Cuenca

Arrived in Cuenca early this morning. It was a short flight, no more than 40 minutes or so, but the early wakeup time of 5 in the morning did bode well for me. Been having trouble staying asleep through the entire night... probably thinking about home too much.

Although I´ve never been to Spain, those who have visited there have repeatedly remarked that Cuenca does not feel Ecuadorian at all, rather, it is much more Spanish. Architecture, language, dress, and skin color all hint towards a more Euorpean background than many of the surrounding cities. Cuenca is also devoutly Catholic, claims an indigenous population of 0%, and is probably the most conservative city in the country. The streets are clean, tourist friendly, and the shopping, at least in the area of the hotel, is nothing less than first rate.

Since I´m so tired I don´t have too much to say. Perhaps tomorrow will be better...

Highlight of tomorrow for me will probably be the Panama Hat factory. I would really like to purchase one for my classroom... I´m not entirely convinved I can pull off the look. I will have to consult with Farris who is our resident fashion expert.