February 20, 2017: Hola from Quito! What a fascinating city, at a breathtaking time in the history of Ecuador. The Presidential election hangs in the balance, with another election likely. There is a businessman running against a socialist, and everyone is taking sides. Protesters gather, carrying signs, and the policia stand sentinel with watchful eyes. This, against the backdrop of centuries-old architecture and history. Our conversations with the local Ecuadorian people demonstrate how many parallels there are between our cultures. Turbulent times, indeed.
The architecture is an eclectic blend of Spanish and European influence, and I am enamored with the symphony of color, musical language, and beautiful, smiling faces. There is a special magic here.
Tomorrow we’re headed down the Napo River in the Amazon basin. I’m ready for the sound of birdsong and the fresh smell of the rainforest. Adios …