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Octavius · Joined: 13 Jul 2006 Posts: 2

Hello Everyone,

I cant make it to The Galapos Islands and from what I hear, Im making a terrbile mistake. Fund-age wise, its just not possible. Whats this I hear about The "Poor Man's" Galapos Islands though? Also, any areas of interest around Guayaquil would be aprreciated. I've had Montanita mentioned to me so far. Our GYE guide might be standing us up, so besides flying into the city, we don't have to stay in the area at all. Thanx for the suggestions.

Marisa · Joined: 13 Jul 2006 Posts: 3

Not sure how tight on time you are, but Cuenca's another possibility. It's about 4 hours by bus from Guayaquil, and a completely different animal. While Guayaquil sucks, Cuenca is arguably Ecuador's nicest city. It's all cute and colonial, and the surrounding countryside (mountains) are beautiful.

I know I recommended Montanita earlier, and I stick with that, but if you want a break from the coast, Parque Nacional Cajas (on the road between Guayaquil and Cuenca) is phenomenal. It's sort of Scottish-moors style, if you know what I mean, misty and chilly and rugged and atmospheric.

Ecuador's small and full of options. Not really sure if you're more of a beach hopper or mountain climber!

Juliana · Joined: 06 Jul 2006 Posts: 3

Im showing lots of love and two thumbs up for Cuenca. Spent 3 nights there about 3 months back, great little city, safe, clean and so small you can do the whole thing on foot. I took the bus there from Quito and the bus out of there to Loja. Best place for cheap eats and loads of low budget accommodation is around or in the case of food, actually in the main plaza as there is a dailly food market. Its a great place to people watch as this is where the local labour exchange rocks into action around 6:30am every morning. Pick up trucks arrive looking to recruit workers for the day, it remeinded me of lining up in the school playground waiting to be picked 1st by one of the twp choosing captains - imature analogy I know but so what, Im happy !

"if you never never go, you never never know" - wise words from THU of Cafe on THU Wheels, Hue