Ecuador Part I / Christmas and New Year

My journey took me directly from Costa Rica to Ecuador. Surprisingly, there is no direct flight from San Jose to Ecuador, so I had to make a stopover in Bogota. As a backpacker, I always look for the cheapest option. That's why I flew on December 25, 2016, which wasn't a problem. The Christmas spirit didn't really grab me...

In the evening, I arrived at my home for the coming week, where Tom was already waiting for me. At that time, Tom was in Ecuador for his volunteering project with the turtles. I met Tom in Tamarindo, where we always got along well from the beginning.

My accommodation, the Cabañas, was as beautiful as in a picture book. There were bamboo huts, hammocks, lounge chairs, and palm trees everywhere. All of this was complemented by a pool - WONDERFUL!

The first week in Ecuador was all about: Sea, sun, and relaxation! We enjoyed the sun and the beach. Visited Playa Montañita, Playa Olón, and Playa Salinas. We also enjoyed fresh fish practically every day. We tried various dishes in different preparations and were rarely disappointed. Montañita is a very small but lively and vibrant town. The traffic rules are hardly observed, and there is shouting from every corner. After Christmas, Montañita filled up enormously. Pretty much everyone is selling something (legal and illegal) on the streets and the beach. However, the city is full of police patrols and therefore 'safe' - I haven't seen a cop arresting someone for dealing...

The façades of all the houses are only beautiful on the front side, the rest was left unfinished during construction. In addition, the mini markets are located in the vestibules of the buildings. When shopping, we were partly in the living room of a family. Plus, everything was much cheaper here than in Tamarindo! We ate, drank, and treated ourselves to many things for little money.

New Year's Eve in Montañita is absolutely insane! The locals have some funny traditions, and they are fully lived by every local! The biggest tradition is the burning of a Monigote. The Monigote is supposed to represent the past year with all its negative events and at the same time bring good luck for the coming year. The celebration takes place on the beach. It was one huge party. Everyone waited for the countdown and held their Monigotes in their hands. At midnight, fireworks exploded from all sides, and shortly after, the big bonfire was lit. Everyone ran around the fire and jumped over it.

At this point, I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year! Lots of health, happiness, and success for 2017 :)

As for me, I will now explore the inland and then visit the Galapagos Islands.

Ama la vida!