Saturday 9 February 2008

Santa Cruz, Floreana, and Bartolome

Around every corner there are spectacular sights of animals co-existing right before our eyes. Our last two days have been primarily spent snorkeling around two different islands fairly close to the one we have been staying on. Around one rock formation, called Corona del Diablo (the Devil's Crown), we snorkeled by a giant sea turtle, three white tipped sharks, many sea lions, a manta ray and thousands of fish, which the previously mentioned feed on. I could hardly keep from choking on my snorkel gear (especially when I realized I had just swam over a shark, who thankfully cared less about me, Phil, of course, was thrilled and turned back for a photo)!
These Islands, however, have presented us with much more then beautiful photo ops. I actually feel like I could write an essay on what we have experienced so far. It would include the contradictions this beautiful, extremely delicate, worldly unique archipelago has presented to us. The contradictions of being an animal filled natural sanctuary verses a vacation spot for thousands of tourists. How can these two co-exist? It is a tough one. But with only four short days left, I will put the essay on hold and enjoy my time here, while making a very conscious effort to live lightly, thank the animals and the land, and give back what I have taken. That being said, here are some photos from the last four days. We are off to Isabela today, a more remote Island, so we will be in touch in a couple days.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

WOW! The photos are great! I hope that you are both having a wonderful time. Lynds and I have been enjoying keeping up with your travels.

Also, Phil, your guitar looks amazing! That was a pretty sweet opportunity.

Looking forward to reading more soon!