Copacabana is a small, enchanting town set on the southern shore of Lake Titicaca. This lake is the highest navigable lake in the world – which makes it quite spectacular. It’s about a 3.5 hour bus ride from La Paz, Bolivia and it’s an inexpensive like-no-where-you’ve-ever-been weekend getaway. The bus ride can cost anywhere from $3 to $10 depending on the quality of bus and how many stops it makes along the way. There are two red stars on the map below – one marks Copacabana and the other is the point we visited on the Isla del Sol (a 2 hour boat ride from the port of Copacabana). The whole weekend trip (including transportation to and from La Paz, a place to stay, good food and an all day excursion ) can cost less than $50.00 US dollars. And I promise you, it’s like nowhere you have ever been in the world.
 Once we arrived in Copacabana, we found a hostel and dropped our bags. We stayed at the Hostal Colonial for 50 bolivianos (about $7 US dollars) /per person per night – it was bare bones but totally fine (clean rooms, central location, hot showers and breakfast was included). All of the nice places were booked – but if I were to go back I would book a room at Las Olas or La Cupula = totally worth it. Below: a photo of the outside of our hostel Below: Lisa and I shared a room – it was spacious and comfy enough. As we walked down to towards the beach, there are plenty of little tourist shops to pick up an alpaca wool sweater, or some warm gloves and hat. It’s such a cute, quaint little town. Below: The iconic ‘anchor’ on the beach. Reminds me of the song “Anchor for the Soul”…Below: We sat and watched the sunset from the beach – it was beautiful and peaceful as the mountains of Peru glowed off in the distance.Afterwards, we hit up La Orilla Restaurant for some stuffed trucha (trout). It’s a cute little hole-in-the-wall place. The next morning we headed down to the beach to jump on our boat for an all day excursion for 30 bs (about $3.00 US dollars). The boat left at 8:30am for a two hour boat ride out to the northern tip of the Isla del Sol.I was nervous about getting sea sick and I didn’t have any dramamine but I kept reminding myself and everyone around me to keep your eyes on the horizon! And we finally made it to dry land!We of course made some friends on the boat (one of my favorite things about traveling is all the cool people I get to meet along the way!). So we all stuck together and hit the trail for an adventure on the Isla del Sol!Below: Me, Matt and LisaBelow: There are over 80 ruins on the island. Most of these date to the Inca period circa the 15th century AD. Archaeologists have discovered evidence that people lived on the island as far back as the third millennium BCE. Many hills on the island contain agricultural terraces, which adapt steep and rocky terrain to agriculture. Among the ruins on the island are the Sacred Rock, a labyrinth-like building called Chinkana, Kasa Pata, and Pilco Kaima. In the religion of the Incas, it was believed that the sun god was born here. (info from Wikipedia)Below: Making friends with donkeys along the way. Below: Several times along the hike we literally had to push donkeys out of our way because they were blocking the trail. I was so scared I was going to get kicked!! Below: Wow, what a view!! Below: What the photos can’t convey is how amazingly crisp, clean and fresh the air was. It was so amazing and I didn’t want to leave. I loved just hiking along the trail, feeling the cool breeze on my face, the hot sun on my back and the cleanest air ever in my lungs while taking in these spectacular breathtaking views. I just kept thinking… “most of the world will never get to see or experience this in their lifetime… I feel so blessed and so grateful.”Below: We searched all over for the inca site “The Sacred Rock” (there are theories that it was used as an execution block for those convicted of wrongdoing) – and after a much longer than necessary detour… we found it (no signs, no trail markers… nothing… we only found it because we asked a 10 year old girl who was selling jewelry along the trail if she could show us). And so here we are… at the Sacred Rock… Lisa, sitting on top of it – which I feel like totally contradicts the fact that it’s ‘sacred’!Below: Brett discovered another ancient ruin right next to the rock… an old wheel chair. #Amazing.Below: All of the houses are built out of adobe bricks (straw and clay) which hardens in the sun. They are pretty remarkable and resourceful! Below: We made it to one of the most incredible lookout points… and I really could’ve stayed here all day. There were some other backpackers that were playing guitar and singing. It was amazing. I want to go back and take more time hiking the trail and just soaking it all in. Below: Matt, Lisa and I with all of our new friends! (Left to right: Julia, Matt, Brett, Lisa, Me, Maria & Samantha)Below: We continued further down the trail to the other major inca ruin sites… Below: By this time, we were running out of time because we needed to make it back to the beach to catch our boat back… so it was pretty rushed. Which just gives me another reason to return! Below: Mesa Ceremónica (Ceremonial Table) – it’s thought to have been the site of human and animal sacrifices… We were back on the boat – this time sitting on the rooftop so as to avoid getting sea-sick but also to enjoy the beautiful weather! We made more new friends – this group was from Santa Cruz, Bolivia.Below: We then stopped at one of the Islas Flotantes (or floating islands) where we got to enjoy some freshly caught trout or trucha frita – it was yummy! Here’s the story behind the floating islands: The floating islands are man-made islands made with reeds sprouting from the lake bottom. The construction of these islands is weaving reeds in areas where it grows thickly, forming a natural layer that called aurochs Khili ; on this layer called the reed mat, they build their houses. Each house is one room and they cook outdoors to prevent fires…Below: After our yummy late lunch, we headed back to Copacabana.Below: This is the flower that supposedly was the inspiration for the Bolivian FlagBelow: It was nearing sunset so we headed up the giant hill – Mt. Calvario (or Mt. Calvary) It was a tough hike up lots of stairs… but totally worth it! We stopped at La Cupula and Las Olas (both hostel/hotels that I highly recommend to stay – they were full for the weekend we were there but when I go back I’m totally staying here!) They are nestled into the side of the mountain and the properties are scattered with hammocks and cozy little spots to just chill and soak in the beautiful scenery. La Cupula also has a fabulous restaurant that we made dinner reservations for that night (highly recommend making reservations because it’s a small place and it books up). Nearing the top of the mountain… Finally, we made it to the top… and it was SOOOO worth it!!!Also at the top of the mountain…Below: My new favorite spot… I really loved the view from here and it was so peaceful and relaxing watching the sunset…The view of the Church… The next day we stopped by the church before we jumped on the bus back to La Paz…And then 3.5 hours later we were back in La Paz and it was a spectacularly sunny day with barely any clouds in the sky… and a clear view of Mt. Illimani
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The city of La Paz is so breathtaking and beautiful and different from anyplace I have ever been or seen before. So, I was super excited to jump on the red tour bus with my friend, Lisa, to get to know the city and it’s history a little better. The best part about the whole tour was when we got off the bus to enjoy the lookout over the city at Killi Killi.
Here are a few photos from Killi Killi.
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The other night I was invited to hang out with the campus ministry here in La Paz, Bolivia. We gathered together at a family’s house, ate dinner together and enjoyed sweet fellowship. I was incredibly humbled and honored to be there, spending time with these college students and I left with a heart overflowing, filled with God’s love. Here are six scriptures they reminded me of last night as I watched their example.
1. Encourage one another daily (1 Thessalonians 5:11) – We all gathered around the dinner table and Rodrigo handed out hand-made awards to every single person with their name on it and it included three qualities they were known for as well as a scripture on the back. It was really special, thoughtful, and encouraging.
2. Be joyful always (1 Thessalonians 5:16) – Everyone that came to the gathering was joyful in their own way – but I think it was because everyone was focused on the greater purpose of being together as a group, being unified and building each other up. I was amazed at the joy that overflowed from these kids – and that made it contagious. Not that we’re not allowed to have a bad day or bad moments – it happens, trust me, I know – but when the overwhelming majority are joyful it makes the room electric.
3. Continue meeting together (Hebrews 10:25) – We need each other and life is just better when we can see each other frequently, spend time together and be actively involved in one another’s lives. Simple concept… but it’s easy to get too busy and this takes a back seat. When I’m spending time together consistently with my close friends and other spiritually minded people, it has a huge influence on me, sharpening me, and encouraging me. In contrast, when I’m isolated and out of touch with those people, the effect is not a good one.
4. Give honor where honor is due (Romans 13:7) – This particular evening we were celebrating Maya’s birthday and also saying ‘farewell’ to Milton who had been leading the campus ministry. Additionally, they surprised me and officially ‘welcomed’ me to La Paz and to the Campus Ministry. Every person shared about Maya, Milton and Me – and the things they shared were really heartfelt and encouraging. When they said they were going to share about me I immediately felt uncomfortable because I barely had met half the people in the room and I didn’t want people to feel like they ‘had’ to share – but everyone did and I was blown away by the kind words and deep insights they shared. Overall, it just reaffirmed for me the power of one life, one person and the impact you can have – often times we don’t even realize it. But how special to have times like these when people actually verbalize and put into words the impact you have made on their lives and the gratitude they have. It inspires me to make the effort to share these things with people every day – no need to wait for a special occasion…
5. Show hospitality to strangers (Hebrews 13:2) – I walked into that house a stranger to many but I never once felt out of place. Everyone welcomed me as though I was a part of the family and made me immediately feel at home. I hope that I can do that for others when they are in a strange place and don’t know anyone. A lot of times it takes being aware of those around you, putting yourself in someone else’s shoes, and stepping outside your comfort zone to talk that person you don’t know that well as opposed to talking to your best friend the whole night because it’s ‘easy and comfortable’.
6. Give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18) – Life is just better when we’re grateful. I know for me, when I’m negative and critical, I am lacking in the area of gratitude. But the whole night was filled with people expressing gratitude towards one another. Gratitude for small things and big things… shared together creating stronger bonds of unity and love. Their example inspires me to make an effort everyday to express my gratitude to God and to others.
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I recently moved to La Paz, Bolivia for two months to serve and volunteer with the HOPE worldwide team here as well as with the La Paz Church of Christ. Prior to coming here, I was in New Jersey helping to take care of my grandfather.
After receiving encouragement from my mom and family to move on with with my plans of going to Bolivia – I decided on Feb 26th, to head to La Paz where I would serve for 2 months. I had to count the cost of leaving my grandfather, but his health had been a pretty steady decline and I felt very grateful for the 3 months that I was able to spend with him while he was fairly coherent and responsive. In my absence my mom and my uncle have been looking after him and he has recently returned home to his house for hospice care.
So… I’m here in La Paz and every day I try to give my whole heart to all that I’m doing. My goals for the two months – I want to accomplish so much while I’m here that when I look back on it all I’ll see that the ONLY way it was all possible was because of God and he will get the glory. I’m determined to improve my spanish with private classes almost every day. I want to love people as Jesus loves. I want to make a difference every day in someone’s life. I want to pour myself out for others. I’ll write more later and share specific stories of my daily adventures… which have been pretty amazing.
There are still moments and days where I question my ‘effectiveness’ and whether or not I’m really making a difference or not – but I heard this story a while ago and I often bring it to mind when I doubt.
“Once upon a time, there was a wise man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach before he began his work.
One day, as he was walking along the shore, he looked down the beach and saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled to himself at the thought of someone who would dance to the day, and so, he walked faster to catch up.
As he got closer, he noticed that the figure was that of a young man, and that what he was doing was not dancing at all. The young man was reaching down to the shore, picking up small objects, and throwing them into the ocean.
He came closer still and called out “Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?”
The young man paused, looked up, and replied “Throwing starfish into the ocean.”
“I must ask, then, why are you throwing starfish into the ocean?” asked the somewhat startled wise man.
To this, the young man replied, “The sun is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them in, they’ll die.”
Upon hearing this, the wise man commented, “But, young man, do you not realize that there are miles and miles of beach and there are starfish all along every mile? You can’t possibly make a difference!”
At this, the young man bent down, picked up yet another starfish, and threw it into the ocean. As it met the water, he said,
“It made a difference for that one.”
― Loren Eiseley
I also love this quote…
“To the world, you might be just one person. But to one person, you might mean the world.”
So what can you do in two months? A lot. As a matter of fact, there’s a lot we can accomplish in just one day when we live intentionally and seek to love others deeply, from the heart.
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Today I got the once in a lifetime opportunity to go to one of the world’s largest carnival festivals in Oruro, Bolivia. Ask anyone in Bolivia and they will tell you it’s bigger and better than Brazil’s Carnival… I’ll take their word for it! But anyway, Kevin and Noelle Broyles told me they had been invited by the US Embassy and had an extra ticket if I wanted to join them… um, YEAH!!
OK – so this place is 4 hours away from La Paz where I’m currently living. And when I say it’s a 4 hour drive… it’s NOTHING like driving from NYC to Boston – there are no highways… you are lucky if the road is finished, of which, in many places it wasn’t – just straight up gravel with semis and buses passing one another on a two lane road. Completely safe.
The Carnaval de Oruro goes all day Saturday, March 1st. Beginning at 7am and wrapping up around 4am the next morning. It’s insane. We left La Paz bright and early and got there at 10am. The scenery on the drive there was really beautiful. Once we arrived in Oruro, the city itself was nothing to write home about, but that didn’t matter, we were there for the parade that the city of Oruro has held as a tradition for the last 200+ years. The costumes, dances and the music all tell intricate stories weaving together the country’s history and religion.
Throughout the festival, more than 48 groups of folk dancers specializing in 18 different folk dances perform. In all, there are over 28,000 dancers, about 10,000 musicians in 150 bands, and 400,000 visitors stretching over four miles. Like I said, it’s INSANE.
Once we arrived, we were able to to park the car literally two blocks away from the parade route, which was almost comical. But, it’s because most people use public transportation or they walk. My friend Gwen and I set off to find the bleacher section that we had tickets for, only we didn’t actually have the tickets in hand. So we were just kind of winging it. As we walked through the maze of people we quickly were attacked with water guns and foam spray, which is a huge tradition here during Carnaval. Because we clearly stood out as foreigners, we were even more of a ‘target’. I very promptly purchased a poncho from one of the street vendors because I wanted to protect my camera. At one point we had climbed over the brigades into the parade route trying to find our seats and everyone in the bleachers was yelling at us and spraying us with foam. Did I mention that it was INSANE?
We finally were escorted up to the VIP bleacher section and given two seats. Only, we didn’t recognize ANYONE and realized we were in the Bolivian Military Section. Ha! So we just went with it and stayed. They gave us food and sodas all day long and it was wonderful! I kept waiting for them to realize we didn’t actually belong there and then kick us out. But they didn’t, and we made friends with all of the people around us. We were even interviewed for one of the local radio stations in Bolivia!
P.S. I just moved to La Paz, Bolivia for two months… I’ll write more about that later.
Below: The drive to Oruro was beautiful as we passed many rolling quinoa fields.
Driving into the city of Oruro, Bolivia
Below: Left – The street we parked on (where is everyone?). Right – The bowler hat is a traditional part of womenswear here in Bolivia.
Below: A group of girls are bombarded with foam spray. This happened to us only a few minutes earlier!
Below: I loved this little boy in the bear suit!
Below: So many people!!
Below: The masks and the costumes are so incredible! People spend thousands of dollars on their costumes each year and they don’t reuse them.
Below: Families come from all over Bolivia and the surrounding countries to take in this amazing spectacle. And they watch the parade ALL – DAY – LONG!
Below: I felt so bad for the people in bear costumes because it was SOOO hot and they must’ve been dying under there!!
Below: Whenever there was a break in the parade the kids ran out and continued their foam fights!
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Robert B. - Well put together. I love this :]
Vanessa Embling - Thanks Robert!!
Andrea - Thank you Vanessa it’s such an honor to have you here!!! You encourage us with your example 🙂