A few days ago

3.29.2011

So I have entered a new phase in my trip.  As the end approaches, I have decided that I cannot wallow in indecision until it arrives.  Thus I will start a project.  The objective is to learn as much as I can about fair trade in Bolivia.  Although this is obviously my interest, I have been enabled by Dave Holman, a Carleton alumnus from 2006 who runs a chain of bookstores here.  He also sources a good deal of apparel and some coffee and chocolate exclusively from Fair Trade suppliers.  The first step then is to visit some of the co-ops he works with and take pictures, make profiles and talk to people.  Obviously this is to Dave's benefit (for marketing), but it has also given structure to my otherwise empty time ahead of me.  So far in the service of my new project I have sat next to a retired Bolivian general on a plane, and visited one chocolate factory (who doesn't love large vats of chocolate!) 

On another front, the comfort and contacts I have made in this country are starting me thinking about ridiculous prospects for the coming years.  One friend who I first met in the south of Chile is considering starting a hostel here in Sucre.  What if I invested in his project?  What if I came back to Sucre every year or so for a few months and worked/helped set up the place and laid down roots of sorts?