idonotwantapickle.com / People ask why "Follow the White Rabbit". Whether you take it literally or metaphorically. Following the white rabbit means, to follow an unlikely clue, an innocuous unbelievable sign, to find oneself in the midst of more or less normal to extraordinary, marvelous, amazing circumstances that challenge one's fundamental beliefs, expands one's horizons and or perception of realities, transforms one's perspective and change one's life.
Day 1. I met the boat in Puerto Ayora. Flew into the airport took a bus to the water taxi then another bus into town. Finding the boat was a little adventure but a lady on the pier was a great help. It didn’t help that I was an hour late getting there.
By the afternoon 14 guests had checked onto the boat. We went ashore past the fish market to the Darwin center where they breed tortoises. After that back to the boat and the beginning of our cruise.
Six planes in a day and a half. Great trip. I will start posting some pictures as I take a look at them starting with the Galapagos trip. Had a great time with some great people. Time went way to fast.
The Pallo Hidalgo family Edwin and Elena made me feel very welcome in their home in Tumbaco. Daniela, David, and Mateo, their children just added to the good times. I stayed in many places in Ecuador but this was by far my favorite. I learned so much from them about Ecuador. It was a great experience. Mi queridos amigos gracias por todas las sonrisas y un calico especial a la abuela!
Going to the mercado, walking to the neighborhood store, or sitting around the dinner table talking made me smile. Hearing about local customs, celebrations, work and school. I was invited to a family Baptista which was a lot of fun. They are opening their home as a B&B named Casa Kirei. Which I’m sure will be a success. In the town of Tumbaco, in the Churoloma area, in the neighborhood of Caizan.  Jonathan told me when he dropped me off to just remember “cuatro esquinas” the four corners and I could find my way from there. He was right all the locals know the place. Most taxi drivers would never find it unless local to the area. The streets are unmarked. Beautiful area! Wonderful people!
P.S. When asked for a dance it lasts for a half hour. By the end of one dance I needed oxygen and a towel.
They showed up right when we starting to snorkel.
I have no idea why my camera was pointed that direction.
Nice town that I used as base camp for a couple days.
Town of about 14,000 people. This is as far south I went along the coastline. Grilled prawns for supper. Been having great seafood at fair prices.
Nice beach off the beaten path.
Really liked this area. Lobster lunch 10 bucks!
