Blame it on the chocolate body wrap. Or the high Andean altitude. Or both. In any case, I find myself slowly, reluctantly, making my way back to normal after my two-week odyssey in Ecuador. Ahh . . .
My host had warned me: he said that his wife wanted to move to Termas Papallacta and his son wanted to build a house there. He had me at “You will LOVE it there.” Oh, yeah.
But of course I needed to experience the health spa and resort for myself.
I arrived on the heels of my small-ship cruise of the Galapagos Islands aboard the M/V Evolution with Quasar Expeditions. My driver, Manolo, was waiting for me at the Quito airport and soon we were off to Papallacta.
We encountered an ever-darkening sky as the city crowds slipped away and we wound our way up the narrow mountain pass. One final climb and we were there – but first, we had to snake our way through a pothole paradise, one last challenge, as if the Andes Mountains were testing our resolve to see if we were worthy of the delight awaiting us inside the sacred retreat.
Upon arrival, I was warmly welcomed and shown to my room, one of several which encircled a series of thermal hot springs pools at our doorsteps. 
Note to self: I could get used to this.
Oh my gosh, this looks amazing. It looks stunningly beautiful. You certainly have been on some wonderful adventures. So glad you write about it so that I can live vicariously through you! Thank you for a lovely, jaw-dropping post. I love hearing about new places to dream about.
I’m so glad it looks as wonderful to you through my writing and photos as it was to me! Thanks for being a faithful reader of my travel adventures. Stay tuned for more upcoming posts on Termas Papallacta and other wonders of Ecuador . . .
Thermal hot springs at your doorstep? Ahhhhhhhh. Can’t wait to read more…
It gets even better, Astra! I’ll be back with more details soon . . .
Welcome home, lucky girl!
Hi Nancy – I’m new to your blog. How wonderful!!! And did you say a chocolate body wrap??? Looking forward to reading more . . .
Yes, I did – divine, I’m here to tell you! Thanks for stopping by, Nancy ~
Don’t I know it! Lots more to share, Beth ~
You had me at “chocolate body wrap”. Sounds like a fabulous trip!
Wow, this *is* the life!!! Would love to visit Ecuador and now you’ve given me a few other reasons to go. Thanks!
Marcia
Yes, you would love Ecuador, Marcia! Thanks for your comments ~