My favorite place in Cuenca was atop a large rock overlooking the banks of the Rio Tomebamba. This small river, one of four rivers that flow through Cuenca, runs along the southern side of the historic city center. It is a gurgling mountain stream that somehow calms the hurried pace of the city around it. My bouldered perch was shaded by trees, while a breeze blew off the river, lulling me into a euphoric sense of well being.