www.ecuadors.org

[Dain]

I will be studying for TEFL certification in February in Quito. Can you recommend a hostal within a half hour commute to the Parque Carolina? I'd like a decent size room that is not in a party hostal with use of the kitchen. the school suggested the Mariscal area but it seems too touristy. is Old Town a better choice or aren't there many hostals there?

I'd like to keep the cost at $10-$15..is that possible for a clean place? also, if I am staying for a month is it the norm to ask for a discount?

thanks for your help!

[Rhett]

You are going to have the widest selection and cheapest prices in La mariscal, I remember a few places the where located on the outskirts of mariscal but either way if you choose to stay in mariscal or old town you can get to La Carolina pretty fast by taking the ecovia (red bus that runs down 6 de deciembre) just get off in front of the megamaxi. I lived in La Carolina last summer, about a block from the park, but I stayed with a host family. You could look into La Floresta, its a part of town eat of mariscal. I don't know anyone that stayed in that area but I have read some things about it and they say it is more low key and relaxed, with alot of places that are run by locals; I have seen cipres and casona de mario mentioned. Another idea would be to rent an apartment, depending on how long you are staying - you would have your kitchen then. there are listings at hoy.com.ec and elcomercio.com.

best of luck!