Ecuador

We are back in Quito -- exactly on the equator ('qui' = center, 'to' = earth) after 10 days in the Galapagos islands. Sorry for the long delay in posting a blog, but there wasn't an internet signal strong enough to post photos out there.

Being on the equator we were able to see star constellations from both the Northern AND Southern hemispheres in the same sky! So we looked south to see our beloved Southern Cross and then a turn to the north and there was our long lost Big Dipper (although empty because it was upside down).

What a treasure! We visited six islands and saw an incredible amount of remarkable flora and fauna including land iguanas, blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises, marine iguanas and frigate birds with their big red mating balloon. The five of us have decided that this was a fantastic way to wind up our year abroad as it is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. Each island is so different and we learned all of the geological reasons why. The volcanic terrain is indescribable and fascinating.

We snorkeled nearly every day -- maybe the best I've ever seen. At different times we swam with sea lions (they are so playful), white-tipped reef sharks, sea turtles and penguins. Each one is such a thrill. And the beaches were absolutely gorgeous.

You do wish you were here! :)