Flying into Quito, the capital of Ecuador, after 18 hours on a plane, was truly mesmerising. The country, that I had only ever seen in pictures, instantly embraced me in its majestic scenery. The mountains were so much bigger than I imagined and continued for miles and miles until I descended. When I landed, I still felt high and completely giddy, with excitement and altitude, somewhere in between the towering Andean peaks.
Little did I know, the country would continue to mesmerise me for six weeks with its beautifully natured people, impressive weather changes, amazing food and biodiversity. My journey took place with Felipe; a proud Ecuadorean citizen and Galapagos resident who also happens to be my best friend and love. I met him in Canada while we both studied at Trent University. I am incredibly grateful I had the opportunity to learn of his home land, culture, language and family.
After acclimatising to the altitude (Quito is at an elevation of 2,850 metres (9,350 ft) above sea level), our first stop was Mitad del Mundo; Middle of the World. As one of the most popular tourist spots, we couldn’t give it a miss. Latitude 0,0,0 is located a short drive north of Quito and has an impressive monument and museum. It was also a great viewpoint of the surrounding mountains. Our guide encouraged us to walk down the equator line with our eyes closed; feeling the pull from both the North and South. I felt it! I loved hopping from North to South as it was my first time in the Southern part of the world: a really special moment.
At night, we went to La Ronda in Centro Historico/ Historical Centre and ate Empanadas de Viento, filled with fresh cheese and sugar. They were even more delicious with the Canelazo, a hot sugar cane alcohol with naranjilla (“little orange”) and cinnamon, which went straight to my head! Quito’s old town, constructed on an ancient Inca city, is full of bustling narrow streets, picturesque plazas, grand churches, stunning architecture and a vibrant history. The pairing of the Spanish influence and the ancient Inca roots give the city a feel that, for me, was like no other. The Old Town is central to Quito. The North was where we stayed, also known as modern Quito, with high-rise buildings, shopping centres and a financial district. I fell in love with the capital city of Ecuador. Whether it was spending time in Parque Metropolitano relaxing in the hammock, or eating pastries and ice cream in my new favourite café Corfu, I couldn’t have spent it with a better person.
Check out Lonely Planet’s description of Quito, it’s one of my favourites!
Trip Playlist
Menudos – Claridad
Hombres G – Devuelveme A Mi Chica
Julieta Venegas – Limon y Sal
Holly Stark 
Leave a comment