Our Bus is on a Boat

After a full day of travel, Beverly and I arrived in the South American country of Bolivia.  It was not surprising that the customs official did not ask for our visa application, yellow fever vaccination, photo, or hotel reservation.  He wanted cash.  He was particular about it too.  I handed over a wad of wrinkled bills with miniscule rips.  This was unacceptable.  He wanted crisp, new bills, still warm from printing.

We hopped on a bus bound for Copacabana, a four hour drive from La Paz.  The drive took us down a winding road through rugged mountains surrounding Lake Titicaca.  Small fields built on meandering terraces dotted the steep hills.  Here, farmers grow potatoes, quinoa, and corn.   

We stopped in a small town near the lake for a bathroom break.  When Bev and I returned, we saw our bus floating across the lake on a large pontoon boat.  We were only a little concerned because this is, after all, Bolivia.  When travelling in other countries, there are going to be times when things are confusing.  We decided to ask someone about this.
"Our bus is on a boat.  What should we do?" asked Bev.
I stood beside her, laughing at the absurdity of the question.  The lady sold us boat tickets which take people across to meet the bus on the other side. 
Of course.

Copacabana is a quiet, peaceful town where tradition rules.  The women wear bowler hats, layers of sweaters, a shawl, long pleated skirts with multiple petticoats, and tiny black slippers.  Slung over their backs, is a large colorful blanket with which they carry heavy items or children.  Their long, black hair is parted down the middle with two braids, tied together in the back with a piece of dark, fluffy string. 

The town caters to the tourists which flock there, and they sell everything one needs, particularly warm clothes.  The elevation is 3,800 meters, and while the winter days are warm, the nights are chilly. 

Dogs are everywhere in Bolivia.  They hang out on door steps, roam around in packs, and are truly loved by the people.  Although they are considered outdoor pets, they often wear sweaters and have beds made of cardboard or blankets. 

In the center of town, the white cathedral shines brilliantly against the blue sky.  On Sunday, we witnessed the Benedicion de Movilidades (vehicle blessings).  People lined their cars and trucks in front the church, adorned them with garland and flowers, and awaited the ritual blessing.  For a donation, the priest will bless the vehicle for its upcoming journey.