Hi Everyone…
A note to let you know that we arrived safely in Puerto Lopez. We spent the last three days in Manta which was a nice city. It was a bit more of the R&R component as we were at a great Hostel…Marina Real. The owner, Chelly, spoke terrific English and loved to chat. We made our way around the city, took in museums, relaxed and enjoyed the bay. One day we took a boat ride out to the main fishing port. Manta is one of the largest exporters of tuna in the world. Ecuadorians consider Manta to be the tuna capital of the world. A beautiful bay, lots of pelicans too 🙂
It’s interesting as we drive around, the country itself is of a poor economic class from what we’re used to. A typical shack at the side of the road is something that you become accustomed to quite quickly. Upon our arrival, one cannot help but consider how people live in such conditions but we do not get the sense that they feel they are missing out. Children often are playing soccer, many trucks are carrying loads full of bananas or oranges…people just going about their business as usual.
The driving is quite a sight. Recently, Ecuador has undergone extensive highway upgrades that have made the driving much easier. A double-painted line really means nothing to anyone. If they want, they pass…no road rage, just people making it to their destinations (albeit some much faster than others). It doesn’t take long to adjust.
Today we arrived in Puerto Lopez. Another coastal community that is no where near as large as Manta. We are staying in the most beautiful, paradise like oasis….Hostel Mandala. It is tucked away at the edge of town, beautiful palm trees out front and the roar of the ocean is never far. The pathway to our suite, “The Humming Bird” feels so decadent in its tropical nature it truly is like being on an island paradise. The various birds, exceptional exotic flowers and entire layout seems architecturally exquisite.
The town of Puerto Lopez, however, is a sh*t hole! What one street-sweeper could do would be amazing but no such thing! It’s probably the most unkept city we’ve been in…it’s safe, but as far as being a tidy city, not going to happen…LOL:)
Tomorrow we’re heading to Manchala National Park where we’ll be horseback riding through three levels of climates. A tour guide will take us and we chatted with another guest here who said it was amazing. Following that we are taking a boat ride to Isla de la Plata, which is an island with blue-footed Boobies (they are birds) and some snorkling with some exotic fish. All around it will prove to be an amazing adventure. We’re here for the next three days and then off to Salinas.
Well that’s it for now. We’re about to eat our fresh fish (with peanut sauce), Wishing everyone well. Take good care to all and we’ll chat with you soon.
Love to all…
