Highlights of Ecuador

This picture is from our first week in Quito. Mayana and I were extremely excited during Changing of the Guard, which happens every Monday in Quito. I felt like I was standing next to the British soldiers that never move. This officer was very stoic as well, but totally willing to let us take a picture next to her, which was nice. It was also great that we got to see President Correa who usually makes an appearance at the Changing of the Guard. This was a great experience considering I have never gotten to see the US president, but now I can say I have seen Ecuador’s. There were guards, bands, soldiers on horses, dancers–it was truly incredible and well planned. A lot of people from around the city came and gathered around to watch. I feel happy we got to be a part of that experience.

One of my favorite experiences in Ecuador so far has been when we visited the very small town called Mindo. There, we stayed at a butterfly farm. We got to go into this greenhouse with butterflies everywhere! There, we dipped our fingers into banana juice and picked the butterflies up. I was surprised how easy it was. Sometimes, we would even get two or three to fly on us. Sometimes I felt like I was in  a dream because it was so beautiful and such a unique experience. At the same time it got a little creepy because there were so many of them and they could easily swarm if they wanted to. Thankfully, we got out safe. No butterfly attacks here. It was cute because we ate on these butterfly plates and everything at the hotel was butterfly themed. It was quite the memorable experience. Also, the jugo (juice) in Ecuador is impeccable and I am in love with it.

In Mindo, we also got to hike and see some of the most beautiful waterfalls. We swam, hiked and climbed through the dense and deep green forest. I loved it so much. Just breathing in the fresh air was impeccable. I feel completely blessed to have had this experience…it is truly breathtaking. After this experience I want my mother and family back in the states to come visit Ecuador one day. I know they would love it. That is when you know you love a place, when you want your loved ones to share the experience with you. In Mindo, we also got to zipline across the jungle. It was unbelievable. I kept imagining King Kong busting through the trees in the forest–that is how dense and beautifully green the forest was. It looked like uncharted territory in the most refreshing way. Feeling the fresh jungle air on your skin while you soar high above the jungle is an experience I will never forget.

Here are some other fun pictures that highlight my experience in Ecuador so far: