Dear Explorer,

Join us for a monthly virtual exploration of Ecuador’s extraordinary diversity. Metropolitan Touring’s August-September SPOTLIGHT features our "Young Pirates" program, a fun an exciting way for children to enjoy Galapagos; Jacchigua, an expression of music and dance showcasing Ecuador's traditional culture, and how delicious Galapagos bread directly contributes to sustainable development.

News Update Ecuadorian Folklore Ballet Jacchigua Music and dance, merged in a single expression, are the most representative manifestations of a nation’s culture. Ecuador, with contrasting geographic characteristics of impressive beauty, is equally diverse in its ethnic and cultural background. Jacchigua Folklore Ballet is a mirror that reflects, in fascinating choreographies, the traditions and customs, the joys, myths and legends of a magic, yet real and profound Ecuador. [+] Metropolitan Touring’s Young Pirates Program in the Galapagos Islands It is our hope that everybody enjoys this natural paradise and appreciates the efforts for its conservation. Thus, we thought kids need some type of interpretative recreational material, and we developed our own Galápagos booklet: “Young Pirates”. In this learning-while-having-fun book we find many different subjects. [+] Previous news : Antisana Ecological Reserve: Home to the Andean Condor Achieving Commitment: Coastal Cleaning with Volunteers Humpback whales season 2008

Weather update Climate of Galapagos As with the last climate update, sea surface temperature remains between two and three degrees Celsius warmer than the historic average. In mid August, central islands reported even balmy 26°C at Aeolian Bay in Baltra! [+]

Sustainable Tourism Sustainable Initiatives: Bread for the Future The social component is a priority under the umbrella of sustainability. Thus, it is important to get involved directly with the local community, and contribute to their well being and their income generation. If we believe in the local community’s improvement, we must incorporate them in our business scenario. [+]