Free Home Delivery – Ecuador Style

Posted on June 12, 2018August 21, 2018 By dougdyer52@gmail.com

Free Home Delivery – Ecuador Style

San Clemente, Ecuador, May 2018

When we arrived at our latest house sit assignment, in this tiny fishing village, we were prepared to be adaptable. After all, we were 2 blocks off a dead end road and 45 minutes from any type of super market. Being remote is not new to us; it is where peaceful exists.

What happened next was truly amazing. We loved being immersed in the relentless sound of the surf from our front porch, but what is that beeping coming down the road? A stranger was stopping at our gate on a motor scooter. It was the local bakery guy with a variety of sweet breads for sale.

Well that was a nice treat but wait, the neighbourhood fruit and veggie truck is due around 1 PM.

Pretty much on shedule, the bi-weekly fruit truck came gliding down the lane. Now buying off the truck is somewhat hit and miss, except that if you tell him on Tuesday that you want cantaloupe, he will gladly find you a ripe one for Thursday. The prices are so ridiculously cheap and for just a few bucks you are loaded up:

**The Mother of All Fruit & Veggie Trucks**

Next up was the water delivery man who with a smile and a nod will bring you a fresh bottle for the price of a $1.00.

In typical Ecuadorian fashion, he doesn’t just drop it at the curb, but joyfully brings it into the home and sets it up for you.

The most colourful of all these roaming vendors is empenada man, with his bright yellow and blue umbrella, orange shirt and his big smile. From his 3 wheeled cart he dishes up an assortment of tasty local snacks that we can not even pronounce.

We later learned, that once you are really connected in the community, you can have imported wines, cheeses, whole grain breads, fancy deserts and even smoked trout brought to your door.

It is a perfect example of “demand/supply economy”; if you want it, someone will deliver.

200% Satisfaction Guaranteed: One time a watermelon was much inferior to the standard of excellence, not only did the vendor replace it without hesitation, but he put an extra one in the basket just to make certain we were happy.

In Ecuador as in life, it is wise to have a front porch and a gate that swings open!

joyful travellers

2 Years on the Road – At Home Without a Home.

Posted on April 6, 2018August 24, 2018 By dougdyer52@gmail.com

Celebrating 2 Years on the Road

April, 2018

April marks the 2nd anniversary of us severing our ties and heading out to the open road. No fixed address, homeless,not even a storage locker awaiting our return. Ready for what was around the next corner.

It has been a journey that has exceeded our wildest dreams. Upon reflection we can not begin to explain how much we feel at home without a home. It seems that we have always been gypsies at heart.

Johanne and I are certain that our nomadic lifestyle is not for everyone, yet it fits our style to a T.

Every 5 to 6 weeks or so we move on to a new home, different city and often a different country. Looking ahead to our next adventure has become our new norm.

We have met so many remarkable people and developed endearing friendships on our trail. Our vast network of fellow house sitters and home owners is global and diverse.

We have traveled to and lived in amazing locations that we had never heard of before. Slow travel has given us an unique perspective as we are able to immerse ourselves in the local communities.

For the rest of 2018 we will be returning to Ecuador and the Caribbean and also heading to Portugal and Spain. “So much to see waiting ahead of me”.

The net sum is that we are much healthier and infinitely happier then when we actually had a home. Our only stresses seem to be “where shall we venture to next”?

With careful travel planning and restrained shopping sprees we are able to stay well under our retirement budget.

Read how we be became homeless

Doug’s book here : A Tale of Two Geckos

So that sounds pretty incredible Doug, is there a down side?

Hmmmmmm can’t seem to find one. So I guess will just care on then.

joyful travellers

San Miguel de Allende – A Peak Inside

Posted on February 9, 2018August 24, 2018 By dougdyer52@gmail.com

San Miguel de Allende – A Peak Inside

February, 2018

Johanne and I are always curious as to what lies just beyond the many intriguing doors of the great colonial cities we visit.

The historical district of San Miguel de Allende, with it’s estimated 2,000 doors, offers us daily glimpses into what lies beyond. The city has lots of fine examples of Baroque colonial architecture, many of which have been restored to their former state.

Of course the original purpose of the door was to keep the elements, both natural and human, on the other side. As time progressed and wealthy families moved in, the size the doors grew and detail became more elaborate.

Handcrafted ironwork and hewn wood were often used for doors and elaborate stone work formed the entrance. Additional ornamentation declared the social status of the occupants.

The fine detail on the brass knocks and hardware is marvelous.

The courtyards beyond the entries lend themselves nicely to modern uses. Enchanting restaurants, romantic hotels and galleries can be discovered with a closer look.

We have learned to politely ask:” Podemos mirar, por favor?” We are always welcomed to have a look around.

Just beyond the door would be an alcove where home owners would greet visitors. Of course, first impressions would be critical. Entry ways were grand and would feature ornate light fixtures and furniture.

For us, it is the courtyard that is especially intriguing; the inner sanctuary where daily life would be played out.

You never know what is just beyond on a door.

Doors come in all shapes and sizes.

This one uses a bicycle chain ring for a knocker:

Of-course not every door has been lovingly cared for and there are always a project for those interested in a restoration !!

San Miguel de Allende is definitely worth a visit. Be certain to bring your camera and take a peek just beyond the door.

joyful travellers

Tepoztlan, MX – Daily Goose Bumps

Posted on December 30, 2017August 24, 2018 By dougdyer52@gmail.com

Tepoztlan, MX – Daily Goose Bumps

December, 2017

The joyful travellers have put their bags down in the charming pueblo of Tepoztlan one hour south of Mexico City.

We are experiencing daily “Goose Bump Moments” as we wander through this charming community.

life-sized mural made of seeds and grains

Because of it’s natural beauty, cultural riches, and historical relevance, Tepoztlna has been deemed a “Pueblo Magico” by the Mexican Government.

The surrounding mountains are rich with Quartz deposits and many of the 14,000 inhabitants believe that the area holds special healing powers.It is a mecca for “New Agers” that come to bask in the valleys healing energies; maybe they are onto something.

Certainly the blue bird sky, the mountain air and high elevation have a serene and calming effect. The pace is very tranquillo.

The area was first populated by the Aztecs 1,200 years ago and several indigenous traditions still exist today. Nachuatl, the native language of Montezuma, is still taught in the schools.

There is an abundance of veggie options for us at dozens of restaurants in town. But it is the open market in el centro that really brings on those goose bumps. It is like a sprawling health food store where we find: an amazing assortment of organic fruits and veggies, cheeses, grains and nuts, spices and other wonderful delights.

The Aztecs were also aware of the health effects of chia and cacao which is cheap and abundant (see recipe below).

Doug is particularly thrilled with the vendors plying huge sacks of fresh delicious peanuts in the shell -more goosebumps.

But mostly Tepoztlan is the sort of place where each venture into town or into the hills bring on a new and wondrous discovery.

Buses to and from Mexico City’s Taxquena Terminal are plentiful and comfortable.

Johanne’s Mother’s Magic Chia Recipe

This marvelous super food pudding can be eaten as is or combined with your favourite berries.

1/3 cup Chia seeds
2 cups of Almond Milk
2 TBS of agave or maple syrup (to taste)
splash of natural vanilla extract

Mix well and refrigerate over night. May require occasional stirring.

joyful travellers

The Tranquility That is Bocas del Toro

Posted on November 13, 2017August 24, 2018 By dougdyer52@gmail.com

The Tranquility that is Bocas del Toro

November, 2017

There is so much to be said about Bocas – our time here has been remarkable, magical and memorable!!

What seems to be most striking is the quiet that predominates our days. It is not quiet as in no sound, the jungle is alive with birds, monkeys, frogs and more. It is a tranquility which has it’s own sound – more than just quiet. The pervasive silence sets the backdrop that allows the natural world to be truly heard. We hear with different ears, we see with new eyes and we smell with new noses. It is an awareness, an awe.

The morning after a rain, the aroma of jasmine is absolutely lush. It is as if standing wrapped in the fragrance. Every time you look up there is something remarkable you hadn’t noticed the last time you looked. Did those brilliant red flowers just bloom, how could I have not seen them before?

We are certainly very spoiled as the property that we are caring for is a botanical wonder. It was carved out of a jungle hillside overlooking a Caribbean Bay. Toucans, parrots, monkeys, sloths, green frogs, red frogs and dolphins are all regular guests. The jungle supplies us with fresh oranges for juice, lemons the size of softballs, four different varieties of bananas and pure organic cacao. (We are learning the value of cacao nibs as a super food).

Maybe some photos will help to illustrate what I can not seem to put into words. There are only so many adjectives for incredible.

There are tiny communities scattered around this intricate archipelago. The inhabitants are here for each other when needed, yet forever at a distance. Visiting requires a boat trip and it is always WP (weather permitting). It is an intriguing mix of expats that are drawn to this lifestyle. They reside beside the natives that have made this region home for generations.

There is a definite spirit to the place!

The sense of being off the grid is very profound, we are a long ways from any grid out here! This isn’t like going to the cottage for the weekend.

We are so absolutely fortunate because we are spending 6 weeks on a property that is the jewel of the area.

Check out their website to learn how organic cacao is produced:

Green Acres Chocolate Farm

joyful travellers

Farewell To Old Friends

Posted on October 4, 2017August 24, 2018 By dougdyer52@gmail.com

Farewell To Old Friends

October, 2017

I am coming to a point where I must say goodbye to an old friend and emotions are welling up.

It is a pair of friends actually, they are my trusty and often dusty TEVA – Omniums sports sandals.

They have served me so well and we have shared some amazing adventures.

Teva, the creators of my sandals, claim it is the Atomic Footbed, 20mm of Hi-tech composite that makes them so damn wonderful. But I know that it is much more than that; when you have shared so much together it becomes personal.

Together we have scampered up the mountain trail to the old logger’s cabin at the head of Princess Louisa Inlet in BC. The trip down was particularly tricky and my trusty friends held fast, through mud and over sharp rocks.

Much of their souls were left on the deck of another beloved friend, the sailing yacht Swan. Fiberglass non-skid decking of a sail boat is coarse and unkind to ordinary footwear. My Omniums were not ordinary footwear! They bravely held their place when the weather soured, keeping me forever safe and on board when seawater swashed over the decks and angles were a challenge.

Together we have ventured to some wonderful locations from the extreme to the sublime. I reminisce of the times I sported my sandals through the plush mossy highlands of Otovalo, Ecuador, or the rugged off-road trails of Omepete Island, Nicaragua.

Recently, a bath of sweat and salt water has rendered my dear friends rather odious. Stinky in fact, to the point of being rather offensive. Fear not, with a bucket of warm water and a generous dose of Central American All Purpose cleaner, it is mountain freshness once again. I can only hope that when the day arrives that I become this offensive, there will be friends near and dear that will know the proper remedy.

So when the time comes and the last mile is shared, what will be the fitting final resting for my tired companions?

A burial at sea? Tacked to a tree?

To be unceremoniously tossed onto a landfill somewhere seems so heartless and empty.
Omniums you have served me so well; I will sadly shuffle off to the mall, longing to discover a new pair of loyal friends.

the joyful travellers

Of Pillow Tops and Coffee

Posted on August 3, 2017 By dougdyer52@gmail.com

Johanne and I have been house and pet sitting for 18 months now and we love every moment. It has its challenges but they a minuscule compared the joys we are experiencing.

DSCF4974

So don’t get me wrong I would not change our lifestyle for anything. I do however want to share with you two things, that when combined, add a sense of pure luxury to any house sit: a fluffy- soft pillow top mattress and fresh local coffee.

Now we have learned that “fluffy-soft” and “fresh” are relative in nature. Much like: “no mosquitoes here” and “my dogs never bark”, these terms are subject to wide interpretation.

Let me paint for you my perfect house sit. The owners have left us the keys to their clean and comfortable home; they will be away six weeks. The fridge is full of fresh local fruits and veggies, the private pool is just a few steps from the living area.

DSCF4760

The delightful pets are low maintenance and a joy to care for. Getting the picture?

Morning sunlight warms my face and a soothing ocean breeze ruffles the curtains. We are lying on a cloud, a king sized cloud at that. Down filled pillows cradle our heads. As we arise, there are no stiff joints or cramped muscles, our entire beings have been thoroughly replenished. Waking on a cloud brings a smile to my existence.

Into the kitchen we glide where the day begins. With care and attention, exotic local coffee beans are ground to perfection. By a simple process their richness is turned into liquid gold and my senses come alive with anticipation.

Pouring the elixir into mugs turns whole milk a lovely teak. The aroma is divine!!

Johanne and I settle on soft chairs and marvel at our surroundings. We hold hands and clasp our prized mugs with the other. Full bodied, full-sized (Vancouver sized) cups of java. Simple indulgence at its fullest.

We share our dreams and contemplate the day in front of us. It is a moment to appreciate the fullness of life. A life so rich that I ask for a top up! On many days it is served with a slice of homemade banana bread. A few simple pleasures have turned this perfect house sit to extraordinary.

I raise my coffee mug to you and hope that all of your future sits are filled with fluffy-soft luxury.

joyful travellers

A Tale of Two Geckos – The Book

Posted on May 26, 2017June 29, 2017 By dougdyer52@gmail.com

Doug’s long anticipated book is:

Now on amazon.com

Click Here

for Canadians amazon.ca

Click here

What readers are saying:

“This book is a must read for everyone desiring to change their lives and pursue their dreams. I’ll have to re-read it over and over again. These two courageous geckos did it!”

*******

“I predict the Geckomana will take off as the new trend after reading this book”

******

“I was just going to read one chapter and get back to what I was doing…I couldn’t put it down.
“Life’s Inspiration” written with love, honesty and experience. Loved it!”

Doug Book Cover

It is our story about how we transformed our lives and is written to entertain and encourage readers to consider the changes they would like in their lives.

Please enjoy our story and kindly share it with a friend.

joyful travellers

Celebrating Our 1st Year as Nomads

Posted on April 5, 2017April 7, 2017 By dougdyer52@gmail.com

April 7th – As of today Johanne and I have been slow travelling throughout Latin America for 1 year.

It has been a fabulous experience- the best year on record.

We have lived on the rim of a volcanic crater

come to experience wonderful Colonial Cites:

swam on deserted beaches in the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific Ocean and in pristine cenotes.

We have climbed Mayan Pyramids and gazed down the throat of el diablo.

We even took a break to honeymoon in Cuba: