End of June-July 2016, Ecuador.
Unfortunately my time in Ecuador was short, but knowing I was going to return I set out for Montanita. A surf town along the southern end of the country. Perfect, I was going to be volunteering at ChiChi Babylon hostel at the beach and surfing. That was it, I didn't have much time so I figured I'd focus on one area and just chill out before I head back to the states for a month.
I spent the next week waking up early to attend to my volunteer duties, recruit backpackers to our hostel, hit the gym a few times, and surf everyday. I want to become a better surfer so practice is key. Surfing is a full mind and body activity, it has helped me clear my head of distractions and focus on myself. The feeling you get when your blasted in the face by strong waves is like nothing else you will ever experience. Kicking your own ass to catch a wave meant everything to me. I just wanted more, so my new love had been found and I dedicated myself to it. I'm nothing amazing on a board. What matters is each time I go out I feel the change, noticing a difference. Slowly building my skill level. To be a witness to your own changes is great.
Hostel life is great, and I really started to enjoy the atmosphere in ChiChi Babylon. Then I met Libby and Taylor, and we decide to be friends forever. Libby is from England and Taylor is from Canada. We all instantly bond. Spending our days on the beach, followed by dinner and late night snack walks into town. Our time together is short, so we plan to catch up again in Colombia. I then head out on the longest bus ride of my life. Yes that's right the longest, 30+hours long. My time is Ecuador just wasn't enough, I need more of this country. I will return to Ecuador after Colombia to continue my exploration. Soo this bus ride, yea actually wasn't that bad. I put out the extra buck for VIP. I decided it was treat yourself day. You are provided food, minimal food, drinks and unlimited movie time...YESSS! I was excited to sit back and binge watch tv. It had been a while since I sat through an entire movie. The 30+hours flew by and before I knew it I was in Peru. I find a dope place on couch surfing. Mana Lima Hostel is my new home. Only having a day in MIraflores to explore I take a surf board out for quick ride. It's my first time surfing in cold water with a wet-suit. The conditions are not the best but there are always waves. My body lasted about an hour and a half before the cold set in. My body was numb from the cold water/air combination that was happening. I get back and shower quickly, leaving enough time to pack my bag and say " see you soon." America here I come.............well first my plane decided to be delayed by a couple hours. Before I knew it, it was early in the morning, my flights had been rescheduled and I was tired as hell. I board and immediately pass out. Now America, your girl was coming home.
I spend the next month between Detroit and Baltimore. Fitting in as much time as I can with friends and family. Picking up shifts at the Rockwell to support my traveling addiction. And loving the hell out of my nephew Levi. The best part about coming home for a short time is the hugs. There is nothing like a good hug from loved ones. Yep, sometimes coming home can be a good thing. Just don't stay to long cause the American will start to grow on you.
Time flies when your having fun, and my time in the states was coming to an end. I had big plans ahead of me and needed to return to Peru. Where one of the greatest journeys of my life was about to occur. MY GIRLS WERE COMING. Yup that's right, four friends were about to embark on a wicked adventure.
Unfortunately my time in Ecuador was short, but knowing I was going to return I set out for Montanita. A surf town along the southern end of the country. Perfect, I was going to be volunteering at ChiChi Babylon hostel at the beach and surfing. That was it, I didn't have much time so I figured I'd focus on one area and just chill out before I head back to the states for a month.
I spent the next week waking up early to attend to my volunteer duties, recruit backpackers to our hostel, hit the gym a few times, and surf everyday. I want to become a better surfer so practice is key. Surfing is a full mind and body activity, it has helped me clear my head of distractions and focus on myself. The feeling you get when your blasted in the face by strong waves is like nothing else you will ever experience. Kicking your own ass to catch a wave meant everything to me. I just wanted more, so my new love had been found and I dedicated myself to it. I'm nothing amazing on a board. What matters is each time I go out I feel the change, noticing a difference. Slowly building my skill level. To be a witness to your own changes is great.
Hostel life is great, and I really started to enjoy the atmosphere in ChiChi Babylon. Then I met Libby and Taylor, and we decide to be friends forever. Libby is from England and Taylor is from Canada. We all instantly bond. Spending our days on the beach, followed by dinner and late night snack walks into town. Our time together is short, so we plan to catch up again in Colombia. I then head out on the longest bus ride of my life. Yes that's right the longest, 30+hours long. My time is Ecuador just wasn't enough, I need more of this country. I will return to Ecuador after Colombia to continue my exploration. Soo this bus ride, yea actually wasn't that bad. I put out the extra buck for VIP. I decided it was treat yourself day. You are provided food, minimal food, drinks and unlimited movie time...YESSS! I was excited to sit back and binge watch tv. It had been a while since I sat through an entire movie. The 30+hours flew by and before I knew it I was in Peru. I find a dope place on couch surfing. Mana Lima Hostel is my new home. Only having a day in MIraflores to explore I take a surf board out for quick ride. It's my first time surfing in cold water with a wet-suit. The conditions are not the best but there are always waves. My body lasted about an hour and a half before the cold set in. My body was numb from the cold water/air combination that was happening. I get back and shower quickly, leaving enough time to pack my bag and say " see you soon." America here I come.............well first my plane decided to be delayed by a couple hours. Before I knew it, it was early in the morning, my flights had been rescheduled and I was tired as hell. I board and immediately pass out. Now America, your girl was coming home.
I spend the next month between Detroit and Baltimore. Fitting in as much time as I can with friends and family. Picking up shifts at the Rockwell to support my traveling addiction. And loving the hell out of my nephew Levi. The best part about coming home for a short time is the hugs. There is nothing like a good hug from loved ones. Yep, sometimes coming home can be a good thing. Just don't stay to long cause the American will start to grow on you.
Time flies when your having fun, and my time in the states was coming to an end. I had big plans ahead of me and needed to return to Peru. Where one of the greatest journeys of my life was about to occur. MY GIRLS WERE COMING. Yup that's right, four friends were about to embark on a wicked adventure.