This morning, our guide picks us up from the hotel and we head north toward Otavalo. Along the way, we visit a bakery that specializes in a local delicacy, little flat breads. We also visit a rose farm. I didn't know that roses were Ecuador's third largest export! The Quito and Otavalo valleys are lined with volcanoes. I can't believe how high and beautiful the snow-capped peaks are. I wish we had more time to do some mountaineering! The indigenous Otavalenos are some of the most intriguing and proud people I have had the chance to encounter. Again, reminds me of my time in Guatemala and the people I was so lucky to live with. After the day's activities, we head to our home for the next few nights: Hacienda Pinsaqui. Pinsaqui is one of the oldest haciendas in the country and the place where Simon Bolivar, the liberator of Ecuador, stayed when in the area. I feel as if I'm in another world as I sip my wine in front of the huge fireplace. Peacocks wander through the courtyard as I read my book.
The Adventure Life staff, for me it's Franny, always listens to what I say about what kind of travel my wife and I want and expect. It never goes wrong. The motto at AL seems to be I will get back to you right away if not sooner. Requested changes and special requests are encouraged and acted on ASAP.
Dick Philpot
3 days ago
The trip planners at Adventure Life were very helpful and always replied to my inquiries right away. The excursions, accomodations, and local guides were excellent
Avi Argaman
4 days ago
Be sure to sign up for all the tours, otherwise you will be sitting on the boat since not all stops are moored at a dock. Some are anchored.
Gail Puryear
4 days ago
There were two best aspects to our trip:
1. The Adventure Life folks and the folks in Athens and Crete who supported our itinerary, guided us, and ran the cooking program were all superb.
2. Everything they all planned for us went without a hitch. When we needed a bit of help, they came through with really good answers.
We became aware of AL from a friend who had an excellent experience in a different location. So did we. We can recommend AL without reservation.
Tom Campbell
4 days ago
My agent Jeff did not push the sale while providing thorough information and replying quickly to my many questions.