Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ecuador has an organized and affordable transportation system. Most airlines operate out
of Guayaquil and Quito's airports, but Cuenca (the third largest city) also receives traffic.
Smaller cities that have airports are only in use for domestic flights or military purposes.
If you're not scrapped for time or heading to the Amazon, however, buses are the next
best option, as riding is usually convenient and more economical. Buses usually charge $1
per hour and Ecuador is very small, so you can travel from the beach to the cloud forest
for $7, mountains to the Amazon for $4, and so on. Carriers range from slow, rusty ma-
chines to clean, air-conditioned sleepers. Prices don't vary much. Bus terminals are loc-
ated in almost every city and small town; you can find them by the name
Terminal Terre-
stre
or
Terminal de Buses
.
Etiquette
Etiquette is a funny business in Ecuador. As in most places, it changes with social class.
For instance, patrons may refer to a server as '
señorita
' or '
señorito
' in a chic establish-
ment, or simply as 'girl' or 'boy' in a cheap one. Of course, you'll want to aim for the
former in every situation. Keep in mind that elders are especially held with respect so
you'll want to add on
señor
and
señora
at the end of sentences when in conversation with
them. Beware however; adult women should be addressed as señorita to avoid offense!
If you're satisfied with someone's help (be it with directions or during a transaction) it's
customary to say '
muy amable'
or 'very nice' to show your thanks. As always,
gracias
and
por favor
can go a long way.
One quick warning to soften the blow of culture shock: wherever you go in Ecuador, it's
normal to see people picking their noses in public. I don't know why, but everyone does
it. Regardless, burping in public is somehow very taboo, so you'll want to excuse yourself
with a quick
perdón
after those.
Food
Ecuadorian gastronomy spans its radically contrasting regions, generations after genera-
tions and the varied traditions of its cultures, creating a mouth-watering clash of rich fla-
vors and hefty dishes sure to satisfy the most discerning traveler's tastes. For instance,
while the sierras are heavy on meat-and-potatoes dishes, the coast conjures up all things
