Ecuador: The Perfect Girlfriend’s Getaway

The men go hunting without us, or watch motor sports, now is it our turn!

Ecuador is the perfect destination for women travelers. If you are part of a group of single women who don’t like to travel alone…or simply a group of girlfriends-- Ecuador guarantees a legendary travel experience you will talk about for a lifetime!

Ecuador is one of the smallest--but most diverse--countries in South America. This small country, lies at the northern South American Pacific coast, only 4 hours flight away from Miami. Your airplane will land in either Quito, the Capital City, or in Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city—located on the large Guayas River.

Starting in Quito, you should organize an easy first day, because Quito lies at 9202 ft (2800 m) above sea level—and, if possible, you should acclimatize yourself a bit to the altitude. It’s probably much higher in elevation than what you’re used to at home.

If you would like a variety of restaurants accessible on foot, stay in one of the beautiful hotels in the Mariscal district in Northern Quito. We especially recommend Hotels such as Cafe Cultura---or if you like fun-- try the brand new Boutique Hotel Nue House at the Quininde Place. If you like Museums and cultural tours, choose your hotel in the historical Center of Quito which has been designated as a UN Heritage Site.

In the Historical Center we recommend to you the Bed and Breakfast Villa Colonna, the Hotel Relincario del Carmen (3*), or the Hotel Patio Andaluz (4*).

A full day City-tour is an excellent first day activity to start your trip off right! Do an extensive visit through Quito’s Center with its 26 churches.

Are you the type of person who has seen Churches after you have seen 2 or 3? Don’t worry; there are plenty of other things to do!

Have you ever been interested in how coffee is roasted and how the different roasting levels taste? Find the answer in the old town of Quito.

Have fun walking through the colorful Ipiales market where the “Quitenos” find everything for their daily lives. The market is organized by goods. There is a shoe section with more shoes than you have ever seen in one place in your life…even in your closet at home, including those back corners you never visit--principally because you’re not sure what’s there.

Those more interested in culture should visit a wood carver in one of the monasteries where they produce crucifixes and Religious statues for the whole world. Get introduced to old painting tech-niques carried forward for hundreds of years-- and learn about Ecuadorians and their daily Ecuadorian lives.

If you and your girlfriends like shopping, you absolutely must travel to Otavalo. The Indian market at Otavalo is world-renowned, and is one of the largest of its kind in South America. Most every type of item is represented, and all different qualities of products are available.
For those of you who enjoy buying the highest quality textiles---from sweaters and blouses to wand carpets--don’t spend too much time at the market, take a taxi to Peguche or Iluman and visit the weavers, personally. Many of them can be classified as real artists and produce spectacular handicrafts you will find nowhere else in the world.

Overnight, stay with your friends in one of the colonial haciendas in the area.

Here we will recommend to you the Haciendas Pinsaqui or Cusin.

If you want one of the most exclusive Spa experiences in South America, stay at the Hosteria La Mirage in Cotacachi.

In all these accommodations, you can enjoy a candlelight dinner with your friends, a good glass of wine, or a drink next to a warm chimney fire-- and have a great conversation. Friendships can bloom, and lives can change---overnight.

If your group is more active, or you seek a more spiritual encounter, why not spend four or five days in the Rainforest in one of the beautiful Jungle Lodges? You will take daily Jungle Expeditions, guided by a bilingual Naturalist---or you can plan spiritual activities at or near the lodge itself. During the daily Jungle Expedition, you will experience Nature as far
away from civilization as you can get. Check out the La Selva Jungle Lodge, the Napo Wildlife Center or Sacha Lodge.

Especially for women travelers I recommend the city of Cuenca. This small city in southern Ecuador is also a UN World Heritage site, with many museums and with excellent places for shopping. Cuenca is especially known, worldwide, for both its ceramics, and for its jewelry artisans.

You can stay in one of the excellent colonial Hotels in the colonial center of Cuenca. One of the best options is the Hotel Mansion Alcazar. From here, you can reach the whole colonial center on foot…and don’t forget to try the excellent food and atmosphere in Cuenca’s many restaurants in the old town. The ambiance is unsurpassed, and the cuisine is first class!

A “must” is the travel from Cuenca through the Cajas National Park to Guayaquil. The Cajas National Park is said to be one of the best National Parks in all of South America, and Ecuadorians pride themselves in having “the best.” This park has hundreds of lakes which reach out and embrace you—almost singing a siren song invitation for either hiking or trekking. When the road through the park reaches its highest point at about 13136 ft (4000m) above sea level, take a deep breath and realize that you are at the watershed between the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean. Everything west of this flows into the Pacific. Everything east of this flows into the Atlantic, hundreds and hundreds of miles to the East. From this altitude, the road winds down to the Pacific plain with its large Banana fields.

Who doesn’t like Bananas? Visit a Banana Hacienda from Guayaquil.

You have a very interesting option in the Babahoyo area. Guayaquil itself is a tropical city. The “old town” of Guayaquil is called “Las Penas,” and on the Santa Ana Hill, take a walk up to the Santa Ana Lighthouse. On the way up, stop and have a drink in one of the many local bars.

In Guayaquil stay at the Hotel Unipark, just opposite Seminario Park or the “Parque de las Iguanas”—in local parlance. It may not be necessary to say this, but—please, don’t pet the Iguanas. Within this Park, Iguanas walk freely around—just like dogs or cats do at home.

Another wonderful option for lodging is the nearby--and less expensive--Grand Hotel de Guayaquil.

Guayaquil has also an International Airport where you either can start or end your trip to the Amazing Country of Ecuador, and all flights to the Galapagos Islands also go through Guayaquil.

You will see that Ecuador has something to offer for every taste and budget.

Don’t wait, come and discover...Enjoy Ecuador—A Place for Friends, Food, and Fun!

Galapagos Islands: The Perfect Family "Getaway Vacation"

If you are just making the critical decision of where to go during your next holiday, you are not alone. Have you ever thought of participating in a truly educational Galapagos Expedition with your children? It just might be the perfect family "getaway vacation".

Oh, there's nothing wrong with cartoon characters and amusement parks-but-as a parent, you're always concerned about the value of the time spent with your children.

Here's your opportunity to show them a part of the world they've probably never seen, and enjoy the entire process of learning, to boot! And if Mom needs beach time, you can still meet the quota! She can return with a tan, and stories galore.

Learn about Darwin's Theory of Evolution and enjoy the beautiful and unique flora, fauna and scenery of the Galapagos Islands... all at the same time.

Have you ever heard about birds that can't fly? The Galapagos has them.

Have you ever stood next to a Flamingo-- an elegant bird with his long, spindly legs---pink feathers and all; or have you enjoyed getting face-to-face with all types of Iguanas and nose to nose with huge turtles that live in complete and total freedom?

You meet these animals on daily expeditions when you participate in one of the exclusive Galapagos Cruises.

Perish the thought that Galapagos cruises are just educational, they offer immense adventures and true family fun. Nearly every day, you have a possibility to swim from world-class beaches. Has a photographer ever captured you swimming next to a Sea Lion?

In the Galapagos, it happens nearly every day.

Less active families can sunbathe on the beach, or simply chill---read a good book while enjoying the spectacular scenery.

I'd suggest a "Family Cruise" onboard one of several Vessels where you do not have to worry about your children. Children onboard these ships are in the well-trained hands of special Naturalist guides, who organize special land programs--exclusively for the children.

Often, we're asked how old a child must be to travel and enjoy the Galapagos Islands. In my opinion the best age is at least 10 years old. On most special "Family Cruises", however, children from 7 years and up are allowed onboard.

Two of the best Galapagos Vessels-- M/V Eclipse and M/V Evolution-- offer not only the best naturalist cruises throughout the year, but they are the only yachts at the moment offering special "Family Cruises" in the Galapagos.

It is easy to see why the M/V Eclipse is considered by many to be the best vessel cruising in the Galapagos Islands. Outstanding accommodation, world-class food and the best imaginable service make a Galapagos Cruise onboard M/V Eclipse one of the world's fin-est experiences. And this superb vessel offers special family departures during the US Holiday season.

The oversize yacht offers 4 spectacular Deluxe Staterooms on the Bridge Deck--allowing 2 cabins to be converted into a 3 bed cabins. Note, however, that because these are so popular, these cabins have to be booked well in advance. The other 8 Superior Double Staterooms offer spectacular views to the sea and the islands.

On the main deck are another 13 large Double Staterooms. They have a series of porthole windows to the sea which give them a very unique look.

Teens haven't been forgotten, either. Do you have a teenager who doesn't want to have to share a room-especially with a younger brother or sister? Don't worry; there are 2 single bed cabins available on the main deck-just for this very situation!

Public areas onboard M/V Eclipse are absolutely spectacular. Both inside and "al Fresco" Dining is offered on the Weather Deck (located between the Main and the Bridge Deck). All meals can be served in one session. Breakfast and Lunch are buffet-style and the Dinner is a la carte. Enjoy the exquisite dinner inside the elegant Dining room, no formal wear required-casual, sport clothing is expected.

The M/V Eclipse--offering three fabulous sun decks for sunbathing, reading or just enjoying the moment.

M/V Eclipse is one of the world's best "small cruise" ships and it offers the comfort of a much larger vessel. Don't hesitate to participate in one of its cruises.

Another luxury vessel is M/V Evolution. In a bygone era, privileged travelers experienced the magic and mystery of the Galapagos Islands in a relaxed and elegant fashion. You and your family can still become those privileged travelers.

As on M/V Eclipse, a specially-trained Naturalist introduces your children to the flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands. M/V Evolution offers space for a maximum of 32 passengers and is a bit smaller than the M/V Eclipse.

On the Bridge Deck, you can enjoy the large "owner's suite" which covers the whole width of the vessel along with two large Bridge deck double cabins. These cabins are ideally shared by a large family seeking privacy--and they have it--because there are no other cabins on this floor.

The 8 large Main-deck cabins and the 4 large lower deck cabins all offer excellent comfort and convey the real "feel" of a cruise ship in the 1920's. Passengers of a bygone era had much more time to travel than many of us today. All cabins, however, offer modern comforts such as individual climate control and ample space to store and hang clothes.

The social areas of M/V Evolution are absolutely splendid. Gourmet-level meals are served either outside "al fresco" or inside in a beautifully-decorated dining room. The M/V Evolution is known for its outstanding cuisine.

M/V Evolution has an unforgettable lounge with wine bar where daily briefings about the next day's activities are held. This ship also features an extensive library about the Galapagos Islands and sun-decks featuring magnificent rattan furniture.

During "Family Cruises"---those that operate during the US School holidays, the M/V Evolution offers a "Kids Club" with special learning activities such as star-gazing and movie nights. Child-oriented Naturalists organize learning activities and provide children with a kid's Expedition Journal. The lectures about the next day's activities are organized especially for children--- the parents have plenty of time to enjoy the cruise and know that your children are in good hands.

Another vessel recommended for children is M/V Galapagos Legend. This yacht has no age limitation for children but any parents with children under 12 years of age are required to sign a "Waiver of LiabilitY" before they begin the cruise.

M/V Galapagos Legend has no specially trained staff for children, but the yacht has a playroom onboard with games and many play items for children.

Other yacht operators are looking in the future to organize special "Family Cruises" in the Galapagos Islands.

The Galapagos Islands offer a great family destination, where you can spend a beautiful, relaxing, and educational time together as a family; visiting impressive Island retreats, often far away from civilization. Few places exist where a family can enjoy this kind of combination.

Because of the uniqueness of the offering, the demand for these cruises is so large that you have to book well in advance---even a year ahead---especially if you like excellent cabins or want to pick your own cabin from those available.

This year, organize a Summer Holiday in the Galapagos Islands. This is a trip of a lifetime-- especially with your children and teenagers.

It's a trip you'll never forget.

Ecuador: The newest option for Gay Travelers

Ecuador, South America, is being considered more and more as a Gay travel destination without equal.

Gay expedition cruises to the Galapagos Islands have been very well known for some time, and there are several of these cruises offered every year. But Ecuador has much more to offer for the Gay and Lesbian Traveler—not the least of which is privacy, enjoyment, and a sense of comfort in the beautiful surroundings within Ecuador.

Gays and Lesbians seeking intimate time with their partner have romantic highland haciendas and small, out of the way inns, as well as major multi-star Hotels to chose from.

Enjoy a candle light dinner next to a romantic fire place or enjoy a nice drink and a good conversation at the hacienda's bar. Because temperatures can be low in the high Andes where many haciendas are located, a fireplace brings just the romantic touch, and will heat your bedroom to ensure that you have a cozy warm night.

During the day, haciendas offer activities ranging from adventurous horseback riding to visits to indigenous markets. There is a day activity for every taste.

Ecuador has a huge artisan tradition and most artisan workshops open their doors to the Gay and Lesbian visitor. Visits to artisan workshops can be combined with hacienda stays, especially north of Quito. Excellent handicraft workshops can be found throughout Ecuador, but especially in the city of Cuenca, about a 40 minute flight south of Quito.

Cuenca has been declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations and this small, yet bustling town is well-known for its excellent, colonial style Hotels and its Gay and Lesbian community---which can be found right in the center of the City. Plan on taking at least 2 days to explore the City and its surroundings.

Whatever you do, don’t forget to spend at least a half a day in Gualaceo and Chordeleg--well known for jewelry workshops and Orchid farms.

A short 4 hour trip by bus from Cuenca is the tropical city of Guayaquil. If you have the time, rent a car or travel with a public bus from Cuenca to Guayaquil. Make sure that you travel through the spectacular Cajas National Park with its hundreds of lakes.

Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city and serves as the main port for the country. The city has a very active gay community and it is an excellent gateway for travel to Galapagos Islands. The main gay-bars and clubs can be found at the Rocafuerte Street, 2 blocks behind the Malecon 2000, about at the height of the Ramada Hotel.

Before you dive into the nightlife, walk along the Malecon 2000 and walk up the stairs to the Light House above Las Penas, the small old town of Guayaquil. On both sides of the stairs can be found a variety of bars and restaurants, which invite the Guayaquil visitor in for a cold beer---far and away, the best drink in this tropical city. If you have a moment more, visit “Parque Seminario” or “Parque de las Iguanas” as the locals call it. Here, Iguanas walk around like cats and dogs in North American or European parks. Although it may be tempting, don’t try to pet the Iguanas.

Within 40 minutes flight time is the City of Quito. Should you travel in the morning, make sure that you sit on the right hand side of the Aircraft, because this side of the flight has the most beautiful mountain scenery imaginable.
Quito is a bustling, cosmopolitan city, and offers the most of all the Ecuadorian cities to the Gay Traveler. Stay in the old town. Especially recommended is the beautiful—and pricey—“Gay-owned” Bed and Breakfast “Villa Colonna”.
Not far away from this Bed and Breakfast you can find the offices of True Colors Travel, where you can get Expert advice on all travel related topics in Ecuador.

The historical part of Quito has been designated as a World Heritage Site by the UN and offers some of the most spectacular colonial churches in the world. In your visit to the colonial center, seek out and enjoy some of the various excellent museums.
The Gay Clubs and Bars you will find in the Mariscal district in northern Quito. Here, there are many excellent Bars, Clubs and Restaurants. You will feel a comfortable ambiance every day of the week, but especially from Wednesday to Sunday. For Gays and Lesbian who seek Gourmet Dining, there are several excellent restaurants be found behind the Swissotel, around Isabel La Catolica street. My favorite restaurant in this sector, and one which I recommend highly, is “La Choza” which offers excellent Ecuadorian food.

Quito hosts the most important Gay and Lesbian film festival in Latin America. For dates and programs visit quitogay.net

Ecuador offers Gay and Lesbian Travelers interesting options for sightseeing, enjoyment, and unique opportunities, and guarantees the trip of a lifetime.

For the best experience, participate in one of the True Colors exclusive Gay and Lesbian Roundtrips, organized by the Experts of Gay Travel in Ecuador, Galapagos and Peru. We look forward to meeting you on one of our journeys.

Galapagos: How find the right Galapagos Cruise?

An Expedition to the Galapagos Islands is for most people a “once in a lifetime” experience. Good trip planning is essential and the following article will help you to take the right decisions.

When is the best season to travel to Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos have the spectacular flora and fauna all rear round.

My preference are the month February and March because of the warm water temperature. During these 2 months the Galapagos are under the influence of the warm “El Nino Stream” and the sea can reach up to 86 F (24 Celsius).
February and March are also the rainiest and warmest months and the Air temperature can reach over 86 - 88 F (30 Celsius).

In contrast, during the month of August and September the water of the sea is only about 66 - 68 F (18 - 19 Celsius) and the Air 74 - 77 F (24 Celsius). During this period you have little rainfall and the vegetation on the islands is very dry and on some islands desert like. During this period the sea can be rough

What kind of tour is the best to explore the Galapagos Islands?

The best option to explore the Galapagos Islands is with a cruise where you sleep on the yacht.

There are the following kinds of cruises available in Galapagos:

Naturalist Cruises:
On this cruise you do guided land visits on foot. Depending on the island, you have time at a beach to swim and snorkel with sea lions and observe the marine life. You visit in the morning a spot, have lunch on the yacht when navigating to the next spot, and visit another spot in the afternoon.

Active Cruises:
As Naturalist Cruises but you have the possibility to Scuba Dive. Depending on the cruise you can do up to about 4 immersions on a 8 Day cruise.
The responsible yacht operators use specialized diving operator that takes you to special diving spots during the cruise. That means that you will miss the land visits during your “Diving Days”.

Be aware that the diving spots are often not where land visits spots are and if the yacht offers you an immersion at the place where the boat is located for the land visit, you will often not see much more as when snorkeling.

Diving Cruises:
These cruises are for the experienced diver only. To participate you should have at least 50 logged open water dives during the last calendar year. Make sure that the cruises includes Darwin and Wolf Islands. This kind of cruise is whiteout any interest for a non - Diving guest because you do only a very few land visits.

How long should I stay in Galapagos Islands?

The larger 90+ passenger vessels offer 4, 5 and 8 Day Cruises. All these yachts are fast, and even during a 4 Day cruise you will comfortably see a lot of the Galapagos Islands.

If you travel on a smaller yacht, - 20 Passengers, I recommend that you do at least a 5 Day cruise, but better an 8 Day cruise.

A general recommendation is that you do better a good 5 Day cruise than an mediocre 8 Day cruise.

With what kind of yacht should I cruise:

Large vessels up to 100 Passengers:
The Galapagos National Park authorities don’t allow vessels with more than 100 Passengers onboard. Most large Galapagos vessels are larger than for 100 Passengers, that means they are never sold out until the last cabin.

All these large vessels are very good organized when visiting the islands. You don’t really feel the large numbers of travelers visiting the same island at the same time. On all the yachts you have never more than 16 travelers for a naturalist guide.

Motor yachts for up to 20 Passengers:
A motor yacht is a great option to explore the Galapagos Islands. You travel with an intimate group and make easy new friends onboard.

You travel overnight from island to island and especially lower deck cabins will have motor noise overnight. During the day you might hear the Electric Generator.

Make sure that you travel in an upper deck cabin. Unfortunately not all the yachts have cabin assignment in advance or if they have, the upper deck cabins are more expensive.

Depending on the yacht, there are cabins with upper / lower berths or tow lower berths. Especially lower deck cabins on Motor Yachts tend to have upper / lower berths.

Sailing Yacht for up to 16 Passengers:
That’s without any doubt the most authentic Galapagos Experience. Accommodation is in often in cabins with upper / lower berths on the lower deck. Engine and Generator noise you will have as in most Motor Yachts.

The sails will be used only during the day if the wind conditions permit.

Most sailing yachts in Galapagos have a beautiful interior, but to move around is not that easy as onboard a motor yacht. Often you have to go up a ladder instead of a stair and larger guests have sometimes to draw their head when moving around the yacht.

Is it a good idea to bring children to Galapagos?

Most quality yachts have an age restriction of 7 - 10 years for children. On all the yachts you have to sign a “Weaver of Liability” if you child is less than 12 years old.

Think twice to bring children less than 10 years to Galapagos if you like to enjoy the trip yourself too.

Consider that the sea can be rough at any time and the journey by zodiac from the yacht to the island that you visit can be wet for the guests and difficult for children.

Most yachts don’t offer an interesting children discount, and on most cruises is nobody onboard to look specially for your children.

The exception are special “Family Cruises” who leave usually during the US School Holidays and are offered on some medium sized deluxe class motor Yachts. On these cruises is the age limit for children is by 7 years and there is a special naturalist guide on-board to look after the children.

Which ever tour you choose, a trip to Galapagos Islands is expensive and needs exact and professional planning. Make sure that you travel with an expert Galapagos Tour Operator who insures that you have have Your “Once in a Lifetime travel experience” you will be talked about for generations.

Ecuador: Perhaps the Perfect Family Destination

Ecuador is generally known for the Galapagos Islands and the country’s huge biodiversity, but the country offers so much more-- especially for families who seek a very special type of holiday experience. Travel is safe; natives are friendly, and the American dollar is always welcome!

Quito, the second highest Capital city in the world, is connected by daily direct flights to America’s gateway cities of Miami, Houston and Atlanta.

The city of Quito has not only been designated as a United Nations World Heritage Site, but it lies at the foot of South America’s most spectacular--and easy accessible---active volcano. Share practical natural history and physical science with your children just a few miles from Quito!

Less active or physically challenged travelers can ride a Cable car up to Cruz Loma, enjoying a stunning panorama and beautiful views of the city from an altitude of 13451 ft (4100 m).

You can either enjoy the views, or--if you are the more adventurous type--the more active traveler or family can hike up to Rucu Pichincha at 15338 ft (4574 m) above sea level.

Another option for visiting this spectacular volcano is with a day tour from Quito.

Although not well known, day tours can present one of the more interesting tours from Quito, taken with children in tow.

There is something for everyone.

Plan on starting early in the morning by car from Quito to Lloa and leave the car near the Mountain Refuge; walk up to Guagua Pichincha (Baby Pichincha) at 15341 ft (4675 m) above sea level. This volcano erupted recently—the last time in 1999. Taking a look inside the crater and smelling the gases oozing out gives children—and adults—an unmistakable impression of vulcanism and how the Earth developed. One will never forget the smell of sulphur. You can see, smell, and learn--and only 10km from Quito.

While in Ecuador, families—especially city dwellers with children who have never been around animals-- should enjoy a practical animal experience in the beautiful colonial haciendas La Alegria and Hato Verde, just south of Quito. Both Haciendas are real working farms and both offer beautiful accommodations to the traveler. Imagine your children learning that milk doesn’t come from the grocery—but that it comes from cows! Children love to try milking cows, and you will be able to capture video that will help make memories for years to come. Let them spend time around the horses or watch the cowboys simply doing their daily work at the farm. Both haciendas offer horseback riding tours both for beginners and for the very experienced rider. Children are very welcome on both haciendas and even small children enjoy the farm-life. If feeding sugar cubes and carrots to a horse, milking a cow, or riding a horse seems too adventurous for some, why not take one of the cooking classes at the hacienda? Discover spectacular new recipes for cookies... these haciendas are an excellent place to spend quality time with your family.

One tour option is for the technically astute. Boys and girls always love trains, and in Ecuador, they are in luck, for Ecuador has one of the most spectacular and chaotic railway systems in the world. The tracks and most of the infrastructure is in dire need of repair, but despite that, traveling by train is an excellent and safe opportunity to discover some uniquely beautiful parts of the country. Some of the railroad lines are spectacularly technical masterpieces, with tunnels, switchbacks, and climbs in elevation that will take your breath away. Unfortunately, as in many areas of the world, the trains of Ecuador have completely lost most of their economic importance enjoyed in previous times.

For those who want to travel by rail, Ecuador has given rise to a new type of rail travel, a unique vehicle, which always seems to be pictured in travelogues. Next to the real trains, consisting of a locomotive and cars, a kind of “truck on railroad wheels” called an “Autoferro” has developed. On most Autoferros, passengers travel comfortably on the roof. During the last year, because of their popularity and the history of travelers in Ecuador in this way, comfortable “autoferros” have been introduced where you can travel comfortably on the roof, or inside the “autoferro”.

A two day journey from Quito to Guayaquil can be particularly interesting for a family. It’s exciting, it’s different, and it’s something that will be long remembered as a family adventure.

First, plan your travel by autoferro from Quito - Cotopaxi National Park, then transfer and plan to travel by bus to Riobamba where you stay overnight. Enjoy Riobamba, but get to bed early because you catch the early morning train to Alausí, through the spectacular Nariz del Diablo (Devil’s Nose) to Huigra and Bucay.

From Bucay, take a bus to Guayaquil-- where you will arrive in the late afternoon. During the whole journey you’re in close contact with the local, mostly Indian population who live in the Andes Mountains. Find a rider who speaks English and strike up a conversation about the country. Ecuadorians are justifiably proud of their country, and your family will make a memory that will last forever—and just may make a new friend!

Between Huigra and Bucay you will leave the Andes Mountains and enter the tropical Pacific plain with its Banana plantations and tropical fruits. This journey from Quito to Guayaquil takes 2 days and it offers an unforgettable family experience.

At your destination, Guayaquil, this beautiful tropical city offers a lot for families. It is truly the most interesting tropical city in South America.

Take a one hour cruise on the “Pirate Ship” on the Guayas River and visit the Historical Park where you can view the local tropical flora and fauna. You can visit an old cacao farm, and realize the contrast to the simple farm houses you observed by the hundreds only the day before from the train. Stay in a hotel in Guayaquil itself, and not near the Airport.

Try the Hotel Unipark (4*) just opposite of the Parque Seminario or “Parque de las Iguanas” as it called by the locals. On this plaza, Iguanas walk freely, similar to cats and dogs in many neighborhoods in America. We’d suggest you not try to pet them, however!

Another wonderful option for overnight accommodation is the Grand Hotel de Guayaquil (3*) which has a small open-air swimming pool in the courtyard of the hotel.

It’s time for you to discover Ecuador. Ecuador is a marvelous destination location—just off the “beaten path.” There is much to discover, and once you’ve visited, you’ll want to return.

COCADAS (Coconut Candies)

Cocadas is a very tasty sweet which was brought to Ecuador from the black Ecua-African culture. Ecua-Africans live mainly in the Esmeralda and Imbabura provinces in northwestern Ecuador.

In Ecuador “Cocadas” are sold in the streets and in public buses. They may be presented in bars with a form like a chocolate bar or presented as small candies. Either way, they are delicious and a treat not to be missed. When you’ve had them once, you’ll want the recipe. Here’s ours—remember your trip to Ecuador with your own, personal Cocadas.

Ingredients

2 2/3 cups shredded coconut
3/4 cup condensed milk
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon almond essence

Preparation

1. In a bowl, blend the coconut, egg, condensed milk, and almond essence until well mixed.
2. Let the preparation rest for two or three minutes.
3. Spread butter liberally onto a baking sheet.
4. Using two teaspoons to spread the mixture, put small amounts on the baking sheet.
5. Bake at medium temperature (European oven: 163 Celsius degrees; American oven: 325 Fahrenheit degrees) for twenty-five minutes or until they are golden, dry and smooth.
6. Enjoy!!

The ultimate Family Vacation

We’ve received many requests for Family trips at GalapagosTraveler.com, and many have asked for a sample Itinerary for a visit for a family with children. We believe this might represent the best fam-ily trip ever taken! Consider this Itinerary.

1st Day (Tuesday) -- Arrival:
Arrival, reception and transfer to the hotel. Check-in and overnight.

2nd Day (Wednesday): The Fabulous Quito City Tour + Visiting the Equator
Every family likes togetherness—but not too much! Your family can venture safely and be escorted through the oldest parts of the city of Quito, while learning the history and customs of the beautiful people who inhabit it. Our walking tour will bring us to the Panecillo, where the entire family can enjoy the beautiful view of the Historical Center of Quito.
Have you ever been able to, literally, touch the clouds? On the cableway, your entire family will share a unique and fascinating experience. You’ll be able to see panoramic views of the Pichincha volcano, all the way to the top of Cruz Loma. Cruz Loma is a truly magic place with páramo vegetation-- enjoy the magnificent landscapes and the most spectacular views of the city.
We will then visit the monument that divides the Northern Hemisphere from the Southern Hemisphere. Chil-dren study about the Equator in school, but they see it as only a line on a map; this visit allows them to liter-ally “live” the Equator—imagine them being able to do a “Show and Tell” with one foot in the Northern Hemi-sphere and one foot in the Southern Hemisphere.

3rd Day (Thursday): Quito / Galapagos
You have breakfast at your hotel before we accompany you to the Airport. We help you with the check-in for your flight to the amazing and beautiful Galapagos Islands. When you arrive, crew members of M/V Galapagos Legend welcome you at the Airport and will drive you to the ship, where you check-in. Your children will be absolutely thrilled with the ship; it’s large enough to offer amenities and small enough that they’ll feel extra special.

3rd – 7th Day: Cruising Through the Galapagos Islands
It’s a truly special Galapagos cruise. All your family will enjoy this, since there are activities prepared espe-cially for the kids. This boat has a special space designed specifically for your children. Parents and kids can not only enjoy specific activities offered, but the kids can amuse themselves with activities including snorkeling, hiking, etc.

7th Day (Monday): Galapagos / Hacienda “La Alegria”
There’s a saying that “All good things must come to an end” and it’s true—your cruise must end, but the family vacation need not end at this point. After you disembark from the M/V Galapagos Legend, and after saying goodbye to both new friends and old, you’ll fly back to Quito. We’ll drive you to the colonial Hacienda La Alegria. (B/D). This is a marvelous experience, and adds to the memories that this Ultimate Family Vacation offers.

8th – 9th Day (Tuesday): Hacienda “La Alegria”
Here’s something you’ll love to hear: There’s no defined activities at La Alegria-- you and your family can decide on what you want to do at the Hacienda. Rest, spend time together—or separate and go your own ways—it’s your choice.

9th Day (Wednesday): “La Alegria” - Quito
In the late afternoon, you’ll transfer back to Quito. Accommodation at the Hotel Dann Carlton, an exclusive 4* hotel.

10 Day (Thursday): Departure from Ecuador
It’s time to fly home. Transfer to the airport for your international flight.

Hotel Hilton Colon

The family-friendly Hilton Hotel Colon-Quito is in the heart of Ecuador’s Capital city, centered within and among the city’s bustling and beautiful commercial and colonial districts. The hotel is opposite Ejido Park--enjoy the art exhibitions, weekends and it is just minutes from Central Quito’s history and religious sites and the famous Avenida Amazonas- Quito’s lively boulevard.

With 300 spacious and elegant guest rooms offering all the latest amenities, your family will experience a home away from home. Room amenities include cable television, soundproof windows, air conditioning, and views overlooking the pool. Non-smoking rooms and 24 hour room services are also available for your com-fort. In addition to its prime location, however, Hotel Hilton Colon-Quito offers excellent local and regional cuisine. Indulge yourself poolside, keep in shape at the state-of-the-art gym, or enjoy a relaxing massage.

Colonial Hacienda La Alegria

La Hacienda La Alegria is a family-run organic farm one hour south of the historic colonial city of Quito, the capital of Ecuador, offering traditional hospitality with a touch of luxury. La Alegria specializes in horseback vacations amid the high Andes. The hacienda is not a hotel—it’s a working farm, which makes it especially interesting for children. Imagine having your children learn about milking cows, training horses, or hiking—to discover something interesting and different.

There are many activities. Enjoy hiking with your children. La Alegria is ideally located for a hiking trip into the mountains. The hacienda is situated on the lower slopes of Corazon Volcano in the heart of the "Avenue of the Volcanoes,”---a spectacular valley dividing the eastern and western ranges of the Andes. Enjoy mountain biking with a number of options. For those looking for thrills, downhill biking of Viudita and the lower slopes of Corazon and - for the ultimate adrenaline rush – Cotopaxi--are possible.

The Cloud Forest:
One of the unique features of the environment around Hacienda La Alegria is the endangered habitat of the Ecuadorian cloud forest. Adults and children will enjoy learning about trees, flowers, and animals they know nothing about. It’s a scientific journey into life—lived fully.

The Galapagos Legend—The Premiere Ship of the Galapagos for Family Cruising

The Galapagos Legend has been specifically developed for Island hopping during Galapagos Islands cruises. The ship was totally converted in 2001 and all the stateroom and public area interiors are new. 1800 square meters of social area ensures you enjoy all the amenities of a first class cruiser yet realize the privacy accorded by a smaller ship.

This is a special ship—especially for families. Onboard, guests enjoy interiors with marine details and original pieces of art highlighting the nature of the Islands.

Each individual cabin has been decorated with paintings of Galapagos species. You may share your quarters with a painting of a blue-footed boobie. The fully-carpeted comfortable Junior suites, some interconnected, and all with ocean views--allow you to view the sea without even leaving your bed.

Take your time in your private bathroom, where you will have ample fresh hot and cold water to refresh your-self and a hair dryer for extra comfort. Other amenities in your cabin are safe deposit boxes and a mini bar.

You will be able to sunbathe at our sky deck by the pool. Socialize with other passengers as you enjoy an exotic cocktail from the Fisherman's Bar. Observation decks allow you to spot dolphins and whales and the alfresco dining areas will allow for parents to enjoy romantic meals under the sun or the moon and stars.

Family Travel in Ecuador

Ecuador is ideal for family adventures and travel.
From the families of Ecuador to yours, the friendliness of the natives brings home the strengths of Ecuador’s Spanish and Indian diversity. Getting from place to place is easy in this small, friendly Andean nation. Families can explore the beauty and wildlife, experience the rich cultural diversity, and view the most spectacular landscapes ranging from glaciers and volcanoes to lowland Amazon jungles, rich agricultural lands, and the exotic marine habitat of the Galapagos Islands.
You may enjoy charming, home-style accommodations, including former colonial-style haciendas and native Indian lodges. Families with small children can teach them about diversity while experiencing the simplicity of the daily lives of the Ecuadorian people. You can visit native villages to learn about their ancestral ways of living, or stop in at a market or a school; you can hike among farmers plowing fields and learn about weav-ing, leather craft, the famous Amazon Rain sticks, and other handicrafts.

Kapawi EcoLodge and M/V Galapagos Explorer Escapade

Our Gold Traveler December Showcase Itinerary offers either a 4 or 5 Day Cruise onboard the M/V Galapagos Explorer and a 4 or 5 Day stay at Kapawi Lodge. Quito accommodates our guests at the JW Marriott Hotel, Quito’s newest luxury hotel

Tour Description
Let’s look at the options;
• You’re a seasoned Ecotraveler that enjoys creature comforts
• You want a superior ship for travel and sightseeing
• You want to stay in a rainforest lodge that offers amenities in the outdoors


This itinerary allows you to enjoy both the Galapagos Islands and the Amazon Rainforest on several different levels: from underwater experiences, bird-watching activities and guided walks, to wildlife observation and full sunbathing on multi-colored beaches.
The friendliest and most down-to-earth staff will show you the Galapagos Islands and introduce you to the Amazon Rainforest you have—up until now--only dreamed about.

Kapawi EcoLodge and M/V Galapagos Explorer Escapade

We know our guests. You’ve searched around the world for a real-world Rainforest
experience. Kapawi Ecolodge offers you this very special rainforest retreat. Better still; the proximity to Quito is superb. Tie this with an adventure aboard the M/V Galapagos Explorer, and one has a true escapade for all time. Surrounded by a primordial rainforest occupied by Ecuador’s Indian Tribe, the Achuars, Kapawi Ecolodge serves a dual purpose; it both brings civilization to a tribe emerging in the 21st Century in a positive way, and it generates revenue needed for ecological balance within a protected environment. With oversight from The Pachamama Alliance, a nonprofit U.S. based organization, the Achuar Nation protects what they have and then, reinvest the profits. Organizations as noted as A&E Network have identified Kapawi Lodge as one of “The World’s Top Ten Exotic Destinations.” 20 guest cabanas are exclusively wood, assembled with wooden dowels and roofed with palm leaves. These cabanas are screened and completely modern—insect nets included, but generally, not needed.

The Galapagos Explorer
This 277-foot ship, built in 1990, accommodates 100 passengers. 100 is the largest number of passengers on one ship allowed in the Galapagos Islands by the United Nations Charter controlling both the number of passengers allowed and the actions of visitors arriving by ship.

Perhaps in the past you’ve traveled on LCLS (less than Cruise Line Size) ships and have been disappointed. This is a ship you can be comfortable with. Lose the feeling of cramped quarters. The bathrooms are big enough for two, and the showers are almost twice the normal size. The Galapagos Explorer is fast; she’ll reach the chain's outer islands overnight, while you sleep.

The ship features a 100-seat dining room serving fresh foods to gourmet standards, a bar and an adjacent library. The ship also offers guests an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub.

Hotel Marriott
This is the newest—and many say, the best--of Quito's luxury hotels. Guests used to Marriott hospitality know that the JW brand means the absolute best accommodations available. The JW Marriott Quito is a stunningly modern pyramid, located at the northern end of La Mariscal. The Marriott offers an indoor tropical pool, multiple restaurants, and each of the 250+ rooms has in-room safes, full cable TV, internet access data ports, and mini bars. Even ensuite hot tubs are available.


What to see in Galapagos in December
For nature lovers these cruises will be fantastic! Natural processes beginning in the Galapagos in December include:

- The hatching of giant tortoise eggs begins-- and lasts-- until April.
- Green sea turtles can be observed mating.
- The rainy season begins, and all of the plants within the dry zone produce leaves. The Galapagos Islands become “green.”
- The first young waved albatrosses hatch and begin to appear.
- It’s a time of simply stunning weather conditions.