This email is coming to you from Southern Colombia, where we’re wrapping up our seventh straight day of mountain biking (in Ecuador and Colombia)! It’s been an incredible week on the trails.
Here’s what I found fun, interesting, or noteworthy this week…
Bar We’re Testing –
San’s Meal Bar (Amazon)
These bars are packed with super clean ingredients and most are just under 400 calories each. They’re a great option for a quick, satisfying meal on the go.
The only downside? They’re not organic. However, after reaching out to the company, they replied promptly and mentioned they’re working toward being organic next year. It’s great to see companies heading in the right direction!
MTB Ride of the Week –
This trail offers an incredible mix of technical, narrow singletrack through jungle gullies and steep, loose descents through banana plantations. The variety and challenge make it one of the coolest trails I’ve ever ridden.
What’s also fascinating about Mama Rumi is its deep cultural and historical significance. “Mama Rumi” translates to “Mother Rock” in Quechua, the language of the Indigenous Andean people. The trail weaves through landscapes that were historically used for trade routes and agriculture by local communities. As you ride, you’re surrounded by history, from ancient farming terraces to the lush ecosystems those communities have nurtured for generations. It’s not just a ride—it’s an experience that connects you to the land’s past and present.
Thought I’ve Been Pondering –
Why don’t food companies have to list toxins on their labels?
It’s frustrating that we have to seek out organic and non-GMO foods to get as close to “natural” as possible, and even then, we’re left hoping the labels are accurate. Meanwhile, companies aren’t required to disclose the presence of harmful chemicals like Roundup (linked to cancer and other health issues).
Why isn’t this information mandatory? We deserve to know what’s in our food so we can make informed choices for our health.
That’s it for this week! I hope you’ll consider planning a trip to Ecuador someday. It’s a truly amazing place. Even if mountain biking isn’t your thing, ActivExpedition offers a range of adventures and handles everything to ensure you have a memorable experience.
Cheers,
Joe
