Ecuador, a land where love intertwines with the allure of affordability, captured my heart twice—once for its economic convenience and again for the woman who would become my wife. The revelation that the U.S. Dollar serves as the official currency eliminated the hassle of currency exchange upon my midnight arrival in Quito. To my delight, a single dollar could afford a three-course meal in a pristine eatery. This was just the beginning of a journey that would lead me to cherish Ecuador and its people, especially Ana, who taught me Spanish and stole my heart.
Quito, the vibrant capital of Ecuador, welcomed me with open arms and an affordable stay at Centro Del Mundo hostel, where a mere $4 a night included breakfast. The hostel's walls, adorned with maps and essential information, connected me with fellow travelers from across the globe. My adventures in Quito ranged from scaling the glaciers of the Cotapaxi volcano with international companions to dancing the night away with free rum on Fridays. It was here, amidst the city's lively streets, that I met Ana, my enchanting Spanish tutor who would soon become my guide through Ecuador's wonders and, eventually, my life partner.
In the mountainous city of Riobamba, I found lodging for just $3 a night, complete with a private room and TV. The hotel manager's connections opened doors to experiences like ascending Mount Chimborazo. Standing at 20,600 feet, Chimborazo's peak is the furthest point from the Earth's center due to the equatorial bulge. The arduous climb over glaciers was a testament to the city's majestic allure.
Reuniting with Ana, we ventured to Baños De Santa Agua, a town celebrated for its thermal springs. The journey was a bargain with a $3 bus ride and a $7 per night motel featuring cable TV. Our days were filled with dining, soaking in hot springs, souvenir shopping, and enjoying the nightlife. Impressively, the entire day's expenses, including accommodations, totaled a mere $34.
Reflecting on the entire four-week trip, including airfare, guide fees, and all other expenses, the cost was astonishingly low at $1040. The secrets to such economical travel in Ecuador are stories for another time.
Ecuador's mountain towns, such as Quito, Riobamba, and others, boast delightful climates with year-round temperatures in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit. Coastal cities like Guayaquil enjoy the cooling effects of the Humboldt Current. For beach enthusiasts, Salinas offers a Pacific paradise where vendors cater to your every need, and jet skis are available for a thrilling $20 ride.
The Galapagos Islands, an Ecuadorian treasure, offer tours that are best booked locally for cost savings. Dining like a local allows for scrumptious meals under $2, and city accommodations start at $12. Bus travel across the country is not only cheaper but also more comfortable than in the U.S.
Ecuadorians are renowned for their friendliness and speak a Spanish dialect that's clear and easy to learn, making it an ideal destination for language students. As a safe, democratic republic with a legal system akin to the U.S., Ecuador stands as a welcoming haven for travelers.
Learn more about Ecuador's climate Discover the Galapagos Islands Explore Riobamba and its attractions
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