First trip

So we're preparing for our first trip to Ecuador.  Here's what's happened so far:

• We've received our PacSafe Wallet and DuffelSafe.  Emily is wearing the wallet around her neck/shoulder with her docs, while I'm using the duffel for my docs and "critical" living stuff like shoes, underwear and basic clothes that we would need to get by for a few days.  Check out www.pacsafe.com for further descriptions.
• Emily's backpack will have toilette's that we can replaced if it's stolen.
• We're checking one suitcase with stuff that (hopefully) won't be lost.  We want to make sure that a simple bag will make the trip.  It'll have stuff like unnecessary clothes, Dr Pepper for Mike Sager (a real estate agent that we're meeting with), wine gifts and a butterfly knife that I don't mind losing.
• We're up to date on our shots, although I've had an ongoing cold ever since getting my flu and yellow fever shots.  Haven't been really sick in years; now I'm feeling the effects of the shots.
• Google-mapped the trip from the airport to the hotel in Puerto Lopez: expected time is three hours; we hope to make it in six.
• Boarding passes are printed and set to go.
• Met with our financial adviser last night.  Not expecting to buy any property while we're there, but we're prepared.
• Went to Chase Bank, got cash and figured out the wire transfer procedures if we need money while we're there.
• Figured out clothes.  We're not really sure what to pack; the images that we see show locals in long pants and long sleeve shirts, but that doesn't work for us Gringos.  We're primarily packing shorts, Hawaii shirts and sundresses (for Emily, not me), but we want to be prepared for in-town trips that might be more formal.
• Got set up with the cat-sitter.  Diane is awesome and she will make sure that Cleo isn't lonely.

 Next post - how was the trip?