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December 23–24, 2024 Marti Eicholz The holiday season aboard The Odyssey is anything but ordinary. We embrace this special time of year as a fresh canvas, inventing new “traditions” that spark genuine happiness and togetherness. Instead of following the usual routines, we slow down, savoring each moment in the present and truly appreciating the company of one another. There’s no shortage of laughter and lighthearted fun — imagine the quest to locate a mischievous missing elf or the unexpected sight of rubber duckies bobbing everywhere. Of course, no festive gathering would be complete without a touch of whimsy, like painting our toes in bright red and green, all while indulging in delicious gingerbread cookies. The Odyssey recently dropped anchor in Puerto Bolivar, Ecuador, a charming port town nestled on the Pacific coast. Puerto Bolivar is an urban parish within the municipality of Machala, the larger neighboring city, in the province of El Oro. Renowned as one of Ecuador’s busiest fishing ports, Puerto Bolivar serves as a crucial hub for exporting shrimp across the globe. The town is situated in the lush lowlands near the Gulf of Guayaquil, an area famous for its agricultural richness. Machala, often dubbed the “banana capital of the world,” dominates the global banana trade, while the surrounding farmlands also thrive with coffee and cacao production. Exploring Puerto Bolivar reveals a tapestry of attractions and natural beauty. El Morro, the historic lighthouse at the harbor’s entrance, offers breathtaking panoramic views of both the ocean and the bustling port below. The town’s cathedral stands out with its impressive architecture, and the church of Nuestra Señora de Chilla captivates visitors with its resplendent depiction of the Virgin and child, lavishly adorned in gold and accompanied by a dog and a goat, adding a unique local touch to the sacred imagery. Nature lovers and adventure seekers will find plenty to enjoy in and around Puerto Bolivar. The area is fringed by stunning beaches and offers countless opportunities for water sports. Playa de Oro, just outside the town, boasts soft golden sands perfect for relaxing, swimming, or catching waves while surfing. For those craving a more secluded escape, Playa de los Frailes is often hailed as one of Ecuador’s most beautiful and untouched beaches, where visitors can swim in crystal-clear waters, bask in the unspoiled sun, or snorkel to admire the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. The scenic Paseo del Mar boardwalk runs along the coastline, providing an ideal setting for a leisurely walk or invigorating run, all while soaking in the fresh ocean breeze and panoramic sea views. For a different kind of discovery, the Museo de la Concha y el Caracol houses an extensive collection of shells from Ecuador and beyond, offering fascinating insights into the ecological significance and diversity of these natural treasures. Not far from Puerto Bolivar lies Parque Nacional Machalilla, a vast national park to the south, renowned for its remarkable landscapes. The park encompasses pristine beaches, a network of hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for those eager to experience Ecuador’s natural splendor and biodiversity up close. La Chocolatera stands as the westernmost point of both Ecuador and South America, offering breathtaking vistas that are truly one-of-a-kind. Adventurers can embark on a hike to the summit of its rugged cliffs, where sweeping panoramic views of the endless Pacific Ocean and dramatic coastline await. The sight from above is unforgettable, with the crashing waves below and vast skies stretching to the horizon. When it comes to local cuisine, Puerto Bolivar is celebrated for several signature dishes: · Ceviche de conchas: This flavorful ceviche is prepared with fresh conchas (clams), which can be either raw or lightly cooked. The clams are marinated in tangy lime juice and then tossed with chopped onions, fragrant cilantro, and ripe tomatoes, creating a refreshing and zesty seafood delight that embodies the coastal flavors of Ecuador. · Churrasco: A beloved classic, churrasco features a juicy grilled beef steak paired with a hearty combination of rice, savory beans, crispy fries, and a fried egg. This well-rounded meal brings together a variety of textures and flavors, making it a favorite. · Arroz con menestra y carne asada: This traditional dish consists of fluffy white rice accompanied by menestra, a rich and comforting bean sauce, served alongside tender, grilled beef. It’s a staple of Ecuadorian home cooking, know for its satisfying and wholesome qualities. · Empanadas de verde: These delicious empanadas are crafted using mashed green plantains for the dough, which are then filled generously with cheese, chicken, or seasoned meat. Once stuffed, they are fried to a golden crisp, resulting in a savory snack that is crunchy on the outside and irresistibly flavorful on the inside. When asked about what they cherish most about Puerto Bolivar, locals frequently mention the genuine warmth and hospitality of the people. Life here moves at a relaxed, unhurried pace, allowing everyone to savor each moment. The town’s rich cultural heritage shines through in its vibrant music, lively dances, and colorful festivals, all of which foster a strong sense of community and tradition. It’s Christmas Eve, and a sense of wonder fills the air. Gazing upward, the night sky transforms into a deep velvet cloak, richly embroidered with countless shimmering diamonds. These stars gleam and dance, casting flashes of light and twinkles that invite us to listen to ancient stories whispered across the ages. Their silent messages urge us to pause and truly notice the beauty above, even as they float gently over a vast and magnificent ocean. This ocean, stretching endlessly and covering 70% of the Earth’s surface, pulses with life and mystery. Its expansive presence stirs the heart, filling us with awe and inspiring our imagination to dream beyond the horizon. May your holiday be wrapped in joy, tied with laughter, and adorned with love. Our ship sails and Christmas morning we will awaken in Guayaquil, Ecuador ready to celebrate ‘Cruisemas.’ Whatever you do, wherever you go, whoever you see, have a magical day. It’s Christmas Eve. Looking up at the night sky, you see it transform into a velvet cloak studded with shimmering diamonds, each star flashing and twinkling in the quiet darkness. The air feels magical and serene, inviting reflection and a deep sense of wonder beneath the celestial display. |
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