Tina Land

January 17, 2007

What we thought was going to be another long car ride today turned into one of highlights of the trip. We were met again this morning by Hector and Patricio to move on southwest to the Tinalandia lodge. We had all settled in when the van started to pull over to a roadside stand. “What could it be?” we asked ourselves. a) waterfall b) bird sighting c) rare plant d) unknown. We had no idea that it would be d) unknown. After days of constant questions about the “cuyes” Hector had found the spot. It was our time to try the local delicacy, guinea pig!* Roasted on a board, this rotisserie treat might not catch on in the United States. This crispy little snack was served with potatoes and hot sauce, kind of a tough meal for 10:45 am. But as they say, “When in Rome…”

We drove through the “Sweetest City in Ecuador”, and couldn’t resist stopping to try some of the local taffy and drink, the sugar cane alcohol which used to be smuggled through the gulley we traversed while at San Jorge. Finally, we arrived to Tinalandia just in time for lunch and to get ourselves settled into our new home for the next two days.

Boasting one of the only private golf courses in South America, it was time to hit the links! We all took turns playing a few holes, losing as many balls as shots were taken. The term “turf management” takes on an entirely new meaning here. Along with the two cows meandering the course, a good time was had by all.**


*Let it be known, Amy was unwilling to try this delectable little morsel.
** Note the form of Amy’s swing. Please feel free to post any suggestions J