After doing extensive research on Panama, Costa Rica, Peru, Chile, Uruguay, and finally southern Ecuador, diligently searching for a place we could retire in peaceful contentment, I was ready to throw in the towel. Nothing came close to the special magic that we have been looking for. Certain places in New Mexico came really close but there was always something that would stand in the way.

Two days ago, however, I came across an article on the Hacienda Primavera in an area north of Ibarra and instinctively knew that here was the magic we were looking for. Looking at the photos of the area took my breath away. The mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and forest were so magnificent that I knew this area was perfect for us. We both love the outdoors, and even being several hours' drive from this kind of beauty would be the greatest advantage I can imagine. Neither of us wants any part of crowds, or shopping meccas, and the arts and the theatre are not the heart of our world. So I then began to look into the little city (100,000 plus population) of Ibarra even closer and found caring and pride even on their government website!

Even the basic necessities of retirement for people like us who are in their late sixties appear to be more than adequate. I have not yet researched hospitals in Ibarra, but I have found numerous public and private hospitals in Quito. Quito would also be where serious shopping would be done, when necessary. However, in a city the size of Ibarra, I am convinced that it would have everything we need, and the wealth of all kinds of artisans alone should keep us quite engaged.

Based on the facts already listed, I emailed the owner of Hacienda Primavera regarding availability for 5 nights next May. He responded within an hour to say they had rooms available, so we will,hopefully, be spending some time in paradise next spring with time also to explore Ibarra, and maybe even Otavalo on the way back if time allows.

So, we will go hiking and horseback riding in the spring in search of magic!