When one door opens, the opportunities are endless..
Eighty days has passed and my journey has come full circle: starting in Quito (with unknown expectations) and ending there with unforgettable experiences, lifelong friends and memories that I will cherish forever! Being receptive to the abundance of life lessons on offer has been an opportune moment for further personal development and self-discovery.
In this blog post, I will attempt to sum up my emotions as I reflect on some of my experiences in Ecuador (along with the last eighty days or so!)...
I remember the first day of the tour... I had arrived a day early and, at that point, I was the only one occupying the shared room. Therefore, on that first morning, I felt a little nervous venturing out to the breakfast room; I could hear some of my potential travel companions and for some reason this added to my existing apprehension. In my head I was thinking: "just open the door and go out there!" So I did...
And I'm glad I did! I met a super welcoming group of people travelling from a range of countries: Canada, Germany and the Netherlands. Before I knew it, any previous social anxiety had disappeared and I was signed up for a full day tour of Quito with some of them. It was a brilliant first day and by the time the whole group met for the first welcome meeting that evening, I was excited to connect with this group of friendly and enthusiastic travellers over the next couple of weeks or so.
As a team we accomplished many challenges: canyoning up steep inclines in rushing water; galloping on horseback through the different Ecuadorian landscapes; and finally, jumping off rocks into deep waters (from a height very much out of my comfort zone!). Not only did these experiences bond us, but with the invested camaraderie of cheering, compassion and cajoling from everyone towards each other, it created a special atmosphere of togetherness and acceptance. It was the perfect example of the ultimate 'hype' group and it was a real privilege to travel with them!
As a result of this, I felt that I was able to form really good connections with them. From having a real laugh over card games to having deep and meaningful conversations (or as I refer to them - a 'DMC'!), I felt I learnt a lot from them and in turn, felt much more connected to myself. Being around such kind and uplifting people can really raise your own vibration and I began to see the value in being my true, authentic self. I think when people take the time to really 'see you' and get to know you, not only does it spread positivity, but it also serves as a refreshing reminder that we must appreciate ourselves for who we are and cultivate confidence in this.
My Itinerary in Ecuador:
(Note: I will be covering each of these places in separate, upcoming blog posts to provide further detail.)
Quito: Ecuador's capital (2850m above sea level and situated on the equator) surrounded by a backdrop of stunning mountains! During my stay, I visited the Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) where you can find the Plaza de la Independencia. This square holds a lot of history for this city, such as the Heroes of the Independence Statue - built to symbolise their victory from Spanish reign. The Old Town has so much to discover, with its impressive architecture and beautiful churches. Also, don't forget to pay a visit to the magnificent 16th Century Cathedral de Quito.
If you're keen for an impressive panoramic view of the city, don't miss out on El Panecillo where you can also see the sculpture of La Virgen del Panecillo up close. Finally, one of my favourite excursions was the Intiñan Equator Museum: an interactive outdoor museum. Here you can learn about Ecuador's history and take part in demonstrations that can only occur on the equator line.
Tena: located on the outskirts of the Amazon jungle. Here we got the chance to enjoy a homestay with a wonderfully welcoming family. It was an incredible cultural experience where we got to learn all about the Quichuan community: their traditions and culture. From their use of the flora and fauna to how they select their leader, it was a truly insightful and unforgettable experience. We also learnt all about the traditional marriage ceremony (such a joyous moment!) and we even got to try a natural spa treatment using the mineral-rich clay! We then took a scenic bike ride to another local community called Shandia, where we managed to make chocolate from scratch!
The Amazon Jungle, Tena Baños: a city close to the Amazon Jungle with dramatic landscapes: think rugged mountains, volcanic slopes and giant waterfalls! During my time here, I enjoyed a scenic horseback ride to witness these breathtaking views but there are other opportunities for more "adrenaline fuelled" activities if that is your preference, such as: canyoning, paragliding and zip-lining. If you're looking more for relaxation perhaps try the thermal springs (their source being the Tungurahua Volcano). Don't forget to try the "Swing at the End of the World" for great views and a bit of a thrill!
Cuenca: a charming city with cobbled streets, colonial architecture and plazas "with a view". One of Ecuador's largest cities (coming in at number three), there is plenty to enjoy here. From the impressive 16th Century Cathedral to sweet smelling flower markets or the rejuvenating hot springs and mud baths to museums and galleries- there's a range of activities here to keep you busy!
The Picturesque City of Cuenca The Galápagos Islands: Charles Darwin's research centre for his groundbreaking theories relating to Natural Selection and Evolution and home to sea lions, flamingos, land iguanas, the famous Blue Footed Boobie and many more! A truly magical place and perfect for a multitude of unforgettable snorkelling experiences!
Need to knows!
Currency: | US Dollars |
Language: | Spanish is the main language spoken within Ecuador but there are additional indigenous languages spoken with regional variations (for example, in Tena Quichua is used). |
Plug type: | Types A & B. |
Travel: | The main airport in Ecuador is located in its capital (Quito). Transport from the airport to the main city centre is easy with the use of Uber. They also operate a four digit pin system (that you provide to the driver) for extra safety. The journey from the airport to the main city centre should take approximately 45 minutes (but I would recommend allowing at least 1 hour during the 'rush hour'). |
Cash or card? | Both are accepted but for some of the smaller towns or remote locations it is worth carrying cash with you. |
My Experience:
They say "when one door closes another door opens" but I don't necessarily believe that life is always as "clear-cut" as endings and beginnings. Personally for me, I think it is possible to leave "existing doors open" (that keep you grounded and connected), whilst "opening new doors" to new worlds, new people and new experiences. I believe it is important to bring with you the lessons learnt from the past (and all that has shaped your identity) in order to continue exploring your own sense of self.
I have heard people say that no one really knows what they are doing in life and that a key concept to adopt is that none of us really know anything! Perhaps this theory stems from Socrates' famous quote: "the only thing I know is that I know nothing". I find this a profound notion that could be interpreted from a multitude of philosophical angles! Whether you agree or disagree is personal opinion but for me (after nearly three months of travel) this statement really resonates within my personal reflections. At the age of thirty-five, I often think (naively or ignorantly) that I fully understand myself or that I've "seen it all" but this trip has continually surprised me on a number of levels. And surely anything that makes you re-evaluate your thinking can only be good thing, right? Even in such a short space of time, I feel the changes and shifts from within.
On the bus ride to Heathrow Airport (back in August), I had the delight of talking to the passenger sitting beside me. We engaged in pleasant conversation during these few hours and I had the chance to share my upcoming travel plans with him. One of his responses was the following: "travelling will change you and you will be a different person when you return". I listened and agreed but, in all honesty, I didn't think I would change as much as I have (or in the ways that I have). I knew that I would experience incredible moments but I didn't think they would impact me as much as they have.
I have been given the chance to learn about so much- both internally and externally- and for that I am extremely grateful. The exceptional tour guides have shared their knowledge, passion and countries with us and it has been really special to learn about the different traditions, cultures and histories that exist across the many beautiful countries of South America. It has also been a real pleasure to bond with my fellow travellers thus learn about their lives and stories. It has felt like a gift to share this time with them and enjoy a whole range of new environments and experiences together.
Although opening these new doors can bring new risks and challenges, they can also provide new perspectives, new ways of thinking and ultimately, new ways of living your life. I still have so much to reminisce and reflect on and, ultimately I now want to hold space to cherish these wonderful memories.
These reflections will be explored further in upcoming blog posts so stay tuned! But for now, I am ready to take my backpack of memories, gratitude and joy with me as I open a new door to the next, exciting room in my life...
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