Phew, the strike is over.

 Just kidding.

As of yesterday morning, the longest national strike in Ecuadorian history -- 18 days-- has been successfully negotiated. The Ecuadorian government agreed to a $0.15 drop in fuel prices and a moratorium on oil and mining extraction in indigenous lands. Both parties have 90 days to sort out the other details; otherwise future strikes are likely, per indigenous leaders. 

Roads are open. The Ecuadorian people are taking a deep breath. And so are we. We have abandoned our plans for a pre-trip to Colombia, and once again are headed to the equator. Wish us luck!




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