invited to join their "critical mass" event this evening at 5pm and cycle Miraflores.  Fantastic!  Just what we love.  Continued on and got some information atthe information center and decided to head towards the ocean.  As we got closer, we got a taste of the infamous Lima fog.  They have a huge market area on the cliffs overlooking the ocean.  It resembles Quincy Market right down to the same stores.  We had lunch at a place that wasn't American and set off again back to the Central Park to try to catch the 1:30 tour bus.  Made it back in plenty of time but found out the tour was 4 hours.  Couldn't do it - besides we would miss our 5pm bike tour.

Walked some more down to the Peruvian Arts & Crafts - no big whoop there.  Think we will hold off souvenirs till we get to the villages.  Stopped for a coffee break and headed back to the hotel to rest up for some biking.  Most of our group was sitting in the lobby waiting for their tour bus.  We were invited but turned them down - theirs was only 3 1/2 hours but still a long time inside a bus.  We will have plenty of that to come.  I don't think we will miss too much.  Would rather be out with the people on the bikes.

So, I am sitting here typing and resting and hoping the Celtics are whipping the Heat.  Later...
Just listened to the end of the game streaming WEEI - technology is a wonderful thing.  Celtics beat Miami 85-82.  They ROCK!

Got it together after the game and went back to the park to meet up with the biking group.  Oops - not leaving till 6pm.  More time to kill.  There was plenty to see.  Sunday is big stuff here - dancing in the park, flea markets, lots of people watching.  We did some more walking and then went back to Jose to get our bikes.  I settled on this funky little one that at least had hand brakes.  It was a real trip to ride.  Geoff got the beach cruiser.  It took a bit of time to organize but eventually we all took off.  Have to say there were around 50 cyclists.  We did a great tour of the city with a beautiful ride down by the shore at sunset.  Too bad I couldn't stop to take some pix.  There was a photog riding with us taking shots, so we may end up on their web site in a day or two.  Will let you know.  We had a blast, made some friends,  and were real happy we decided not to go on the tour.

Got back to the hotel at around 7 to find Betsy and Glen (our youngest members) at the front desk asking about dinner places.  After much discussion, we all decided to go out together to a small place G & I spotted in our travels that was close.  We were all pretty tired.  Their 3 hour tour turned into 5 hours - doubly glad we didn't go.  Took a quick shower and we all headed back down the street.  Split a grande portion of cerviche which was to die for.  Geoff & I split the Chiliean Sea Bass - another good dish.  B & G had some ravioli thing that was also tasty.  There was good conversation - turns out their son works in Burlington, VT at the University and one of their daughters goes to Wellesley.  They hail from outside Chicago.  We had a wonderful time to top off our wonderful day.  Hope we can manage to keep our spirits high in the rains at Cuzco.

Back in the lobby, ran into Cora who notified us that Rusty was not feeling well.  Hope he recovers soon.  Also hope those other people get their luggage at the airport tomorrow.

"When do we put the luggage out?"  7:00am  "What time does the bus come?"  7:15am

Next time ... Cuzco, Peru

Not so sunny - South Beach

More clouds and overcast this morning. Plus the temperature has definitely dropped. Stayed in bed hoping the skies would clear. Ventured out to the kitchen around 8ish and talked with R & E for a bit before they took off for a walk.  I threw a load in the laundry.  We had some breakfast and patiently watched as the rain began to come down in sheets.  All we could think of was last year at this time on our last day in LA when it actually hailed!!  What is it with us and the weather?  Wow, Let's go to the beach.

Versace Mansion

The walk over, the laundry done, everyone fed and dressed – the three musketeers (Roman, Geoff and myself – Elissa had better things to do) headed out to South Beach.  It may not have been in the teens, but it certainly was raw out there.  We did the obligatory walk down the beach to gawk at all the Deco and take stupid tourist pictures. When we had our fill of that, things started to get hungry and it was time for some Cuban food.  Our friend (Tundra Girl) had told me about Versailles in Little Havana - Roman said that was the place to go.  Back in the bus, R gave us a nice tour of the city, passing through Lincoln Mall, and the Venetian Islands.

Got seated relatively quickly and ordered a couple of dishes to split between all of us.  Pretty tasty stuff.  The place is definitely full of local character.  When we were fully sated, we headed back to the ranch.  Hung around the house until it was time to be dropped off at the airport.

Well, here we now sit at MIA.  We had some good luck and then some not so good luck.  We were able to get the exit seats without too much of a hassle.  We were all excited about that and were feeling pretty good when we got to Club America, only to be told that they were closing at 8pm.  It was 7:30 and our flight left at 11:55.  We were so looking forward to hanging around in the lap of luxury.  We sulked out of there and watched all the restaurants close around us one by one.  Managed to sneak in an order that we split at Island Chicken Café.  Just finished dinner and now everything is closed.  Time now is 9:02.  This is going to be a long wait.  I think they stopped heating the place as well.  It is freezing in here. Going to try someplace with heat and maybe watch a movie.

Never got around to the movie.  Met our fellow travelers.  Have to say, so far, everyone seems very nice and reasonably fit!

Next time…. Welcome to Lima!

The Hidden Miami

Opened the hotel black-out shades to an overcast grey morning.  Looks like I won't be hanging out at the pool today.  We got ourselves together and headed out for a leisurely stroll to the Coco Walk - passing a parade of various colored peacocks along the way. These are kind of like the painted cows we had in Boston a while back.  Decided to take Roman up on his suggestion of the Green St. Cafe (which is not on Green St. - go figure) for breakfast.  Sat outside and watched the beautiful people and their beautiful cars go by.  Had a nice breakfast and headed down to the waterfront for a walk along the marina before going back to the hotel.  As we approached our hotel, I noticed for the first time that it was located on Darwin St.  If that isn't Karma, I don't know what is!

All checked out by noon and Roman came to pick us up and take us back to his lovely home in Coral Gables. We were glad to be out of the hotel.  Not that there was anything wrong with it.  But it was just a hotel room, although I have to say that the bed was great! We are just not hotel folk. Back at Roman's, there was some discussion of where to go and what to do. After considering our options, we decided to get back on the bikes and ride from his house to Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens.  Roman showed us the way there then turned around and left us on our own to explore.  WOW what a beautiful place.  Flora, fauna, and sculptures galore.  Be sure to check out the photo album.  We had lunch at the small Cafe by the lake and then toured the grounds.

After having our fill of the gardens, we headed out to another path Roman told us about called the Hammocks.  Here you bike through a canopy of mangroves out to the beach and a small lagoon.  Met a very nice Montreal couple who were also biking (a bit more seriously than we were).  We chatted for a while -mostly bike talk.  Montreal is so bike friendly, and we have to say that they are not very bike friendly around here.  No regard for anything or anyone on the road.  And everyone seems to be on the phone everywhere you go.  These are some very busy folk.  We parted ways and headed back to the house.  We had a great time and now it was time to shower and go to dinner.

Roman suggested a place in Coral Gables called Tarpon Bend.  This place was totally nuts. It was mostly 20 somethings out on a Friday night.  You couldn't hear yourself think.  We nixed that idea and looked around for something more suitable for dining and conversation.  Ended up at a lovely little spot called the European Cafe.  Good food and good conversation.  Got back to the house at around 10:30 and finally met Elissa, Roman's wife.  More good conversation.  We are now well fed, tired, and tucked into our new room.  We are very thankful to Roman for showing us this Hidden Miami.

Next time... Sunning on South Beach?

Biking in the Everglades

 

It took a while to get started today. Roman picked us up around 10ish then headed to his house to pick up the bikes, Finally on the road by 11:30. Stopped for lunch which took just about forever. I won't even go into why. At last, we arrived at Shark Valley National Park, Everglades and headed down the bike path. This is really a wonderful experience. The pictures really speak for themselves. To view them, click on the photo album on the left.

We saw a variety of beautiful birds - some you could get up real close to see. And the alligators - well they're alligators and they were everywhere! The loop around the park is 15 miles. Not that much, but we were all pretty tired at the end. Fortunately, we had great weather for biking. Some sun and clouds with a bit of a windy breeze at times.

Roman gave us a mini-tour of Coral Gables the way home. We stopped off at a local TexMex place for a quick dinner then it was back to the hotel. Just in time to catch the Celtics/Lakers game. As I type this, Ray Allen has just beaten Reggie Miller's 3pt record. Go RAY!!

Tomorrow Geoff and I will venture out and explore Coconut Grove and if it is nice hang around the pool till it is time to checkout. Then we move to Roman's house. It feels real good to get out of the cold and to be able to do stuff outside!

Next time... The move to Coral Gables

Lift Off & Touch Down

Woke up to bright sunshine and no SNOW!!  It winds were howling last night - gusting at around 40mph.  But things calmed down by morning. The temperature dipped into the teens and the bay was frozen again.  Can't get out of here fast enough. We did the morning ritual things and then gathered out stuff.  Checked and double checked and just to make sure we checked once more that everything was taken care of and what was supposed to be in the car was before we locked the house up.

Driving to Cambridge was a piece of cake and only had to wait for Deidre for about 5 minutes.  She left work early to meet us and take us to Logan.  Uneventful ride to the airport, and we were pretty early as usual.  As we were walking up to the check-in, we ran into our friends and world travelers, Gail and Mark.  They are on their way to Antartica for two weeks - guess this just wasn't cold enough for them.  Turns out we were all on the same plane, but they will be traveling on from Miami.  We had lots of time for lunch and catching up and travel talk.  They are in our biking group and are a part of our European adventure this fall, the Vienna to Budapest leg.

Right now I am writing this on the plane.  It is only about a 3 1/2 hour flight.  We just watched the Denis Leary special on our netbook.  Hope we didn't laugh too loud.  It was pretty funny.  We will get in touch with Roman (G's friend) when we get to the hotel and maybe meet him at Jaguar.  Some sort of Latin cerviche bar in Coconut Grove - walking distance from the hotel.  Sounds tres yummy!

Finally got to the hotel after sitting on the tarmac for almost an hour. Good thing Mark and Gail had 3 hrs before their next flight.  Checked-in at around 7:30 and Roman came and picked us up.  Jaguar wasn't too far but we took the car anyway.  Very nice place, but a bit noisy.  Had drinks at the bar.  I was mesmorized at the cerviche chefs.  Very cool idea.  We ordered a couple of cerviche plates and moved outside where we could hear each other talk.  G & R chatted about the old days and we talked about traveling. The food was delicious.  Some plans were discussed about tomorrow.  Meeting Roman at 10.

Next time .... Biking in the Everglades?

Next Stop - Miami!

Well, the time has come to take the countdown off the sidebar.  We will be on our way tomorrow morning.  Going into Cambridge to meet Deidre who will take us to the airport and then keep our car while we are away. It is a great system and a win-win for all since they only have one car.

Like any traveler, I have been watching the weather, and as usual, everywhere we go it says RAIN!  I know I shouldn't believe these things.  They told us that it would be raining all through New Zealand and fortunately we didn't see too much of that.  At least, it will be warm rain or warmer than this rain. I have added "Weather Conditions" on the sidebar.  So you all can see how wet we ar actually getting!  (After packing, weather is always the next big worry.)

Heard from Geoff's friend in Miami today and he has room at his house to put us up for Friday night.  So we only need the hotel for 2 nights.  That'll save some $$ plus give us more of a chance to visit. After emailing with him back and forth over this past month, I am really looking forward to meeting him and his wife.  We are also trying to get in touch with one of Geoff's cousin's daughters, who lives in Miami Beach and works at a local hang out on South Beach.  Hopefully, we will get  a chance to stop in and say hi.

Not much more to say.  Keep an eye out for "Photo Albums" to appear on the sidebar.  I will add that as soon as I gather some pictures. 

At least the weather gods should be kind to us tomorrow.

Next time .... The Sunshine State

The Final Zip!

Well, I finally did it.  Zipped up the last zipper on the duffel.  Only one thing bothers me - last week when I weighed the thing it was around 23lbs.  Yesterday after I had finally finished (all except for the one important hair brush that is always last to go in), the thing had gained 7lbs,  Is this possible???? What did I do??  I know I snuck in an extra pair of pants and maybe another bathing suit - it certainly wasn't the traveling underwear.  I won't even go into the email we got from our Galapagos Guide who said to bring hiking boots!!!##@@!!  I refuse to take another pair of shoes.  So that's it.  I have 30 lbs of who-knows-what, still well below the 50 lb limit.  Not opening it again until Miami.  I thank all the ladies who emailed me sharing their packing horrors.  It must be built into our DNA.

Now on to more important things - Sports.  I am so very thankful that the Super Bowl is finally over and that Green Bay was victorious.  Hoping that Big Ben crawls back into the hole where he came from and doesn't come back out.  I am sorry to offend any Steeler fans out there.  I just can't stand the man or the team for that matter.  It was also nice to learn that Brady received the MVP unanimously - all 50 votes - first time anyone has done that.   So here's to next year.  It is time now to turn all our attention and enthusiasm over to our beloved Celtics, who find a way to miraculously keep winning.  Let's hope they can make it to the finish line.

Enjoyed a good time last week with friends and some family.  Tried a new restaurant, Fathoms, on Girls Night Out, decided this will be our place for a while.  Pete and Sue, G's brother, came down for a visit on one of the rare bright sunshiny days we have had.  We lunched on the waterfront at the Waterfront Grill and walked along the docks.  Later went for coffee at the Celtic Coffeehouse. A real warm and comfy place on a winter's day across from the Whaling Museum. Ran into some friends and we all chatted for a bit.  Also learned that our nephew just got engaged.  Hooray for them!  We had a wonderful day and a good time was had by all.

Forecast still looks good for take-off - very cold but clear.  Several of our friends happen to be flying to all kinds of places all over the globe and it seems we all leave Wednesday.  I wish them safe travels and wonderful adventures.  Clear skies for all.

Till next time ...

Sunset

No matter how many times I watch a sunset, it never ceases to amaze me. We are quite fortunate to be able to view these spectacular events 365 days a year, weather permitting. Since I have nothing much in the way of news to write about, I thought I would share these pictures.

It does get harder and harder to leave here.  But it is always good to come home.

Next time.... Prepare for take-off

One Week and Counting!

Snowed yet again yesterday.  It has since turned to rain and it looks mighty slushy out there.  At least I hope it is slush and not ice.  This morning might have seemed dismal when I woke, but when I looked out the window, I was greeted with these creatures.  Just had to throw on my boots and take a picture.

Can't say we were hit terribly hard with the snow but after doing a few errands it was time to settle inside for the afternoon,  Turned out to be the perfect opportunity to watch a 3 part BBC series on the Galapagos that I had gotten a while back on my brother's suggestion.  If you have not seen this show and have an opportunity to watch it, it is really beautiful.  If we are able to experience even a thimble full of what we saw, I will be thoroughly impressed.  Darwin only visited the islands once when he was quite young.  But once was enough to set him on the path to the theory of evolution which changed how we look at the world. At least for some of us!

In case you are wondering what Galapagos actually means, as I was, it is Spanish for tortoise - stemming from the same word that means saddle representing their giant shell.  The giant tortoises roam these islands like kings. When the Spaniards landed they dubbed this remote place The Islands of the Tortoise.

We will be busy this last week, taking care of last minute stuff, seeing friends, family, etc.  Not sure I will have much to write about until take-off.  But stay tuned you never know.

Till next time.....