Salt Flats Day 3

Our last day on our jeep ride. So, much fun, but my brain will be happy with me when it is not being jostled around all day. Went to geysers and hotsprings, reminiscent of yellowstone. Decided not to go into the hotsprings, because one I was feeling slightly sick, two it was freezing out, and three didnt think it was the best idea for my wound. Have to note that i wasnt feeling sick because of the vino i drank the night before. Was responsible and drank water at the end of the night. However, i had stopped the altitude sickness meds and think the altitude was catching up with me. Just as a warning, I was taking Diamox, and the side effects was numbness first in the feet, then spread to my hands, then finally to my face when i decided i could not be on this anymore!

Had about an 8 hr ride back. Stopped at various lakes, etc. Still some of the most amazing scenery I have ever seen. But I was dirty and ready to be back somewhere that i could take a shower, hot water please! Stopped in some town, and tried llama from a vendor on the road. Have been way more daring with the food. In China I would never had tried anything from a road side vendor, but it is such an important part of the culture. Knock on wood, havent gotten sick yet. Llama was a little tough.

About 45 minutes from uyuni we made a pit stop at the side of the road for bathroom break. When we started again Roberto realized we had a flat. Was probably good that we didnt get a flat while driving. Anyway, couldnt believe we had made it this far, to get a flat on the less crazy terrain! Roberto and Caesar bonded over the changing of the tire....they had a falling out the night before where Roberto said not to speak to him anymore...us girls were still on his good side though. How sweet.

Saw Uyuni train cemetary right outside town. Dont know whole story, but at some point in history Bolivia tried to build infrastructure for an extensive train system. For what every reason it failed and trains were just left to rust. Hence the train cemetary.

Got back to Uyuni safe and sound with no major set backs. Grabbed some pizza and met up with some friends we had met on the trip. Apparently we all ended up at the same pizzeria! Was almost late for bus since service is so slow, but made it for our 2nd 12 hr ride. Brain hurts from so much bumping!!!

PS

Wanted to mention coca leaves since some were asking whether or not I would try them. Locals drink tea and suck on leaves to help relieve altitude sickness. Leaves made me feel nauseous, strange huh, but have enjoyed my morning cup of coca tea as it is a staple in all hotels.