The summit’s just there,” yells my guide, pointing over the spindly grasses clinging to the steep side of Pasochoa Volcano. I look out over the perfect pyramids of ice and stone that encircle us like the rings of a planet and silently plead with my heart to slow its beat, with my lungs to breathe more deeply.
My eyes brim with tears as my partner wraps his arms around me. “You’re a trooper,” he whispers. “And troopers don’t cry.”
“I’m not crying,” I pant into the gales of sharp, howling wind. “We’re 13,000 feet above sea level. It’s just the altitude, I swear.” I’m only half lying.
The four-day lodge-to-lodge trek through Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanoes was my idea. We’d hike by day and cozy up to the fireplace at night in a dreamy checkerboard of adventure and relaxation. The trail itself didn’t concern me. We’d done longer trails before; we’d even done them carrying all of our gear. It was the thought of the Andean altitude that turned my blood cold.
Username: Bongsong Published on 2024-10-24 16:31:33 ID NUMBER: 124181
Nice is full of stunning squares and boulevards that offer visitors a glimpse into the city's history and culture. Rossetti Square is a must-visit, with its beautiful Saint Reparata Cathedral and charming cafes. Saint Francis Square is a bustling hub for local fishermen and is surrounded by vibrant markets and shops. Place Massena is a massive public square that features incredible fountains and unique art installations.
Meanwhile, Rue Droite is a charming, narrow street in Old Nice, full of restaurants and shops. Place Garibaldi is another must-visit, with its imposing statue of the Italian hero and breathtaking architecture. For those who enjoy a seaside stroll, the Quai des Etats-Unis offers a stunning view of the Mediterranean. Finally, visitors looking for a bit of nature will find solace at Avenue Jean-Médecin, a tree-lined boulevard that leads to lovely public gardens. No matter where you go, Nice's public squares and boulevards are a feast for the senses.
One of a threatened species, a northern spotted owl perches on a branch. Spotted owls are dark brown with spots of white. To an untrained eye, barred and spotted owls may look similar, but they are unique in their color patterns — and competitors for food and habitat. (Courtesy Paul Bannick)
In the colorful tapestry of symbolism found throughout various cultures, few animals hold as much significance as the humble chicken and its assertive counterpart, the rooster. Often overlooked in their everyday presence, these birds carry layers of meaning that span centuries and continents. From ancient mythologies to modern-day interpretations, let's delve into the rich symbolism of chickens and roosters.
Our final destination is the ethereal peak known as “The Spectre,” situated in the icy wilderness of Antarctica. While not dominating in height, this striking rock pinnacle is surrounded by a seemingly endless expanse of snow and ice. It’s a destination only accessible to the most intrepid explorers, making it the world’s most remote mountain as well.
