ECUADOR: From the Andes to the Amazon
The headwaters of the Amazon to the snow-capped volcanoes of the Andes…and everything in between. All of these are contained within the small country of Ecuador. This summer, students will meet the indigenous communities of the high Andes, trek through clouds, celebrate the vibrancy of rural family life, and explore the Amazon, all while investigating current social, political, and economic realities that shape modern Ecuador.
2019 Ecuador Co-leaders, Amanda & Mike
AMANDA RADER
Though born and raised in Pennsylvania, Amanda’s sense of home has extended across the globe. With an academic background in Sociology, Spanish and Peace & Conflict Resolution, Amanda has found great meaning in a career of experiential education. Having served as a trip leader across Central & South America, the South Pacific, Southeast Asia, India, Nepal, and in the US-Mexico borderlands, Amanda finds great hope in the dynamic conversations and commitments that flow out of the process of experience and reflection, particularly within a group of young seekers. Amanda is honored to be a part of a team dedicated to authentic and meaningful interactions and can’t wait to work with her incredible Ecuador crew this summer!
What’s your favorite part about leading these trips? Why do you do it?
I love being part of a traveling family that is presented with many layers of life, both the beautiful and the extremely challenging. Together, we can grapple them.
What makes you believe in the power of immersive international travel experiences?
I believe because of what I have witnessed, time and time again as the light bulbs ignite!
What’s your superpower?
Compassion and resilience
If you could wake up anywhere on earth tomorrow, where would it be?
La Yautia–my Peace Corps community in the Dominican Republic.
What is one unique item you always bring with you on international journeys?
Photos of my family 🙂
What is one piece of advice you have for a Global Routes student?
Open your mind and heart to the journey, and be grateful, always, to those who host and receive you!
Lastly, share one quote that resonates with you and is a guiding beacon in your life.
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.
MIKE SOBEL
Mike grew up in the foothills of Colorado. His curiosity and wanderlust has since carried him to all continents of the world. For the past couple of decades, he has been involved in the field of experiential education, both as a group leader and program director. To date Mike has led programs for Global Routes in Thailand and Ecuador. He enjoys reading, playing music, meditation and motorcycling. He continues to combine travel and education in his personal life as well, visiting old friends and making new ones, in all corners of the world.
Most epic place you’ve ever had breakfast?
Hmm…maybe Mt. Newall, Antarctica. That’s a tough one; I’ve had some epic breakfasts.
What’s your favorite part about leading these trips? Why do you do it?
The human interactions and friendships.
What makes you believe in the power of immersive international travel experiences?
My own experiences, and the experiences I’ve witnessed others have while immersed in travel. The proof is in the pudding, so to speak.
What is one piece of advice you have for a Global Routes student?
Practice patience, and keep a sense of humor.
Lastly, share one quote that resonates with you and is a guiding beacon in your life.
Be kind whenever possible. And it’s always possible.
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Read more about our phenomenal trip leaders on our Staff Page.
Interested in becoming a trip leader for Global Routes? Start Your Application for Summer 2020.
