Heading Into the Unknown

By Yufei Dong

Plush Duck at the Quito Airport

On a sunny afternoon, we arrived at the world’s closest capital to the Equator: Quito. This is our first stop before we eventually head for San Cristóbal Island. The place we stayed in, close to the airport and away from the city, was surrounded by green mountains and enveloped under blue skies.

Abigail, Brook and I decided to take a short walk around the hotel. When we saw a secret path in the bushes, the curious (and maybe also dangerous) human nature drove us to take it. Not long after did we notice a creature blocking our way – a cow named #45, based on the tag on its ear. “Wait…maybe not…” The words were still forming in my throat when my two buddies were already approaching it with caution but also determination. #45 welcomed us with incomprehensible moos. This is the first time I’ve been so close to a cow – a precious opportunity thanks to my brave expedition buddies. We wished #45 well and hoped someone will let it join its 44 friends soon.

After bidding farewell to #45, we got back on the road and saw a convenience store on the side. Curiosity (not dangerous this time) once again drove us inside to meet the store owner. I tried my best to convey my friendliness with the only word I said (“¡Hola!”) and the only facial expression I had (a silly smile). Unlike me who’s worrying about my limited means of delivering messages, Abigail stepped up and started communicating. Even though the conversation had a few pauses here and there for internal translation, we were all very impressed by how patient and understanding the lady was. I was also impressed by how large bottles of coke only cost $1 – things we wouldn’t have known if we didn’t muster the courage to go inside the store.

Plush Duck by the Window in Quito

The next day, we arrived in San Cristóbal after another short flight and took a bus to our hostel. As we were bumping through the colors and sounds of the city, I felt the moment – a mix of happiness, excitement, confidence and anticipation, or “I know this is going to be one of the best college memories I still talk about when I’m 65.”

Traveling with peers in a country with a different language and culture is such an amazing experience. It will always remind me to stay brave and curious while heading into the unknown. I can’t wait to see what lies ahead on this beautiful island in the next 10 days.