Travel Information - Adventure Guide to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - page 54

Time Zone

E

cuador itself is on Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5).
The Galápagos Islands are on Central Standard
(GMT-6). There is no Daylight Savings Time.

Electricity

C

urrent is 110 volts, 60 cycles, AC (the same as North
America, but not compatible withBritain andAustra-
lia). Plugs have two flat prongs, as in North America.

Language

S

panish is the official language. English is spoken some
within the business community and quite a bit in the
travel and tourism industry. Some European languages,
including German, French and Dutch, are spoken in the
tourism industry as well, at hotels and with tour operators. You will
gain the most out of your Ecuadorian adventure, however, if you
learn Spanish before heading there and/or immerse yourself in a
Spanish-language program upon arrival. Not only will this allow you
to actually interact with Ecuadorians, rather than solely with other
foreign tourists, it will open a whole new world, both to you and to
them. For a list of recommended Spanish Schools and cultural ex-
changes throughout Ecuador, inquire with the South American Ex-
plorers Club ( /fax [phone], [e-mail]).

Studying Spanish
Ecuador is teeming with opportunities to learn Spanish, whether you
choose to take the formal route and study at a language school (per-
haps living with a local family as well) or just prefer to learn through
day-to-day interaction with locals. The Ecuadorian people are very
patient with gringos struggling to express themselves in Spanish, es-
pecially in the more touristy towns. They'll appreciate your efforts
and, at the end of the day, this will benefit you and them.