The Valley Of Longevity, Vilcabamba, Ecuador II Panorama

by Al Bourassa

Title

The Valley Of Longevity, Vilcabamba, Ecuador II Panorama

Artist

Al Bourassa

Medium

Photograph - Photographic Artworks

Description

Hidden in the Andean slopes of Ecuador lies the small village of Vilcabamba, in a place nicknamed the “Valley of Longevity.” Originally a haven where Incan rulers retreated for rest and rejuvenation, it’s also been called the “Playground of the Incas.”
Some people, bewildered by the mystery behind the long lives of its residents, have even called it “Shangri La.” Scientists from all over the world have studied the people of Vilcabamba Ecuador for decades, since their longevity first gained international attention in the 1970’s. Many of “The Old Ones,” as the town’s elders are called, declared themselves to be over 100 years old, with some even claiming to have reached the age of 135. Years of research indicate that the people are nowhere near as old as they claim to be, and with no birth certificates or other written records, the truth is impossible to ascertain.
However, one fact is most certainly true. While the people of Vilcabamba may not live LONGER than others around the world, they are most certainly living BETTER. Instances of diabetes, heart disease, and other serious illnesses are drastically lower, if not non-existent. While there’s much speculation about the reasons for the health of the residents of Vilcabamba, these are the most commonly cited. 1. They enjoy a pleasantly mild climate year-round. 2. The water is clean and packed with minerals. 3. They eat fresh, organic fruits and vegetables and not much else. 4. They lead active, hard-working lifestyles. These are the things that have drawn decades of expats to Vilcabamba. But unfortunately many have brought their old habits with them. Draft dodgers from the USA began to flock here in the 70's and many remain. Expats now outnumber the locals in this area and that has created some violent backlashes.
This digitally altered artwork is derived from my photograph taken March 31/10 in Vilcabamba, Ecuador, South America nestled in the Andes Mountains.
Final processing done with Smart Photo Editor.
This digitally altered artwork is derived from a photograph taken in during our exploratory tour of South and Central America.
Final processing done with Smart Photo Editor.
NOTE that the Fine Art America watermark will NOT appear on any purchased product.
© All work is copyright protected and may not be used in any way without purchase.
I do hope you enjoy my work.
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You may see more artwork for sale at http://souvenirphotostudio.neocities.org/ or saccc05.tripod.com

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May 21st, 2018

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