On Yucca Balls and Blue Boobies…
November 11th, 2006 by fractalsTwenty four hours after coming back from the Galapagos and I am already missing a lot of things. Yucca balls, for one. These are wonderfully scrumptious balls of bread made from the root of the yucca plant. They are so good, you will forget your name. Another wonderful thing about the Galapagos are these funny birds called the blue-footed boobies. Yes, that is their name. No, they do not resemble boobies, but they do have blue feet. They are awfully cute. Equally cute, if not cuter, are the sea lions and the pinguinos (penguins)!!!! These wonderful animals are so playful and happy, they make you playful and happy.
One important thing that I learned, though, is to not underestimate the power of the sunblock lotion. I became decidedly cocky and neglected to bring sunscreen. Why should I? I am Filipino—my skin can withstand the sun, right? I was so totally wrong. Burnt to a crisp pretty much sums me up. People see me and offer their sympathies. It is kinds sad.
Another thing that I underestimated is the power of the small boat. I never get seasick. Ever. Or so I thought. I basically spent the entire day puking my guts out on one of ‘em evil things. I was not in a happy place. Although, I did get some Spanish lessons from the boatman, Pescado, whose name means fish in Spanish. He gave me these menthol candies that were "muy practica para vertigo". I was muy grateful.
Overall, it was a wonderful holiday, other than the peeling and the puking. Met some wonderful people that I will miss more than anything on the travel (other than the money I spent—Galapagos is so expensive!!!). I look back at the experience, and really, it is who you spend the time with that makes it extra special.
I cannot wait to do it again.
