Ecuador: Loghan Holland (Cultural Connections and Observations)

Cultural Connections & Observations

During my three and a half week excursion in the Galapagos islands, I became very well acquainted with the sea lions—or as I like to call them lobos (short for their Spanish name lobos marinos). Lobos have quite a distinguished sound: a whinny barking, almost grunting noise. However, their most distinguishing feature would have to be their odor: fishy and smelly. I even learned that the lobo population outnumbers the human population; because of this the lobos could be found lying on the beaches or moving around in the street! If I were to compare lobos to a familiar midwestern animal, I would have to say a mix between a raccoon and deer. Each animal being plentiful population wise and each containing a hint of orneriness!

Life in the Galapagos islands—San Cristobal in particular—was peaceful. Perhaps it was the waves or maybe even the intense sunshine, but my experience was like a lullaby. Meaning that all days seemed to have the same tranquil undertone and were easy-going. Throughout my daily interactions, I was always greeted with a smile and a story. My host mom was a big contributor to my positive experience on San Cristobal because she was always making jokes and eager to hear about my adventures on the island. Though I only spent a short three and a half weeks, I would say that the island culture and island life is very calm and considerate.

 

Loghan Holland

Major: Botany, Cello Performance

Hometown: Blue Springs, Missouri

Program: Ceiba Tropical Conservation Semester: Galapagos, Andes and Amazon