text:
12/6/2017 0 Comments
Babys Books!
Leave a Reply.
Sarah Webster
23 years of study and experience in Natural Skin and Body Care.
January 2018
All All Natural Baby Body Care Camping Cosmetics Cruelty Free Cruelty-Free Education Essential Oils Exercise Food Gadgets Holistic Organic Pets Skin Care Tea Water
307 Maple Ave W, Ste L, Vienna, VA 22180
(703) 281-1819
Monday - Saturday 10am - 7pm
What our customers have to say
"Amazing massage from Frances. 5/5 would reccomend."
Megan G.
"Great experience. The therapists listened to both of us re: what we were looking for and then focused on the problematic areas that we pointed out. Will definitely make it back.."
Ben M.
"Lenell is absolutely fantastic. I had lower back pain when I came to Waterfall Wellness and now today my back feels great. His personality and his constant check-in to ensure that you are doing fine is commendable. He is a value-add to my life. Orlando is also absolutely fantastic. I have two great massage therapists and I highly recommend both Lenell and Orlando as top notch massage therapists."
Al R."I would go here every day if I could. This is the best massage salon I have found in the area. The staff always provide for my needs but are never obsequious. Jesse, the manager is a soft spoken, no nonsense kind of guy. Friendly, practical and straight forward. The therapists are professional and knowledgeable without being haughty or condescending. The quality of the massages I have gotten from Terron, Hudson and Orlando are on par with the best I have had in the world. In addition to their exceptional skill, knowledge and ability, I find them all extremely friendly, personable and congenial. The location is small and the "flow" through the place may be a bit odd as the building is not originally designed to be a spa. I think it was originally for offices. It's odd but I don't find it cramped at all. The music is NOT too loud. The rooms are NOT too cold and the massage beds are heated. The sauna is NOT in a "high traffic area" and the 5 inch window in the door is at a height of 6 feet for maximum privacy. It is true that the management is strongly encouraging of tipping to their employees. I think it must certainly be as a result of so many cheap, low class (read groupon) customers stiffing their employees in the past. I don't mind managers protecting the interests of their employees but it might feel pushy to some. If you are looking for a professional massage from friendly, caring, intelligent and highly trained masseurs at a reasonable price, I don't know any place better than here.
John S.. " I have been searching for a good foot massage for years, and I found the most amazing foot masseuse in the world (even better than in China)! William is absolutely amazing. His hands are extremely strong and he hit all of my sore and not-so-sore spots. He also asked me questions about my body that he knew from the meridians in my feet. Absolutely amazing!"
Epi C.. " I've only had the Brazilian Sugar Waxing service done here but it is excellent! Elisa talks the whole time to distract you and she's super quick too. The lobby and entrance seem a little shady, but wait it out, it'll be okay. They have specials all the time, which are worth checking out. I don't think I ever paid the actual listed price for the waxing. Which is awesome, so I could afford to tip more. She deserved it."
Amber K.." "Terron was my massage therapist for this visit. He was WONDERFUL! He is very knowledgeable; he explained why he performing certain massage techniques. He got out a lot of kinks in my back! He spent extra time with me to work out those kinks! Thanks, Terron!"
Melanie H.." "Spur of the moment decision to go out and get a massage today ... good call! Whitney may only be a youngster but she has good strong hands! Great job and much needed after 2 weeks of moving!"
Gary L.." " I give this 100 stars! I had the best experience with a spa package from Travelzoo that I have ever had. I requested "best therapist available" and Orlando was all that and more. Massage was wonderful and he frequently checked to make sure pressure was on target, he found all my knots and kinks and worked them out, and when I thought it could not get better he also did a fantastic facial and foot treatment. By the end I was melted on the table and did not want to leave. Excellent overall experience! Yes, as other have commented, it is not the most luxurious place and a little hard to find, but I was delighted with the treatment from the staff and with the therapist. I would definitely return!"
Paula C.." "Humble set up, but excellent delivery. From the outside, this place doesn't look to be anything special... dilapidated door, next to a bunch of corporate offices in Vienna. And when you enter, you're walking through a rather tight hallway and lobby. But ultimately, I think those factors only influence the PERCEIVED value of a place, rather than the real value. As a pretty utility driven guy, I want quality products and service at a good price. I don't care much about the ambiance, layout, and superficial factors (that usually result in no added value, but indeed higher prices). Anyways, I arrived a couple minutes late and quickly filled out my paperwork. My aesthetician led me to one of the rooms and asked me to lie down, face up. When he returned, he evaluated my skin and said that I have an oily forehead and slightly oily nose, normal cheeks, and a dry chin. I've heard this before, so at least his analysis was on par with others'. For the actual service, I got to experience the: -- Eucalyptus Cleanser -- Green Tea Toner -- Acai Mask -- AHA Scrub -- Blackberry Moisturizer ...all from the Shir-Organic product line, and I was pretty impressed. My aesthetician also EDUCATED me (no sales pressure!) on the different products, and when/why to use them. And during the mask (since it needs 15-20 minutes), he gave me a reflexology foot massage; which was really nice considering that many times, the aesthetician just says, "I'll be back in 20 minutes." Anyways, I've never had reflexology done before; but he could apparently determine a lot of things about me just based on my foot! E.g., that I sleep on my left side, have acute neck / upper back pain, and have changed my diet recently). Once everything was done, I left my tip and the manager told me about some of their current and future specials. I definitely see myself coming back to this place!"
Ideen S.." "My husband and I booked an hour-long couples' massage and were pleasantly surprised! We were so relaxed and comfortable we forgot the other one was in the same room. I highly recommend the place. Very professional!"
Danielle M."OUTSTANDING MASSAGE by Mandy!! I used two Groupons for services at Waterfalls Wellness Center. Making the appointments was very easy and efficient. They are great with confirming and reminding via email. They were also very flexible when I needed to change an appointment due to the recent snow storm. Very accommodating!! The massage service from Mandy was absolutely phenomenal!! She was very intuitive, proficient and thorough. She engaged in as little or as much conversation as I initiated and made the sessions even more enjoyable. She establishes great rapport and will tailor the massage to your kinks, knots or soreness while only using pressure to which I was comfortable. Undoubtedly, I will be a regular!! Although the external facade of the building may seem coarse, the interior was very pleasant, calming and amicable to relaxing. You will leave rejuventated for sure."
Michael B."This place is great! I've been a few times. Although it doesn't look great from the outside they make you feel like heaven! I had a great massage with Jesse, my aunt had a wonderful facial (I can't remember the guys name though), Peter is also a great masseuse, according to my mother, Sarah is a reflexology goddess, I'm not sure you could go wrong with anyone there. I've also had great waxing (sugaring) there."
Tara W." Just wanted to let you know what a great experience I had at your spa. The therapists made me feel very comfortable and the whole experience was enjoyable. I had a great time chatting with Mandy during the reflexology treatment. It was by far the best spa experience/massage/treatment I've ever had. I definitely plan on returning! Thanks so much."
Jami C." I came for a 60 minute massage two weeks ago with Mandy. As a type two diabetic, I have chronic leg and foot pain. Mandy gave me a fantastic massage along with great conversation about a variety of life topics during the massage. Great personal attention and amazing massage. After coming here for the last several months, I have had such great results with everyone at Waterfalls, Elissa, Jesse, Sarah and now Mandy, that I decided to really splurge and bought a package of 25 massages over the next 12 months. The massages at Waterfalls provide me with some relief from the chronic pain and everyone is so personable, warm and friendly. I have tried some other places, but nothing comes close to Waterfalls Wellness Center. Then last night, I had my first foot refloxology massage with Sarah. As she worked her magic, she explained to me that pressure points on my feet correspond to various places on my body, including, head, neck, shoulders, organs, etc. She could tell during the reflexology massage where there were "challenges" in my body and worked those points gently and patiently. After the reflexology massage, she had Elissa and Mandy do some additional massage on my legs and arms. This was an amazing experience. I can't recommend Waterfalls too much. Try me, these people are absolutely wonderful, caring and provide fabulous personal attention. Whether you live in Virginia, DC or Maryland, Waterfalls is worth the trip. "
Alan S." Best bikini wax I've gotten in six cities incl. Philly, NY, and Paris! I was able to book a same-day appointment. It was super-quick, the technician was professional but relaxed and conversational, did an excellent job, and left no residual product or irritation. It's been several days and I usually have issues with bumps and irritation but not this time. The facility is kind of hidden away and it made me LOL that the name is so close to that of a medical marijuana dispensary in San Francisco; but it is a total find and will be my go-to place from now on."i>
Elise D." Girlfriend and I came in over the weekend for a focus massage. My masseuse was Elissa. She is the best masseuse I ever had. She spent time on the trouble areas, took out all the knots. Sarah was very friendly and knowledgeable. We are definitely going back to this spa. Great job Sarah."
Arslan S."PHENOMENAL!!! I bought a groupon for my mom and I - when we arrived we were greeted pleasantly, although they were a bit unorganized due to two of their therapists needing to take an emergency day off. We went in for a 90 minutes session, but they felt so bad about not being as organized as usual, they offered us another massage!! ... my mom and I are the kind who LOVE massages, and we sat there and talked as long as they continued to masage. All in all, it was the BEST experience I've ever had - very talented therapists coupled with a great sense of business and customer service - I can't praise this place enough! Planning on monthly visits :)"
Desiree P."EXCELLENT!!! Great hospitality, Sarah is a most gracious and friendly host.. Sports massage got the job done. Will definitely be going here."
Kevin M."I had a lovely and relaxing hour-long massage with Elisa. She was experienced and knowledgable, and attentive to all special requests! Satisfied customer."
Charlotte W."If it were possible for me to give more than 5 stars I 100% would. I recently came to Waterfall Wellness after purchasing a Bloomspot deal for a 90-minute package of 3 30 minute services. I am somewhat of a "spa-person" and I can honestly say that this is the first time in all of my experiences that I paid for 90 minutes of service and I received: 90 minutes of service rather than 20 minutes of the therapist fiddling with oils, lotions, and whatnot and then 70 minutes of massage. I received a dry brush scrub, 30 minute massage, and 30 minute facial scrub all from Thomas and he was wonderful. He checked in a very non-intrusive few times to make sure that everything was to my liking and that the pressure was ok and was quite lovely to deal with. I will definitely be returning and will absolutely be asking for Thomas again."
Linsay S."I promised to write this review ions ago but got busy etc. I have been only once but my experience was overwhelmingly positive. I felt a little protective when reading some of these negative reviews (although I understand everyone has the right to their own opinion). I am quite picky about my massages. I like deep tissue massage, and it's infuriating when I go to a masseuse and their version of a deep tissue is like a petting with a feather! Yuck! But my experience with Jesse worked out all of my back pains - doing way more than necessary to make me feel better. My only other massage this good was in Cambodia! That says a lot for this new business! They made us feel very comfortable, which can be dicey under the circumstances. I would recommend this place to anyone who wants a good massage and needs products! Also, I'd like to say, me and my friend were a little put off by the lay out (small and cramped) but quickly got over it when the services began! Thanks guys! Maia!"
Maia M."If it were possible for me to give more than 5 stars I 100% would. I recently came to Waterfall Wellness after purchasing a Bloomspot deal for a 90-minute package of 3 30 minute services. I am somewhat of a "spa-person" and I can honestly say that this is the first time in all of my experiences that I paid for 90 minutes of service and I received: 90 minutes of service rather than 20 minutes of the therapist fiddling with oils, lotions, and whatnot and then 70 minutes of massage. I received a dry brush scrub, 30 minute massage, and 30 minute facial scrub all from Thomas and he was wonderful. He checked in a very non-intrusive few times to make sure that everything was to my liking and that the pressure was ok and was quite lovely to deal with. I will definitely be returning and will absolutely be asking for Thomas again."
Lindsay S."I love these guys especially Elisa. She knows how to message problem areas. The cream that she recommended for my back pain worked like a charm. Place is cleaned and friendly staff. BEST MESSAGE IN TOWN is all I got to say!!!!"
Emma C."This is my new favorite spa! I love getting massages and with their package deals, I was able to get a great 10 massage special that I'm looking forward to using in the new year! I've been 4 times now and have tried 3 different massage therapists based on his/her specialty and am very pleased with the services. I'd definitely recommend it! Sarah, the owner, is awesome! She has been very accommodating in terms of getting me in for a massage at the last minute on a couple of occasions and explaining in detail all of their new services that I haven't tried yet. I've also been in for a couples massage which was a wonderful experience for my friend and me...Enjoy!"
Charlene C."I highly recommend Elisa for sugaring. It was my first time trying it out but she made me feel very comfortable and at ease. It was quick too! Elisa was friendly and fun. What I really liked about the sugaring was that the results lasted longer than regular waxing. It is something new and different and i would recommend trying it out. I definitely plan to go back again for another sugaring."
Diana C."I was a little hesitant when walking up to this small, sort of out-dated building. I was pleasantly surprised and have to say this is definitely one of the best massages i've ever had. I had a 60 minute massage, and a 30 minute dry scrub. Sarah was amazing! She talked to me about skin care when I expressed concerns about my acne. She gave me a mini-facial which was relaxing and made my skin glow. After following Sarah's simple suggestions about skin care my skin has really cleared up. Sarah did not force any products on me and I really liked that. I definitely will be back!"
Vee D."I love this place! Everyone is knowledgeable and professional.
I've had excessively dry skin due to my diabetes and the meds I take. I have been using Waterfalls line of body butters for the past month and can't say enough wonderful things about this stuff! They use it for their massages and skin conditioning treatments, so make sure you ask for it when you're done. They will even give you a free sample to try if you aren't ready to buy it.
When I booked, I was told by the receptionist to just ask for the "best therapist available for my massage", I'm glad I did. Use that phrase and let who ever you talk to know what sort of massage you want, you'll be glad you did."
Patricia D."Came here for a 60 min massage and 30 min facial and loved it! The masseuse smoothed out some knots in my shoulder (didn't even know about them!) and gave me tips on how to reduce them. She was considerate about the amount of pressure she applied on me. The facial was like a breakfast and fruit immersion on my face - mild coconut oatmeal cleanser; green tea and pomegranate toners; and some fruity mask. While the mask was setting, she gave me a nice foot massage. After everything, I ended up buying the oatmeal cleanser and pomegranate toners (at a buy 1 get one half off offer!). I also really liked how she didn't pressure me to buy any of these products.
Definitely see myself coming back! I generally don't get massages regularly, but they told me that they have regular monthly specials on their website, so why not?!"
Emily P."I had a 60 minute therapeutic massage, and it was a tremendous experience. I arrived 1/2 hour early for my 1 pm appointment, after I was helped to fill out the intake form (due to my disability, I don't write very well), I was ushered right in. Mandy was my therapist, and she is great! Mandy was sweet, conversational, and thorough. I live my life in a wheelchair, so the muscles in my back were tight, and needed attention. Thank you, Mandy! For anyone who has a disability, I'd recommend Waterfalls! They were great to me..."
Don B.
"Sarah or William has greeted me. Everyone is so friendly, making you feel welcomed to be there. Sarah has such a bright, beautiful and sweet smile. Everything is clean and comfortable.
I've had massages by Peter and Jesse(mostly Jesse) and they are both fantastic. They are both kind, friendly and professional.They really know their craft. That's saying alot since my standards are high. Jesse's been spectacular at working my lower back issues. His massages are definitely deep ,sometimes having to breathe through it. Yet when he's done, I feel like a new woman. I am very grateful!
They always seem to run monthly specials, gotta love that, check the website. I snagged a Black Friday special ( Sarah worked me in, thanks!), a couple of December specials,and too many more to count. Remember to tip on full price, they work hard so show your therapist some love.
Highly recommend, can't wait to go back!"
Leslie B.
"I am hooked on this place. I'm surprised by the negative reviews, as I am so very picky when it comes to any type of practitioner. I need to feel safe, mentally comfortable, physically comfortable, appreciated as a customer, valued as a human being, and all the other good stuff that one might expect when going for bodywork.
Sarah is just precious. So caring and professional. She KNOWS what to do. I had a wee bit of work done by Elisa, and while they are different, Elisa was also impressive. I like the reflexology (and for those who don't know - reflexology is NOT a foot massage! So some clients may complain that they didn't enjoy it because they actually didn't realize that! Reflexology can leave you feeling quite yucky, which is normal.) Sarah is very nurturing. I've been in physical pain for almost three years, and she spends time working out the knots and explaining what she's doing. She's a gem. I'm taking advantage of their special and going weekly. It's the first time I've taken this level of care with my body. I feel quite blessed for having found Sarah at Waterfalls Wellness Center. And again, I'm very picky, AND premenopausal. :-)
Thanks, Sarah!"
Katie V.
"I loved it. I went there for a brazilian sugar waxing, which btw is not common around this area (moved from NYC and i have been going insane looking for a good sugar waxing spot). I would have given it 5 stars had it not been for the not so glamorous appearance of the spa and the pricing (im used to nyc prices $30 for a brazilian wax). Its not your common set up, but dont let that phase you because the service they provide supercedes the "aesthetic look" of it. Not to mention they gave me a break on the original price and let me pay the "groupon" price $49. Elisa was the one who did the brazilian wax and I can not say enough great things about her. Very professional, great conversationalist makes you feel comfortable and she is very quick and painless. I honestly have to say this was one of the most painless experiences i have ever had and its due to her skillful ways. I am definetly coming back and am recommending her and Waterfalls Wellness Center to my all my friends. Wish it wasnt so pricey but not much I can do about that, besides that super happy with my experience. :)"
Tanya C."II bought an online deal ($50 for 3 30 minute services) last week. I was very glad I did!
I called to book my session and the receptionist was very helpful. I hadn't had a massage before so she was very helpful in selecting 3 30 minute services that met what I wanted. Based on our discussion and her recommendations, I went with 2 30 minute Swedish massages (so basically a 60 minute massage) and a body scrub. Then, because I had a meeting pop up, I had to call back later in the week and change my appointment date/time. VERY easy to do.
For my actually session I had Mandy, and I would highly recommend her. Since it was my first session she explained to me what she'd be doing and asked if I had any areas she wanted me to focus on or any areas to avoid. She was extremely professional but also had a very friendly personality, so I felt extremely relaxed and at ease with her. The massage was great, and the body scrub/exfoliation was fantastic! I felt totally refreshed, awake, and yet very relaxed at the end of it all.
I will definitely go back, definitely ask for Mandy again, and definitely recommend this place to my friends!"
Mike T."I have know Sarah for years and followed her through several locations. I am very happy that she has opened her own Spa and have referred her to several of my friends and family members that are in the area. Plus she has the sweetest smile I have ever seen. Talk about feeling welcoming.
The business is focused on all natural and organic skin and body care as you can see on the website. The staff is very experienced, but work together to make sure that each client gets specific needs addressed.
Be sure to speak up if you need more pressure, less pressure, if the music is too loud, whatever. I guess I'm a bit picky about things, but they handled everything in stride doing everything possible to accommodate me. It almost made me feel guilty, how nice every one was.
I moved out of the area but visit regularly for family. I will be back! "
John M."I have been here twice and it was absolutely fabulous!! Sarah, Naida and Koko were all exceptional. You do not feel like you are on a 'conveyer' belt being rushed through your services. You feel like you are the only person there! I have add massages, scrubs and a mini facial and i run out of adjectives trying to describe these services. Be sure to read the Spa information before coming; if you are a very modest person and nudity makes you uncomfortable, knowing this in advance will ease your anxiety. I will be back in the next couple weeks!"
David M."I had a wonderful massage by Elisa last week with using Groupon offer. When I walked in, the relaxing aroma(lavender?) was around in the place and I already felt good to just come in. I wanted to relax, so picked Swedish massage, but there were different strength choices I could pick.
I had an air brush body scrub and 30mins. foot and 30 mins. body(originally, 60 mins. foot massage in the Groupon offer, but I could change to this combination).
It was so relaxing and I fell asleep right away. The massage pressure was just right for me and I didn't need to tell Elisa to press harder or lighter.
When the massage was over, I felt very different and refreshing from the time I walked in. My body got lighter and my feeling got more energetic. Even I could see the sun and sky became brighter when I walked out from the spa. I didn't plan to purchase their body care items, but did! I'm enjoying the body butter and the foot cream at home. They are really working well onto my winter dry skin.
It was a fantastic experience, so not only I have the left over Groupon deal, but I will go back there again often."
Akiko O."Please note: the location is at 307 L I got very turned around when I first got there because the map for 307 has them listed as "theraputic massage" only.
I went yesterday and used my groupon for the 60min reflexology & 30min body scrub., it was great. I had Naida, she was very attentive and has amazingly strong hands hands. My back has been very tight for the last week and I worked miracles on it! Everyone I spoke to while there was very helpful. I had originally chosen the salt scrub and a blonde gentleman mentioned that if I was looking for maximum exfoliation I might want to try to dry brush instead. I did and it was great. Afterwards, a different gentleman helped me get signed up for Belly, their rewards program.
The location is laid out differently than most spas, but they make great use of the space and it is very cheerful. All in all, I cant waited to go back for a facial!"
Hassito V."I booked a couples massage for me and my boyfriend and we had a wonderful experience. It was our first time there - and from the outside it does not look fancy, but it was very nice and clean inside. Everyone was extremely nice, offered us tea & water. We were in a private room, and had Peter and Koco for the massages. Peter was fantastic, always asking me if I was comfortable. I have a history of back problems, which I wrote about on their intake form, and I could tell that he actually read it and was very mindful a cautious during the massage. My boyfriend had Koco initially, but he was hoping for more of a deep tissue massage which she felt she could not provide him. Rather than continuing, she was extremely professional and asked one of her colleagues, who was better trained at deep tissue massage, to come in. Everyone was extremely professional and I would gladly go back again. I highly recommend this place for massage therapy-- just make sure you speak up about what you want because they are extremely accommodating and willing to make changes so that you are happy with the experience!"
Asya H."I had a very nice experience at Waterfalls Wellness Center. The spa is new and if it's fancy that you like, then Waterfalls might night be the right choice. However, the location is convenient, clean, and quaint. The staff is friendly and very experienced. I had a mini facial, a body scrub, and massage - and I enjoyed all three treatments."
Lisa B."Had a massage with Alissa yesterday. She was wonderful. I have stenonsis in my neck and lower back pain from a tennis injury, and she helped me tremendously. I will definitely be going back."
Alison W."The best massage I have ever had. Nice people, friendly, and very professional.
Massages here run for 60 minutes, not the typical 50 of so many other places. When I left, I felt incredible. I just can't say enough good things about this place!
I will go there again."
A M."I literally just got home from a 60 minute Swedish massage at Waterfalls Wellness Center. I found this spa through KGB Deals and I'm so glad I did.
My experience was amazing and I recommend this place to everyone! I've had one other massage prior to this at Elizabeth Arden and my experience at Watefalls was 10x's better than the one I had at Elizabeth Arden. I believe my massage was done by Jesse and he was fantastic!
Their prices are awesome and you will definitely get beyond your money's worth out of your visit.
I will definitely be going back in the next couple of weeks to get a facial!"
Ashley F."Staff were friendly and competent, environment was clean and pleasant, and services were excellent. Went in for a 60-minute massage and if you ask, they let you use their sauna and shower afterwards, which was the cherry on top for the whole day!"
Elli S."I LOVE it! The place is very clean, super friendly and polite staff. I had the best massage ever thanks to William. I definitely coming back."
Marcela G."One word: amazing. I found this place via Google Offers, which had a promotional deal for a 1-hr massage, in July. I will definitely return and pay full price. Jesse was my masseuse and he was FABULOUS.
It's hidden in an office complex, and it's not super fancy in appearance, but don't be fooled. Much better massage than I have received at twice the price at salons and spas. Plus, they have a variety of promotions, like the "Belly" app, where you accrue points at each visit and can redeem them for savings, etc. I believe you get a discount if you refer a friend, as well."
Danielle S."I admit I have become a regular customer at Waterfalls Wellness Center. The staff is very friend, Sarah, Elissa, Jesse, William and Peter. I had an hour long massage with Peter, who is Chinese last week. I have circulation issues in my lower legs, and Peter did a great job working both my lower legs and feet as well as my back. After an hour massage, I left floating out of Waterfalls Wellness Center. Not only are the massages fantastic, but the staff is super fantastic!!!! They offer a great deal on a couples massage as well."
Alan S."Bought the Yelp deal for my nephew's girlfriend and myself. Booking was easy and they were very accommodating. Staff was very friendly and all smiles. We had our massages together, she had Alissa and I had Jesse. It was my nephew's girlfriend's first time, and she said she will definitely be coming back! Jesse did wonders for my trouble area (shoulders), applying just the right amount of pressure and the use of the hot towels. We wish we booked a body treatment as well, maybe next time. If only I lived in Vienna, I'd make it a monthly must. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Waterfalls Wellness Center."
M.H.T."I have been here a few times now, and each time I have received the royal treatment. I recommend a therapeutic massage for the problem area(s) of your body (muscles, joints, etc) followed by a relaxing, cleansing, and exfoliating body scrub. Your will feel like a new man (or new woman as the case may be). You will also be treated like more than just a customer, you will be treated like a special person."
Bobby B."Great place to get a massage. i recommend this place..."
Steve J.


text:
Sure, you don't need to cruise the Galápagos from a spiffy boat, but it sure doesn't hurt, does it? Set sail aboard the majestic Evolution for a journey through the archipelago's northern and central islands. Snorkel with playful sea lions at Chinese Hat, discover the sprawling booby and frigatebird colonies of Genovesa Island and pick up some outgoing mail at Post Office Bay. With a pair of Level III naturalist guides ready to lend a hand, you'll return home with a better appreciation for this delicate region than you'd ever thought possible.
What's Included
7 nts in the Galápagos Islands aboard the Evolution. Arrival transfer on Day 1. Flights to and from the Galápagos Islands. All meals aboard the Evolution. 2 Certified Galápagos National Park Service guides and cruise director. All landings, excursions, and transportation. Snorkelling equipment. Sea kayaks. Visit to a wildlife interpretation centre.
Seven nights cruising through the Galápagos National Park aboard the Evolution, snorkel with penguins and playful sea lions in a clam cove at Chinese Hat, explore the impressive booby and frigate bird colonies of Genovesa island, send a postcard from the barrel at Port Office Bay and take home others to return yourself, gain a deeper understanding of the ecology of the Galápagos at the Charles Darwin Foundation
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Important Notes
1. G Adventures requires your passport number, full name and date of birth at the time of booking. Please make sure you give this information to your travel agent.
2. Once you have confirmed your booking please give us your international flight details and advise us if you have any important issues such as allergies, special diets, etc.
3. The Ecuadorian government currently levies a Galapagos Islands Park entry fee of $100 USD per person. This is payable at the airport upon arrival in the park. It is not included in the cost of the tour, and must be paid in CASH. This fee funds Park maintenance and supervision in Galapagos, as well as ecological study, conservation and infrastructure development in Ecuador's other National Parks. Entry fees and the funds they generate for the National Park System are among measures taken by the Ecuadorian government to protect its natural heritage.
4. The Consejo de Gobierno (local government council) have implemented a system of Transit Control Cards at a fee of $20 USD per person. This card is to be purchased in CASH at a counter in the Quito airport before boarding the flight to the Galapagos. Please retain this card along with your passport as you will be required to present this upon arrival to the Galapagos Islands. Please note that this applies to all tourists entering the Galapagos Islands and is a supplement to the existing entry fee to the National Park and is not controlled by tour operators or travel agencies. It is the first of a number of initiatives to track, control and maintain the sustainable tourism targets set out by the Galapagos National Park and the Ecuadorian government in an attempt to preserve the fragile environment of the archipelago.
5. All travellers are required to pay the tax on domestic flights in Ecuador. Foreign travellers are exempt form this, and proving you are indeed a foreign traveller can be done by providing us with your international ticket number (ITN). Travellers who do not submit international ticket numbers at least 30 days prior to Day 1 of their tour will be required to pay the domestic tax on all included flights.
Group Leader Description
Your G Adventures group trip is met in Quito by a G Adventures representative. The aim of the representative is to give you the
required information for the rest of your journey and to assist with changing money, restaurant and excursion suggestions and general information about the city. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. For your shipboard voyage we have a highly experienced shipboard staff and crew, including a Cruise Director and 2 Galapagos CEO's who are local naturalist guide's certified by the Galapagos National Park.
Group Size Notes
Max 32 aboard the Evolution.
Meals Included
9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. On our Galapagos yachts, food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. Dining is casual, tables are unassigned and the dining room is capable of seating the entire passenger compliment at one time. There is always a selection of different meals available, and vegetarians will find plenty of options. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice, please advise us at time of confirmation. Coffee, tea and water are all provided free of charge. All other beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic are not included and can be purchased at the bar.
Local flight, Evolution, van, Zodiac.
Local Flights
All local flights to and from the Galapagos aare included in the cost of your tour. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.
Flights to either of the airports in the Galapagos leave early in the morning on Day 2 and get you into the islands in the early afternoon. Flights back to the mainland depart between 10:00am and 1:30pm arriving in the early evening.
Please note that all flights to and from the Galapagos make a 1 hour refuelling stop in Guayaquil.
Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Deluxe hotel (2nts) in Quito, aboard the Evolution in twin or double staterooms (7nts).
My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops
Joining Hotel
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
Joining Instructions
An arrival transfer is included with all Comfort-level tours when you arrive on Day 1, or when you arrive up to three days prior to the tour, provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through G Adventures in our joining hotel. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous.
Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned other then the welcome meeting which takes place in the late afternoon/early evening. You may arrive at any time. Similarly the last day is a departure day in which no activities are planned.
A representative will be waiting at the airport to meet you holding a G Adventures sign with your name, directly in front of the arrivals section. There are often many people holding signs so we recommend to take some time to locate the rep with a G Adventures logo and sign with your name. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, you can go directly to the H.A.T.S. counter (Hotel and Airline Transportation Services) which is situated directly in front of the international arrival area, next to the taxi stand, and they will be able to assist you. In addition you may call our local support line at 0999 506 000. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi and report the issue to a G Adventures representative at the welcome meeting.
A G Adventures Representative will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. A welcome note will be left for you in the hotel so you have all the necessary information regarding the meeting time and your transfer times back to the airport the next day. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning.
Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:
Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.
G Adventures Office Quito, Ecuador
During office hours (Weekdays 9am-6pm Local Time)
From outside Ecuador: +593 2250 6610
From within Ecuador: 022 506 610
After hours Emergency number
From outside Ecuador: +593 999 506 000
From within Ecuador: 0999 506 000
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- G Adventures vouchers and trip details
- Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
- Cash, credit and debit cards
- Cash in USD
- Camera
- Reading/writing material
- Binoculars
- Small Daypack for landings – for water, camera etc
- Cover for backpacks
- Fleece top
- Windproof/waterproof jacket
- 4 shirts/t-shirts
- Sun hat
- 1 pair of shorts
- 2 pairs of long trousers
- 1 pair hiking pants/track pants
- Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes
- Sport sandals
- Sunblock
- Small towel and swimwear
- Insect Repellent
- Sunglasses
- Watch or alarm clock
- Water bottle
- Flashlight
- First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
Laundry facilities are available at the start and end hotel at a charge. Full laundry facilities are not available onboard our yachts in the Galapagos. If you do want to do your own laundry we we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Visas and Entry Requirements
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Due to the remoteness of the Galapagos islands, onboard our vessels, there is no credit card machines therefore only cash is accepted. It is important that you withdraw enough cash for the duration of your trip, once in the islands, ATM machines are extremely limited and unreliable. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Tipping is an expected – though not compulsory – component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. At the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO or and crew did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline a per traveller lump sum of $200 USD can be used which will be divided between the CEO's and Evolution Crew.
Optional Activities
Quito City Tour:
This tour of Quito is perfect for seeing fascinating panoramas, churches, and historical architecture of Quito. Learn about colonial art, culture, legends, and traditions.
Quito was designated by UNESCO as World Cultural Heritage Site. The trip takes about 3.5 hours including the visit to the lookout point of El Panecillo where you will find one of the best views of Quito.
Trip includes English speaking guide/driver and private transportation)
- Entrance fees for the churches and Panecillo are not included in the price and are approx $ 9 USD p/p.
- Price for 1 person : $ 50 USD – Price for 2+ persons : $40 USD
Quito City Tour + Equator Line:
(Combination of City tour and Middle of the World Tour) After the scenic city tour of Quito (described above) we go to the Equator line museum . Here we visit the Inti Ñan local museum where you can see different experiments to prove that you are at the Centre of the Earth. On the 00°00'00" line at the museum, you will have the opportunity to interact with demonstrations of phenomena that occur in nature, and which can be tested on our magnetic equatorial line. This trip takes about 5 hours in total and includes English speaking guide/driver and private transportation
- Entrances fees for City Tour : $ 6 USD (Churches)
- Equator line fees : $ 6 USD (Museums)
- Price for 1 person : $ 60 USD – Price for 2+ persons : $45 USD
The Middle of the World:
Driving 25 Kms. (16 miles) north of Quito, marks the exact Middle of the World, latitude 0º. Here you can stand with a foot on each hemisphere. We will visit the Inti ñan site museum (pathway of the sun) which show the diversity of Ecuador's native groups. On the 00°00'00" line at the museum, you will have the opportunity to interact with demonstrations of phenomena that occur in nature, and which can be tested on our magnetic equatorial line. Later we head up to Pululahua crater view point , which is one of the two inhabited volcanic caldera in the world. Trip includes English speaking guide/driver and private transportation)
- Entrance fees for the Museums are not included in the price and are approx $9 USD p/p.
- Price for 1 person : $ 50 USD – Price for 2+ persons : $40 USD
Mindo Cloud Forest – Full Day:
Drive northwest for about 2 hours, enjoy the dramatic change of vegetation as we go down the andes to the cloudforest. Mindo is a tiny town set amidst some of the most beautiful and peaceful countryside in the entire country. It is a centre for both nature and adventure activities.
Go walking through the cloud forest and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the different waterfalls, take time to ride up the cable car with amazing views. Time for lunch in a local restaurant (not included) and visit a butterfly farm where you will be able to see an array of colorful humming birds for which Mindo is renowned. In the afternoon there is also the option of an organic chocolate tour which includes a demonstration of the chocolate-making process and of course tasting too! This trip takes about 9 hours and can depart everyday at 07h00 am (trip includes English speaking guide/driver and private transportation )
Allow : $10 USD for lunch and $ 20 USD for entrance fees.
- Price for 1 person : $ 100 USD – Price for 2+ persons : $70 USD
Otavalo Market:
The Otavalo market is considered one the biggest and best native markets in South America. Here you can find an extremely wide variety of handicrafts made in Ecuador. We head north along the Pan-American highway for 2.5 hours. On the way we visit the village of Calderon to see the bread figures and Cayambe to taste the typical 'biscochos' (local biscuits). After you have explored the Otavalo market, we go to the leather market at Cotacachi or Peguche the weaving town . The busiest Market Day is Saturday with the most vendors, but the market is open daily.
This trip takes about 8 hours and can depart everyday at 08h00 am (trip includes English speaking guide/driver and private transportation )
- Price for 1 person : $ 100 USD
- Price for 2+ persons : $70 USD
Cotopaxi Volcano:
A spectacular 2-hour drive in private transport takes us to Cotopaxi Volcano National Park , the highest active volcano in the world (5897 m) . We visit a museum in the park and hike around a lagoon at the bottom of the volcano to learn about the flora and fauna found at this altitude. We then continue by car up the volcano to the parking lot, at over 4500m. Then we walk approximately 1.5hrs to the refuge at 4800m, and after a short break, continue to the glacier (if the weather holds out). We head back to the Pan-American highway to have lunch somewhere near Latacunga, or buy a box lunch on the way to have more time in the park. Return to Quito in the afternoon. This trip takes about 8 hours and can depart everyday at 07h00 am (trip includes guide/driver in English and private transportation )
- Price for 1 person : $ 100 USD
- Price for 2+ persons : $70 USD
- Please note. this does not include Cotopaxi Park Entrance fee $40 USD per group (Park fee cost can be split between travellers)
Papallacta Hot Springs:
Two hours drive to the east are the Termas de Papallacta. They are located on the Cinnamon trail, (65km from Quito) which is the same route that Francisco de Orellana took in 1542 when he crossed the Andean mountain range in search of spices and gold, and discovered the Amazon River.
Things to do:
a)Hot springs pools with different temperatures and sizes with views of the Antisana volcano 5750m.
b) Trekking up the river on marked path
c) Horseback rides – extra cost
d) Relax in the new spa recently inaugurated (spa services not Included in entrance fee cost.)
Important Note:
- Lunch not included however restaurant available onsite offering typical Ecuadorian meals with some international options.
- Return to Quito in the afternoon.
- This tour provides transport service only. Your driver will drop you off at the Hot Springs and wait for you when you are ready to leave.
- Full day tour
Tour Price: $100 USD – 1 Person
$50 USD per person for 2+ travellers
$7 USD Entrance fee per person
Between the home stay and Shangrila lodge there is Rafting
Horseback Riding $5/hour
Rafting $35
Canyoning $35
ATV's $45
Motorcycles $45
Hot Springs visit $2
Zoo visit $2
Water Falls visit $ 20
Bungee Jumping $20
Horseback Riding $25 (3 hours)
City Tour $25
Ingapirca Ruins $30
Gualaceo and Chordeleg tour $30
Cloud Forest tour $40
Horseback riding $7/hour
Cayambe Volcano tour $20 (subject to change according the the # of pax)
Cochasqui Pyramids $20 (subject to change according the # of pax)
Peguche Waterfall $10
Cotacachi $10 (just transportation)
Cuicocha $10 (just transportation)
Bike $8/hour
Indian Community visit $30
You can get from 2.800 m to 4.200 m in 10 minutes and view Quito at your feet.
Take a taxi from the hotel $3 to get there.
Entrance $8 foreigners. Locals $4
Option for a small hike inside the complex.(bring warm clothes)
Shops and restaurants available
Monday to Friday 9:am to 5:pm
Saturday and holidays 10:am to 5:00 pm
NOTE: These prices are based on 2 clients but if you are a single traveler we can accommodate your trips as well. If there are more than 2 clients booking, the prices may be less than those quoted above. Please note that many optional activities will need to be paid in cash.
A Couple of RulesIllegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Planeterra-The G Adventures Foundation
The Planeterra Foundation planeterra.org is a Canadian non-profit organization that helps empower local people to develop their communities, conserve their cultures, and create humane and supportive systems for their endeavours. Planeterra provides capacity building and catalyst grants to get community social enterprises off the ground. These businesses address local challenges by providing benefits for indigenous people, empowering marginalized women, and granting disadvantaged youth access to education, employment, and brighter futures. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating programs into G Adventures' itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.
Dollar-a-Day Program
G Adventures' Dollar-a-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar for every day you are on trip. 100% of these donations go directly to support community development projects worldwide that are implemented by Planeterra.
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Please visit http://www.gadventures.com/evaluations
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/ Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Max Pax
Group Leader
2 Galápagos CEOs (Certified Galápagos Naturalist guides) and cruise director while in the islands. Local G Adventures representative in Quito.
Day 1: Quito
There are no planned activities, so check into the hotel and enjoy the city. A G Adventures representative will greet everyone at the hotel and give a brief on the various aspects of the tour.
Additional Notes:
Not able to attend the welcome meeting? The representative will leave all important information at the hotel's reception indicating what time to be ready on Day 2 of the trip. If there is any confusion on arrival, please do not hesitate to call the contact number listed in this dossier.
Included Activities:
Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting
Included arrival transfer from the airport
Private Vehicle
Day 2: Quito/Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (1B, 1L, 1D)
Fly to San Cristóbal. Meet the CEO and transfer to the boat. Snorkel at the dramatic Kicker Rock to search for marine life and witness its steep vertical stone walls that extend from the ocean. Relax on the beach.
Additional Notes:
The Galápagos National Park authorities have implemented a system of Transit Control Cards at a fee of USD10 per person. This card is to be purchased in CASH at a counter in the Quito airport before boarding the flight to the Galápagos. Please retain this card along with your passport as you will be required to present these upon arrival to the Galápagos Islands. Please note that this applies to all tourists entering the Galápagos Islands and is a supplement to the existing entry fee to the National Park and is not controlled by tour operators or travel agencies. It is the first of a number of initiatives to track, control, and maintain the sustainable tourism targets set out by the Galápagos National Park and the Ecuadorian government in an attempt to preserve the fragile environment of the archipelago.
The Ecuadorian government currently levies a Galápagos Islands Park entry fee of USD100 per person. This is payable at the airport upon arrival in the park. It is not included in the cost of the tour, and must be paid in CASH. This fee funds park maintenance and supervision in Galápagos as well as ecological study, conservation, and infrastructure development in Ecuador's other National Parks. Entry fees and the funds they generate for the National Park System are among measures taken by the Ecuadorian government to protect its natural heritage.
Included Activities:
Snorkelling (Kicker Rock)
Early morning transfer to the airport to catch the flight to the Galápagos.
Private Vehicle (0.50-1.00 hours)
Flights from Quito to San Cristobal depart between 8:10am and 10:10am depending on the day of the week. These will arrive into the Galápagos between 10:40am and 12:40pm with a refuelling stop in Guayaquil (you will not disembark the plane). You will generally arrive onto the boat in time for lunch on Day 2 before the afternoon activity.
Plane (3.00 hour(s))
Day 3: Islas Plaza/Mosquera Island (1B, 1L, 1D)
Set sail and reach South Plaza Island in the morning. Walk along a path through a cactus forest and view a combination of dry and coastal vegetation.
In the afternoon, arrive at Mosquera, which is located between North Seymour and Baltra. Follow this by a panga ride to Daphne Island for some more time to snorkel.
Included Activities:
South Plaza Island Visit
Mosquera Island Excursion
Daphne Island Visit
Travel from South Plaza Island to Mosquera.
Day 4: Chinese Hat/Santiago Island (1B, 1L, 1D)
Visit Chinese Hat. Observe the birds and sea lions and enjoy great snorkelling opportunities. Spend the afternoon on James Bay, home to one of the most outstanding volcanic sites in the Galápagos.
Included Activities:
Chinese Hat Visit
Puerto Egas Visit
Day 5: Genovesa Island (1B, 1L, 1D)
Land at Genovesa Island, an old imploded volcano, to observe the massive colonies of frigatebirds, boobies, and other seabirds as well as striking volcanic cliffs rising from the ocean. Visit the sites of Darwin Bay and Prince Philip's Steps.
Included Activities:
Darwin Bay Visit
El Barranco Visit
Snorkelling (Darwin Bay)
Day 6: North Seymour/Santa Fé Island (1B, 1L, 1D)
Explore the small but wildlife rich islands of North Seymour and Santa Fé. Find nesting frigatebirds, large colonies of sea lions, and marine iguanas on North Seymour and search for land iguanas in the prickly pear forest on Santa Fé.
Included Activities:
North Seymour Island Visit
Santa Fe Island Visit
Day 7: Floreana Island (1B, 1L, 1D)
Land at Post Office Bay on Floreana Island. Guided walks to observe the bird and wildlife and learn about the natural history. Visit Cormorant Point in the afternoon. Snorkelling excursion at the Corona del Diablo.
Additional Notes:
Please be sure you are a comfortable swimmer. The "crown" provides protection from the open sea, but the water here can be rough and the currents are strong.
Included Activities:
Punta Cormorant Visit
Post Office Bay Visit
Snorkelling (Corona del Diablo)
Day 8: Puerto Ayora (1B, 1L, 1D)
Spend the day exploring Santa Cruz Island visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. See giant tortoises in the wild in the highlands and learn about the volcanic creation of the Galápagos.
Included Activities:
Charles Darwin Research Station Visit
Highlands Giant Tortoises Visit
Day 9: Black Turtle Cove/Quito (1B)
Enjoy an early morning panga ride through the mangroves at Black Turtle Cove before disembarking at Baltra and flying back to Quito.
Additional Notes:
Flights from Baltra to Quito depart between 10:00am and 1:00pm depending on the day of the week. These will arrive into Quito between 2:30pm and 5:30pm with a refuelling stop in Guayaquil (you will not disembark the plane). You will arrive back at the hotel in the early evening in time for dinner.
Included Activities:
Black Turtle Cove Excursion
Plane (3.00 hour(s))
Private Vehicle
Day 10: Quito (1B)
Depart at any time.
Included Activities:
Departure Day

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The Real Reason Chappaquiddick Disqualifies Kennedy
The Last Kennedy
Edward Kennedy and the Camelot Legacy
Senator Ted Kennedy: The Career Behind the Image
The ghouls still hover and flap over Dealey Plaza in Dallas, and that is partly the Kennedys' fault. They moved in with their customary efficiency at taking short cuts, getting special treatment. The body was spirited away, the autopsy report and photographs sequestered, the family protected in ways that will forever breed needless doubts. It does not matter that every conspiratorial theory is poorly supported when not openly crazy or dishonest. The doubts live on.
But the Kennedy treatment given the victim in Dallas was nothing to the interference run for the man at fault on Chappaquiddick Island. Favor and influence led to an extraordinary legal paralysis in the service of political exoneration. And here, too, the doubts will never cease. There is a horrible symmetry at work—Mark Lane playing left-ghoul to the right-ghoulism of Zad Rust's Teddy Bare (Western Islands, 1971). There is as dreary a topographical expertise all around Dike Bridge, now, as about "the grassy knoll." Sheriff Look and Esther Newberg will live eternal in polemic, just like Officer Tippet and Marina Oswald. It is depressing to realize that there are thousands of tabloid articles yet to be written on both deaths.
But there seems far less excuse for worrying at petty detail or inconsistency in Edward Kennedy's story than in Lee Harvey Oswald's. Even if there was no conspiracy in Dallas, there was a murder, and murder of a president at that. None but the kooky think Mary Jo Kopechne was murdered. However the accident happened, there is no evidence that it was anything but an accident. There was no conceivable political motive at work in her death. And if Kennedy betrayed a flaw in his character, it has surely been displayed to the nation. He admits he was negligent, left the scene of a death, failed to report it, and slanted his first story. What more do we need to know if we are to make any political judgment on his performance? The rest, it seems, is mere ghoulishness. Why rake up scandal with fake tears of pity for the unrecallable dead woman and her bereft family?
All these considerations are clearly at work on Robert Sherrill. He writes with a biting contempt for his material—almost angry at himself, from the tone of the book, for having to wade through this sensational stuff, the more prurient for its vagueness, feeding the ghouls even as he denounces them. Yet he shuffles transcripts with the best of them. Why? The New York Times Magazine commissioned the article on which this book is based in the summer of 1974, when it seemed likely that Kennedy might run for president in 1976, making a rehash of the Chappaquiddick tale inevitable. The Times story was called a preemptive strike, an airing of the case ahead of time to take the sting from the later treatments; or a trial balloon, to…
This is exclusive content for subscribers only – subscribe at this low introductory rate for immediate access!
Unlock this article, and thousands more from our complete 55+ year archive, by subscribing at the low introductory rate of just $1 an issue — that's 10 digital issues plus six months of full archive access plus the NYR App for just $10.
If you are already a subscriber, please be sure you are logged in to your nybooks.com account.


text:
Top 5 ATV/UTV Accessories
ATV/UTV trail riding is as old as time, but recently this past time has taken on a whole new meaning. Now you have to have your ATV equipped with aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this niche style of off-road riding if you plan on keeping up with the pack. So if you're looking to turn your ATV into an even more capable rig, here is a list of the top 10 accessories you'll need to install!
Click here for a full listing of our UTV & ATV accessories.
1. Extreme Heavy Duty 2500lb Electric Winch: Rugged Ridge Extreme HD 2.5 ATV and UTV Winch 2500lb With FREE Mounting Plate and Roller Fairlead. Heavy-duty pulling capacity in a compact size, the Rugged Ridge Extreme HD ATV / UTV Winch helps you tackle the toughest terrain by providing unsurpassed pulling power for your ATV or Side by side on each and every pull. Beefy cast construction with powder coated finish and stainless hardware eliminates rust.
2. Wheel Spacers (for Yamaha Rhino): These spacers space your wheels out an extra 1.75" to help fit wider tires and give your vehicle a wider track and improve stability. Constructed of double anodized black extra thick 6061T6 Aluminum for long life and extra corrosion resistance. All hardware is grade 8 for extra strength.
3. Roll & Pitch Meter: This Roll & Pitch Meter (Clinometer) features two gauges: left displays side to side angle & right displays front to back angle. Each display has a graphic readout that shows angles in degrees to the dash with automotive grade double sided tape or can be permanently mounted with screws.
4. UTV Grab Handles: Four styles to choose from: Dual, Ultimate, Deluxe and Sport. Dual, Ultimate and Deluxe models include Sure Grip Handles. The Dual UTV Grab Strap gives passengers a place to hold on while on the trail. Constructed of durable nylon webbing with soft molded foam handles for ease of use and comfort. Easily attaches with hook and loop around the center roll bar, no drilling required. Special side "Pockets" create a handy spot for hanging clothes. Special two handle design gives passengers a place to hang on during those offroad adventures. All handles are custom designed to fi t UTV Roll bar widths from 1" to 1½".
5. Fire Extinguisher Holder: Thick nylon web straps are fully adjustable and secure with hook and loop fasteners. Works with both 1" and 1½" roll bars with or without padding. Holds one 3 lb fi re extinguisher (not included).


text:
Post-game breakdown, video: Memphis
Senior Shabazz Napier had this to say about No. 24 UConn's 86-81 overtime win over No. 20 Memphis on Saturday:
"We did what we had to do to win and more," Napier said.
Napier did his part, scoring a career-high 34 points. His backcourt partner, Ryan Boatright, scored a season-high 21 points.
UConn improved to 20-5 overall, 8-4 in the American Athletic Conference. The Huskies are 9-2 in their last 11 games.
Here's a post-game breakdown and video:
-- Check out the attached video to hear coach Kevin Ollie's post-game press conference.
-- Napier continues to make a strong case for AAC player of the year and All-American honors. He took over the game for long stretches of the second half.
"Man, he hit some big shots,"Memphiscoach Josh Pastner said. "Really, really big shots. Tough shots. Tough, contested shots."
Napier also had five rebounds, four assists and four steals.
"I might be biased, but he's the best guard in American, to me, hands down," Ollie said.
-- You had to feel good for Boatright, who's been stuck in a prolonged shooting funk. He came in shooting just 37 percent in the previous 10 games.
He only converted 4 of 12 from the field but made his only two attempts in overtime, scoring eight of the team's 17 points. He finished with a team-best six assists.
"I had a rhythm," Boatright said. "I had some open looks and just knocked them down."
-- UConn's defense was awful at times, but terrific during the game's decisive moments.
The breakdowns started on the perimeter whereMemphisguards used their speed to get into the lane. Don't think the Huskies have given up as many layups in a game this season. The Tigers shot 55 percent overall and scored a whopping 42 points in the paint.
On the positive side, UConn did force 18 turnovers.
-- The Huskies reached the 20th win mark for the fourth straight season.
-- Napier moved into eighth place on UConn's all-time scoring list with 1,688 points. Boatright became the 48th Husky to record his 1,000th career points.
-- UConn improved to 3-2 vs. ranked teams.
-- Senior Tyler Olander returned to the lineup after missing a game with flu-like symptoms. He made a nice contribution, chipping in four points and two rebounds in 11 minutes.
Sophomore Omar Calhoun (concussion) sat out his second straight game.
-- Junior DeAndre Daniels limped off the court near the end of the first half after a hard fall. He appeared to re-injury his right ankle.
But he returned to start the second half and finished with eight points, a team-high six rebounds and two big blocks, including one on Shaq Goodwin on Memphis' last possession in regulation.
-- UConn entered the game as the conference's top free throw shooting team at 76.8 percent. The Huskies made 29 of 36 (80.6 percent) from the line. The Tigers took only nine free throws, sinking six.
Pastner refused to blame the officials for the disparity.
"That's not the reason we lost," he said.
-- It was the first sell-out of the season for the Huskies and first at the XL Center since Feb. 18, 2012 againstMarquette.
-- Up next: UConn visits Temple on Thursday. The Huskies have just six regular season games left – three on the road (Temple, South Florida, Louisville) and three at home (SMU, Cincinnati and Rutgers).
"Every win for now on is important for us," Boatright said. "Every game we're trying to win, no matter if it's at home or on the road. We know we we're going to get everyone's best shot. We just have to step it up, tie our shoes up and take care of business."
-- AAC commissioner Mike Aresco talked to the media before the game. Of course, he's pleased that five teams are ranked in the top 25.
"Obviously having five teams in the top 25 is not something that necessarily surprised us," Aresco said. "We knew we had good teams."
He talked about importance of SMU emerging as a basketball power.
"It's huge," Aresco said. "You can't overstate it. We need that additional team. … There's a special thing going on down there."
Aresco also addressed comments by newly-hiredCincinnatiathletic director Mike Bohn about wanting to bolt the AAC.
"My view was that they were unfortunate," Aresco said of the comments, "but I understood. I talked to both Mike and the president. We had a great discussion. I think they'll be a supportive conference member.
"This realignment business has been hard on everyone, but we're concerned about building our conference."
Reader Comments
UConn students develop device to help keep Navy sailors from getting injured
Waterford boys beat New Britain for second straight state basketball title
Never forgive, never forget: Trump once again bashes John McCain over health-care vote
Is the long tradition of cursive handwriting on the way out?
With cap on H-2B visas for foreign workers, businesses struggle to find summer employees


text:
Whether your ideas are forming or you know exactly what you want, give us a call, use the form to send us a message, or click on the email link to write directly to creative director Chris Faber.
We're friendly and helpful, and we love talking with people about their projects.
532 Glenview Ave
Oakland, CA, 94610
United States
Faber Productions is a San Francisco Bay Area video production company helping businesses and organizations engage audiences and move them to action.


text:
OAKLAND — Two Oakland men were arrested on suspicion of auto theft and resisting arrest after leading police on a car and foot chase Monday afternoon.
Arrested were Donte Neal, 22, and Lewis Lovett, 21, police said.
About 3:20 p.m. Monday, a San Leandro police officer ran the license plate of a vehicle traveling in the 300 block of East 14th Street in San Leandro. The car had been reported stolen and the patrol officer tried to stop it to investigate.
The driver sped north into Oakland, crashing into several parked cars in the 1900 block of 105th Avenue in Oakland. The two suspects then got out of the car and ran in different directions, police said.
Oakland police and the Alameda County Sheriff's Department canine unit responded. Police said the driver was seen running south into the backyard on 105th Avenue and the passenger ran north on Birch Street.
While the search was underway, San Leandro police received an anonymous tip that one man was hiding in a trailer near 104th Avenue and Birch Street. Police found him there and arrested him. The second man was found hiding in a rear yard between 105th and 106th Avenue and was detained with the help of the sheriff's department's dog.
Reach Kristin J. Bender at firstname.lastname@example.com. Follow her at Twitter.com/kjbender.


text:
- Starfire damage has been increased by approximately 23%.
- Wrath damage has been increased by approximately 23%.
- The 4-piece Balance druid tier 11 PvE set bonus, Astral Alignment, now provides a total of 15% critical strike chance with 3 charges, decreasing by 5% per charge, instead of 99% decreasing by 33% per charge. This change was made because the set bonus proved so valuable it was not possible to upgrade out of the set into tier 12. To compensate, changes have been made to Starfire and Wrath (listed at the top of the druid class section). (src)
I've tried to look at this change from a couple of different angles and it looks like the results are favorable. First, I looked at the WoL parses of five different moonkin over a series of fights to see what a 23% damage increase would do to the parse results. When I applied a straight 23% buff to Starfire and Wrath it increased the total damage of the parses between 5.16% and 7.77%. That is a pretty wide margin and a significant portion of the variation seems to be due to the presence of Dark Intent, which fights are included, and player skill. This of course doesn't account for the nerf to 4T11, but I think it's obvious that 23% buff is a significant increase.
I also tried to compare the change using WrathCalcs. Hamlet has created a version that takes these new changes into account and I compared the results I got from the PTR version to the current live version using the same set of gear, glyphs, and rotation. When I compared the two versions of WrathCalcs I saw a 3.01% buff to overall DPS from these changes. EJ poster Berthold also ran the changes through SimulationCraft and had favorable results. Using standard glyphs and rotations, SimulationCraft showed the change to be worth a 2.13% buff. If you changed a few changes he showed a 4.87% buff.
All and all it's clear that this is a positive change from a purely mathematical point of view. However, it's also a great change from a quality of life point of view. This will simplify a few things while we wait to pick up our T12 set pieces. For example, using Starfall around the start of Eclipse will no longer be a DPS loss due to losing Astral Alignment charges to Starfall hits. In short, this change not only buffs the overall damage of a moonkin but it also simplifies the moonkin rotation a little bit which I think is a good thing. However, there are a few ripple effects from this change that we should consider.
The Glyph Impact:
Of the Prime Glyphs, Glyph of Insect Swarm and Glyph of Moonfire will still be the two dominate glyphs, but these buffs will change the debate about the third glyph a little. Glyph of Starsurge will still be the best Glyph when you have multiple targets and can cast Starfall on cooldown. In fact, Glyph of Starsurge is probably buffed a small amount because we no longer have to worry about using it during Astral Alignment, and it can get more of a buff from Lunar Eclipse.
The changes occur in Single target fights and in fights where Starfall is unlikely to be cast on cooldown. In 4.1, many of the top moonkin preferred Glyph of Starfire in these situations because it allowed us to cast Moonfire just once per Eclipse transition and most if not all of our MF/SF dots would be buffed by Eclipse. However, a buff to Wrath is also a buff to the Glyph of Wrath, and according to the calculations I did with WrathCalcs, in T12 level gear the Glyph of Wrath moved ahead of Glyph of Starsurge in these single target situations.
In my opinion this is a happy side effect, because it's another simplification of the Moonkin rotation which I think is a little overly complicated at the moment. Not using Glyph of Starsurge should make it a little easier to track and reapply DoTs, because the dot durations should stay aligned.
Is Starsurge Worth it?
I hadn't considered this possibility when I first read the change, but some observant people wondered how this change would Starsurge and our over all cast priority. In patch 4.1 we saw a significant nerf to Starsurge. In patch, 4.2 it looks like we are going to see a significant buff to our other nukes. On top of that, the 4T12 set bonus, diminishes Starsurge in terms of Damage per Energy. Considering all of this together you have to wonder if Starsurge is worth it in 4.2 raiding.
Hamlet has already made a great post on Elitist Jerks considering this question. What Hamlet says is that from a damage perspective Starsurge is still a strong spell. Starsurge has "the damage of a Starfire in the cast time of a Wrath," Therefore it's still stronger then both of the other spells from a damage perspective. When you consider Energy production and usage Starsurge is still favorable in all situations up until you have the 4T12 set bonus.
Once you get 4T12 the situation gets a little more complicated. With the 4T12 set bonus Starsurge will generate slightly less Energy per Second then Wrath or Starfire outside of Eclipse. As a result there are some situation where casting a Starsurge could extend the down time of Eclipse longer then necessary. However, as Hamlet indicates, this shouldn't be a big concern. The chance that Starsurge will extend your Eclipse down time is fairly small, and the mental math you would have to do to determine when Starsurge isn't advantageous is pretty complicated. Therefore, it's probably best to simplify your rotation and just cast Starsurge on cooldown as we do currently.
Other Concerns: Lunar Shower
The new changes do not impact the debate over skipping Lunar Shower in patch 4.2 at all but I want to take another look at it since we are getting pretty close to the patch being released.
In case you've forgotten when 4.2 is released "while under the effects of Lunar Shower, Moonfire generates 8 Solar Energy, and Sunfire generates 8 Lunar Energy." This change has lead to many people questioning if we should spec into Lunar Shower at all. I honestly thought we would see another change to Lunar Shower before 4.2 is released, because I don't think this is a question Blizzard wants to leave up to the player. However, since we've seen no change in the month since this patch note was announced and all indications are pointing to 4.2 being ready for release, it's a question that we players are going to half to answer.
From my point of view, there aren't a whole lot of positives for specing into Lunar Shower when 4.2 goes live. On a movement heavy fight it can still be a significant source of DPS. Yes, it will cause you to use up your Eclipse power and move out of Eclipse more quickly, but that is somewhat mitigated by the fact that it will also allow you to move into Solar Eclipse. Unfortunately that highlights the problem that Moonfire's energy generation is asymetric. Moonfire will generate Solar energy when your out of Eclipse and moving towards Solar, but generates no energy when out of Eclipse and moving towards Lunar.
However, the problem with skipping Lunar Shower is that there aren't any good alternative talents. Even when we do spec into Lunar Shower we still have 6 points to spend on optional talents that provide minor DPS gains, mana or utility. From my perspective, I don't have a big need for additional talent points to pick up utility.
In the end I think speccing into Lunar Shower is going to depend heavily on what fight is being worked on currently. If there is a fight that encourages a significant amount of multi-dotting with low movement, then you will see a lot of people getting out of Lunar Shower so they don't consume Eclipse with their Moonfire casts. However, outside of a big multi-dot fight, I don't see a reason to spec out of it. On single target fights without much movement Lunar Shower shouldn't have any significant impact, but none of the other available talents would either. On a fight with heavy movement Moonfire spam may be very beneficial.


text:
Photo from Redfin.com
Whether it's investors looking for a bungalow to flip or young couples searching for low-priced alternatives to Echo Park and Silver Lake, buyers know house hunting is tough in Northeast L.A. And it looks like the competition will only get more fierce this year, according to Redfin. The online broker predicts that Eagle Rock, Glassell Park and Highland Park will emerge as among the nation's 10 hottest neighborhoods in 2013 when it comes to real estate activity. In fact, Highland Park topped the list, which includes Logan Square in Chicago, The Mission District in San Francisco and North Maple Leaf in Seattle.
After asking its agents to identify the three hottest neighborhoods in major metropolitan areas, Redfin then analyzed statistics and trends at the end of last year to identify what are expected to be the 10 hottest neighborhood in 2013. Refin CEO Glenn Kelman said that the 10 hottest neighborhoods share some common traits that go beyond real estate sales stats:
"They're once-gritty urban areas and far-flung suburbs with school districts on the rise. This is the surest sign that the recovery is broadening, and that home-buyers are venturing out to once-marginal areas hit hard when the bubble burst."
The chart below includes the neighborhood rankings and their year-over-year performance for number of listings, number of sales and price.


text:
Ryu vs. Guile – Cosplay Clash
It was a very close match, but Zero Suit Samus has managed to defeat Princess Zelda, making it her fourth win in a row and earning a spot in the Arcade Sushi Cosplay Hall of Fame! And now it's the dudes' turn, as Ryu and Guile from Super Street Fighter 4: Arcade Edition step up to face off against each other.
MetalSlimer's Ryu is a formidable opponent and is one of the fighting game genre's most celebrated heroes. Will his hadoukens be able to penetrate through Guile's Sonic Booms?
Joe Zuko's Guile has hair that could be suitable for helicopters to use as a landing pad and big, muscle-bulgy arms that create Sonic Booms. Will this patriotic pugilist be able to withstand the might of Japan's finest?
It's up to you to decide who will win this Cosplay Clash between these two street-fighting titans! Voting closes on Aug. 6 at 10AM PST.
Rules of Cosplay Clash:
Fans can vote once per hour for their favorite cosplayer. If a cosplayer remains the reigning champ for four straight matches, they are retired to the Arcade Sushi Cosplay Hall of Fame. With so many great cosplayers out there, we have to give other cosplayers a chance.


text:
You are here: Home ‹ Board index ‹ General Discussion ‹ Off Topic
Spring is here already!
Here is where you discuss everything under the sun, just keep it clean.
Spring is here already!
It's getting earlier and earlier now but for the past 10 days or so the snowdrops and crocuses have started to poke out of the earth, the days feel a little longer and we're not getting up in total darkness. The wee birds are starting to get ready for Spring and the poor Canadian geese don't know whether to go away, or come back from their Winter holidays. Have you noticed any changes yet?
Re: Spring is here already!
For those who have dogs
Some people up here
Have said their dogs r
Shedding earlier than
Usual getting rid of the old
Thick coat and getting
The new one for spring
I hope its an early spring
We just have to look
At the sgns of nature and
That may tell us something
Re: Spring is here already!
I pay attention to the geese here, they seem to know when the weather and seasons will change
Re: Spring is here already!
I think the groundhog
Predicted 6 more weeks
Of winter in SW Ontario
But I could be wrong
Beautiful sunshine this
Morning but very cold
Now tonight cold warnings
For weekend
Re: Spring is here already!
Groundhogs are really cute.
Re: Spring is here already!
I was reading somewhere
In the news
Someone was bit by a groundhog
Now rhats what i call
"Biting the hand that feeds you"
If u crossed a ground hog and a rabbit you'd have a groundhop;)
Re: Spring is here already!
Lol.....i don't know if it"s happening in Canada but there is a craze for cross breeding pedigree dogs here so we have- labradoodles, cockapoos, doogles,jackapoos,cavapoos, to name but 5........
Re: Spring is here already!
We have some of those
Kinds here too
My daughter was bit by
A dog last year
Oh it was nasty
She was just walking along passed someone who was walking their dog
On a leash
She stepped even to avoid being
In the range of the dog and
And it just up and bit her
Even with being on a leash
Re: Spring is here already!
She didnt provoke it
She was doing her usual walk
The owner didnt stop it
Saw it happen
Didnt even ask if she was ok
So weird
I have a picture and video of the
Teeth bite
Re: Spring is here already!
That's awful.
Re: Spring is here already!
Ya. She moved out of that neighbourhood but
That dog could still hurt someone
Law did nothing
Re: Spring is here already!
Other than checking to see if
It had rabies
Re: Spring is here already!
rabies??? i didn't know you had that in Canada......
Re: Spring is here already!
I think most places in the
World have that somewhere
I understand they drop
Rabies salt licks (something like that) for foxes skunk etc
From the sky to combat it
I just had a funny thought..
Re: Spring is here already!
Imagine a scene from
Dumb and Dumber3 4,5 or 6
Lloyd and Harry r walking
Along the edge of the forest
Somewhere hunting
Theyre wearing really old
Style Canadian hunting gear
Muskets, racoon hats
(they look more likr)
Who is online
Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 5 guests


text:
The Beach Plaza Hotel is a historic, three story boutique art deco property that is located in the heart of South Beach. With just one block from the beach, the hotel offers charm and elegance in service and style. With our newly renovated hallways, our intimate lobby bar and our friendly staff, the hotel maintains its historic heritage while offering a modern environment.
Our guest rooms are furnished in a tropical meets art deco style with a classic, yet inviting atmosphere. The rooms also feature custom lighting, signature furniture, wood floors, CD alarm clock radio, 25-32 inch TV, plush bath towels and bath amenities. We also boast 24-hour valet, daily maid service, continental breakfast, afternoon wine reception, wireless internet in all rooms and common areas, as well as beach towels.**
** CUSTOMER NOTICE: The amenities and / or facilities listed may not necessarily be situated at the hotel but within a reasonable distance and may have additional charges. For specific information, please contact the hotel directly.


text:
A Brief Look at Forced Tattooing
Having just written about Holocaust tattoos, I became curious about forced tattooing beyond Auschwitz. Hitler created nothing. His greatest evil was applying ancient barbaric practices to his time. Mass murder, extermination camps, frenzied national pride and race-baiting are tools of the past. So, too, is forced tattooing.
Scholars argue whether the branding of concentration camp victims was an organizational tool, meant only to expedite his far greater crimes, or if it was part of the victimization. Indeed, the process of tattooing to differentiate, degrade and dehumanize is a practice as ancient as the beginning of religion itself.
Imagine yourself in Rome. Your Emperor is sleeping with his horse, quite literally, and drinking virgin blood out of a golden goblet. You, on the other hand, are living in squalor, burning in the unrelenting sun and suffering the perversions of poverty. So, you steal, and if caught, you are tattooed as punishment, permanently marked as a criminal. As Maarten Hesselt van Dinter writes on Mundurucu.com of forced tattooing:
"Their purpose was control and they were used to identify gladiators, soldiers, prisoners and slaves. Tattooing specific groups with clearly visible signs made monitoring their movements easier. From the fourth century, Roman recruits were tattooed with the emblems of their units. Apart from their administrative use, according to Plato, tattoos were also used as punishment. Another reason was humiliation."
Read more of Maarten's writing on tattoo history worldwide (with images and designs) in his brilliant book The World of Tattoo: An Illustrated History.
The same occurred in the 17h century of Japan, where serious criminals were marked on their arms and foreheads with various symbols representing their crimes and places of origin.
The same has happened forever amongst warring tribes of native peoples about which our own scholarship only prevents us from truly recognizing the power they conveyed through forced corporal manipulation.
Even when the criminal classes began to adopt their markings as signs of status, the punishment of forced tattooing remained. Russian inmates, most notable of all prisoners for their extensive and evolved physical hieroglyphics, would brand informants, snitches and homosexuals with unwanted tattoos. Say what you will about criminals, but many have a rigid moral order and a strong sense of visiting justice upon those who violate it. That they choose to use tattoos to stigmatize is proof of its power.
In the last few years and much closer to home, there has been a very public increase in acknowledging the forced inking against marginalized and under protected minorities. THIS STORY from Singapore, and THIS STORY from China describe tattooing as a form of domestic violence. THIS STORY describes an instance of child abuse that is not rare enough.
And so the practice continues, in our jails and neighbors' homes, taking what we celebrate as art and debasing it as infliction.
This post is not meant as a comprehensive academic overview, but a brief look at tattoo history that is not decorative but punitive. Those with more information on forced tattooing are welcome to share their thoughts in the comments.
5 Comments


text:
I've seen plenty of edumacational games and I'm always delighted to explore how they surreptitiously teach people as they play a game. But this is the first time I've played a edu-pinbal game.
Early on in the touring Grossology exhibit there are two Gas Attack Pinball machines. The game appears to be a standard pinball that's been stripped of decoratives and redesigned to help teach people about how gas is produced in the colon.
The pin balls represent bacteria and the bumpers represent different foods. As you play gas points are wracked up for hitting the different foods. The gassier the food, the higher the point count. If you manage to make it into the beans pockets on the table you're rewarded with a group of children singing a quick rendition of Beans, Beans, The Musical Fruit.
Sure the game isn't really that educational. In fact, all I really leaned is that beans are musical and that pigs can talk, but I love the fact that when someone thought educational game, they thought pinball.