From Paradise to Party

After visiting Island de la Plata, the next day it seemed I should check out the rest of Machalilla National Park on the mainland. After a seven mile uphill bike ride, I arrived at Los Frailles Beach covered in sweat and ready for a dip in the secluded bay with tropical dry forest growing right up to the sand. The photos didn't come out well, so you're stuck looking at me in front of the sign.

I only brought four t-shirts on this trip, so in case you've noticed, yes, I have been wearing the same clothes in every photo.

Upon leaving the beach and getting back to my bike, I realized I had a flat tire. Fortunately, this mototaxi was around to drive back into town. We tied the  mountain bike to the back, glad he had a bunch of rope!

After the quasi-successful ride, I hopped a bus ride to Montanita, renowned surf destination and even more renowned party town. Along the winding rode, the bus driver was literally leaning into corners, dramatic cliffs and certain death on along the road's edge. Luckily we stopped three times to add brake fluid or perform an oil change or whatever else might require stopping the bus and popping the engine. Two fateful hours later, long-dreaded Rastafarians, aggressive street vendors and skimpy bikinis roamed the streets and filled the beach as I caught my first glimpse of Sin City, Ecuador. This is what I picture Rosarito must have looked like back in its 80s heyday. (As usual photos don't quite do it justice).

The best surf is a right point break about 1/4 mile north of the chaos. Having heard that music blaring till sunrise makes sleep impossible, I opted to stay up near the point, right on the sand. There are some other Americans and Europeans here with the same idea.

Most of the surfers in town seem to be beginners, so the town felt it fitting to build their very own enormous Cardiff Kook on the highway.

The surf has been fun so I haven't had much opportunity to take more photos, though I hope to add more soon.