Before I talk about Quito, I want to put in a good word for Guayaquil – the starting point for Galapagos cruises, in the south of the country. Guayaquil gets a bad rap – locals lovingly call it “Guayami”, simply because it’s tropical, urban and everything is relatively new. Ecuador is quite diverse in culture, climate, and interests. I really liked Guayaquil - to me it seems very Latin and vibrant. The population is young, and that gives it energy. I was just there for one overnight before the cruise – but it’s one of the places I would like to see more of.
Why everyone loves Quito...
The cathedral is in the middle of the city, and from the top, you have spectacular views. You can see the mists of the Andes. I’ve never been eye-level with stained glass like that before and I recommend anyone visiting Quito include this on their must-do list! The cathedral construction is not completely done – local legend has it that when it’s finished, the end of the world will come.
While Guayasim’s house, which is now the museum, is a combination of daring modern architecture and a colonial hacienda overlooking Quito, the chapel is stark and somber. The art and the architecture work hand-in-hand to convey his message, which is both tragic and hopeful.
Getting around the city is so easy. Taxis are really inexpensive - I took them everywhere. My Quito hotel was the Casona de la Ronda, which is a renovated historic mansion in the center of the colonial old town, a perfect location. There are shops, bars, food vendors all within walking distance. The hotel has wooden floors, traditional tile floors, very high ceilings, and a courtyard which some of the rooms face. You can have any food you want in the breakfast room, plus that wonderful Ecuadorian coffee!
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