We've been in the country 3 days. Leaving Colombia was a great relief from the shear fact the roads were like riding on air. Luc never trade the Suburban for the new Ford either! Twenty four toll booths (I counted) at between 4 and $6. Ecuador 4 at $1.00 each for brand new roads! Americans, did you ever wonder where the $1 coins went? They are all here as this country uses the dollar for currency. Okay, on the way to Quito we crossed the equator. A 5900 meter volcano with snow on the top and the lower valley had many green houses with masses of flowers. Quito was 4 million people strung out in the valley between the mountains. Similar to Colombia there is not any trash in the city. The graffiti artists are not present either. The country is not covered in trash of any amount. Quito had a very vibrant night life and a beautiful old city. Also a tram that took people to 4100 meters. Cold winds were blowing.
Leaving Quito toward Guayaquil is one main mountain range to go through before driving at least 75 kilometers through "Dole" banana plantations. Flat area with other smaller rice and corn acreage. Guayaquil is a lower city where the river enter into the ocean. Ecuador's main port town. A great new Malecon, but the city was difficult to find restaurants. Enjoyed visiting with locals at the square. Eleven year old Pedro offered to show us the bars !!, we declined. Left town rather early heading Northwest to the beach area of Ecuador..Salinas, Water temperature around 25 C, beaches are 80% light brown sand with the occasional black vulcanic sands added. Short on people as the season is from Dec through Feb, and then Easter week. Lots of Condos and townhouse in highrises empty. Night life later... Mark
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