yesterday i went on a mine tour in cerro rico in potosi, an excursion where you go inside a working bolivian mine with truly archaic working practices. afterwards when i was back in the town centre another company tried to sell me their tour. i explained that i had just returned from one, which they countered by offering me their version for free. so i've now come back from a second day in the mines - and as fascinating as it was i can honestly say if i meet another guide who offers to pay me to go on a third tour, i'd turn it down. i feel dirty, tired, sore and full of toxic chemicals. and also full of respect, admiration and wonder at the bolivians who work there every day.

here's the original

yesterday i went on a mine tour in cerro rico in potosi, an excursion where you go inside a working bolivian mine with truly archaic working practices. afterwards when i was back in the town centre another company tried to sell me their tour. i explained that i had just returned from one, which they countered by offering me their version for free. so i've now come back from a second day in the mines - and as fascinating as it was i can honestly say if i meet another guide who offers to pay me to go on a third tour, i'd turn it down. i feel dirty, tired, sore and full of toxic chemicals. and also full of respect, admiration and wonder at the bolivians who work there every day.

here's the original