Though the first-world media makes much of the fact that several Latin Ameri-can countries, including Ecuador in the last year, have experienced severe recessions and virtual economic collapse, these countries are not nearly as “poor” as they are depicted to be. In many ways, the culture and lives of Latin Americans are more complete, perhaps even happier, than their more affluent counterparts in other countries. In exchange for stressful careers and consumerism, many Peruvians and Ecuadorians have family, friends, and the best fresh fruit in the world. We’re not trying to suggest that every traveler pull up the proverbial tent stakes, sell all of their worldly possessions, and go live the simple life. But, if you’d like to at least try it temporarily, there’s a warm, welcoming community awaiting to receive you. So, grab your Spanish-English dictionary, a sturdy pair of hiking boots, and some anti-diarrhea medication. Get ready to roll.
