Most Inspirational Moment
There were many inspirational moments in my trip. Seeing a horse drawing a cart with an enormouse sow in it. Meeting a man straight out of east London who had never been out of Cuba, who translated my request to let a tree rat out of its cage, upon which the rat started following me. I think we hit it off - he was so cute. (The rat and the man!) Meeting a sweet old lady on the road who blew me a kiss when I gave her a few coins and a bottle of shampoo. Watching amazing blue fish in a natural woodland pool, and taking photographs of pelicans on the sea wall. Taking photographs of people, animals and buildings in general; the sheer vibrancy of it all.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader was a jem. She was very knowledgeable and had studied hard to enable herself to provide information and answers to our questions as we proceeded along the route. She took care of us all and no problem was too much for her. I think above all, she had a fine sense of humour.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don't over pack! I took warm clothes and waterproof hiking boots which I didn't need. It was always beautifully warm, even when cloudy. Do take insect repellent, sun screen lotion, dark glasses and either a sun hat or an umbrella. An umbrella doubles up for rain, of course, which is useful. If you have room, take ball point pens and small bottles of shampoo, soap and bath gel, etc., as these are things the locals ask for, and which are cheap and small to carry around.Make sure you have lots of small local currency, as tipping is expected just about everywhere; even when taking a photograph of an individual or his car!
