Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
if you're getting around by cab but can make you a target on the streets. As there's so
much to see in Quito, you'll obviously want to bring your camera along, but consider join-
ing a neighborhood tour. This is a great way to take pictures within a group and not feel
stressed the entire time about possible robberies. Always bring a bag (probably not one
that says NIKON on it) to keep your camera in when not in use. Keep cell phones and
MP3 players in concealed pockets, and avoid bringing large sums of money or even bank
cards with you on walks - keep them in your hotel's safe when necessary.
On public transportation (especially on the Trolebús or Ecovía)
always
keep your bag in
front of you and avoid letting it sit on the floor; it's common for pickpockets to slash your
bag and remove goods from the seat behind you while you're absentmindedly gazing out
the window. Finally, most thieves are just broke and looking for their next meal, but you
don't know how dangerous they can be so if someone tries to take your camera, let it go!
I've known quite a few travelers who put up a fight and ended up the worse for it.
A Quick
Quiteño
Spanish Lesson
In comparison to other Spanish-speaking countries, Ecuador is usually heralded as one of
the best places to learn the language since nationals tend to speak a less-accented, more
accurate version than say, Argentina or Venezuela. But like any other city, Quito has its
own private language only locals can decode, so here's a cheat sheet to make communic-
ating a little smoother.
Chuta!
Chuta isn't such a bad word (like 'crap') and is therefore broadly used by kids, grand-
mothers - everyone. After a few days in Quito, it's difficult
not
to exclaim 'Chuta!' every
time you miss the bus or lose something.
Madre
can be added to the term if you're having
a really bad day.
Cachas?
Just like
capiche
in Italy, Quiteños constantly use this word at the end of sentences to
make sure you're both on the same page, cachas?
El man
An offshoot of the English word 'man' like the Jamaican '
mon
', el man is usually used in
reference to others who aren't present during conversations, like 'he' or 'she'. When
Quiteños run into friends they haven't seen in a while, it's common to exclaim 'ese man!'
or 'that man!' For women, use
La Man
.
