It’s been an interesting six weeks in South America!
We visited three countries (Peru, Ecuador, & Chile), took twelve flights (and one multi-stop boat trip), covered 16,657 miles, lodged in eighteen different spots, experienced two earthquakes, shared bouts of traveler’s disease (or norovirus – not sure which) and enjoyed a little political turmoil: martial law in Ecuador, dissolving of congress in Peru, and massive demonstrations in Chile. How cool is that!?
And – incredible wildlife viewing, even more incredible archaeology, interesting culture, great food, better wine, and really wonderful people. Just what you hope the reward is for travel.
D.
What an amazing experience these last six weeks have been. I love taking our time and getting to know the people and the places we visit. Despite the language barrier, we found the people in Peru, Ecuador and Chile to be genuinely friendly and helpful (sign language is universal). Our many guides smoothed the way for us and enabled us to see and interact with people off the beaten path outside of the common tourists’ areas.
Yes, we did see quite a bit of social unrest, but we could stay home and see it here too. I returned home with a greater appreciation for things we take for granted and what people in developing countries must live with in their daily lives. For us, that is why we travel.
M