Ecuador in June

We spent yesterday at Banos - a gorgeous little town at the base of an active volcano. We went there to soak in the natural hot springs - there are several different spots for this, but they were all closed for cleaning or maintenance, so we went to a spa that has a swimming pool *freezing*, hot tub *boiling* and sauna and herbal steam room *perfect*! We spent a good few hours there with Hank's uncle and cousins and returned to Quito in the night. Was lovely and relaxing.

Also spent a day recently up near the Columbian border. Didn't cross over because of troubles with guerillas over there, but spent a nice afternoon with another uncle at the cemetery of Tulcan - not morbid, because we went to see the beautifully crafted topary gardens there. Also went to the markets at Otivalo, which is famed for it's many stalls, etc. I think we saw enough, but could have spent much longer looking if it weren't for the rain that sent us back to the car, and back to Quito via a little cafeteria that sold great cheese and biscuits. Felt cozy enjoying those over a cup of coffee while it poured down outside.

Have extended our time in Ecuador until the 18th June, which gives us another 10 days to explore, get dental work done, and prepare for getting work in London. We'll then spend about 4 days in Madrid getting our Europe legs, before hiting London on the 22nd. Getting pretty revved up to get back into work and earning some money again, and catching up with friends who are already over there. Another new set of experiences ahead of us!