Quito Dos and Don'ts

We stayed at the Auberge, a swiss-run backpackers. The place was beautiful and had a great view from the showers, however in retrospect we would have probably stayed in the old town. (it was in between old and new) Anyways it didn't have too much personality and had a bit of an older crowd. Plus normally I prefer to support a local run place rather than foreign run. There is a Fair Trade shop/Cafe built into the Cathedral at Plaza San Francisco. Also, wander around, if you are lucky you may run into a live music show like we did. Anyways, Quito was definitly a fave. The New Town has a bit of a dodgy reputation, and is touristy in a bad way.

Quito is a must see. The historic downtown is best seen on Sunday when some streets are blocked for pedestrian use. Look into small restaurants off the main squares for local favorites. Stay for dusk to seethe lights of the cathedral in the main square light. Make sure you visit several of the churches during the day an try to go up to the Virgin of Quito (you will know what I mean when you are there) to get great looks of the city. For food, try Locro. It is a potato-based soup and it is excellent. Put the acommpanying side items (ahi, avacados, etc.) on top and enjoy!

Ecuadorians like it when you talk to them so always display good manners, even if you don't speak that much Spanish.  Saying "hola" and "buenos dias", especially to the nativos!!  This will go a long way to bargain prices and to have a connection with the locals.  They are very friendly generally.  You can get some amazing fresh produce at the markets, but might have to go early - they start at 4am on Saturday mornings!!!

Don't try to drive in this country, taxi is only about a buck, don't carry large amounts of cash, and be careful what you eat make sure, stay away from the local water, bring some stomach medicine with you.

cafe/Bar kamasutra. Nice little bar with excellent ambiance. Friendly staff. very expensive compared to local prices, but it's definitely worth to go.