Re: Watermelon time on the narrow gauge - Ecuador 1982

The G&Q afternoon passenger from Duran to Bucay derailed about half way there and we were stuck for several hours. The market ladies in 3rd class (box cars with bench seats) were selling watermelon slices. The only problem was when I had changed money at the bank that morning they only gave me big bills. Nobody could change a 50 Sucre note which as I recall was worth two dollars. I finally wound up buying two whole melons and providing free slices to anyone that wanted one.

I learned a big lesson. In third world countries nobody has any change and when the bank gives you big bills keep shoving them back and asking for smaller bills.

Michael Allen



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 02/10/2023 04:04PM by trainrider47.