May 2007 Archives

My brothers-in-law, some of Alcides' relatives, and me before setting off on our fishing adventure.

I meant to write about this topic during our stay in Bolivia, but I forgot until recently.

This time around, we took an umbrella stroller with us for toting Jadzia. We took it everywhere, but found it didn't do well in every circumstance. Dirt roads were very tricky, especially the one from our country cabin in Samaipata to the town. And in cities, you have to be cognizant of sidewalks.

Sidewalks in Bolivia are unlike those in the U.S. They are the responsibility of the home or business owner, not the city. So, as you walk on the sidewalk along a street or avenue, you will find yourself stepping up, then down, then up again, as the level of the sidewalk changes from building to building (or house to house). You will also notice the sidewalk materials change from one building to the next.. concrete here, nice ceramic tiles there, dirt and weeds there, etc. Quality varies widely, obviously. And in the heart of Santa Cruz, most street corners have even higher curbs with no curb cuts at intersections.

This poses a problem for those who would push strollers, but it's not an insurmountable problem. It didn't cause us any huge issues.

But imagine you are someone who is confined to a wheelchair. That's a whole different ball of wax.