03 Ecuador and the Amazon Rainforest - Podcast Episode 3

In this podcast interview about the rainforests of Ecuador you'll hear how to enjoy how to enjoy your rainforest experience, as well as the many other diverse areas of of the country, the Avenue of the Volcanoes, the Indian markets, and the beaches of Manabi province where you can see migrating whales.   In this interview with Luis Hernandez we discussed; The Cuyabeno Lodge in Ecuador; where it is, how you get there, the type of accommodation and what you would do while you are there The steps the Cuyabeno lodge take to be eco-friendly, such as using solar energy, using biodegradable products and recycling waste, as well as employing local people or transport by canoe and guides. The variety of Flora and Fauna you can find at Cuyabeno Reserve and lagoon, such as birds, plants, flowers, river turtles, cayman and even pink dolphins How to deal with a snake, cayman or anaconda if you should meet one in the forest The equipment that you might need in order to be comfortable in the jungle, such as wellington boots, hat, suncream, insect repellant, torch and what health advice Luis gives to his visitors. The problems in Ecuador with oil exploration and logging and how supporting tourism in the rainforest areas will put money into the local economy and prevent the destruction of the rainforest. Other areas of Ecuador to visit, such as the mountainous Andean area of the Avenue of the Volcanoes where you can hike and walk on the volcanoes of Cotopaxi and Chimborazo staying in old haciendas. The Indian markets of Otavalo on Saturdays and Saquisili on Thursdays On the coastal area, Luiz recommends the south of Manabi province which has the Machalilla national park and the beach of  Canoa in the north and Isla de las Plata where you can see migrating whales in July and August. The political situation in Ecuador which is generally calm and stable - although the factions within the government may dispute among themselves, the situation for tourists is calm. The government is also creating a good network of roads and infrastructure, which makes it easy for visitors to get around. The music on the podcast was Venus as a Girl by Andy McGee on Musicalley.com