Ecuador, Colombia, México, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala & Belize 2019

Ecuador, Colombia, México, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala & Belize (7th January - 2nd June 2019)

• I will write about this trip differently from all previous posts
• I will include the same content in English as in my first book ever, which was in Spanish. Therefore some translations might need still some corrections

07-01-2019

• Two weeks ago I worked as a steward for an airline in Dubai, a little over two years ago I worked as a consultant and six years ago I finished my double degree in law and business administration.
  
• Nothing satisfied me fully, although by that time I had traveled to 95 countries, I practiced many other hobbies, especially sports, I got married ... this point is important ... today, with my wife, Hannah, who left her job with me in December 2018, I start the trip of my life: almost five months through South and Central America, being Quito, capital of Ecuador, the first stop.

11-01-2019

• Manta beach, northwest of Ecuador. Fifth day since we started our trip. We experienced the hospitality of this land from the first days in Quito with Mateo and Paulina, thanks to the portal Couchsurfing, a network where travelers stay or are hosted with a view to help, and share when possible, good times during the trip (gastronomy, visits, stories, etc.) We enjoyed long walks, delicious street food, and a lot of disconnection
  
  
  
  
• After two days in Quito, especially enjoying the old town, we visited the so-called "Middle of the World", where the equator crosses, giving name to the country; and Pululahua, one of the most outstanding places so far, consisting of an inhabited crater surrounded by green mountains
  
  
  
  
• We spent the night in Mindo, a nice place in the middle of the mountains where, however, the prices are too high for the reality of Ecuador. It seems that certain people, especially from the capital, came to invest when the road to Mindo opened and perhaps expect too high returns, although the reality is that there were a large number of properties for sale. After spending the night in a humble hostel, we enjoyed a hike the next day arriving at one of the many waterfalls in the area
• Last night we arrived at the coast, to Manta in particular, where two nice girls have agreed to welcome us for two days (thanks María José and Salomé) and for the moment we have wandered on the beach. In fact, I am writing right now, relaxed after sharing a menu with Hannah at a beach bar while Binomio de Oro de América is being played
  

01-13-2019

• Olón, surfer town with great atmosphere
  
• Possibly our most surreal Couchsurfing experience: five people have rented a house for a month and they hosted us two days. So far nothing strange beyond a good spirit. Three are Brazilians: Marcelo and Paloma travel singing from town to town earning a few dollars and Guillermo, known as Jesus Christ for his resemblance, sells delicious vegetarian empanadas, tart and maybe something else; the first two studied together at the university and met Guillermo while traveling in Bolivia. As for the two Colombians, Eli and Diego from Bogotá, they are on their honeymoon which want to celebrate traveling for one or two years, and when they have the chance they sell bracelets or juices on the street. The singers and the Colombians met in Guayaquil, Ecuador, the four of them being hosted by another charitable soul. Luck has wanted us to share some two-day long hours with them. We have slept on the floor with a mat, without air conditioning and many mosquitoes but a lot of gratitude. The last day we (or I should say "they" welcomed a Russian girl who cooked a delicious soup for everyone and we even found ourselves a few weeks later in the trip in Colombia by pure coincidence).
  
• Today Hannah and I have surfed; me beginner, and Hannah for the first time. We tried to do it on our own while I gave some instruction to Hannah. A wave has blown my board with the bad luck of going straight to Hannah´s head with great force. She has lost her balance for a moment, tears flowed and it was a terrible scary moment, even worse because we travel without health insurance and we are in a small town with no idea of ​​the nearest hospital. We are glad it has only been that. Afterwards, a teacher taught Hannah the basics and was able to catch some wave for a second or two, while I took some on my own, without much skill, and now we relax on the beach.

16-01-2019

• Flying to Galapagos, I hope it's a dream come true.
  
• It is the only excessively expensive part of our trip, but we will still do it on our way. Just as an example, the round trip flight was $300 and  the arrival at the islands is another $ 120 per person (tourist tax). Oppositely, the first nine days of discovering Ecuador cost us just over 100 dollars each. In any case, I will write later my feelings.
• In recent days approaching Guayaquil, Hannah and I have agreed to meditate five minutes a day, in any quiet corner, either looking at a stone, flower, sand ... We intend this trip to serve us to adopt good habits. Life goes very fast and some modern models of life do not go much with us, or at least I do not want to. After reading several books about meditation, Hannah has recommended me to stop for a while every day to reflect, relax my mind ... and feel happiness and a multitude of thoughts flow, but peace above all and that little joy of dedicating myself five minutes a day exclusively.
• The reality is that until today I have not thought or discovered a purpose to my life. I make many plans, I fill my days with activities, and I have even slept many nights with a series or movies to be entertained and thus distract my mind.
• I want to change some things about myself: I talk a lot about money and it is present in my head very often. Without it being an excuse, I am good at managing it, looking for cheap plans and taking the money pot with me on the trip, so Hannah is less worried.
• But in general, perhaps because of my family dedicated to the economy in a family business of accounting and tax advicing, I think too much about money. I also talk too much about myself. Maybe I have a lot of ego, maybe that's why I write this book, or my travel blog, or why not to admit it, upload photos on the damn Facebook despite considering it a poison of today's society (as well as many other social networks).
• I observe things that I want to change after the "trial and error" method, but I still do not know what to focus my life on. Maybe I will get settled in the family business, which would allow me to have a stability, time to have and enjoy my family and my hobbies, but I am afraid it might not be what I really want. Again, like almost everything in my life and if nothing changes, I will try and decide. I must also say that I feel very fortunate to be able to have this door open that many would like.
• To a large extent, writing is a lot like meditating. My thoughts and me with pen and paper as the only witnesses, at the moment.
• Changing the subject, we have been a day and a half in Guayaquil, welcomed this time by Mario (tour guide) and Steven (he works for Maersk in an office). The two young people, aged thirty and twenty-five respectively, dominate English and are very well positioned. They have allowed us to enjoy a private room with a large bed, Netflix, hot water ... after sleeping on the floor the previous days, it has felt like a palace. The little we cooked we offered to share. Y esterday we went our own to see a bit of Guayaquil, huge city and the most populated of Ecuador with almost three million, and we enjoyed a lot the restored neighborhood of Las Peñas and the viewpoint of Santa Ana
  
• Mario and Steven took us yesterday with their friends to a karaoke bar, almost empty being Tuesday. We enjoyed the moment quite a bit even though we were a bit tired after two hours.
  
• When we got home we discovered that we had left all the keys inside, a few hours before flying to Galapagos, with passports and absolutely everything inside. I will always keep good memories of this night because I felt like the little hero of my wife. I jumped over the wall that led to the first door and, with the help of a ladder and the boys, I was able to reach the window and get into the house.
• A fall would have meant a bad fall of about four meters that could have ruined the trip, but everything went well and Hannah was very proud of me. It reminded me of early times when we were knowing each other, when we went for a trekking in "Stairway to Heaven" in Ras Al Khaimah (United Arab Emirates) and after several hours lost and trapped we managed to get back and to get Hannah to a safe place while I improvised another access. Finally be were welcomed that night by Pakistani farmers who did not hesitate to share their food and give us shelter. I think that day marked a crucial step between Hannah and me, it united us much more and we will always remember it as something unique.
  
  
• By the way, the power of meditation is allowing Hannah to face her fears and addictions: for the first time she has caressed and felt comfortable with a cat (Mario's and Steven's) and for the first time I see her convinced to leave the drug of tobacco ... until now it has been less than a week without smoking, we will see what happens.

19-01-2019

• Isabela, Galapagos. In the amazing house of Andrés and Cris. It is an ecological wooden house, two floors, completely open and surrounded by vegetation. The house is built on a volcanic base
  
• Upstairs we spent Hannah and I two or three nights, still do not know, in a tent with a mattress inside. Really spectacular. How did we get here? Upon arriving in Galapagos, we stayed two nights with Johnson, and some French guys (Jackie and Vivian) who had been with him previously and came to repeat the last night before his return flight, coming delighted with Isabela. As we did not have a plan yet on the island, they gave us Andrew's contact and I directly asked through WhatsApp if he would do us the favor of welcoming us the next day... and we were lucky
• In Santa Cruz we enjoy Las Grietas, and snorkeling in Tortuga Bay with turtles, rays and tropical fish, as well as the Charles Darwin Center where they help the conservation and maintenance of giant tortoises. We made all these activities on our own at no cost
  
• Before leaving the island, yesterday, Johnson took us to visit the family ranch (El Chato 2), where you can see tunnels created by volcanic eruptions and giant tortoises in the wild. In addition, Johnson invited us to eat at the ranch with spectacular views
  
• Early in the afternoon we took the boat from Santa Cruz to Isabela and in the absence of twenty-five kilometers an engine failed, so we had to wait for another boat to come for us, quite tight, to get to Puerto Villamil, in Isabela. Andrés waited for us at the pier and from the first moment, with sea lions and iguanas on the beach and penguins before arriving at the port, we loved the island and the fabulous house
  
• Today we made a walk of about fifteen kilometers to the Wall of Tears, where around 1950 there was an Ecuadorian prison and where many prisoners died. It is getting dark and, for lack of food with us, we are looking forward to dinner. Even so, I had time to continue reading the book "The monk who sold his Ferrari", recommended by Hannah. The lesson of today's chapter is that we should take away any negative thoughts from our heads, and since we can only think of one thing at a precise moment, replace it with a positive thought, see an opportunity, value what we have, etc

 24-01-2019

• Flight back to Guayaquil. Galapagos has been a very beautiful experience. I hope you preserve this paradise.
• In Isabela we did a kayak tour that included two stops of snorkeling and bird watching. Andrés, tour guide who welcomed us, organized it with a group of six more people. We saw blue-footed birds, Galapagos penguins, turtles, a skate and a shark. It's the tour that I liked most in these eight days and it only cost thirty-five dollars each
  
  
  
  
• The next day (January 21st) we visited the Sierra Negro volcano, also with a tour (thirty dollars each). The population, whose highest income is tourism, tells you that you can not do it for free, although I was disgusted to know that you can perfectly arrive on the local bus and enjoy on your own. Anyway, everything went well, the snacks and the guide were good, the visit is very much worth it, and we arrived in time to take the boat back to Santa Cruz, where we stopped one night and then continue to San Cristóbal.
• On the boat to Santa Cruz I started to cry. I had a very strange and beautiful moment of happiness after reading the book "The monk who sold his Ferrari". I think my life needed a break, to leave behind my life in Dubai, without giving up Hannah, the best that I have with me along with the experience and so many places visited. I have been following the book for a few days, waking up very early to wake up with the first rays of the sun, meditating in silence for a few minutes, reading a lot, projecting what I would like to achieve in my life on a personal, physical and mental, work, in my relationships, with Hannah, my family, my friends ... reflecting on how I can improve these aspects day by day, living more in the present and valuing more every day, exercising almost daily whether walking, swimming, riding a bike, doing yoga ... In short, looking for a balance in my life, in which a vision of financial health above other things may prevent me from having a better balance with inner peace, calm and happiness with little things
• This analysis is allowing me to observe certain vices with Hannah as sometimes walking in front of her, or having a certain "soon" to respond at times, or an uncontrolled impulse to eat too much when there is food within my reach as, for example, in tours. organized I am trying to realize, reflect and correct it
• One of the tips of the book is only to compare yourself to improve, take your own career towards a goal of inner peace and happiness in life, valuing much more simplicity, nature, solidarity ... and on this aspect I recognize that It costs a lot to be supportive. I want to reduce and minimize my selfishness and live the present a lot. At the moment I feel very good. I want to adopt habits like this during this trip so that when I return to Spain I can put a stop to the frenetism of Madrid, which is no more than an excuse to not stop and think more often and put direction and meaning to life
• Upon our arrival in Santa Cruz, Johnson welcomed us back as a father. I would especially like to help you one day in my city. The day 22 early we took the dock and mid-morning we arrived in San Cristobal, where we fly today. That day Alexis canceled us, although he received us the next day, so we rented a room one night. In part, we already wanted a day without socializing, being able to go nude around the house and, of course, have privacy
  
• We did a nice bike tour on our own to Puerto Chino from the Junco lagoon, but the return, with almost ten kilometers of slope, was very hard, especially Hannah who had to get off the bike and walk often. From Junco to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno we enjoy fifteen kilometers almost all downhill.
• For our last full day in Galapagos we organized a boat tour to snorkel in León Dormido
  
• It was expensive (one hundred dollars per person) although I regret not having paid fifty more to dive because I could barely see a hammerhead shark, this species being the main attraction of the islet. In any case, the place was beautiful, we saw many other sharks and tropical fish, we enjoyed the snacks and the food, and we could even do some yoga on the beach of Manglesito.
• In the afternoon we went to a very informative free museum about the history of Galápagos from the 15th century, we stayed with Alexis, we went to dinner and played pool with his friends and we stayed at his house. Today we have prepared a rich breakfast of fried eggs, toast with avocado and vegetables, we have walked to Cerro Tijeretas and Punta Carola beach and we have already said goodbye to the islands
  
• We landed soon in Guayaquil and the adventure continues. By the way, at the approximate $ 420 each between flight and entry into Galapagos, you have to add about $ 400 more each (boats, tours, food ... and only one night in a hostel!), quite cheap for the usual in Galapagos, but at the same time a significant amount in relation to our budget 

03-02-2019

• We are at Mateo's house, back in Quito, surrounded by avocado trees, lemon, tangerine, custard apple...
• These past few days, Salma, Hannah's sister, has been with us. We have visited with her Guayaquil, Cuenca, Cajas, Baños, Ambato, Quilotoa and Quito, much faster than the first weeks. Now Hannah is a little sad for the farewell, but we will see Salmita in June
• In Guayaquil we were from January 24 to 27, the day that Salma arrived. The last three days we stayed with Daniel (Couchsurfing again), a very original boy, lover of music and passionate about the world of mushrooms and mushrooms
  
• One day we had a great tour in the Cerro Blanco forest. We saw up to fifteen types of mushrooms, as well as tarantulas and even a snake. He also gave us time to eat the mosquitoes with clothes on!
  
• In his house he had mango trees, and we ate a lot, and a cacao tree, so we could taste the fruit as well. It was really fortunate to stay with Daniel
• The day Salma arrived, she took us to the airport to pick her up and we briefly visited Las Peñas and Guayarte
• On the 28th we arrived in Cuenca and stayed with Jorge (Couchsurfing). All three of us sleep on the floor, but we are very grateful as well. Cuenca is the most beautiful city in Ecuador for us, and it was a pity not being able to stay several days
  
• The next day we visited Cajas National Park, where we made a beautiful but demanding walk. At the end we hitchhiked to return to Cuenca. We were happy to save the two dollars per person on the bus that we would have had to wait. That night in Cuenca, after walking at 3,500 meters, my head began to hurt a lot (Salma also) and had cold tremors. I finally understood at first hand how altitude sickness feels!
  
• The girls made a vegetable soup and we shared with Jorge's roommates. Shortly after they offered us pizzas and empanadas. It was a very nice moment, what not the food ... One of them, a Venezuelan, had fled Venezuela through Colombia for fifteen days hitchhiking and sleeping where he could until he reached Quito. After a few months he went to live in Cuenca where he makes his living selling pizzas and doing some graphic design with his girlfriend. A true example of survival and struggle
  
• During the night we took two buses to arrive at five o'clock in the morning to Baños, somewhat grumpy from fatigue, more so because we could not check in until five hours later. After a nap and more cheerful, we did a bicycle tour through several waterfalls until we reach the "Pailón del Diablo" (two dollars per person entrance), one of the most beautiful waterfalls we have visited
  
• The next day we did another hike to several viewpoints, especially Bellavista with views to all the city of Baños
  
• We even reached "La Casa del Árbol", where there are some spectacular swings that overlook the void and offer views of the Tungurahua volcano
  
• At night we enjoy a hot spring just next to a waterfall on the side of the city. Bathrooms is really recommended
• After a day of transition and a lot of food in Ambato we arrive at Zumbahua, just twenty minutes from Quilotoa. That day Hannah had a lot of pain because of the rule so very light
• Yesterday Quilotoa was as spectacular as it was hard
  
• We walked twelve kilometers around the crater at 4,000 meters. We ate an incredible lamb dish and then went down two kilometers to the lake. Without hesitation I took off my clothes and jumped into the water, very cold, to get strength for the climb, really hard with 350 meters of altitude and a slippery terrain full of sand
  
• The effort was rewarded because a couple from Quito going up at the same time offered to take us to Quito by first going through our luggage simply collaborating with ten dollars of gasoline, much faster and half the price compared to the three buses we would have expected. Today in Quito we have visited some places for the second time so Salma could see something of the old town and in a few moments she flies back
  
• During this week the pace has been higher than we want for this trip, so we have meditated less and we noticed. Soon we crossed to Colombia and we hope to return at a more leisurely pace.
• In any case, it is always a pleasure to travel with Salma. The three of us have known some corner of Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, South Korea, Iran, Egypt, Ecuador, and soon Spain. I think we have many more
• By the way, today we have booked a flight from Bogotá to Leticia from 16th to 20th February to visit the Colombian Amazonia. Hopefully it is worth it, who knows how much of Amazonia is left at the pace the world is going?

 06-02-19

• We completed our first month of travel. At the moment everything is positive and we are happy with our decision.
• Yesterday we crossed to Colombia, although the previous day we had another surreal experience. After visiting the artisan market of Otavalo, we booked a hostel night in Ibarra (northern Ecuador). The hostel was run by a father and his son. The man seemed very affected by drugs, medicinal plants or whatever it was that was taken. Upon arrival he told us that this place was his temple and that each visitor paid what he wanted to pay, regardless of the price of the online reservation. He had very hippie ideas and the hostel was decorated and painted by him, with some spectacular paintings and other horrible ones. Apparently the woman also managed the hostel and at that time all comments were fabulous ... a few months before
  
• The next day we woke up early to prepare breakfast and leave. Avocado with tomato, strawberries and banana, and coffee for Hannah. When everything was ready and we were going to start eating, around 6:30 in the morning, the owner woke up. He blamed us for having used the hostel's kitchen without permission and stated that there who cooked was for everyone, owners and guests ... the breakfast, still on our own, became really uncomfortable. But here does not end the madness. We collected the things, I went to return the keys and to pay the ten dollars of the reserve. The owner got up, took me before a colorful statuette and told me that what I wanted to contribute would leave it in an envelope before "Rainbow Man", the god of the rainbow for him. I said I did not have an envelope and he responded by shouting that he was not giving that much heart, along with other expletives in Flemish dialect, since he was Belgian, while his tremendously neutral son translated well into English. Hannah and I were scared, and I even thought she was going to hit me. Total, we took our things and we could not even pay. That same day, passing through the curious cemetery of Tulcán, we reached the border between Ecuador and Colombia
  
• As we had to stamp our exit from Ecuador and the entrance to Colombia, we had to queue a long line. After a while, they called those of us who looked Europeans to a faster queue. Speaking with travelers, most of them crossed from Colombia to Ecuador, and I was fast to ask if they had Colombian pesos to exchange for dollars, at the official price and not 10% lower that is offered at the border, and it seems that in Colombia in general because of the large amount of black money coming from the world of drugs. As a result we were able to exchange almost eighty dollars for about 240,000 Colombian pesos, but even better, a boy heard us and gave us his surplus of pesos, almost six dollars
• After both stamps, we finally entered Colombia. We visited the Sanctuary of Las Lajas
  
• Last night we took a nine-hour bus to Popayán, the "white city". Here we stay with Lorena, through Couchsurfing (all the houses visited will be through this portal unless you specify otherwise in two future occasions). Well, actually we were accepted by Fabio, his boy, who, although he could not be there, did not hesitate to ask his parents and his girlfriend Lorena to host us
  
• Today has been a very relaxed day. We have walked a lot, tasted some new food, enjoyed a nap of several hours at the top of El Morro (a mountain with views of the city), and even watched the first leg of the Copa del Rey between Real Madrid and Barcelona (1-1 ). Tomorrow we go to Cali early and continue the adventure
  

16-02-2019

• We fly shortly to Leticia, Colombian Amazonia
• The first days in Colombia were simple and not very spectacular. In Cali we stayed two days with Nancy and her daughter Nela, with whom we spent two afternoons playing and laughing. The first day she asked us to accompany her to school the next day, which made us happy, although the next day the teacher called her sick, the classes were canceled and it could not happen. The best thing about Cali was to be with them, because the city did not offer us great charms
  
• We saw several parks, the neighborhood of Granada and San Antonio, the Christ, and some other neighborhoods. The great expectation at night Cali, since Cali is known as the city of salsa worldwide. We were in Cali on Thursday and Friday nights ... however, on Thursday it rained a lot and the bars we saw were empty (Tintindeo or the bars of the dog park), so we thought that Friday would be better. The reality was that La Topa Tolondra, the only bar with a lot of atmosphere, had a lot of line to enter at ten o'clock at night and also charged twenty dollars per person, and other bars where we went (Punto Baré, Herbert's Corner, or bars of the Alameda) were quite subdued
• Without further delay, on Saturday 9th we went to Buenaventura. Twenty kilometers before arriving we visit San Cipriano, a beautiful place with lots of nature, rivers, jungle ... and a majority of black population, a brutal contrast with the cities previously visited. When we reached the little town, the road ended and the way to continue was to walk more than an hour, or take a kind of little train driven by a motorcycle, something never seen by us, tourist and somehow expensive for the Colombian reality (2 dollars per person for each 6km journey), but we liked it
  
• That same afternoon we arrived at Buenaventura, perhaps the city where we have been most uncomfortable until now ... lots of police, drug stories, crimes, gangs, etc. Also, our contact, who was supposed to welcome us for a day or two, failed us. After reaching his case nobody opened, he did not answer the phone or WhatsApp, we waited without luck and it was practically at night. A woman told us how to get to a nearby hotel and advised us to leave soon because apparently there were still bands facing each other and the area was insecure
• We arrived walking to a motel at seven in the afternoon and there were only rooms for a duration of eight hours, a sexual hotel, so it did not work. As we were a little outside, we took a bus to downtown Buenaventura, where the feeling was even worse. We took night in a hostel, cheap the truth (seven dollars a private room), but dirty and very humble. They even locked the entrance door to the reception with a padlock. The next day, after a walk of an hour through the center, we decided to leave from there to Armenia
• That afternoon we arrived at the so-called Eje Cafetero, the first region of Colombia that we have really enjoyed. We stayed two days with Hubeimar on the outskirts of Circasia, and on the way back a day with Jorge in Armenia
• Circasia was the city that we liked the most because it is not so touristy and we breathe more tradition, more popular prices and a more real atmosphere. In addition, the house of Hubeimar was spectacular, two kilometers outside in the middle of the field
  
• From there we visited Salento (overly touristy, although beautiful) and the Valle del Cócora, where we enjoyed a four-hour walk with views of countless coconut palms, the national tree of Colombia, which can reach up to ninety meters
  
• We also spent the next day in Filandia, another very beautiful colorful little town; and Quimbaya, where two acts of kindness made it worth visiting this town that has nothing special but caught us on the way: a peasant grandpa gave us some pieces of guama fruit to try simply by going through the area and say hello; and a family allowed us to enter their home to four people, including Hannah and me, to protect us when it suddenly started to rain hard
  
• Back in Armenia we really enjoyed our time with Jorge sharing food, juices and talks
  
• He recommended a three-hour route between Pijao and Buenavista that we really liked, passing through several viewpoints with green mountains and plantations of coffee, banana and others. In Buenavista we ate and I could see a bit of my team against Ajax (1-2 for Real Madrid), then return to Armenia, pick up the bags and go to Bogota on a seven-hour night bus.
• In Bogotá we stayed two days with another Jorge, a charming, kind and great conversationalist of fifty-three years. He was cultured, intelligent, gave good advice and we enjoyed two evenings and nights cooking and chatting, as well as a private room in a beautiful house
  
• We also liked the center of Bogotá (La Candelaria), although some travelers do not speak too well of the capital, and the climb to Monserrate with views of the city
  
  
  
  
• The good experiences of the last few days have generated a better opinion on us about Colombia and its people since the first days maybe were not the best. So much expectation about Colombia was not good and lowering it after the first few days will help us to enjoy a lot next month that we still have ahead (we leave on March 20 to El Salvador)
• As for Hannah and I, in Colombia we are discussing a bit more than the first month. Some comment border or inopportune has put a little bit of spark, but nothing serious
• We also noticed that we are not taking time to meditate and reflect every day to be better individually and avoid unnecessary behaviors, and we have even eaten something worse (more fried, frozen, etc.). I reiterate in this way the need and desire to take a little time each day to stop the time and spend a few minutes to think, order ideas, see points of improvement, etc
• We landed soon in Leticia and we hope to enjoy the Colombian Amazon
• Oh! Chance of life. On our flight is the Russian girl who is traveling for several years, with whom we met one night in Olón, at the home of the five Brazilian and Colombian bohemians. Before leaving Olón, she cooked a soup that everyone enjoyed, except Marcelo and Paloma who were working. It has been very nice to remember Olón, a month ago. By the way, this Russian girl is traveling with almost nothing, scrounging to the fullest. He even asked us two dollars to be able to reach the rate of twelve dollars that they ask to enter Leticia. I would not have given them being honest, but Hannah agreed

20-02-2019

• We are flying back from the Amazonia, and it was worth it. The first two days in Leticia we spent the night in hammocks tied to wooden structures, so for the first time in the trip we did not spend the night sleeping together, but it was the cheapest hostel, only three dollars per person including fruit and hot drink for breakfast!
• The first day we wanted to visit the triple border: Colombia, Brazil and Peru
  
• Before crossing to the Brazilian side by land we experienced another surreal experience. Many people gathered around a store, and many children left with lots of twenty or forty bottles of plastic beverage packaged. When I came to ask, a guy told me they were giving them away because the drug had gone well, and another boy who saw us gave us two carbonated tangerine bottles
• We went to Tabatinga, and from there by boat we arrived at Benjamín Constant (Brazil) and Iceland (Peru). We were excited to experience the triple frontier, although weary from the long day that had started early in Bogota
• The second day we went to the jungle on our own since the tours seemed excessive. After arriving at kilometer 11 by bus, we arrived at the maloca (municipality of the tribe) and asked to enter the jungle to reach the river. We did not listen to the recommendation to go with a guide and we went for a walk. The first half hour was easy with a fairly simple path. Then things changed. The road ended, there were several options, and little traveled parts where it was difficult to intuit the way. As it was early we were positive and continued where we thought. After another half hour maybe, we arrived at a huge private estate where several dogs ran up to us barking defensively. Luckily the owner, Arturo, stopped them in time because, according to him, one was brave and could have attacked us. Hannah is good in these situations, and although I was more frightened, she just said "calm, calm and do not move". The experience at the end was great. Arturo offered us a lemonade, we tasted the amazonian fruit of copoazú and one of his employees accompanied us to the correct exit, but not before showing us his giant chickens of one meter!
  
• We arrived at the river enjoying the walk, we ate chicken skewers with yucca on the way back and even danced a salsa and a bachata in the restaurant
• Upon returning, we stop at kilometer 6, where there are some more formal restaurants, to enjoy an expected grilled fish. He knew something strong, but was accompanied by soup and delicious garnishes of rice, fried plantain, salad, bolon and sauces
• The next morning we got up early to go by boat to Puerto Nariño, the most beautiful place of these four days in the Amazon. There are no cars or roads, and we went to a hostel highly recommended (Alto del Águila), known as "El Fraile", with macaws, turkeys, monkeys, dogs, cats ... a great nature show inside the hostel. In addition, you could take a canoe for paddling on the Amazon River for free. Hannah and I took the opportunity that afternoon for sunset and the next morning
• We could also organize a motor boat trip with a local to the Tarapoto lagoon, where we took a bath. The best thing was to see pink dolphins (also grey), one of the objectives of going to the Amazonia
  
• Yesterday to finish, still in Puerto Nariño, we visited the Wochine reserve, where we saw the Pirarucú (known as the Amazon fish), an alligator and several monkeys of another species. At night back in Leticia we were hosted by Juan and he showed us pictures of many snakes that he has found in his expeditions to the jungle (we only saw one that day, very small, crossing a paved road). In any case, he had to leave soon and in fact we spent the night with his father, Juan Carlos, very kind and endearing. In fact, today we shared a breakfast with him while his son was sleeping and we have already left to go to the airport walking
  
• Now we are flying back to Bogotá and we are hesitant about whether to go northwest, or to start from Medellín to the northwest, which is a completely different route for the next few weeks
• These last days I have read a book of finances and I have in mind to invest a little each month in funds of passive management with a long-term idea. I want to talk to my friend Gabriel from the university, who has spent time investing and believing in this system. On the contrary, my father does not believe in this method due to commissions, inflation, risk and unavailability of money, so I do not feel the family support to carry it out

 26-02-2019

• Against the forecast, we continue taking flights. Today from Medellín to Cartagena. The bus of sixteen hours cost practically the same as in flight (a scarce hour) that we found for € 35 each
• In any case, after a night bus from Bogotá to Medellín, we spent five days at the home of Camilo, a Colombian boy I met four years ago in Machu Pichu, Peru (the one on purple tshirt at the bottom of the right side) He found out on Facebook that he was in Colombia, he offered to visit us in Medellín and he has behaved with us in an incredible way
  
• We arrived early on Friday 21 and although he was spending the weekend out, did not hesitate to give us the keys to your house and even subscriptions to watch the Sunday football match between Independiente Medellin and Deportivo Cali (1- 1), and leave us with your parents those days
  
• Her parents in turn treated us like children, offering repeatedly breakfast, lunch, dinner, television, we would like to take ... even the weekend went to a cottage leaving the house in total confidence and even tuppers of Food if we liked it. Not only that, but they were not invasive and made us feel really comfortable. Five days like this after two months of traveling has been exceptional. Our sincerest thanks to Eric and Patricia, and of course to Camilo who made it possible
• From Medellin we visited the ancient capital of the region of Antioquia, Santa Fe de Antioquia, a very quiet colonial town
  
• We visited Guatapé as well, together with La Piedra del Peñol, possibly the place we liked the most in Colombia, for the natural beauty of small islands surrounded by water and the village of Guatapé itself, of a beautiful Eje Cafetero style
  
  
  
  
• And Medellín itself, has a brutal contrast. It brings together the rich and the poor, security and danger, precious areas and other very dirty. Apparently still controlled by gangs areas and, without going any further, on the radio today were news several murders, not only in Bello, north, but also in Bethlehem, a good area where we walk several nights near the house
• On the other hand, we have not had any problem, although I respect much walking for example by the one known as "Pablo Escobar neighborhood", a neighborhood built with its dirty money, but where it is idolized; or by the Santo Domingo neighborhood, much improved with the aerial meter, a cable car included in public transport, but still considered dangerous; through the center in the neighborhood of Guayaquil, especially near the Plaza Minorista; or through the San Javier neighborhood, known as Comuna 13, now very touristy, but where tourist guides still report extortion (vaccines), bands (combos), etc
• There have been good activities and very nice places too: the Golden Mile, built on the basis of black money but luxurious and well maintained; Pueblito Paisa, a little mountain in the middle of the city with great views; the climb to Parque Arví, by cable underground; o Comuna 13, where you can listen to very violent stories of recent Colombian history, walk among spectacular graffiti or have a drink while listening to music and seeing the city from very high up; and the football match live, without being of great quality, was a nice experience
• During this trip the Venezuelan crisis is very hot. If already in Ecuador we saw many Venezuelans in search of a future, in Colombia already estimated at more than two million. It turns out that a flat I have in Madrid (20% sweated by me, but 80% donated by my parents), I had it for rent this month and two guys from Venezuela have rented it from March onwards. I would be lying if I say that I am not happy that it is rented, but it is shocking how the problems of the world generate business. The price is not very expensive, but certainly an income is good to pay part of the trip
• So far my parents have done everything. I want to take the reins from June, download them from work, and once again, I am enormously grateful not only for this but for giving everything in our lives to my brothers and me. While it is true that my parents do not show much emotion or are the most affectionate, they have always been an exceptional model of stability, loyalty, loyalty, work and, above all, whenever they have had to be there and help, they have done it . Of course, they have more traditional ideas and many of my actions have not been liked, but once several decisions have been made they have always gone through the page and supported them
• Some of these days I miss my family, especially my parents and my nephew Jaimito. Since he was born fifteen months  the desire to return to my city, to see him grow and other nephews in the future if any, has awakened, and of course, to have our kid someday in a medium term after settling a bit. Maybe I will read this little book in a few years looking at our baby and I get happy
• Talking about these issues, Hannah and I had our first strong discussion of the trip. If I am more realistic and I give great importance to certain financial stability or at least working stability, while she is more idealistic and wants to talk less about issues, and perhaps she feels that I limit or control her. These are delicate topics for a couple. While I do not want to exert unnecessary pressure or limit her happiness, at the same time I would like to have something in common someday and not regret excessive spending. Nowadays, having certain savings can give you more freedom and escape extra obligations
• We land shortly. Colombian Caribbean, Cartagena. 

 04-03-2019

• We are spending the afternoon in Minca, newcomers. The best of the Caribbean so far has not been Cartagena or the Carnival of Barranquilla, but Playa Blanca, one hour west of Cartagena. There we spent a day and a half, the night sleeping in hammocks on the beach. Turquoise water as one imagines of the Caribbean, strolls and much tranquility, reading, swimming and recovering strength
• The walled part of Cartagena we liked, although it has become overly touristy, expensive and the vendors are a bit heavy. One night we met two Venezuelan boys, aged eight and ten, selling bracelets on the street. After some hesitation before someone who wants to sell you something in a quiet moment in a park, we spent about an hour talking to Angelo especially, the eldest, about music, politics and life in general. The boy was very charismatic and we laughed a lot. Our hotel was very basic and just a few minutes outside the wall, where at night we had to be careful. So far in almost two months nothing has happened to us
• For the Carnival of Barranquilla, we got Alfredo, a sixty-two-year-old man, to welcome us two nights. During these days all the hostels get very expensive and he also welcomed at the same time two Germans (Stefani and Dominic) and a Korean (Jin)
  
• To highlight the great favor he gave us, Alfredo lives with his wife, and recently with his daughter and granddaughter for a month. Little Victoria has been a little bad, but Alfredo and his wife also take care of a very delicate ninety-seven-year-old woman who lives in the house. With all this fuss, on March 1 they vacated the apartment next to his house, cleaned it and put two mattresses for the two couples. In addition, he continually offered coffees to the group, sweets, breakfast ... he gave us a drive around Barranquilla and helped us get tickets for the second day of Carnival. In the mornings and nights we could chat and laugh a lot. Apart from her own coffee, "Café de Casa", today Hannah and I have provided a delicious breakfast for everyone and we have come to Minca. We are very grateful to Alfredo, Edith his wife, Sindey his daughter and little Victoria. Maybe in a few years or decades we will meet
  

12-03-2019

• Almost at night and I can not sleep peacefully. We've been in the house of Martin, a Swiss man, a former war correspondent, for six days. After his wife died in a traffic accident three years ago, he decided to try his luck in South America and a year ago he lives in Rodadero, a coastal area six kilometers from Santa Marta
• Why so many days here? On the 5th, hiking in Minca to a waterfall before going to the Casa Elemento hostel, we got lost, and had the stupid idea to follow the river going down some paths with stones, leaves, some dangerous stretches where we slipped on rocks two or three meters in free fall until touching earth...
  
• and in the most foolish moment, the trip was distorted. Well, Hannah twisted her ankle in a simple stretch. Shee started screaming in pain, he said he heard some crunches and a week later we still do not know exactly what he has. She could not keep walking and some travelers who saw us during the walk helped us to carry her in her arms to a place where she could take a moto-taxi to the famous Casa Elemento hostel
  
  
  
  
• If it is just a sprain, in a few days she should start walking more or less. But if there is a fracture or something serious maybe the trip has been ruined, with several booked flights, broken illusions ... That is why I am saddened and somehow negative even though I know I should not. Today we went to a physiotherapy clinic and the specialist has reassured us a bit, although he recommends going to an orthopedic / trauma physician to find out his opinion. We will see
• The negative part of these days is that we have stopped waking up so soon, the days are more routine, we are eating a lot of garbage, watching more television ... in short, things that I do not want in my day to day life
• And, perhaps selfishly, I am tired of preparing coffees, picking up and washing dishes continually, being on the lookout, in short. Maybe I'm not good at taking care of Hannah? Perhaps I read this in a while and I regret or feel ridiculous? Until sexually I've been without appetite for a few days. I did not dream of stopping so soon, and so many days, our trip, and everything indicates that we are still going to stand for another week, at least
• However, it's good to be positive. Martin is treating us better than many relatives would do. We have been at his house for a week and he has offered to stay until we leave Colombia on the 20th. It is a person's love and the house is fabulous. We have views of the beach and incredible sunsets, the beach less than five minutes strolling, super comfortable private room with mini bar, internet, Netflix ... Martin makes some delicious cupcakes and there is a supermarket very close. Of course, what we are consuming we try to replace it, it is the minimum, and when we cook dinner, we share it with him. I know I should value this much more and be more grateful. We're lucky to have found Martin and not be paying for a seedy hostel in the middle of nowhere. I need a change of attitude and I will try to value much more every day here
  

19-03-2019

• Today we fly from Santa Marta to Bogotá; tomorrow to Mexico City; and passed to San Salvador. We just said goodbye to Martin, really a fabulous guy. Despite having had incredible experiences by Couchsurfing, this one takes the cake. And for his part Martin has also taken us a lot of affection
  
• We pick up the backpacks and continue the trip. As can be feeled, I am positive again. The day after the crisis, Hannah and I spoke calmly and already these last days almost walk well. I was afraid of the end of my dream trip. Maybe Hannah was upset because despite helping her I did not want to be "stuck" without being able to continue the trip and I could tell by the attitude
• However, this break has arrived just in the middle of the trip and we have been able to really load the batteries and have more enthusiasm to visit new places. By the way, today, the last day and night in Colombia, Jorge receives us again in Bogotá

 02-04-2019

• Last two months of travel. We are in Honduras, recently arrived in San Pedro Sula, a city cataloged as one of the most dangerous or violent in the world. We stayed at José's house and his parents. We have arrived from Santa Rosa de Copán, by car, with Fernando, a man who was driving in the center and when he saw Hannah limping, he offered to join us, more than three hours to San Pedro Sula. The driver has been very interesting. He works in the investigation of drug trafficking crimes for the DEA. He has told us stories of seizures of drugs, police and politicians stained ... a very film story told from the experience of a local from Tegucigalpa, the capital. Really unique
• Before arriving in Honduras, there is a lot to tell. We made a stopover in Mexico City, where Alejandro, an incredibly kind and hospitable boy, welcomed us in a state of peace that was quickly noticeable
  
• While I was visiting the center and Chapultepec park, he shared with Hannah very intimate information about his life, like he wanted to work for Fly Emirates, but he could not finally because they do not allow anyone working in the UAE with this disease.
• In any case, the next day we flew to El Salvador, where we spent ten amazing days. Despite the negativity of the press, and an unfortunate but avoidable bad experience that I am going to detail later, we were delighted with the Salvadoran people
• The first two days we stayed with Ever and Eduardo, in Santa Tecla, on the outskirts of San Salvador, the capital
  
• Eduardo took us the next day to visit the Boquerón (where we could try traditional clothes from El Salvador), Playón and Cerén...
  
• and to try typical Salvadoran food, especially the pupusas, delicious masses of corn or rice with cheese, beans, pork, or other ingredients, to which you can add tomato sauce and tanning (cabbage and carrot in vinegar)
  
• The weekend we went to the Route of the Flowers, a journey through different small towns very beautiful. In two days we visited Apaneca, Ataco, Salcoatitán and Juayúa, the best for me, with a spectacular area of ​​waterfalls and pools surrounded by nature (Chorros de la Calera), 100% free!
  
• However, this weekend came our bad experience, the only bad one through Couchsurfing. We were going to spend three days with José Francisco in Ahuachapán, although we stayed with him in Ataco, where he has a pizza business. Although his participation in this communication was very recent only during March 2019, by WhatsApp he seemed a charming, affectionate person, happy to host travelers from different countries...
  
• The reality is that we thought it was crazy: at night he drank many cans of Beer while driving with us and a French man (Bernard) in the car. Already in the house, his two children present and the woman, Ana María, did not speak, but seemed to wait for permission. Without mentioning it, he showed us his gun license, a gun next to his bed, photos with military or armed soldiers protecting him when he goes to party ... he even warned us to use this application and say that we travel a lot (in the community you can put what countries have you visited and maybe it is attractive for who is staying or makes more interesting to whom you are staying) because, according to him, someone could kidnap us and ask for a ransom, thinking that even if we go backpacking, someone from one of the families will have money ... First night we sleep in distress. The next morning, although he offered to sleep until we felt rested, he started to sing karaoke at full house at six in the morning
• In any case, we thought maybe it was alcohol and we decided to stay one more night. Overall, if nothing terrible had happened the first night, there was no reason for the second to pass. Besides, it was Sunday and he worked, he was going to be busy until late afternoon and we had a lot to see. That second day in the evening he went back to drinking a lot and giving a show, so the next morning we went with caution not to "bother" with any act, after cooking breakfast for the seven present and hoping that nothing else would happen.
• After this adventure, Mauricio and Belki awaited us on the coast near Mizata. They have a wonderful house fifty meters from the beach, and even a girl, Mercedes, for the service in the house, so we spent three tremendous days resting, with homemade food ... a real luxury in this trip. Two of the three days we met another couple, Liam from England and Sabrina from Austria and there was a very good atmosphere
  
• However, today Hannah still has a pain in her foot and part of her wants to end the trip and heal well in Madrid
• By the way, we loved a volunteer project by Belki, who teaches 2 hours of English daily to the children of the village, a very humble place where many children lack opportunities.
• From luxury to luxury, we arrived at the home of Fabio and Melania, the parents of a friend of Salma (Hannah's sister)
  
• We were going with the intention of spending one day with them and in the end there were four!
• They took us the first night to dinner downtown San Salvador and the Dalia, the oldest bar in the country, and to try various local dishes during these days
• In the mornings, while they were busy, we visited on our own Suchitoto...
  
• Cerro Verde...
  
•  and Tazumal
  
• Without any doubt the best thing was to share time with them. In fact, we could spend a day in his country house in Apaneca (again in the Ruta de las Flores), meet another couple of his friends, see a rock concert in an Ataco bar, and even play mini golf in his beautiful country house
  
• Once again, we were treated as a family (with pleasure I can say that they are the first people, once the five-month trip was over, with which we had the opportunity to meet again at the beginning of June 2019 in Madrid)
• And already yesterday we crossed to Honduras, although it was not initially in our plan, since they have spoken to us very well of the Honduran Caribbean
• It took us more than eight hours on several buses from San Salvador to Santa Rosa de Copán, where, as I said, Fernando met us today to get closer to San Pedro Sula
• In Santa Rosa we were hosted by some kids who run and work in an English academy for children and adults. France, we accepted the application in Couchsurfing and we could share with her a short dinner with baleadas, the most typical Honduran dish (a hot and folded flour tortilla stuffed with beans, cheese, and maybe other ingredients depending on taste). For his part, Johny, the director of the academy, was the one who gave us his apartment while he was going to spend the night with his girlfriend. They offered to participate a little in the English classes with the students and tell them our story. Maybe the way Hannah and I communicate through English is a good inspiration to motivate students to learn. It was really a beautiful experience. We even had the luck to meet a nineteen-year-old boy, Isaias, whom we admire: we saw him doing a Rubik cube in thirty seconds, he also knows how to play clown and gave us a teddy bear, a flower and a motorcycle made with air balloons , is an electrician, has worked in bars, studied English to aspire to a better future, and, above all, was very humble and seems good boy
  
• We are going to La Ceiba and Roatán the next few days. The people in El Salvador were wonderful with us and we will see what happens in Honduras

09-04-2019

• Last night in Roatan, Honduran Caribbean. We have really enjoyed the beach, beautiful, and a wonderful snorkel. For this island and from Mexico, passes the second longest barrier reef in the world. In Roatan, after a whole month being welcomed by different people and families, we took hostal the first night and stayed the next three nights with Laura
  
  
  
  
• San Pedro Sula had nothing special beyond the morbid and respect to go through one of the most dangerous cities in the world, and the beautiful family of Jose
  
• His parents, Miguel Ángel and Rosaura, are very involved in Couchsurfing and it was very fortunate to share with them two nights
  
• In La Ceiba we spent two days with Indira (in the photo) and Germán, and an Argentine traveler who left home more than four years ago
  
• With the girls we experienced a bit of Honduran night chatting in a bar. A local invited them for a few beers and another guy came to say hello. Apparently that day he had been hit by a car and had a few visible wounds on his body. According to him, and although he was still bleeding, it was not important, only "tapping of life"
• In La Ceiba we had our first rapprochement with the Garífuna, a black tribe that populated the coast and the Honduran islands in times of slavery. Beyond their language and skin color darker than most Hondurans, we do not appreciate very different customs
• In any case, I write now to tell something exciting. Liam, the English boy we met at Mauricio and Belki's house in El Salvador, told us about a ten-day spiritual retreat (Vipassana) without technology, books, nothing to write, without sports, vegetarian food, segregation by sex, simplicity ... he had already done it twice and spoke very well of the experience
• Something extraordinary about this course is that it is free, including accommodation and three meals, you can leave at any time and only at the end of the course donations are requested. And we saw a few days ago that they organize one in Guatemala, our next destination, from the 11th to the 22nd of this month! We received an email saying that we were on the waiting list, and in fact the website (www.dhamma.org) states that we should have registered at least two weeks before the start of the course
• However, this afternoon, after losing almost all hope, we received an email accepting us in the course and it has excited us a lot. After almost a hundred days of travel, you want more if you can stop a few days. In addition, Guatemala is going to be my country visited number one hundred, magic number
  
• Therefore, in the next two days we will return to La Ceiba by ferry, go to the border and go through Guatemala to arrive on time, maybe a total of fifteen or eighteen hours on several buses
• I hope it's useful, in fact, yesterday Hannah and I talked about how often I do not say positive but negative comments about it. Instead of supporting and encouraging, I find possible negative or negative elements. It is very rooted in my character. It opened my eyes and I have to correct it anyway. In addition, we want something different at this stage of the trip so this adventure is ideal
• Apart from the excitement, we will put ourselves to the test like never before, no distraction, vow of silence, no entertainment, segregation between men and women ... so after four months Hannah and I are going to separate and possibly not even see each other. And on a personal level I want to take it as a great opportunity to keep trying things, order ideas and learn for my future. I believe in the benefits of meditation and reflection, although I find it hard to get into the habit, so I hope it's a before and after in our life

22-04-2019

• The ten-day retreat ended this morning. The arrival was heavy as we were more than twenty-four hours taking ferry, buses, taxis, hikes, night transportation and even our first experience with a truck driver, thanks Bartolomé, already in Guatemala
  
• In Guatemala City, the capital, we had time to try a chapín breakfast (wheat tortillas, beans, scrambled egg, fried plantain and avocado), typical of Guatemala, in the Mercado Central
  
• A few minutes before, since I had always been excited about the idea and it was the perfect moment, I went to a hairdresser to quickly shave my head while leaving my beard long
  
• After breakfast, we stayed with Aurie, a girl who was also doing the course and through the course website offered to take us to the retirement farm, about thirty kilometers west of the capital. As it was confused with the time, he gave us time to eat and walk around the city of Antigua.
  The course has been very useful, an amazing, unique experience, an incredible luck, although it has been very hard and long too, including Buddhist theory with which I do not identify 100%.
  We had a demanding schedule, from 4:30 in the morning to 9 at night. The time was spent approximately three hours of meals, one hour of rest and eleven hours of meditation! These meditation sessions, with closed eyes, were from 4:30 to 6:30, from 8 to 11, from 13 to 17, and from 6 to 9 pm, including a theoretical hour. Having no entertainment or possible distraction, they come to make eternal days. They teach you different meditation techniques, very useful for life outside the theory, and you give a lot to the coconut. There is no escape unless you decide to leave the retreat (retreat house in the photo), which is allowed at any time. Some moments become very hard, really long
  
• The mental exercises follow a Vipassana methodology. Very briefly, it is a Buddhist technique based on the fact that human misery is caused by desires and aversions. These desires and aversions cause biochemical reactions in our body and we are accustomed from very young to react before them. A disciplined meditation based on observing your feelings and not reacting before them helps you to control yourself in your daily life. That said, for hours we observed the breathing and different parts of the body, we experienced pain from postures maintained for up to an hour, or pleasures by vibrations throughout the body, cold, heat, tremors, drops of sweat starting to come out through different pores the body ... and the goal was not to move, to endure and observe without developing attachment or aversion
• Some days I suffered a lot and I thought about fleeing, but I am proud of having endured, not for the fact of suffering but because the fact of being in my pensive jail day and night, even with difficulty to fall asleep, has made me see a little of light in my life:
  • I want to work in the family business, value the enormous luck that I have, learn from them, live close by and be able to go to work walking.
  • I want to wake up early between 6 and 7 every day, even if my work starts at 9, to dedicate time. Between fifteen and thirty minutes of meditation, some exercise or reading, be able to have breakfast with my wife, calmly, start the day with her. In short, dedicate time to myself and my wife to start each day with desire and strength, motivated and happier.
  • I want to get back in touch with Carlos, who was my best friend for more than ten years of our youth. By confrontations between friendships in common, and without any direct fight between him and me, we stopped talking to each other. Very sad. Having spent a year studying in Boston and four years working in Dubai seems to have buried him, but he has appeared a lot in my thoughts, going so far as to mourn one of the days of retirement because I still feel sad about the situation. I tried to stay with him two or three times and he ended up canceling, but I want to insist, put everything possible on my part, at least close this chapter and if it is possible to resume contact, give us a hug and heal the wound.
  • I want to get along much better with my brothers, stop having envies and biting us. So much stupidity among the direct family! Maybe I can not change them, but my attitude towards them can improve a lot, maybe even help to create a much better environment in our life and in our work, with whom, ultimately, if everything goes well, they would be my co-workers for many years. We are so fortunate and we can help and receive so much ... I am sorry that it is very difficult for us to do ourselves a favor, so I am going to analyze my interactions with them much more and improve myself without expecting anything in return. Hopefully we all soften.
  • I want to live with Hannah, she and I alone for the first time, have our home and create a family. I want to be a dad soon. I hope in a few years I will read this smiling while I look at my children.
  • I want to reflect every day, even if only a few minutes, about how the day has gone, how I have behaved with others, how I can improve, how to avoid behaving badly with loved ones, but also unknown, how I am heading towards my goals , etc. I think this is very useful, if only for a moment of peace, silence and tranquility.
  • I want to aspire to much more peace of mind. I lied unnecessarily, stolen some stupidity in a supermarket for greed ... I even remembered once as a child that I took 5 or 10 euros from my mother's bag without permission, tremendous! I have helped very little other people, thought too much about me, too much ego. I agree with the approach of karma in that these things can not contribute anything good to my life. I'm not saying it's a monster, but I do have a huge margin to bring more peace and happiness to my life by avoiding these things that have come frequently to my mind in my reflections. According to the technique, this misery is deeply rooted in your being and prevents you from being happy, so I am very motivated to improve a lot in this aspect. Of course I am ashamed. After this retreat I believe much more in the importance of values ​​for the rest of my life.
   
• In short, this retreat helps you or can help you have a break in life to analyze, focus your goals, understand past hardships, get to know you better ... very useful
• However, I do not believe 100% in being a vegetarian, a premise of the course, despite believing in the benefit of reducing the consumption of animal products in my life. These ten days everything has been vegetarian, dinner especially light (a piece of fruit and a tea), I felt light when going to sleep and I lost some overweight. Despite sitting well, I do not want to give up meat and fish. As Hannah says, in the animal world some also kill each other to eat, while this theory bases its vegetarian obligation on the fact that natural law prevents the killing of other beings. Of course, I do not want to abuse it much less, and respect animal life as much as possible, although I do not see myself giving up, at least to this day
• Another thing in the course that does not go with me is Buddha's enlightenment through the avoidance of desire and aversion. Yes, I like to have self-control, not to be very materialistic, but I like to feel desires and to aim them. I want to see my family, play sports, have plans, etc., even though this supposes attachments that can cause sadness. I do not seek enlightenment in life or, at least, not in that way
• In many other aspects the Vipassana theory did like me a lot since it follows the natural law. It does not put a deity at the top, but nature is what rules. Water, air, fire, and earth is all that composes matter, it is all that we are
• In conclusion, although not everything in the course has reached my soul, it has been an experience of enormous value because of the usefulness I have obtained
• By the way, it was super exciting and romantic to cross a glance with Hannah, to think if we would still love ourselves at the end of the course, to discover that none of us had fled; And it was fun that on the ninth day she would come to my window and chat, skipping the rules until a supervisor saw her and sent her to her room. It was like living a teenage novel, or Shakespeare with characters condemned to not be able to see or speak. In short, vital experience in a couple very valuable and to remember all their lives

01-05-2019

• Last month of travel. Already in Mexico, three nights in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, at Domingo's house with his family. Despite being sleeping with blankets on the floor, we are also very grateful
  
• Maybe a lot of time in this city, but we are resting a bit, taking our days more calmly, and visiting some places: the center, which does not have much; the Sumidero Canyon, mostly by hand from the entrance of the Park; and possibly Chiapa de Corzo tomorrow with boat ride through the Canyon
  
  
  
  
• At the end of the retreat we were in Antigua two days returning to reality
  
• Sadly it is easy to return to the old vices and do little meditation, although I am trying to fulfill my personal goal of fifteen minutes in the morning and a few minutes of reflection in the afternoon
• From Antigua we booked a two day tour with camping at night,to visit the Acatenango Volcano, with spectacular views of the Fuego Volcano, especially at night watching the lava falling down the slopes of the volcano
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• They were two very demanding days, more if possible after ten days of retirement without hardly moving, and Hannah suffered with the foot that still bothers her, but we got it. It cost, but we already walked through the cities with almost normality
• Maybe we'll go back to Guatemala to see the Petén region on the way to Belize in three weeks, but Acatenango has undoubtedly been the most impressive thing in Guatemala and perhaps the whole trip. In addition, after informing us and negotiating, being low season, we got an incredible price: 250 quetzales (about 35 dollars) including transportation, three simple meals, guide and camping
• Later we visited San Pedro La Laguna, taking a boat that lasted about twenty-five minutes from Panajachel, where we arrived after four hours of bus from Antigua
  These three days it was not possible to get Couchsurfing, so we took simple hostels, around $ 10 per couple each night
• San Pedro La Laguna is a beautiful place on Lake Atitlan, bordered by several small towns whose names are those of the twelve apostles of the Bible. However, we found it not properly taken care
  
• From there we went to Xela, where we stayed two nights with Ligia. He welcomed us despite having to go a whole day to pick up his mother, who recently has been detected cancer in an advanced state. He left us the keys of his house as if nothing. In Xela we visit the center and Cerro el Baúl, a National Park where you can enjoy nature and see Xela from far
  
  
• And we took a bus and a tuktuk to San Andrés Xecul, a town famous for a very colorful old church (in fact, the photo of this church appears as a cover on some tourist guides in Guatemala)
  
• As we were only four hours from Mexico, we decided to change the plans and go to San Cristobal de las Casas, a Mexican town with a lot of charm that we liked very much
  
• Yesterday Hannah was sad because  the visa for her mother to visit us in June in Madrid has been rejected, although we are still going to try it. And today, on the other hand, your procedure to reside in Spain has been approved, after several months of submitting documents, and we only need to go to the police so they can take fingerprints and wait a month to get the resident card.
  Maybe we are a little tired of traveling after four months. I think two mesecitos is ideal, and I'm jealous of the professions that allow it. In any case, I am aware that this opportunity may not come back, at least not with this energy and freedom, so I am going to enjoy the remaining thirty-two days as much as possible. Tomorrow, after visiting Chiapa de Corzo, we have booked a bus to Puerto Escondido, already in the state of Oaxaca

05-05-2019

• After arriving in Puerto Escondido we decided to stay with Hecka (Ricardo) for Couchsurfing. Initially I did not want to write because his profile shows a uniqueness: whoever stays in the house must undress when entering. This made us think of a pervert, but his almost three hundred references, really good, made Hannah think that maybe it would be another experience to remember in our lives. I have been to some nudist beach and in theory it did not give much importance
• The reality was less shocking and made much more flexible than what he put on his profile. The first day we were chatting on the beach, and in the house, dressed as usual. The next day, he woke up in his underwear and we woke up to ours. Already yesterday afternoon we decided to try: he completely naked, Hannah only with pants, and I just in underpants. The dinner was strange, but after a few minutes you downplay it. In any case, we decided that Hannah and I will have these experiences privately in the house, but not with strangers
• In spite of everything, I have to say that Hecka has really been a good uncle with us. The conversations and shared meals have been pleasant, and until last night he drove us in his car half an hour at night to enjoy the bioluminescence in the Manialtepec lagoon. Although I tried this six years ago in Puerto Rico (photo), I think this time I liked it better, maybe because I could share the experience with Hannah
  
• By the way, the beaches of Puerto Escondido, at least Carrizalillo (photo) and Coral, are very beautiful and excellent for surfing. A pity that I have been having stomach problems for three days, feeling a bit regular at times, nothing serious
  
• Tonight we have slept fatally because of mosquitoes and heat, with temperatures reaching thirty-eight degrees a day, and up to thirty at night
• Today we left here, dressed and without other shows, towards Mazunte, another coastal area of ​​Oaxaca two hours south. If everything goes well we will be hosted by Paolo, an Italian of seventy years, very traveler, but already settled in Mexico apparently.

07-05-2019

• We are waiting for a night bus in Huatulco to go to the city of Oaxaca. Paolo has welcomed us for two days and despite being grateful, it has not been the best experience either. The man is a bit screwed. Today I was abrogated disproportionately by using a pan improperly, and told me to better use another one that was grimy. And with Hannah the first night she began to criticize backpacker travelers, even though he arrives to host up to ten people at a time in his house, the vast majority of backpackers like us
• We have enjoyed the beaches of Mazunte, Zipolite (the only official nudist beach in Mexico) and San Agustinillo, both beautiful and impracticable for swimming
• By the way, I've been suffering from diarrhea, intermittent stomach pains and lack of appetite, especially at night. I hope he will send soon and we will not have any more scares before closing this adventure
• Hannah and I were battled by foolishness for a day and a half. I received some audio messages from a friend who lives in Dubai, also a flight attendant for the same airline (in fact, we entered on the same date) and that removed everything. Nothing ever happened between us, but maybe I did not act well two years ago, when I deleted some messages that could lead to misinterpret their intention. Hannah saw how I hid something, and since I wanted to cover or protect my friend to avoid bad rolls (sometimes we were all three together or with other friends), I was in a bad situation. The messages were clarified, but Hannah was left with suspicion about her and everything that reminds her does not like it. Briefly, on the day it was her birthday, she offered to come to my house if I felt "adventurous", because we had talked about maybe riding a bike, a few stops on the subway bike, and a few kilometers on the road, after play football that afternoon about fifteen kilometers away. But of course, without context that message sounds weird. In any case, I had already been to her house several times and Hannah was always aware. This time the thing was twisted and my intention to act as if that message had not existed complicated things and I was wrong with Hannah. Total, two days ago she sent me some audios updating me and telling me about some problems at work and regarding a borrowed money. Alone with her voice, Hannah became a little irascible and aggressive, and I went into the rag. Day and a half fighting like fools and going to bed an angry night, what fools!ng goes well we will be hosted by Paolo, an Italian of seventy years, very traveler, but already settled in Mexico apparently

13-05-2019

• Oaxaca we liked it very much. We spent a day in a hotel with much desire after the rare experiences (Hecka and Paolo), and two days with a lovely couple, Jessy and Carlos
  
• He is an electrician and a plumber, and he is building the house practically on his own. By the way, he seems a very good person. In the lower part of the house she taught English to children, and one day we were able to talk and share a one-hour class
  
• The day we said goodbye, we had a delicious stew of chicken and corn called pozole. As they had two bikes and a motorcycle, the boys pedaled while they were riding a motorcycle
• Apart from sharing with them, we had time to visit the beautiful historic center of Oaxaca; the Mayan ruins of Monte Albán, day in which we walk a lot in the ruins as well as to get to them instead of taking the tourist bus; 
  
• and Hierve el Agua, a place similar to Pamukkale in Turkey where the high content of calcium carbonate has left a kind of petrified waterfalls, natural pools and white colors mixed with different minerals
  
• In Oaxaca we met Liam and Sabrina, the couple who recommended the Vipassana retreat and with whom we met in El Salvador at the home of Mauricio and Belki. It was nice to see them by chance in a gastronomic market and share with them an afternoon of football for history, the incredible comeback of Tottenham to Ajax at the last minute, and a free tour of the city the next day
  
• By the way, talking about football ... the day before Liverpool gave me one of my greatest football joys when I came back from 3-0 to Barcelona. A totally unexpected 4-0 that I enjoyed in Mazunte. I enjoyed and jumped so much that even a couple at a table near us wanted to invite us for a round of beers (I do not drink, but Hannah did so she took it), and another guy at a table behind came to offer us peanuts as snack What a wonderful match!
  And, again, after enjoying Oaxaca, we took another night bus on the 11th arriving the morning of the 12th to San Cristóbal de las Casas again. We repeated at the same hostel, great for only four dollars per person, centrally located and including breakfast; We returned to the market, also good, beautiful and cheap; and today we have come to Palenque, making a stop at the waterfalls of Agua Azul, in the state of Chiapas, really nice place to enjoy the views, swim and eat something
  
• Now we are in Palenque, at Romulo's house, where we are going to spend two nights. It is terribly hot, but luckily we have the comfort of having a private room with a fan

14-05-2019

• It is very hot in Palenque, really something special. Even the shower comes out burning! We have visited the Mayan ruins of Palenque, very impressive, including the museum with the mausoleum of King Pakal, very interesting and extraordinarily well preserved
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• We are pleasantly surprised that in Mexico these cultural visits cost relatively little (little more than three euros per person), very low compared to the abuse in Honduras, where Copán can reach more than fifteen euros, or in Guatemala, where Tikal reaches twenty euros
• In the afternoon we cooked a wok of vegetables with meat, and vagueado in the house. Romulo (photo) has had to go to Mexico City where he will participate in a teachers' protest, his job. Twelve hours of bus to demonstrate, tremendous attitude and commitment. Therefore, we are practically on our own in the apartment, although Ángel, his fifteen-year-old son, is on the ground floor, and on the top floor, next to us, is Brenda, a roommate
  
• I have read all this booklet and I have remembered great moments of the trip. Tomorrow we are leaving, but we are still doubting if crossing to Guatemala again is a good idea, or if it would be better to visit more places in the southeast of Mexico 

17-05-19

• Two snakes today! A very spectacular, with light green tones all over the body and other dark parts, more than two meters. In addition, the guide had been left behind using the "bathroom" of nature and has surprised us more if possible. The other snake, darker, we have seen it in less detail a few minutes before
• Yesterday we started a trek in Guatemala from Carmelita to El Mirador: five days and four nights crossing villages and jungle to places, most of them still to be discovered, where the Mayan civilization had a lot of relevance in the past
• On the 15th we arrived at Flores and stayed with Antonio, from the Kan Dynasty agency, to do the tour from the 16th to the 20th. We gave an advance and the next day we completed the two hundred dollars per person of the tour, which included transportation, guide, Mule for loading, camping, cook and all meals
• Previously, the journey from Palenque to Flores became eternal. More than ten hours, border crossing included, and a lot of heat. For a change, the people on the border looked bad.
  In any case, yesterday Antonio picked us up at 5 in the morning at María's house, a candidate for deputy in the Petén region, with a precious daughter, Mia, but a house as humble as dirty and disorganized, full of adventurous messages and revolutionaries of other travelers. It is hard to believe that those who can not bring order to their home can aspire to bring order to the life of the population
  
• We arrived at Carmelita at 8:15 in the morning, we had another rich breakfast and started the walk
• Yesterday we walked about eighteen kilometers and today twenty-three. We saw ancient Mayan roads, remains of houses, we watched the sunset from the top of a pyramid, El Tintal, surrounded by kilometers and kilometers of vegetation and we could see, until now, monkeys, a fox, wild turkeys, coatis, several birds and two snakes
• The food is being rich. The camp yesterday was more developed than we imagined with a comfortable tent. Once again disconnected from telephone, walks, nature, explanations of the Mayan civilization, talks, food and rest. In addition, we are only five in the group: Camila, an American girl of twenty-two years; Adrian, the guide of forty-nine; Azucena, the cook of thirty; and the two of us. A different and unique experience, of course
  
• We are going shortly to see another sunset over another pyramid, and tomorrow we'll walk through the ruins of El Mirador. The theoretical border with Mexico, inaccessible, is only seven kilometers away
  

19-05-19

• Yesterday we saw the sunset over the top of the La Danta pyramid, considered here as the largest in the world in volume, slightly higher than the largest in Egypt. However, I do not consider this fair comparison. In this case, it is a huge base pyramid, with 300 by 600 meters, with the subsequent construction of more pyramids on this huge base, reaching about seventy meters high. In contrast, the pyramid of Cheops, the largest in Egypt, is an almost perfect pyramid from the base to the highest point, reaching one hundred and forty meters in height
  
• On the sidelines, it was a nice experience. A pity that some guys, mostly living in the United States, were playing with their luxurious drones and cameras, making a lot of noise and taking away peace and harmony at such a wonderful and unique time. I also have to say that during the day we were allowed to witness a Mayan ceremony they were performing for two hours with a shaman and that they took a big picture with a drone. This ceremony, of gratitude towards life, seemed to me somewhat parody. Much palabreo, cocoa drink, candles consumed, a small dose of drugs under their tongues ... after an hour some excited, cried or shared some feeling, to finish all embraced and "grateful". I could only think that the orgy would come later
  
• Today we have walked another twenty-three kilometers back to El Tintal, where we spent the first night, but not before seeing the sunrise over another pyramid. Tomorrow we close this adventure
•  By the way, today I have diarrhea again, I'm sweating a lot, but at least the moquitos are respecting. We need a good shower urgently. Here everything is very basic and the shower consists of a little water jug. Also, as soon as you get out of the shower, you're already soaked again. Even Hannah has found a dwarf tick attached to her body!

22-05-2019

• Less than two weeks to finish the adventure. Tomorrow we cross to Belize (my country number 101!). We are at Ninoshcka's house, a local girl, but with a Russian name. After finishing the walk over one hundred kilometers in five days, we came directly to El Remate, and we stayed with her for three nights. Well, not exactly with her since this month she is managing a hotel and she stays there to sleep so she leaves us her room
• She confirmed our request for Couchsurfing, but as we did not have Internet for five days we did not see it and the day she was going to host us, we could only contact her by asking in the town. The worst thing that could happen was not to find it and spend the night in any cheap hostel
• In the village after just asking two people, saying their name and showing their picture, a man told us that it must be the girl who was working in the Alice hotel. Surprising because apparently it is only replacing the owners there for just a week. And so it was, after two kilometers walking, we found her there, and, despite the surprise, she was kind enough to keep her word and welcome us by giving us her room these days. By the way, the house is beautiful, it has hammocks overlooking Lake Petén Itzá in the distance, and we have a private room with a comfortable bed, so welcome after the camping nights
  
• At El Remate we are spending the mornings on the lake, swimming, reading and relaxing on a dock with hammocks for only five quetzales (just over half a euro per person). In the evenings, apart from having sunsets that are worthwhile, we wander more in the house, we help in the garden (watering the plants or picking up fallen leaves) and we are cooking in the house to eat healthier these days and minimize the expense before Go to Belize, which seems to be expensive for what travelers say and internet
  
• In the house there are many books, some of them from the Russian Socialist Revolution of 1917, and I am interested in the historical events of the moment and, especially, the figure of Lenin
• We continue with our meditations of the morning, waking up soon, trying to reflect on the passed day ... I hope this is the best custom that we include in our future life

27-05-2019

• We are in Corozal, Belize. We have spent five days in this strange country. On the one hand, a large part of the local population does not have the best aspect nor does the country have much development. On the other hand, there are many nationalities present in Belize: American and European expatriates living the paradise of the coast and the islands; Central Americans trying to earn more money than in their countries of origin, if only because the Belizean dollar is fixed against the US dollar; Chinese, with all kinds of businesses ... In addition, it is the only country in Latin America where Spanish is not spoken but English, beyond a large Hispanic community. Also, unlike their neighbors, the local population is mostly black. The country is small, it does not reach half a million inhabitants and it seems very socially unequal
• The first day we passed through San Ignacio, although it does not have much appeal. We were caught and a couple formed by an Englishman and a Colombian, approached us from the border to there
  
• After a walk in the town, we went by bus to Belize City. Nothing good is heard from the capital, and sadly it is understandable. The development is scarce, there is a lot of inequality, some people seem upset, it seems that there are still many bands and violence...
• We stayed one night with Shane (photo), happy to be the first black person to stay on this trip. We wanted a lot, and more to know someone real Belizean. He took us for a walk in the afternoon, and we were grateful, because without him we would have had some fear of walking, at least some tension. That night, in his neighborhood, which looks like an area where you can traffic with what you can, we tried some criollo rolls with cinnamon, delicious
  
• It was an interesting experience, and being in the capital was good for us to take the ferry early the next day. We were very hesitant to go to Caye Caulker, calmer and with hardly any vehicles, or to Caye Ambergris (San Pedro, the beautiful island of Madonna), where in the end we went because David, an expatriate half Spanish half Colombian, agreed to welcome us for three days. A real favor because the cheapest hostel does not cost forty dollars a night per couple, a high price for the spirit and budget backpacker with whom we travel
• The first two days we enjoyed Secret Beach, where we arrived after hitchhiking in several of the golf carts that run around the island. Crystal clear waters, music, sunbeds, wifi and relax
  
  
• The second day, a lady braided my beard, David came in the afternoon with his boat (he owns a catamaran company that organizes private tours) and we visited a few bars around the island. Apparently there is not so strange to go to the bar by boat! One of the bars I loved, with wooden tables on the sand slightly submerged in the Caribbean Sea, and live music. By the way, incredible the amount of alcohol and money that people waste...
  
  
  
  
• Near the apartment we ate several delicious burritos at a very affordable local restaurant, our favorite. Without being careful, Belize can be very expensive
  
• That night David got sick of his gut. He woke us up several times and had to go to the hospital. It seems I had an infection, but, of course, so much alcohol on a daily basis can not be good and I'm sure it affected
• The third day on the island we went on a snorkel tour for $ 75 per person. We loved the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where we saw sharks, rays, barracudas and tropical fish. In Shark Ray Alley sharks approach boats attracted by food and, although it is unnatural, the size of the sharks impresses. There were more snorkel stops, with corals and even a sunken ship, but we were not lucky enough to see manatees. To close the tour we visited Caye Caulker (photo) two hours, much quieter than San Pedro. If we had not had the accommodation covered, we would have preferred Caye Caulker to San Pedro
  
• This morning we took the ferry back to Belize City and from there the bus to Corozal, a town with a beautiful bay and clear water beach, but with nothing else. We stayed today with Mark, a Jamaican man who has set up his little hotel with two cabins, a swimming pool and a simple restaurant. Apart from airbnb, it sometimes accommodates some travelers, so we have been lucky, especially when the hostels in the area are expensive without a single option for less than 40 dollars
• In any case, we have enjoyed Belize more than we expected and at the same time we have the feeling of being a very disorganized country that can be dangerous. If everything goes well tomorrow we cross back to Mexico for the last six days of travel. 

31-05-2019

• We closed the month in Valladolid, Mexico. Before arriving here we spent two days in Bacalar, very close to Belize. It is a town with an incredible blue turquoise lagoon mixed with other shades of blue. Really beautiful with a Caribbean look and some beach area or docks to be able to swim. I think I have never seen such a spectacular lagoon in terms of beauty
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• We stayed one night in a humble newly opened hostel. The owners were lovely so I wish you luck
  
• The second night we took the last night bus from Bacalar to Valladolid, about five hours, and Marián did us the favor of welcoming us at two in the morning. With her we could share little because she did us the favor, but the next day she was going on a trip, and for the day she was busy. We slept on two physical therapy stretcher tables, but even so, we were very grateful for their selfless help
• Yesterday we toured Valladolid, a nice but very hot city this month. Oliver was waiting for us at his farm in the afternoon, and we did not hesitate to walk seven kilometers with bags in tow. That night he took us to a free light show that the city offers at the San Bernardino de Siena Convent, where the history of the city is highly recommended
  
• And to our surprise, he left us the keys to the estate and we spent the night alone in a farm with a huge garden, pool and wonderful starry view
• Now I write from the bed. This morning we have watered the plants and swept a little although he has not asked for anything. We are very grateful to be able to finish this trip in a comfortable place like this. Tonight we will sleep here and tomorrow, the last night of the trip, maybe we will continue here or stay near the Cancun airport
• Now we are going to enjoy a cenote since Valladolid is known for a great offer of them. I do not remember ever going to one so it will be a good experience to practically end the adventure
  

06-02-2019

• We are in Cancun, waiting to take off. Dream fulfilled and eager to return home.
  Oliver made it easy for us to spend the last three nights at his farm. With him we went to another cenote, we saw the final of the Champions (Liverpool 2 - Tottenham 0) and we met part of his family
• At the same time, Hannah and I were able to enjoy a dinner with live music and a little while with mariachis
• Today we have taken the bus from Valladolid to Cancun, and after eating our last Mexican dishes at some time, we have come to the airport. Nine hours to get to Madrid, and a little more to hug my family. Despite finishing this five-month dream here, I am very happy to close this chapter and begin another stage. By the way, the total budget of the trip including flights, tours, hostels, food, absolutely everything, has amounted to about 4,000 euros each, and I can say that every cent has been worth it

Appendix A: Highlights of the trip

• Ecuador:
  - Galapagos, for its natural beauty and unique biodiversity.
  - Cuenca, personally the most beautiful city in Ecuador.
  - Cajas National Park, trek of great beauty and first for us on the trip.
  - Baños, nice city with lots of activities, hikes, waterfalls, landscapes, hot springs ...
  - Quilotoa, personally the best trek in Ecuador.
• Colombia:
  - Eje Cafetero, for the beauty of its colorful villages.
  - Amazonas, first time in my life, especially remarkable Puerto Nariño.
  - In Bogota, the old neighborhood of La Candelaria and the climb and views from Monserrate.
  - Guatapé, the most beautiful town in Colombia, together with La Piedra del Peñol views.
  - Medellin, for its history, the variety of neighborhoods, its air metro, Comuna 13 and a variety of visits to do within walking distance.
  - Cartagena, for its walled colonial city, and its beach Playa Blanca, less than two hours away, pure Caribbean.
• El Salvador:
  - Route of the Flowers, especially the beautiful villages of Juayúa and Ataco, of Colombian ´Eje Cafetero´ style, its gastronomy and its people.
• Honduras:
  - Roatan, pure Caribbean, beautiful beaches and tremendous snorkeling with the presence of the second longest barrier reef in the world.
• Guatemala:
  - Antigua, the most famous and beautiful colonial town in the country.
  - Acatenango Volcano, the most spectacular trek of the trip with incredible camping and views of the erupting Fuego Volcano.
  - El Mirador, for the experience of five days walking and camping while enjoying the Mayan culture.
  - El Remate, for its tranquility and beauty.
• Belize:
  - San Pedro or Caye Caulker, because both make it possible to enjoy the Belizean Caribbean.
• Mexico:
  - In Chiapas: San Cristóbal de las Casas, for the beauty and history of this colonial town.
  - In Oaxaca: the city of Oaxaca, beautiful cultural capital of Mexico; and Hierve el Agua, something different and a beautiful visit.
  - In Quintana Roo: Bacalar, for its spectacular Caribbean lagoon.
  - In Yucatán: the cenotes of the Valladolid area (although other areas not visited in the province seem spectacular as well).

Appendix B: Learning and personal gain during the trip

• Six new countries visited in addition to Mexico in greater depth, reaching over one hundred countries visited before reaching the age of thirty. Places, experiences, gastronomy, culture and spectacular people.
• The Couchsurfing experience has been amazing. Beyond having saved money in hostels, our trip has gained a lot thanks to having shared it with so many local people. Undoubtedly, the memories of the trip are associated with the people we have known and with whom we have been able to share so many moments. For the hospitality and help received, and because we want to help travelers and contribute our bit to the community, Hannah and I are going to receive travelers from time to time in our house.
• Hannah and I have been able to spend twenty-four hours a day for five months. We have been able to know much more about each other, we have had good and not so good moments. We will have unforgettable memories all our lives. One day we might tell the adventure to our children. Many people can not stand three days in a row and luckily this trip has united us more. Also, on a personal level, Hannah has learned a lot of Spanish, so her adaptation to Spain will be better, and she has quitted smoking.
• Personally I have recovered the illusion for reading, with more than twenty books read during the trip, with very diverse themes (finance, history, psychology, meditation, autobiographies ...) and I intend to continue reading every week of my life.
• I have known some new dishes in each region (mazamorra, pupusas, baleadas ...) and, for the first time in my life, I have enjoyed cooking. Hannah is a good cook and we hope to try our own recipes, even more having had the luck to travel and try so many cuisines.
• I really enjoyed playing with my "look". I started shaved and without a beard. I left everything grow and after three months I shaved my head leaving my beard. During the last week I had braids on my beard ... many people looked at me, surprised, thinking me crazy, or just laughing, and I did not care. In addition, during the five months I had only four pants (long, short, pyjamas and swimsuit) and between four and six shirts, and nothing else was needed.
• I have discovered a little of the power of meditation and I have experienced an incredible ten-day retreat. To this day, I intend to meditate a little while every morning and try to reflect a few minutes each day. I place a goal of inner peace in a very important position in my life. I hope to remember this will for many years and not fall into vices of the past.
• I have a little vision in my life, at least much more than five months ago. I want to wake up early every day, meditate, have breakfast with Hannah, work with my family, find balance between mind and body, value much more time with my family and friends, dine sooner or at least lighter. Keep learning things, play sports often, play in the kitchen, learn gardening with my father, get to know my parents better and enjoy them while they stay healthy and value that luck. Take ownership of my finances, invest in what I decide. Go live with Hannah, have a family with her in the medium term. Continue traveling and experimenting, open minded, with hope and very positive. Improve my character a lot, not measure myself with anyone and be better especially with my brothers.
• During the trip we slept on sofas, on the floor, in hammocks, on buses and planes, even on a massage table, and many different mattresses, with heat, cold, mosquitoes ... everything. Sometimes there was no water, we could not shower or the water was freezing. Having clean clothes has been a luxury that we could only have every two or three weeks. The buses and transports have taken long, and have been noisy, sometimes fun, but other times annoying and endless. Many times the hostels or houses were dirty, or the kitchen not available, with dirty or broken pans, or even there was no gas. I want to value my home and my comfort very much, not taking it for granted. I am lucky to be in a good position, to live in Spain, and above all to have the ability to have some comfort and enjoy great moments. So much to appreciate that we take for granted...
• I hope we remember this trip all my life. It has been incredible to be able to fulfill my dream of backpacking around the world. My eyes light up remembering moments and I am proud to have left everything behind to pursue it. I am so lucky!

Appendix C: Acknowledgments

• I hope not to forget anyone. Many thanks:
  - To my parents, since they gave me many opportunities in my life and partly because of them I have been able to fulfill one of my dreams.
  - To Hannah, unconditional support for the last almost four years. Crazy enough to leave her comfort, her work and her family behind to come with me to this trip and move with me to Madrid, always with her permanent smile.
  - To all those who have welcomed us during the trip. With pride I remember everyone:
  • Ten experiences in Ecuador: Mateo; Paulina; María José and Salomé; Marcelo, Paloma, Guillermo, Eli and Diego; Mario and Steven; Johnson; Andres; Alexis; Daniel; and Jorge
  • Nine experiences in Colombia: Fabio and Lorena; Nancy and Nela; Hubeimar; Jorge (Armenia); Jorge (Bogotá); Juan and Juan Carlos; Camilo, Eric and Patricia; Alfredo, Edith, Sindey and Victoria; and Martin.
  • Four experiences in El Salvador: Ever and Eduardo; José Francisco and Ana María; Mauricio, Belki and Mercedes; and Fabio and Melania.
  • Four experiences in Honduras: France, Johny and Yesfrin; José, Miguel Ángel and Rosaura; Indira and Germán; and Laura.
  • Three experiences in Guatemala: Ligia (who lost her mother recently, a huge hug); Mary; and Ninoshcka.
  • Three experiences in Belize: Shane; David; and Mark.
  • Eight experiences in Mexico: Alejandro; Domingo and Petra; Hecka; Paolo; Jessy and Carlos; Romulo; Marian; and Oliver.
  • In total forty-one occasions in which they have opened their houses and welcomed us, usually between one and three days. Special mention to Martin, who welcomed us two weeks after Hannah's injury, behaving with us like a father.
  - To all the drivers who have taken us in their vehicle on several occasions in the seven countries visited.
  - And to anyone who will one day read this little book. It has been a beautiful experience to write it. When I read it in the present, and when I read it in the future, it is and will be a huge pleasure and pride.