Blog Post 10: Bellavista


1) My favorite part about Bellavista was definitely climbing the waterfalls. I love being outside and hiking so hiking in a place like Bellavista was an amazing opportunity. I l also love climbing though this was unlike anything I've ever done so it was truly an adventure. When it comes to being outside I am like a kid so I loved the opportunity the slosh around the river in yellow rain boots and play under a waterfall. I honestly loved every bit of the day, even the hike. Bellavista was my favorite part of this trip for sure and I intend to look into some of the volunteer opportunities they have for the future.

2) The altitude definitely made the hike harder. I have done some hiking before but I'm not in the best shape and the thinness of the air complicates things a bit. I think that my lungs have adjusted a bit since arriving in Quito but a hike that long and arduous was definitely a workout.

3) This week has given me a lot to think about regarding culture and communication. I have noticed a big improvement in my Spanish just from classes and speaking the language so frequently. I find that I am speaking more quickly and confidently as well as with less errors. I would love to improve further over the next week and be able to maintain most of what I've learned when I return to the US through practice. I am also very excited about how much I have learned about Ecuador. I love having the chance to eat authentic Ecuadorian food daily and although I am looking forward to a nice slice of cheese pizza when I get back to the states, I am very happy to be experiencing a culture through food. I have tried a lot of amazing fruits (whether in juices/desserts or whole) but I would love to try more and be able to remember some of the names for when I return home. I would also like to learn how to make some of the dishes I have loved here such as the llapingachas. I am looking forward to the cooking lesson Friday! I have enjoyed hearing about politics and the ways of life from Maria my host mother and would love to learn more from her. She has also offered to give me a haircut (she works in a salon) so this next week should be eventful!

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