I spent the first four nights in Quito, Ecuador. Not only the equator, but the center of the earth, lies in Ecuador. So I must say that it was a very special moment to be able to stand on the 0' o' 0' point of the earth. I also got the privilege to interact with the local community. We spent one night high up in the mountains, at a local's home, getting a chance to interact with the indigenous community. They prepared a very special dinner for us and it really once again showed me what all my travels teach me...that no matter what part of the world, no matter who lives there, in the end, we are all bonded by the same emotions and feelings. People share the same feelings of love, pain, sorrow, warmth, and fear. High up in the mountains of Ecuador, I met a family, who in spite of the language barrier, I felt so welcomed into their home. In the morning, I had the opportunity to go horseback riding amidst the clouds. The views were absolutely breathtaking.
Take a look at the man in the photograph below. I don't know who he is. I don't know his name, nor do I know his life story. But something about him inspired me to take a photograph. They say a picture speaks a thousand words, and this photo exemplifies that. There are years of hard work, pain, sorrow, joy, accomplishment, and above all else, wisdom gleaming in his eyes. And again, it just shows how we are all the same. You can find this man sitting on a bench in absolutely any part of the world.
I had promised to end all my travels with something unique about each destination. With Quito, Ecuador, it has to the be courtyards! I absolutely fell in love with how most of the homes in Quito have such beautiful courtyards. From the outside, the homes just have a door in busy downtown Quito. But, once you open the door, you walk into a magnificent courtyard style home. I loved it!
And for Galapagos Islands, what else can I say other than the unique wildlife! The birds and giant tortoises especially. I would recommend this trip to all those who love and appreciate the wildlife.
I have uploaded my photos in the photography section, just scroll down and you'll see it.
With love,
Homaira