Galapagos

What can I say...you fly all the way to Ecuador, you sort of have to go to the Galapagos. I was quite lucky to land a cheap bed on a little ¿16 people? cruise boat. I had 3 points in my favor, could go in any available opening over a month, only wanted 4 days and was brought to the GAP office by Phil, who works in Torontoçs main office as was down pumping up the sales staff.

So off I go. Each day was some combination of snorkeling, hiking and lectures, plus 3 big meals and snacks after every event. The guide ¿Hansel? and croo were fabulous, very friendly and full of good humor.

Will post some underwater pics once I get them from others. Walking on Floreana was like being in a really big zoo, where they let you behind the fences. Seemed so normal at the time, will take some time to sink in just what I was doing. Iguanas, sea lions, albatrosses, boobies, all manner of birds. Just an amazing time. The snorkeling was the big hit. At least once a day and for a few hours. Swim right up to big sea turtles and chill for a bit, while countless fish of all sizes go to school. All sorts of mantas, and a few reef sharks. The underwater scenery was literally fantastic. What an extremely cool way to spend time. On Santa Cruz ¿Darwin Station? for a few more days, then back to Quito to head more east.