Quito
Chicago hostel is OK, in location and value for money. After 8 pm only tourist places in the Old City remain open, but due to massive tourist police presence - no security problem.

Every Friday at 8 pm free folklore performance at the Palacio Arzobispal at Plaza de la Independencia


Andes tour
As bus travel would be time consuming and the poor safety of vehicles/drivers, we decided to go with a licensed driver/guide. For 1 week we paid USD 730 for the 6-seater car and guide, plus our lodging, food, entry fees, horse-back riding, etc.

Our guide Santiago Garzon was an excellent choice: Safe driving, very good English and profound knowledge about every topic, combined with a pleasant personality. Trekking and mountain bike, such as Chimborazo uphill are his favourites). I highly recommend him - please consider to include him in "listings" for your next edition. Contact: santiagovolcan@yahoo.com

Cotopaxi: Hacienda El Porvenir is a perfect place to stay. The horses are well kept

Quilotoa loop: Hacienda Posada de Tigua is a charming place with friendly dogs and welcoming hosts. Riding horses are looking very well

Project Comunidad de Chilcapamba near Cotacachi by Luis Alfonso Morales. Can be reached by car and once a day by bus. It offers home-cooked meals and rustic accommodation, as well hiking and horse-back riding in the area. Income goes to the village. Tel. 593-97712695, alfmorales23@gmail.com, alfmorales23@yahoo.com


15 days Galapagos on Tip Top II
A true budget killer, but highly recommend for travellers with deep interest in nature and geology! The longer and more frequent landings, as well the numerous snorkel- and kayak excursions, gave a much deeper insight and understanding of the archipelago.

Direct booking with the ship owner (andrea@tiptoptravel.ec) at USD 4550 was less than the German charter company and other Ecuadorian companies would have charged. The English and German speaking guides for the 12 passengers were brilliant, and the crew was a pure delight. We could have done with a simpler ship, but only Wittmer company offers from time to time 15 days.