2018 Farm to Fork Trip

2018 Farm to Fork Trip

Farm to Fork trip 2018

A one-of-a-kind culinary experience in the Amazon rainforest

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Table of contents

A note f rom Roxanne .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Ecuador i t i nerar y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Tr i p costs .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Mi nga Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Customi ze your t r i p : Ecuador extens i ons .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

S i gnature ser v i ce .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Hea l th & safet y .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

FAQ.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

ME to WE Choco l ate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

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Hola!

Dear friends,

I am honoured that you’re considering joining us on our inaugural Farm to Fork trip to Ecuador—an unforgettably sweet Amazon experience, taking place from August 18 to August 26, 2018. This is truly a unique way to discover Ecuadorian culture, through the eyes of local chefs and farmers, and through the meals (and chocolate!) you’ll prepare and enjoy together. Throughout this experience you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside community members on sustainable development projects that, as part of our WE Villages program and in partnership with local communities, empower farmers in the region to earn a living—building a legacy that will last for generations to come. In the following pages, read more about this adventure to Ecuador and all the experience has to offer for yourself and your family.

This is your time to change the world,

Roxanne Joyal CEO, ME to WE

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E c u a d o r : F a r m t o F o r k t r i p

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I t i n e r a r y August 18 | Quito Evening arrival in Quito to your hotel

August 19 | Quito – Minga Lodge Journey by road and river, descending into the Amazon basin | Welcome dinner

August 20 | Minga Lodge Morning rainforest hike | Tour a nearby farm with a local family

August 21 | Minga Lodge Cacao farm visit | Chocolate-making | Chocolate & coffee tasting | Amazonian night hike

▲ Meet a cacao farmer who supplies beans to a French chocolatier

August 22 | Minga Lodge Volunteer on a WE Villages project | WE Farm visit

August 23 | Minga Lodge Cooking class with an Ecuadorian top chef | Meet local artisans’ group

August 24 | Minga Lodge Volunteering & community farewell | Shaman ceremony & weapons training | Farewell dinner

August 25 | Minga Lodge – Quito Travel by boat & plane back to Quito | Explore historic Quito | Dinner & overnight at Swissôtel

August 26 | Quito Depart Quito on your flight home or extend your stay in South America with one of our exciting extension options

Please note that this itinerary is subject to change. Details of specific trip inclusions/exclusions are listed after the itinerary with costing. Accommodation in Quito may change subject to availability.

▲ Experience a day-in-the-life of a local farmer and his family

▲ Enjoy a traditional cooking class using fresh local ingredients, led

Dining at Minga Lodge Start your day with fresh Ecuadorian coffee served alongside an array of tropical fruits, and look forward to each delicious, savory meal, prepared by our chefs using fresh local ingredients. Enjoy Ecuadorian favorites like fresh papaya, yucca, rice and beans. Western-style dishes are also always available, as well as options to suit any dietary needs.

▲ Explore Old Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

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Trip costs

$4,295 USD PP Shared accommodation

$1,000 USD PP Single supplement

$200 USD PP Reduction for youth 16 & under

I n c l u s i o n s ►► Two-night hotel accommodation in Quito ►► Accommodation at Minga Lodge (six nights) ►► All meals and drinks while at Minga Lodge (beer and wine included) ►► All activities as outlined in the itinerary ►► Entrance fees to sights in Quito ►► Meals as indicated in Quito ►► Airfare from Coca to Quito ►► Ground transportation throughout the duration of the trip ►► ME to WE professional facilitators ►► 24/7 emergency assistance during travel and in country E x c l u s i o n s ►► International airfare to and from Quito ►► Alcoholic beverages in Quito ►► Travel insurance: out-of-country medical, trip cancellation and interruption insurance ►► Gratuities are not expected but appreciated, and are shared among all staff. We humbly suggest $5-10 USD per adult per day. *Please note that arrival and departure transfers are included in your trip cost. Pick-up time at the airport begins at 2:30 p.m. on your arrival day, to accommodate check-in at the hotel, which begins at 3 p.m. Should you decide to extend your stay by arriving earlier or departing later than the scheduled times of your trip, airport pick-up and drop-offs can be arranged at an additional cost.

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Minga Lodge

A tropical hideaway designed with its environment in mind, the picturesque Minga Lodge is located on the edge of the Rio Napo. After a day of volunteering in indigenous Kichwa communities, Minga Lodge offers serene and comfortable spaces to refresh and recharge.

►► Two tiers (luxury and deluxe) of cabin-style accommodations available, furnished with local décor and modern amenities. ►► Inspired common spaces that include an al fresco dining platform overlooking the Rio Napo, offering spectacular sunset views.

►► Eco-friendly conveniences including hot water, electricity and en suite washrooms. ►► Enjoy family-style meals prepared fresh daily by expert chefs, including Western favourites and Ecuadorian specialties.

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C u s t o m i z e y o u r t r i p : E c u a d o r e x t e n s i o n

C u s t o m i z e y o u r t r i p : E c u a d o r e x t e n s i o n

O t o v a l o a n d C o t o p a x i From Quito, drive overland to the regions of Otovalo and Cotopaxi. Both offer a unique glimpse into Ecuadorian life—from vast, open-air markets to snow-capped mountains in the highlands. Recharge and refresh at traditional and welcoming haciendas, set high in the Andean mountain range. Embark on optional daily hikes and excursions, provided by our partner haciendas, leading you to breathtaking vistas, trickling waterfalls and tranquil villages.

FROM $795 USD PP

3 days, 2 nights Based on double occupancy

Includes two nights full board accommodation and all land transfers. Optional activities extra.

G a l a p a g o s I s l a n d s : b y l a n d Embark on a breathtaking adventure, bringing you face-to-face with the vast biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. Be expertly guided through the flora and fauna of this famous archipelago on an unforgettable journey. Located 1,000 km from the Ecuadorian mainland, enjoy a remote paradise made famous by Charles Darwin and mingle with the vast array of natural wonders—on land or by sea! No matter which option you choose, we are happy to create the perfect adventure for you and your family. Book early to secure your spot—Galapagos trips sell out very quickly.

FROM $3,395 USD PP 4 days, 3 nights Based on double occupancy

Price subject to availability and occupancy. Land and sea-based options available. Includes three nights full board accommodation, domestic flights and all land transfers. Optional activities extra.

M a c h u P i c c h u a n d b e y o n d Start your journey in Peru’s bustling coastal capital of Lima, then travel to the ancient city of Cusco. Spend a day wandering the cobblestone streets, exploring Inca ruins and admiring beautiful Spanish architecture, all with the backdrop of the cloud-topped Andes mountains. Then begin your journey to Machu Picchu itself, traveling through the Sacred Valley aboard a glass-topped Vistadome train. Along the way, take in stunning views of Peruvian villages nestled beside lush forests and rushing rivers. Your final ascent to Machu Picchu begins the next day!

FROM $3,295 USD PP 5 days, 4 nights Based on double occupancy

Price subject to availability and occupancy. Includes international flight from Quito to Lima, domestic return flight from Cusco to Lima, all land transfers and four nights full board accommodation.

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Don ’ t wo r r y abou t t he de t a i l s , ou r t eam i s on ca l l t o p r ov i de :

International and domestic flights on world-class airlines

Immunization information At ME to WE, our participants’ health is our top priority. We always recommend visiting a travel doctor a minimum of six weeks before your departure date. If you live in the Greater Toronto Area, we are happy to recommend a travel doctor who is familiar with ME to WE Trips. On-ground transportation and local guide Once you arrive in Ecuador, we take care of all your transportation, so you can sit back and enjoy the spectacular wildlife and landscapes of the Amazon unfolding in front of you. Your experienced local guide will welcome you into the communities and be an invaluable resource for in-depth information about the places and people you visit. Travel recommendations From Quito, you are at the perfect gateway to explore either the Galapagos, inland Ecuador or even Peru. Whatever you choose, we are more than happy to arrange the next leg of your journey!

Our ME to WE Travel Team members are experts at buying the best flights and finding you the top sales on international airfare. Whether you want to fly first class or snag the most cost-effective deal, our team can book your travel from door-to-door. Travel insurance Whether it is medical, cancellation or lost baggage (or any combination of the above), we are able to create and purchase the plan that will give you and your family peace of mind. Passport and visa information If you are unsure about what is needed to enter Ecuador, we will walk you through any and all requirements and make sure you have everything you need to begin your journey worry-free!

Our signature service

Whether you’re preparing for your trip or experiencing the real deal on the ground, we take care of all the details! Leave the planning to us—including flight arrangements, packing lists and information about vaccines and visas. While in country, we encourage you to focus on what’s really important: being in the moment. That’s why we ensure every detail is accounted for—from world-class accommodations and meals to in- country transportation and excursions with your local guide.

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Health & safety Your safety is our top priority! We take care of all the details to ensure you stay safe and healthy throughout your trip, including: ►► Flight, luggage and medical insurance ►► Airport arrival assistance ►► 24-hour security staff ►► Filtered water available at all times “ ► ► The water we will drink is f iltered. The food is prepared by their own kitchen, their own chef. We have these wonderful facilitators around us that are fountains of knowledge, but they also make sure that everything is seamless.

Donna MacFarlane Trip participant, 2013

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F r e q u e n t l y a s k e d q u e s t i o n s

Q: What is the weather like in Ecuador at this time of year? A: Because Ecuador is so geographically diverse, different regions experience different climates. Minga Lodge, however, is located in the Amazon rainforest, and therefore weather is generally hot and humid. The average temperate hovers around 26 degrees Celsius. The best times to visit Ecuador, especially in the Amazon, are June, July and August, when wildlife thrives in the jungle! Q: What time zone is Ecuador in? A: Quito is on ECT (Ecuador Time), which is the same as Toronto (Eastern Standard Time). However, they do not have Daylight Saving Time, so the region is an hour behind during DST periods. Q: Can I bring a laptop, iPod, expensive camera, etc.? A: We suggest traveling as lightly as possible to minimize the risk of damage to or loss of your possessions. The rooms and cabins at Minga Lodge are able to be locked. We ask that you leave your key with reception if you choose to lock your room during the day. Q: Is there filtered water? A: The water at our lodge comes from natural springs, is purified before being used to prepare food and is chlorinated in all other areas of the lodge. Our lodge provides filtered-water stations so you can refill your water bottle throughout the day.

Q: What is the electrical voltage in Ecuador? A: Plugs in Ecuador take 240v. Moreover, Ecuador’s outlets are the same as those in North America—two flat, parallel prongs. Q: What will my meals be like while I’m in Ecuador? A: Participants can expect to eat meals consisting of traditional cuisine, which includes beans, rice, meat, salads, soups and potatoes, as well as Western favourites. This food is prepared with great care by our local lodge staff. Minga Lodge is also able to accommodate any dietary needs—just let us know before you leave for your trip. Q: Is there a minimum age for the trip participants going to Ecuador? A: We welcome participants of all ages to our trips—there is something fun and different for everyone! Q: Can I bring gifts for the kids? A: We ask that you do not. ME to WE and WE Charity work in solidarity with the communities we are partnered with. Put simply, your gift is your presence. We ask that our trip participants do not bring candy, toys or presents for community members, as we would like to promote fairness for all children. A portion of your trip cost goes to in-country communities to support their basic needs.

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From bean to bar & beyond: Introducing ME to WE Chocolate We are so proud to welcome you to Ecuador to join us in the first stages of the journey of ME to WE Chocolate—top quality, single origin chocolate that truly has an impact on local communities, farmers and their families. Each bar ensures farmers a fair wage, supports sustainable cacao farms and gives back to communities in Ecuador, with each bar connected to an impact made in a WE Villages community. We’re also proud to share that ME to WE Chocolate is already being recognized as a top Ecuadorian chocolate, with our dark chocolate winning first place in the Ecuador Chocolate Awards, the country’s most prestigious chocolate competition. We are so excited to share the unique story of ME to WE Chocolate with you on the Farm to Fork trip!

Meet the farmers behind ME to WE Chocolate

Renata’s farm is in Chone, a cacao-growing community located in the coastal province of Esmeraldas in Ecuador, where family farms crowded with cacao trees shape the landscape. Growing cacao is a way of life for farmers here, but access to a market and a fair price is not. Now, ME to WE Chocolate is helping providing farmers—like Renata and her husband Jorge—with the opportunity to rejuvenate and celebrate Ecuador’s best-kept secret, Fino de Aroma cacao, earning a sustainable income to support themselves and their toddler son.

Take a look into Renata and Jorge’s journey—read their story here.

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Join us!

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r e s e r v a t i o n s @W E . o r g

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TICO # 50017614

Photographs courtesy of Scott Ramsay and V. Tony Hauser