🇪🇨 Quito, Ecuador: The Capital on the Equator

While the Galápagos Islands are Ecuador’s star attraction, Quito—the world’s highest capital—offers a compact urban adventure. Here’s the lowdown: 🏙️ Quito Highlights Basílica del Voto Nacional: Gothic-meets-Andean architecture (climb towers for epic views!). City Tour Bus: Hop-on/hop-off from the cathedral (or walk—but stay alert!). Mitad del Mundo: Straddle the equator line (yes, the real one is nearby at Intiñan Museum!). 🌋 Day Trips Gone Wrong (But Fun!) 1️⃣ Planned: Cotopaxi Volcano 🌋 (snow-capped dream). 2️⃣ Reality: Quilotoa Crater Lake 🛶 (thanks, agency mix-up!). Silver lining: Kayaking on emerald waters + a guide who pointed out Cotopaxi every chance he got. ⚠️ Quirks & Safety Currency: USD only. Security: Armed guards at hotels + “no guns” airport signs—stay vigilant! Odd Encounters: Overly inquisitive customs officer who left her number (?). Uber angel who waited till I entered my hotel. Phone-shop villain who sabotaged my SIM card (solved by switching staff!). ✈️ Gateway Cities Guayaquil: Just a flight hub to Galápagos (skip exploring). #Quito #EcuadorTravel #TravelFailsWithAPurpose