Banos - Ecuador. March 2012

I had absolutely no predetermined ideas of Banos, no clue what to expect. To say I was pleasantly surprised would be an understatement. When we first got there Rory, Callum and I rode in the back of a ute to the hotel, which set us on a high I wouldn’t snap out of until the infamous walk to the virgin. Banos is in a valley, surrounded by hills, waterfalls and volcanoes. Whilst Rory did some Machu Picchu training up a volcano, I went with Andrea, Natalie and Priya for a manicure and massage. Worst manicure ever. Andreas birthday was on the second day, and we started it off with a horse ride into the mountains. I now realise I hate horses, and riding on their stupid horse backs. Horse jerks. Gary (a first time rider) was riding the stallion, and I had his mortal enemy. They fought all the way to the top, with a couple of really terrifying bucks and bites. I’m writing this more than one month later, and I still have a decent sized scar on my leg reminding me of my hatred of horses.

 The afternoon was much more pleasant. White water rafting. It was my first time rafting and we were only on grade 3+ rapids, but I had so much fun, I really surprised myself. Riding on the front of the raft was awesome, and I am really keen to get on some better/bigger rapids at some point.

I’m not going to go into that evening, except to say there was Mexican food, shots called “Bob Marleys” and lots of games of pool. I wasn’t feeling well so didn’t drink much, but I can’t say as much for the others. The following day was a training session for me and Rory, and was a massive wake-up for me with the altitude and my abilities. We decided to part from the group for a day and take a hike up the 692ish steps to the virgin who overlooks the town. 20 odd steps from the top I had a panic attack and felt really let down by my abilities as well as surprised by the effects of the altitude. I didn’t feel good about reaching the top, only more scared than ever by the 4 day hike on the Inka Trail, which was fast approaching. We spent the evening relaxing in the hot springs, to calm more than just my muscles.

I bought another charm for my travel bracelet on the last day, a little Ecuadrian man in a poncho, he’s rader than he sounds. Banos taught me alot about myself, and I can confidently say; I hate horses, I love rapids, I need to pace myself, and most of all, I’m not as much as a princess as I thought I was. Travelling (even the bad parts) is beginning to suit me - still holding onto my hair straighteners though!