Thursday in Puerto Lopez, Ecuador
The light rain kept me from swimming in the pool this morning. Instead, I hung in the hammock under a thatched roof shelter and read until it slowed to barely a sprinkle. My quest today was to find a tour to take me to Isla de la Plata, the Island of Silver.
While walking down the street one of the many moto-taxis slowed and the driver said Hello. I think thats the first time anyone has greeted me in English. He was happy to chat for a few minutes in English and I asked him about a tour recommendation I had found on the Fodors website. He said it wasnt any good but recommended a different one, one that has English speaking guides, and, of course, he knows and works with them. This is a small town and it seems like everybody knows everybody or is related. His name was Johnny Lucas and he was helpful all day.
I wandered down to Palo Santo, the tour outfit, and talked with Javier, who also spoke great English. He explained the tour to me and its just what I want: a boat ride to the island, a hike, lunch, and then snorkeling, and a boat ride back. He told me wed see blue footed boobies and albatross. There may also be some seals on one side of the island. I booked the tour, giving him half the money as a deposit.