Canoa

Warm sandy beaches, cool blue water, and laid-back atmosphere, the surfing/fishing village of Canoa was one of our favorite destinations.  Located on the Pacific coast in Ecuador, we felt far removed from the hustle and bustle of Quito.  After an all-day bus ride through highlands, jungles, and simple Ecuadoran towns, we arrived just in time for a beautiful sunset on the beach with some much-deserved cold beers.  We stayed at the Hostel CocoLoco, a friendly hangout of hammocks, palm trees, and bamboo barstools a stone's throw from the ocean.  We spoiled ourselves with a private room overlooking the water and were lulled to sleep by the sound of crashing waves.  While the atmosphere was enough to make this stay unforgettable, we were also lucky to meet some really great people.  We spent our days laying on the beach, playing in the surf, drinking pina coladas and caiprinhas, and soaking up the good life.  We were inspired by our hostel's owners, who was from Portland!, and other ex-pats who traded in the typical American dream for one of sun, surf, and relaxation.  It definitely got us brain-storming about our future and examining different options.
One of the other highlights was being invited to the nearby town of San Vicente to partake in a parade celebrating the canonization of St. Vincent and the creation of the town.  Schools from all over Ecuador came to show off their marching bands, bringing locals out to socialize, eat street food, and enjoy the festivities.
We spent a day longer than we had planned in Canoa, but we could have easily spent much longer.  This sleepy little town will always have a place in our hearts.

The Coco Loco

Our hike to the top of the bluffs overlooking Canoa

 

Parade in San Vicente

Over 100 horses!