Monday, January 23, 2017

Otovalo y Quito

¡Hola a todos!

The past few days have been a whirlwind both here in Ecuador as well as at home. Since my last post, I have spent one night in Otovalo, and two in the historical district of Quito. My Latin American Perspectives professor from last semester first told me about Otovalo, as it is a town that exemplifies the blend of indigenous culture and modernity. Otovalo is famous for its mercentile nature, which has existed since pre-colonial times. Many Otovalans still dress in native clothing and speak the native language of the region, while also expanding their trade on a global scale. On a local scale, the weekly Saturday market takes over the entire city, rain or shine. When I arrived Friday afternoon, I wandered about for a bit to get the general layout of the town. Flanked by lush green hills, it radiated charm while also having the modern edge and tourist attractions of a larger city. It was raining pretty heavily, so not many people were out, and I turned in early. Saturday, however, each main and side street was packed with food, textiles, trinkets, tourists, and local families. Even the outskirts of the city bustled, as a weekly livestock market takes place at the same time. The rain persisted, but it had no effect on the crowds. While exploring the market, I saw an unfamiliar fruit at one of the stands, and asked the vendor if I could try it. She punctured the fruit and exposed a spongey interior with sauce-like seeds. I took a bite of the whole thing and she laughed, then explained to me that you only eat the inside. I was confused as to how to make that happen, so I used my fingers to try and pry out the seeds. She laughed again, and showed me how to properly eat it, then let me have it for free. I can't help but think she did so because of my white stupidity, but she was very sweet and endearing. Regardless, I tried a "tree tomato" for the first time, and it was pretty damn good.

Upon arriving in Quito that same day, I explored a bit in the rain and found many incredible buildings, side streets, and monuments. The neighborhood was more crowded than Otovalo, but the historic nature made it feel like a small town regardless. I'm currently staying in a hostel with several men from Punjab, and several from Basque, all of whom are extremely kind and have made me food on multiple occasions, which is the ultimate key to my happiness. I feel more independent here than I have in a very long time, and am happy, despite cultural differences and the constant smell of BO.

While I am very happy here, being away from the US during this critical point in our history makes me sad and angry. Regardless, I am unbelievably proud of everyone who spoke their truth at national and international womens marches the day after Trump's inauguration, and who continue to do so in the days that followed. In Ecuador, the election season is hitting it's climax, with today being the final day of voting. While hanging out at a park near my room yesterday, I saw a brilliant political demonstration with music, dancing, and paper-mache characature heads of their desired presidential and vice presidential candidates. Many young people attended, and many families watched and danced along with them. It was awesome to say the least, and made me feel hopeful and excited to see what is to come.

My first major stop was incredible overall, and I am very excited to see what else is in store for me here. Sending everyone in the U.S. tons of love and support❤❤❤

Thursday, January 19, 2017

"Es un día muy especial"

¡Buenos días de Tababela, Ecuador!

I am currently seated in a hostel several miles from the Mariscal Sucre airport, I have showered (finally), and I am ready to start documenting. The last flight I was on, from Fort Lauderdale to Ecuador, was an incredible glimpse into the culture I've entered. 90% of those on the flight were native Spanish speakers, and many came in families. Everything was going smoothly until about an hour from Quito, when the flight attendant asked if anyone on board was a nurse or doctor. Looking up, I saw a circle of women using magazines to furiously fan whoever was in the middle. To say I felt like a clueless American tourist at this time would be  an understatement. Those around me left their seats despite turbulence to bring whatever they thought would be helpful to the circle, and after several minutes the circle disappeared and all was calm once more. Once the plane landed, everyone around me began to applaud. I have never seen a cabin of U.S. passengers applaud upon landing. The sense of gratitude and community was palpable, and in that moment I knew that this is exactly where I need to be. Despite feeling clumsy, nervous, and out of place, I feel excited and, and I know that my ignorance and "American tourist" feeling will morph as I am exposed to a culture where my personal way of life is not dominant.

In the spirit of gratitude, I would like to public ally thank my family and friends for their overwhelming support, as I would not be here without it. The hostel I'm staying in has a lovely garden, with a sign saying "es un día muy especial." To me, this could not feel more relevant. Today is a special day, as are all of the days we are living as our most authentic selves and exploring the world around us. Thank you, and I wish you all a very special day!