I went for a long walk in the jungle today exploring a forgotten factory and a grave yard near the Catholic Mission, which has taken over an old, crumbling Colonial home, church, stables and school.

The sweat-inducing, horribly humid jungle was filled with thousands of bamboo trees, palms, dangling vines, ferns, lizards, colorful butterflies and enormous ants, which produce a sting reminiscent of alcohol on an open wound. The luscious green landscape offered few colorful flowers – I saw only yellow trumpet blossoms dangling from trees and purple simple sprays covering a small ground area.

I felt quite small, yet absurdly fortunate traveling down the deserted dirt path with thick jungle enveloping me on either side, the sound of lizards rustling in the bush, and bees, butterflies and horseflies buzzing a magical music.