🇪🇨 Guayaquil, Ecuador: A Candid Travel Recap

Stepping out of the airport, the salty tang of seafood hits immediately—a stark contrast to Quito’s crisp mountain air. The sky here wears a permanent haze, far from the Andes’ crystal blue. 🏨 Stay: Courtyard by Marriott Pros: Budget-friendly, solid breakfast, free airport shuttle (book ahead!). Location: Super close to the airport—ideal for late arrivals. 🦎 Top Experiences 1️⃣ Parque de las Iguanas – Free and surreal! Dozens of wild iguanas lounge near the cathedral. 2️⃣ Wyndham Hotel Zone – Rooftop bars buzz at night, with views of "El Tornillo" (the city’s helical skyscraper—though Google Maps seems to ignore its nickname!). 🍋 Food Obsession: Ceviche Kingdom "If it swims, it can be ceviche!" Shrimp, crab, fish, even fruit—all drowned in lime and chili. Heaven for sour-lovers. ⚠️ Safety Notes (Heeded from Locals) "Don’t walk alone by day; don’t go out at night; avoid public transit." Taxis: Yellow cabs ≠ safe! Many are unregulated. Only use: Hotel-called taxis or "Seguridad Taxi" (staff wear vests). Reality check: The wealth gap is jarring. Affluent areas feel like a different country vs. the tense vibe downtown. 🎡 Urban Adventures Cable Car + Ferris Wheel: Worth it for skyline views (but that’s about it). Nearby Beach (Salinas): Pretty in photos, but 2 hours away—skip without a car. 🌿 Final Stop: Parque Histórico Surprise highlight! Flamingos, parrots, sloths, and lush trails—a peaceful escape before flying out. #GuayaquilUnfiltered #EcuadorTravel #SeafoodHeaven #TravelSafe