Lynn’s Helpful Hints

OK, first things first.

BEFORE YOU GET HERE, this is what you need to know:

1. Airlines—Be advised of a couple of things about your flight. First of all, just KNOW that EVERY airline here tends to lose luggage during August, and sometimes at other times as well. And, here, the airlines do NOT deliver and it’s a bit of a hassle to "retrieve" the luggage. That said, take what you need immediately on the plane, and just be warned that you might have a few day delay on the other.
2. Bringing an Animal? Well, if it’s a small dog or cat, you are in LUCK!! Continental will let you carry your critter and store him/her in the seat in front of you. (Kitty drugs saved me on this trip!) Therefore, if you have one of the above mentioned SMALL creatures you plan to bring, request Continental as your carrier. For those of you with larger animals, just know there is usally am embargo on pets (via cargo) in the summer.( Leaving with an animal? You will need a health certificate, which you can get prior to leaving. You can get it as far as 10 days in advance but no more. Also, you will need a special permit from the Minister of something or other…the vet’s office can do this for you when you leave as well, for a fee of course!)
3. What to ship--Well, first of all, Ship your ELECTRONICS. They tend to be very EXPENSIVE here. Small stuff, like blender, food processor, coffee maker, iron, etc. very good to have here as pricey.

2. The weather--During the rainy season it can be really COLD in Quito. And, none of the buildings have heat. I use a down comforter year round here. My first year, when it rained all the time, I also used a space heater. Think that Quito is like Seattle weather, except the buildings do not have heat. Plan accordingly.
3. Bring some of that instant hand sanitizer with you. It comes is really handy on road trips, and ESPECIALLY handy when you go on field trips. I usually get a package of those miniature bottles available at Costco, Target, or Walmart. (Believe me, that stuff comes in HANDY..especially on hikes or in the jungle!)
4. Chocolate--While Corfu has some great chocolate (and Yachana Lodge has jungle chocolate), I have yet to find chocolate chips here. You may want to stock up if you bake (or if you are a chocoholic like myself!!J
5. Coffee—-While we are close to Colombia, the coffee here is….well…mediocre at best (that’s being kind). You may want to bring your own stash.
6. Brown Sugar—-here it’s different. If you really are into baking, you may want to consider that. (I’m not a baker but this is what I’ve heard!!)
7. Clothing—-I wouldn’t count on shopping for clothes much here at all. (I do all my shopping in the summers when I go home) Sizes are a bit different.
8. Sporting goods—-Available but typically pricey. You may want to bring along stuff if you have it. Granted, you can rent items for camping trips—sleeping bags, stoves, tents, crampons, etc. so if you aren’t an avid outdoor person, keep that in mind. This is a great outdoor place!!
9. Outdoor People—-If you like getting out of the city, you may want to consider living close to Parque Metropolitano (which is convenient to school as well) Then, you can have easy access to this park. For example, 5 minutes from my apartment, I’m in the park, surrounded by the smell of the eucalyptus forest, I hear the birds chirping, and for the time I’m in the park, it seems like I’ve left the city. Up at the top, on a clear day, you can have great views of Cotopaxi and Cayambe (#2 & #3 highest volcanoes in Ecuador.) If you are an outdoor person, you should also check out the Quito Hash House Harriers, as that can be a great way to get out of the city, do some hiking, and meet expats from OUTSIDE of school!! A fun group!! They meet every other Sunday at 1pm at various locations. The Reina Victoria will usually have information by Thursday night, (see Restaurant section) but you can also ask around school for more information.
10. Apartments—Since we are on the topic of apartments, there are a few things to note. First of all, there is absolutely NO REASON WHATSOEVER not to have a VIEW!! Quito is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen, nestled in the Andes. (Besides, if Pichincha blows, you’ll want to SEE it!! And I really mean that. It blew my first year here and that was the most magnificent thing I have ever witnessed!)
11. Rental Costs—I have heard rumors people may think rent is pricey. If you are shown only places that are 400 and up, LOOK AROUND. There are great places to be found. For example, my current apt (in a GOOD location, 15 minute walk from school, near Parque Metropolitano) has 3 bedrooms, 3 ½ bathrooms, hard wood floors, security, great view, garage, and I pay $220 for it. (Inflation will make it $300 in July.) My point is that there are some great finds.
12. Road tripping-- I highly recommend getting out of the city when you can. There is such incredible natural beauty and diversity in this country! (Besides, it’s good for the soul!) Remember when road tripping, however, always always always carry toilet paper. If you ever need to use "the facilities" along the way, be forewarned that the bathrooms are plenty SCARY and usually sin papel. (without toilet paper)
13. Driving Tips-- Take taxis at first and observe how people drive. Watch how the roundabouts work….you will be driving DEFENSIVELY and AGGRESSIVELy to survive here. Gone are the days of driving with a soda in your hand, or munching on anything. You will need two hands on the steering wheel at ALL TIMES. Taxis and buses will stop at ANY TIME, so beware. Potholes sneak out of nowhere and manhole covers are sometimes STOLEN (this does not happen often, thankfully!)

By the way, if you are getting an international driver’s license from the states, makes sure it is the INTERAMERICAN and NOT the International.

If you are test driving a vehicle, or just adjusting to driving in Quito, start on SUNDAYS. The traffic is sooooo much better and it’s a great way to build your confidence in driving in Quito. Having a vehicle is WONDERFUL, though, and gives you access to sooooo much more, especially on the weekends!!

Carry a map of Quito…..Note that streets are often NOT marked. Also, WATCH HOW CARS ARE PARKED, especially in the downtown "gringolandia" tourist area. There are MANY one way streets which are often NOT marked (Nor are they LOGICAL. Just because one street is one way going one direction, does NOT mean that the next street will be going the opposite direction! Parked cars are usually your best gauge.)

If you are driving on a road trip, get used to stopping to ask for directions. As is in Quito, rarely are streets marked.

14. Crime—Ok, I do NOT want this to be a downer, but I want to be honest with you. Crime is on the rise in Ecuador. Prices have really skyrocketed since I came here, and Plan Colombia hasn’t helped either. (don’t EVEN get me started on THAT one..) So, as with any situation, there are some ways to prevent becoming a victim (although not 100% guaranteed)

BE ALERT—be totally AWARE of your surroundings at all times. Watch your back when walking (literally)down streets. If you plan to walk a lot do NOT carry a purse, and watch your pack. It may help to carry your backpack on front. If you notice anyone behind you, cross the street. If they follow you, go into a public place. You also may want to carry a whistle (or even pepper spray) especially if you are walking a lot. BEWARE in Quito Colonial AND in Gringolandia(the tourist area of Mariscals)If you have a car, make sure you have a club or some form of security in a car (if you own one).

 

Ok, I think that about covers what you need to know BEFORE you come!! Now, onto the ECUADOR info….

ECUADOR INFORMATION

	Nothing is fast.
	Nothing is easy.
	Nothing will go QUITE as planned.

 

Keep your sense of humor, think of everything "as part of the ADVENTURE"(Good or bad, it’s always an ADVENTURE….and it will all make a GREAT STORY), and you'll LOVE it here!!!

To help you adjust:

TAXI NUMBERS--Please be advised that taxis are difficult to come by on SUNDAY NIGHTS. Also, you may want to call in advance on a Friday night OR if there is a MAJOR soccer game. Rainy days/nights are other busy times.

2-639-639(HONEST, reliable, my personal favorite)

2-633-333 2-500-600 2-333-333

2-555-555 2-222-222

Taxi hint: Get one with a meter and make sure it works. Then, once you have the general price for taxis, I have found that you can just give them the amount it usually is and be done. Be prepared to be attempted to be charged more initially, because they think you are a tourist and don’t know the prices. The airport taxis charge WAY MORE than normal. (of course) For a cheaper taxi from the airport, go outside and cross the street. Flag one down and it will be MUCH cheaper than in the airport parking lot!!

FYI: ALSO, if you’re going to midnight mass on Christmas Eve in a taxi, don’t expect that they will show up afterwards, even if prior arrangements are made. Also, New Year’s Eve on Amazonas (INCREDIBLE) is next to impossible to find a cab.

 

MEDICAL DOCTOR

Dr. Alvaro Davalos

Telephone: 500-268

Address: 202 La Colina y San Ignacio

He is a great doctor who speaks English and knows all about assorted tropical diseases. Plus, he is just a wonderful person.

Speaking of medical, the harsh reality of life here is that you WILL have "stomach issues" at some point. To "ease your pain" when that happens, it helps to be prepared. So, on your first trip to Supermaxi, you may as well stock up on the following:

*Gatorade (try Maracuya flavor..yum!) *Sprite

*crackers *Tostadas

*Chicken broth *Potato buds

 

SPANISH CLASS

There are a variety of Spanish schools and tutors in the area. Several teachers have used a tutor who comes to your house. Others go to various schools. I have done both, so it just depends on your schedule. When you finish with Ramiro's wonderful class, you may wish to pursue more Spanish lessons. I would suggest:

Private Tutor:

Juan Carlos Telephone: 878-926 or 657-054 (he'll come to your house on whatever day works for you) Juan Carlos is reliable, dependable, flexible and just an all around great person to know!!

 

If you prefer attending a SPANISH SCHOOL, I would recommend:

	Academia Latinoamericana on Jose Quieri, which is close to Eloy Alfaro y Los Granados intersection (handy location to Cotopaxi) I used them this summer and was very pleased. I have also repeatedly heard good things about the following two schools:
	Simon Bolivar
	La Lengua

(both of the last two are located somewhere down in Gringolandia—ie Mariscals)

 

HAIRDRESSER

I recommend

	Nellie at Scissors on Eloy Alfaro No. 2407, near the intersection with Gonzalez Suarez (the street that intersects Eloy Alfaro between Portugal and Seis de Deciembre) She trained in Chicago, is very reasonably priced, & speaks English. Telephone: 2-436-095
	Many people use Debbie and Carlos. (Ask around for more info on them)

 

FILM DEVELOPING

For those of you who really want QUALITY photos, there is really only ONE option. Ronald Jones is a professional photographer who also develops film. He isn't "hour" FAST, or CHEAP, but the quality is WELL worth it. He is located at Lizardo Garcia E-9-104 y Andres Xaura. Telephone: 2-507-622 Again, if you are wavering, just try him once and see for yourself. The difference in quality is AMAZING!! (One man travelled around the world and brought him over 300 rolls of film to develop because of the quality. Ron does the BEST I’ve seen ANYWHERE!)

 

Mechanic

If you need a mechanic, I recommend:

	Roberto Morales (who also speaks English) located on Calle Alemania 451 y Eloy Alfaro ( in the vicinity of El Jardin mall) He has been used by some staff and others.
	Nelson—REALLY handy near the school, speaks English. Just beyond the roundabout that heads down to the Mobile Station (Eloy) Turn right at the Bakery before you get to the Mobile Station, and you’ll see Troya car about a block down (right side). He’s used by some people at school too, so ask around.

 

South American Explorers Club

Jorge Washington and Leonidas Plaza (I do believe the Galapagos Spanish school is right next door) Great source of info and the fee is totally worth it. Lots of information on travel opportunities, a wonderful library, information on volunteer opportunities. Go down for yourself and check it out on their introductory tour. They are usually only open until 5pm, however on Thursdays, I believe they are now open until 7pm.

 

FOOD INFORMATION

Remember, if you purchase fruits and vegetables you will need to TREAT THEM with either Bac-Stop, or Vitalin (available at Supermaxi) for 5 minutes in water BEFORE you eat them. This will prevent "tummy troubles" in the future.

 

SUN

Don't let the weather fool you. Wear SUNSCREEN and EYE PROTECTION!!

Apartment Information

Here are a few items I would like to share with you. May you know this in ADVANCE and not find out the HARD WAY, as some of us did in the past. Some of this isn't necessarily pleasant information, but you really need to know this stuff.

(What They Don’t Tell You)

 

Plumbing—First of all, most toilets in Ecuador are NOT equipped to handle toilet paper. This is why you see waste baskets in all the restrooms. This may be true in your apt. as well, FYI. (When road tripping, it is adviseable to carry your own TP….When you must stop to use the bano, often it is absent. I also find it helpful to stock up on instant hand sanitizer when in the states, and take it on road trips.)

 

Electricity--Electricity can be a bit different here. Many of us learned the HARD WAY that too many electrical gadgets "on" at the same time would cause a power outage. For example, in my first apartment, if I used a space heater in two rooms at the same time, my power would go out within 30 minutes. If I use the washer at the same time as the dryer, my power goes out. Just thought I would share that with you.

 

Water heaters--Some of you may be told that you need to turn on your water heater an hour before you use it. This can be a drag when you want a shower at 6am. I discovered that if I had my water heater on a couple of hours the night before, the water was hot in the morning (NOTE: I am SINGLE and only ONE shower was necessary. May not be a good "family" plan.) There are many REAL stories about water heaters exploding however, so if your landlord tells you to turn it on and off, I would DEFINITELY follow his/her advice. It will also reduce your electricity bill. (Bonus!) Just another tidbit.

 

Telephone Bill—You will have to call 114, then listen the recording and dial/say your number to find out your phone bill. (Note: If you have trouble with the Spanish, go ask Sofia, the school receptionist. She will call for you and write down what you owe.)

RESTAURANTS

There are MANY, MANY restaurants to choose from in Quito, and this is just the TIP of the iceberg. Here are a few to try...Be advised that many restaurants do not open until 7pm. Many are closed on Sundays as well. Also note: Desserts all over Latin America, are typically UNDERWHELMING. The common theme is: Looks BEAUTIFUL, but TASTELESS. NEVER order cheesecake, unless it’s been highly recommended by someone you know with tastebuds you trust…..The dessert exception is ice cream. Typically, that is good, and make SURE you try SALCEDO ice cream……If you see a tacky popsicle in three colors outside a store, CHECK IT OUT and ask if it’s from Salcedo (another town). Tragically, I did not discover this until my LAST year here!!

 

Mr. Bagel

On Portugal, near the corner with Seis de Deciembre

Basically have bagels, assorted spreads, coffee. Best bagels in town!

 

Corfu—Ice cream—YUM!! On Portugal near the corner of Shyrris (just down from Mr. Bagel. Good bakery next door as well.

 

Pinchos Express

Want some local flavor near the school? Head to Eloy Alfaro y Los Granados. You’ll see the Pinchos Express just down from the Pan Vital and the mustard yellow flower shop. They have GREAT skewers and papas and it’s CHEAP!!

 

Venecia Pizzeria (and DELICIOUS ice cream!)

Owned and operated by the family of our own Ana Fornasini. This place has GREAT pizzas, pastas, and ice cream!! And it close!! Located on 6 de Deciembre, across from the 24 de Mayo Theatre. (and just down the street from Jaci and Joe’s house!!) CHEAP TOO!!

 

Thaian Thalandes Restaurante—(expensive)

Great Thai food. Great atmosphere. Located on Eloy Alfaro (between Portugal and Gonzalez Suarez) BRIGHT YELLOW SIGN. I highly recommend the fruit punch.

 

La Quarencia—expensive (now)

This is an Ecuadorian restaurant on Eloy Alfaro, between Portugal and Gonzalez Suarez, just next to the above mentioned Thai restaurant. Look for the yellow umbrellas. My personal favorites are their Aguacate con camarones, Locro de Queso, and their aji that comes with their bread is DELICIOUS!! Again, good food, cozy atmosphere.

 

La Ronda

Diego del Almagro y Belohorizonte

This is a CHARMING Ecuadorian restaurant that is ESPECIALLY nice to take out of town guests. They have an Andean band playing at night (usually around 8pm) And on Sundays, they showcase both the Andean Band AND a dance-dinner show (free of charge…) the Dance show begins between 8:30 and 9:00.

 

Reina Victoria British Pub

On Reina Victoria and Roca. The owners are this wonderful American-British couple, Dorothy and Gary. Thursday nights are a great night to go, as that night they have special dinners, which I usually enjoy tremendously (otherwise, the food is OK). It is just a cozy, homey place, and especially nice when you just feel like speaking English. Dorothy is a wonderful source of information as well.

 

Crepes and Waffles

Orellana y Juan Leon Mera VICINITY. Right across from the Marriott, on Orellana. Look for the green umbrellas, and you'll find it!! This wonderful restaurant is owned by a family from Columbia, and their children attend our school. They have wonderful lunches, dinners, and ICE CREAM!!

 

Crepe Place

Not the right name…..This place is on Eloy Alfaro y Gonzalez Suarez, just before you get to Pizza Arte. (personally, I like their shrimp crepes)

 

Cafe Espresso

This is located on the 3rd floor of Quicentro. (I THINK that is the right name). It is the ONLY coffee shop located next to Libro Mundi, though. They have GREAT food, and GREAT coffee!! (Their plates usually come with salads that are SAFE to eat and just delicious!!)

 

Ensaladas y Frutas

Also in Quicentro. Great salads and fruit dishes…reasonable prices.

 

La Vina

Located on Whymper….ask around for exact location..yummy food.

 

ECUADOR DESTINATIONS

I have traveled a bit over the past three years, so if you have specific questions, HOLLER. (I have much more information) But, here is my MUST DO list (to date, anyway):

1. Galapagos Islands--Don't even THINK about leaving this place without going there!! This is a MAGICAL place, and well worth the money!! (Go for a SMALL boat!!) If you are into diving AND seeing the islands, there are very FEW "happy medium" trips. (By this I mean, tours that do both, rather than the expensive dive trips to the islands WAY UP NORTH, and the land only tours.) I went through Galapagos 2000 (on Juan Leon Mera y Roca—look for the striped turtle on the first floor of the white building) and had a fantabulous trip!! We went on 4 dives on the 8 day trip, and it was perfect. (If you are a scuba diver, do NOT NOT NOT skip out on diving here. The sea lions, rays, turtles and curtains of fish are well worth it. But diving with HAMMMERHEADS in incredible.) There are many ways to go to Galapagos…ask around school for other options.
2. Rainforest—The jungle is amazing….don’t miss it!! Word on the street is that the Cuyubeno Rainforest area is the best for wildlife; however, it is also close to Colombia, which deters some people. I have heard good things about Native Life (primitive trip—no showers) The Flotel Orellana (boat which cruises down there…pricey) Personally, I HIGHLY recommend Yachana Lodge, which is run by the NGO FUNEDESIN. This foundation is really working hard to save the rainforest while assisting the local communities at the same time. It’s a wonderful sustainable development project that is "ecotourism at it’s finest" (Rob R. from Lonely Planet). This is a great family place as well. They have a GREAT package deal to the lodge, with a variety of activities available during your stay, with literally, "something for everyone". You have many options—hiking in primary, secondary rainforest with bilingual guides; visiting a shaman and experiencing a healing ceremony; visiting a school; visiting the medical clinic; and they have a chocolate project. (delicious…some of the best chocolate—albeit different from what you’re used to-- you’ll find in Ecuador!!)

The reservations office number is: 256-6035 or 252-3777

3. Latacunga Loop--This is the 10 hour loop out of Latacunga that takes you on gravel roads back in time to some of the most beautiful landscapes you will find in Ecuador. The crater lake, Laguna Quilotoa is absolutely GORGEOUS (4 hours from Quito), the Black Sheep Inn (5 hours from Quito) is charming, the Sasquilli Thursday market is one of THE best indigenous markets in Ecuador, and Tigua is renowned for their artwork. Zumbahua has a small market on Saturday mornings as well. I highly recommend staying at the Black Sheep Inn, but have at LEAST three days. (It’s a trek)
4. Riobamba-Alousi--Nariz del Diablo Train Trip--go ride on the top of the train down one of the steepest railway descents in the WORLD!! The scenery is through the "avenue of the volcanoes" and therefore magnificent. Check with the South American Explorers Club to find out updates, though as to if it is running. (sometimes there are landslides, etc.) It usually runs on Wed, Fri, and Sun. One of the highlights of my time in Ecuador.
5. Banos--don't let the volcano, Tungarahua, scare you away from this wonderful place. Beautiful, great for hiking, horseback riding, biking, hot springs too. Recommended places to stay—Hostal Plantas y Blancas (cheap…$5-7) (Great breakfasts on rooftop breakfast café…best service in Ecuador!!) Isla de Banos—Middle (probably 15-20 now) and Monte Selva (probably $35 now) But there are TONS of places to choose from in Banos!! No worries about finding a place to stay (UNLESS it’s Semana Santa!).

 

6. Pappallacta--close to Quito. Great day trip and wonderful overnight getaway. Go to the hot springs for sunset and watch the stars come out. (if you are lucky, you’ll see Antisana, Ecuador’s 4^th largest volcano) Splurge on the Termas de Pappallacta (about $30 per person) and get your private pools….(totally worth it) or go economy and stay at a little place for $5-10 (haven’t checked since inflation hit hard 1 ½ years ago..I usually splurge on the Termas) Via car, it’s 1 ½ hour drive; via bus, it’s 2ish (hours)…Take a bus headed for Baeza or Tena and get off at Pappallacta. (note: you’ll have a hike of about 1km or so to the termas up the hill.) En route back to Quito in bus, note that it can be DIFFICULT to get a bus. Give yourself PLENTY OF TIME. (I’ve been rescued by sweet people taking pity on me after hours of waiting for a bus, and then it was FULL!)
7. Mindo--Cloud forest and waterfalls are GREAT. (In the rainy season, it can be a bit less fun.) Visit the butterfly farm, innertube down the river (you might get a little "banged up", hike, or relax. You can stay in your own personal treehouse at El Caramelo (I think it’s up to $50 now) or hunt around for a cheapie place. Nice weekend trip. Also near there is the infamous geodesic treehouse, Bellavista, probably around $60-80 now)

 

8. Otavalo (of course)—This is my personal favorite region in Ecuador, as it has stolen my heart. Check out the animal market, the produce market, and, OF COURSE, the tourist market. Fantastic hiking in the area. Laguna San Pablo is a wonderful hike, and see the Peguche Cascadas along the way. Lagunas Mojandas are beautiful as well. (1hour drive from Otavalo). The crater lake, Laguna Cuicocha, just 12 km beyond Cotacachi is a wonderful destination. You can go a boat ride or hike around it (5 hours entire circle).

Places to stay: Ali Shungu, located on Quito Street (and even if you don’t stay there, you MUST eat there!!) This hosteria is run by a couple from the states and is a bit more expensive than other places. (maybe $40 for a double now) It is really a lovely place. And, if you are driving up for the day, and need a place to park, this is a safe spot for that as well. Hotel Coraza—This is a cheaper place, (maybe $10 a person) simple, but very handy to the bridge for the animal market. (That’s an early market and it’s convenient to stay for that reason as it’s an easy walk to the Panamericana…) La Luna—This is a little backpacker hostal located 3 km outside of Otavalo, on the road to Lagunas Mojandas. The setting is absolutely breathtaking, and you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere….There are dorm rooms ($6), private rooms with fireplaces ($9 per person), and campsites ($4) Breakfast is included. Dinner may be ordered as well. (One of my favorites) Outside of Otavalo—Aya Huma in Peguche. This is one of my favorite villages as it is less touristy and the people are just lovely. Rooms should run from between $10-15 per person.

 

9) For the Ultimate SPLURGE—Vista Del Mundo, a spa and hotel, located on the Panamericana, just passed the turn off for Cotocachi. Look for the large buddha billboards. (Unfortunately, you really can’t miss those!) Note: if you get to the fancy toll booth, you have gone too far. This is a fascinating place, as each round cabana is representing a different country and the roofs are shaped like hats from that particular country. Inside are lovely rooms, with two double beds, murals on the ceiling (also representative of the country) fireplaces, and beautiful bathrooms. Here you can INDULGE in a 3 hour SPA treatment that is unlike ANYTHING I’ve ever experienced…..Not a cheap place, but well worth the splurge when you need ultimate pampering or just crash and burn time.

 

Other Recommendations:

	Vilcabamba
	Alandaluz and Isla de la Plata--this island is known as the "Poor Man's Galapagos"(see the whales between now and Sept)

 

 

Again, this is just my Reader's Digest Condensed version, and most things are relatively close by and are doable by bus (my only means of transportation my first year.)

OK that about sums up Lynn's Helpful Hints. Again, Welcome to Quito!! May you also discover that this place is a little piece of paradise!!

Aloha for now!!

Lynn