Panama and Ecuador-From Sea Level to 9,000 feet
Panama and Ecuador
Earlier this year, I was looking to head to South or Central America to work on my Spanish. As I began to search for air fares, I found a reasonable fare to Quito, Ecuador. I had been to Quito once before, but just for one day. I had always wanted to return.
I had also always had a desire to go to Panama and see the Panama Canal. As I started to check out my options, I discovered the round trip fares from Oklahoma City to Panama City, Panama were the lowest I had ever seen–$380.80 to be exact! As I continued my research, I found I could really do both cities, Panama City and Quito, for just a little bit more money.
My wife was not able to go due to work, so I asked my daughter, Stephanie, if she would go with me. She could go for only 3 days due to her own job, but was certainly up for the adventure if we could make it work.
The plan was set—We would fly to Panama City for 3 days, see the Panama Canal and whatever else we could possibly squeeze in. After 3 days in Panama City, Stephanie would fly home to OKC alone and I would fly southward on COPA airlines to Quito, Ecuador. I could have saved a little bit of money by flying from Panama City back up to Miami and then down to Quito all on AA, but time was money for me. Plus I figured it would be more fun flying Panama City direct to Quito.
My goal in Quito was completely different from Panama. In Quito I planned to enroll in Spanish Language school, live with a local family, and travel around in Central Ecuador as time permitted. I had only 3 weeks to plan the entire trip. It would be a trip of 2 different experiences.
I will post a series of reports of my adventures in both countries. I have plenty of photos to share……so stay tuned.
Steve Barrymore
Getty Museum-The flowers-Los Angeles-Part 5
In addition to the architecture of the buildings, The Getty takes great pride in its gardens. Take a look at some of the photos:
All in all, the Getty is a great place to spend the day. If you go to LA, veer a little off the Disneyland and Venice Beach route and pay a visit to the Getty. You won’t be disappointed!
Los Angeles-Getty Museum-part 4
Of course, the best part of the Getty Museum is the architecture. Here is a series of photos of the buildings.
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Next-the flowers from the grounds of the Getty Museum
Los Angeles-Getty Museum-part 3
When you want to take a break, there are several dining options available. One is the outdoor restaurant that has some great views. If the weather is nice this is a great place to have lunch. 
The main outside restaurant-great view of the valley
Another option is near the entrance where there is another , but smaller outdoor bistro.
An outside Bistro at the Getty Museum
Also, if you can downstairs from there, there is a gourmet cafeteria style walk up order area that serves an abundance of different kinds of food. If it is a hot day, being inside will be very relaxing.
Great food in the cafeteria of the Getty Museum
Next-more photos of the grounds and the architecture
Los Angeles-The Getty Museum-part 2
At the top of the hill when you get off the tram, you are greeted by very well dressed, well mannered museum volunteers who are eager to pass out free maps and answer any questions you may have. The first thing you notice is the stunning architecture of the entrance as seen here:
Entrance to the Getty Museum
A couple of things you will want to do first:
Go into the main lobby and get your plan together on whether or not you want to try to see everything yourself or want to take advantage of some of the free guided tours. Another neat option is to dial in on your cellphone and use it as a personal recorded guided tour.
Main Lobby to the entrance of the Getty Museum
Courtyard after going through the entrance of the Getty Museum
Next-more photos of the grounds of the Getty Museum
