Hola from Quito!

We have been in Quito for 6 days now! We decided to spend the first part of our trip taking Spanish classes. We’ve been staying at a homestay to help reinforce and practice what we have been learning. Our host familia consists of a couple and their adult son.

When we are not in class or spending time with our host family, we have been out exploring Quito! We have had a great introduction to Quito so far. The people are so friendly and very helpful with our limited Spanish. We have spent time wandering the stone streets of the Historic District, admiring the gorgeous architecture, and sampling Ecuadorian delicacies like delicious empanadas!

On Friday we had a break from classes because of Ecuadorian Independence day. We took the opportunity to sleep in because we both forgot how tiring it is to be a student! After a late breakfast, we went to the National Museum of Ecuador where we got a bit of a crash course in Ecuadorian art and culture. We spent the rest of the day studying Spanish and wandering the city.

Tiffany inside of El Club estrafalario de Juan Agustín Guerrero

On Saturday we took the TelefériQo (cable car) up the side of Volcán Pichincha to the top of Cruz Loma. During the 15 minute ride we ascended from around 10,000 ft to 13,000 ft. Once at the top we were met with sweeping views of Quito and surrounding mountains and volcanoes.

As we were still adjusting to the altitude we did not attempt the 5-hour trek to the summit of the Volcano. Instead, we opted to do a shorter loop. During our walk (as we gasped for air) we hung out with llamas, battled wind, swung at 13,000 ft, and bumped into Stormtroopers!

On Sunday we took a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tour of Quito. During the course of the day, we visited the Basílica del Voto Nacional, the largest neo-Gothic basilica in the Americas. Construction started over 100 years ago, but the thing is still being built. Nothing too noticeable, but little things here and there (kind of like the Lay family house)! From the spiraling towers of the basilica, we were able to see panoramic views of the city.

After the basilica, we headed to El Panecillo. The statue of the Virgin Mary sits on top of a hill and towers over the Old Town. It was amazing to see the contrast between the Old Town and New Quito.

This week we look forward to three more Spanish classes and friends, Tammen and Bridgit, joining us in Quito!

Check out more pictures from our trip here!