QVK

And what better way to end a fabulous trip than in beautiful Costa Rica?! We took a trip to the Volcano Arenal and the Baldi hot springs, then headed for the beach! We surfed, kayaked, swam, did a canopy tour, drank mango margaritas, played frisbee on the beach, bought red snapper right off the boat and cooked it up, rode bikes to the next white sand-clear water beach. We saw howler monkeys, frogs, iguanas, crabs, fish, and the tropical version of the squirrel. So fantastic. So relaxing! And for our last day here, John treated me to a super nice villa on the beach, complete with pool, meals, and activities. We had so much fun! Well, thus concludes the travel adventure. Hard to believe, but the 3 months has come to an end. A fantastic experience! ... read more

And.....another border crossing and a several hours later, we were in Peru! (How strange, this country hopping. Crazy what you can accomplish in a day!) And really, we´re here for a tour at the lake. Chose a company with good reviews (All Ways) and had a great time, albeit a little commercialized and touristy. We visited the floating islands...this is amazing. The reed roots growing underwater create a floating peat-like substance that floats to the surface in huge chunks and: Viola! Instant floating island that supports 8-10 families and their homes. It´s like nothing else. Next, we headed to Amantani island where we stayed with a native Quechua-speaking family. Did the usual dress-up and local party that has become part of such tours, and it was totally fun. Mom, dad, daughter and granddaughter were all super ... read more

Helloooo All! A computer meltdown has caused additional blogging delays, but all is well! Let´s get caught up! A flight back to BA followed by a 20 hour bus ride, and we were in Salta. THIS bus ride was complete with a multiple course meal and even a big glass of whiskey!! South Am sure shows North Am who´s boss when it comes to busing. Greyhound, eat your heart out! We did some sightseeing in the city and then headed down the beautiful canyon to Cafayate. Wine-ing is hard work, as you all know, but we did it.....visiting 5 wineries in one afternoon! The grapes are delish, the tours are up close and the bottles are still pretty cheap. How great, eh?! There were some beautiful hikes and lots to see in the canyon near by. ... read more

A huge city with so much to see; plazas, museums, monuments, parks, restaurants, cemeteries of the rich and famous, historic subway cars, and (by coincidence) Noche de Vela: an entire night of city-sponsored culture starting in the evening and running until the morning. It was this night (of the day we had originally planned to leave) that we saw the Moscow Symphony Orchestra perform at the Obelisque in Republic Plaza BA. Pretty amazing. Stayed with a local who rents her home out to travelers, and it was a very peaceful spot. Had delicious pizza at a local landmark, El Cuartito (thanks for the 411, Erin!). Drank delicious table wine that only cost $2 USD per bottle. Explored each of BA’s neighborhoods by foot. Went to the Japanese Gardens, but it was packed with tourists and ... read more

A short bus ride west (4 hours) down the southern coast of Brazil and we were in Paraty, a town with old colonial construction and beautiful beaches. Indeed, the main square is a cobblestoned, pedestrian-only flashback in time. The beach at nearby Trindade (1 hour bus ride) was really gorgeous!!! The sun was finally out for a day and the water was cool and full of waves, but totally wadable. In addition, there were short hikes within the forest along the beach leading visitors to even more remote beaches. It was lovely. However, a few snafoos with the hotel (Paraty Hotel/Historic City Center/Ecotours group, though the staff was wonderful) and more unrelenting rain and clouds sent us quickly on our way. ... read more