Quito is a lovely city nestled high in the Andean mountains. On what was a relatively cloudy and then wet day (bizarrely Dan managed to get sunburnt!!) we took in the gorgeous basilica and climbed it’s steep steps up to the tower to see the sweeping views of the city. Highly recommended for anyone who visits Quito.
A stroll around the plaza and then the back streets resulted in a great lunch in a local cafe ($2.50 for soup, a main and a juice!) followed by the bargain of the trip so far – Dan’s impulsive $1 haircut!! Yes $1 for a trim and the use of the cut-throat razor! And despite our poor Spanish and their non-existent English it went pretty well.
On walking back to our hostel we encountered a number of groups of young men dressed in women’s clothing stopping cars and taxis – we discovered later this was one of the many strange traditions that happens in Ecuador on New Year Eve. The men demand money from the cars in order to pass – and then use that money for their beers later when they start partying! They appear to demand this toll in comical fashion throughout the day, very entertaining.
We then encountered an almost never ending sea of people down a road that had been blocked off – everyone seemed to be in some sort of fancy dress – halloween costumes were particularly popular and people would stop to have their photos taken with those with the best costumes. It seemed as though everyone had taken the time to dress up, even if it was just a wig, hat or face paint. People even dressed their babies and pet dogs up!
Large impressive political effigies lined the streets, ready to be burnt at midnight and local bands belted out music on each corner. It was an amazing party feeling, though very family orientated.
The heavens then opened and it unfortunately rained for the rest of the night. This forced us to remain in one bar rather than trying a few as planned, but we picked a good one with 2 great live bands to entertain us and fireworks at midnight. Good food and cheap drinks and cocktails added to our enjoyment!!
Tiredbuthappytravels 