Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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The El Salado Springs are a less-populated option with a range of heated pools located on
a scenic road close to town. It's a 2.5-mile uphill walk from the city center or a short bus
ride that departs adjacent to the terminal.
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Yerbabuena Spa
Montalvo and Rafael Vieira
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While you can walk along 'spa street' (Martínez) and duck into any establishment for a
cheap, quality treatment Yerbabuena Spa has its own retreat-like house enveloped by
flourishing gardens on a quiet block. The space is infinitely more quiet, exclusive and in-
timate than other spa in town, and the family-run service is exceptional. Don't leave
without treating yourself to the spa's signature Yerbabuena Massage: 80 minutes of pure
bliss ending with a ritual slapping with Amazonian stinging nettles (which purifies the
blood and isn't as bad as it sounds.) Finally, a cold towel is wrapped over the body for re-
lief.
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Samari Spa Resort
Half a mile on the route from Baños to Puyo
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Samari is a five-star resort set in the beatific town of Santa Ana that boasts four hectares
of tropical gardens, an art gallery, cafe bar, restaurant, fitness courts, pool, boutique,
boardrooms and banquet halls. Of course, the spa remains the main attraction and guests
should expect the ultimate in pampering when it comes to Samari.
Food
You already know I'm going to tell you to head straight for the market.
El Mercado Cent-
ral
(Ambato between Eloy Alfaro and Rocafuerte) is a chaotic one-room market with
cheap, hearty meals served around the clock. The
Caldo de Gallina
(hen soup) here is the
best in the country (as are the coconut milkshakes) but adventurous foodies can sample
the
yahuarlocro,
a potato puree with blood sausage and avocado.
