www.ecuadors.org

Tabitha · Joined: 12 Jul 2006 Posts: 5

Has anyone been to this hotel? We are considering Guayaquil for spring break 2007 and are thinking about spending a few days in Guayaquil and few at this resort. We are two families with several children ages 4-17. We haven't been to Ecuador but love Latin America and am reading great reports on Guayaquil. Can't find anything on the Barcelo Salinas however. Thanks much.

Mitchell · Joined: 07 Jul 2006 Posts: 2

I have not stayed in such hotel, however I am very familiar with Salinas. Barcelo Colon Miramar is the number one hotel in Salinas, no question about it. The beach is right accross the street. I have had kunch several times and the facilities are first class. It is within walking distance of many things.

Obelia · Joined: 11 Jul 2006 Posts: 2

Spring break is the right time of year to be in Ecuador, and Salinas more specifically. Guayaquil has been drastically transformed in the last 15 years. Must sees in Guayaquil are Malecon2000 (do the whole walk, its long but worth it), Parque Historico, Malecon del Salado, and the downtown area at day and at night. Be prepared for daily temperatures in the 90s with high humidity. It also rains during that time of year. Bring a mosquito repellant. I am not discouraging you but just warning you. Also like any big city (Guayaquil has around 3 million people) take your precautions against pickpocketers. You will enjoy Guayaquil, its people are very warm and welcoming. Salinas is about 1.5 hours by car from Guayaquil, no rain there. Salinas is a tourist town. If Salinas beaches get too crowded nearby beaches are Punta Blanca, Montanita (international surfing site) and Capaes. Tip: Go around 4:30 pm to Hotel Punta Carnero, about 15 minutes by car from Barcelo (a cab will charge $5 or less) from Salinas. Go to Terapia Bar and have some drinks, snacks or dinner. The view of the ocean is spectacular and the sunset there is breathtaking. It is a nice experience. The only other recommendation is Cuenca, a city in the mountains 4 hours away from Guayaquil by car. It is a very nice colonial town in the middle of the Andes with spring temperature all year round (night could get chilly). I hope this info helps.