Had a couple of days off this week, and I went up to the Venezuelan Andes (prior to finishing up a consulting thing and returning home).  Today, I was able to take the world's highest altitude cable car up to the top of a 15,600 foot mountain.  Got to hike awhile . . . slowly, due to oxygen debt.  We were above the tree line and even above the plant line . . . nothing but rocks and snow. 

I went down about 700 feet and hiked some more.  There were actually some spots that were 100% silent.  Aside from my breathing, there wasn't any sound whatsoever.  Wonderful.

Interesting also that there was a group of university level electrical engineering students in town for a conference.  Once it became obvious that I was the only foreigner on the tram, several struck up a conversation.  I deliberately wanted to avoid politics so as not to offend (and also because I didn't know where anyone stood).  But five or six of the students brought up the subject on their own, and there was a clear anti-Chavez sentiment to be heard.  Surprised me a bit. 

Most of the students had not been out of the Venezuela/Colombia zone, although a few had visited Miami or Orlando.  They were most interested in hearing about other countries and the relevant comparisons of them.  They liked the idea of being able to speak other languages and get around as a result.  It was really quite encouraging.

Just thought I'd share.