I just returned from the trip of a lifetime and am now in the process of analyzing how the experience has changed the way I think. Over the past few years, I’ve noticed that my vacation destinations have shifted from urban/art oriented trips to more outward bound/test your limits excursions. Surrounding myself with nature and endurance challenges gives me a renewed self-confidence that bears fruit when I return to my New York City life and work.

My 16 days in the countryside of Ecuador and diving the Galapagos Islands, has inspired me to think differently about beauty, communication, taste and possibilities. I let go of the control and order that rules my life and melted into the framework of independent travel.

My High Water Marks:
On a waterfall trek at altitude near the Cotopaxi National Park I hit my cardio vascular limits and questioned my sanity and safety. I persevered and was rewarded with an amazing sense of accomplishment and a new take on natural beauty.

I spent half my time with young backpackers from around the world who wanted to see the real Ecuador. We shared the excitement of a sunrise view of a volcano, racing toward a bottomless green lagoon, a duckling sale at a village market, meeting an elementary school class in the country, soaking in communal thermal baths under a waterfall, but more importantly we talked about these experiences. New perspectives on environmental protection, education and quality of life were mixed in with the new food and drink we tried every day.

The marine life in the Galapagos Islands was perhaps the biggest thrill of my adventure. Following in Darwin’s footsteps, I had hoped to be inspired by the environment that changed the way we view ourselves—pretty lofty goal for six days underwater. Fortunately, the adventure lived up to my expectations. We had over 30 encounters with whale sharks, swam with schools of hammerheads and were able to play with baby sea lions. I learned so much from the more experienced divers on my luxury liveaboard “Sky Dancer”, and it feels wonderful to reach new heights in a sport that I love.

After volcano trekking, repelling through waterfalls and diving with sharks, I am recharged and inspired to take on new communications challenges for my clients! And, it’s awfully nice to have a long, hot shower.