Ruth has emerged unscathed following her jungle exploits. Seems like she had an awesome time and I think lived up to her expectations of being a big adventure, but she will fill in all the details.

We have been in Quito now for a couple of days and to be honest I quite happy to be leaving tomorrow. It has some nice architecture and its people are friendly, but it is just too big, noisy and a bit dirty. We have had fun trying to find our way across town on the various buses, but it bloody confusing and we have more often than not got lost and just decided to walk. We did however leave Quito for a night on Thursday and head north to Otavalo. It is known in Ecuador for its craft and fabric market and we could not resist buying a rug/hanging and a double hammock. So we have already spent too much money and will probably have to sacrifice a private room for a few nights/weeks.

So tomorrow we are off to Cotopaxi, Ecuadors highest volcanoe, for a day of exploration. We are a bit cheesed off having to take a tour but it appears the only way since 2 people died trying to hike in the area. We are then continuing south towards Peru and hope to stop to do the Quilotoa circuit, rid ethe devils nose railway and stop in La cuenca and Vilacamba before hitting Peru. We are already feeling pushed for time and may have to sacrifice a few trips on the way, but life can be tough at times.

Both Ruth and I are well, apart from the usual back door trots for me and hope all is good in dear old blighty. Hope to hear from you soon,

Love Greg and Ruth

xxxxx