After a very full week of intense research and field work, we were all ready for some downtime to go through the data we'd collected, assess what was still needed and recharge both human and hardware batteries.  We spent the morning at our accommodation doing some initial data analysis, going through photos and generally checking in on all of our projects.  We also took some much needed R&R.  This is such an important part of any fieldwork campaign because it allows your brain to reset and gives you fresh eyes on your research. 

An important part of working in a remote location is to learn about the local culture, heritage and customs.  Cesar Manrique is an artist from the island who was heavily involved in its infrastructure design, architecture and effort to preserve the natural beauty of the island.  We visited his house and workshop in Haria to better understand this local icon.  The island is designed to integrate with the natural landscape, meaning roads use volcanic rock for ash-fault, houses are built low to the ground, and parks are designed to blend in with the surroundings.  Cesar's influence is definitely felt throughout.

We ended the night with hike up to Mirador del Rio, a cliffside hike looking out over the Northernmost tip of Lanzarote with an epic view of La Graciosa - where we'd be heading the next day. We then came back for a family dinner, tapas-style.  Dining together has shown to be one of the best ways to improve group dynamics and ensure a healthy work environment.  It's also just so nice to sit down for a meal with friends.

 This field research was made possible, in part, by MIT Media Lab member company, Castrol.