FACTOIDS:
VEY IMPORTANT: EVERY HOTEL HAS A BUSINESS CARD- ALWAYS TAKE
SEVERAL TO HAND TO CABBIES- VERY FEW PEOPLE SPEAK ENGLISH- IT WILL SAVE YOUR
HIDE!
When you go out, do NOT flash anything expensive
Wear a money belt, or something to keep valuables safe
Use safe in the hotel
I like to keep money in two places- one hidden so that if
mugged, the mugger will be satisfied and I will still have enough money to get
home. I never go out with a lot of
cash
I advise taking two credit cards or one card and one debit
card in case one is lost or is compromised
I strongly advise everyone take along a safari vest. I keep harping on this and I know it is
dorky but, used it this trip. Some
smaller planes will not allow for even a small carry on bag. Some will have restrictive carry on weight
restrictions. I was forced to part
with my camera gear. Fortunately,
everything of value fit into my vest.
I always advise going out using the buddy system to keep an
eye on each other. Also, it is
helpful if someone has an excellent sense of direction.
Speak with phone company and turn off “data roaming” so you
don’t get hit with a huge bill for internet. You will still get text messages and phone calls however.
Guayaquil is a very modern city by many standards. It has several modern-looking malls,
that would look like home were it not for the “strange looking” brand names and
foreign language. In general,
things are much less expensive here in Ecuador; however, there are some very
notable exceptions. Electronics
such as computers, phones, large appliances and durable goods are VERY
expensive. That large screen TV
that costs $700 at COSTCO may cost $4000 in Ecuador. Want to import your car? Forget it.
Groceries are inexpensive, but unless you go to local “markets”, you
really won’t save a lot of money.
You also won’t really get a feel for the fun of being in a foreign
country or dickering on a price (if that is your cup of tea). With that in mind, here are some market
pics, and some other street scenes around Guayaquil.
Covered market that sold mainly dry goods and sundries. Jewelry, clothes, handbags, and
whatever you can imagine. I
purchased my “Panama Hat” at this market for $14 USD. At the hotel, same hat, $60.00. Be prepared to dicker, it is their way of life. They see gringo, and they think
$$$. Unless you absolutely MUST
have that particular item, be prepared to walk if they don’t come down to a
price you are willing to pay.
Don’t worry however; chances are that you will find it or a better one
in a stall nearby.
A stall with everything you ever needed, and stuff you never
even knew about. The craftsmanship
is outstanding however. It is
hand-made
Good stuff, and plain old junk.
You decide which is which.
Fun fact: It is
illegal to import incandescent light bulbs. Ecuador is going green! Get used to fluorescent.
Street scenes.
It seems that buildings are
always being built, or being neglected.
Close-up of window treatment and its neglect. Shameful of the beautiful handicraft
going to rust and decay. Makes for
beautiful photography however.
View of The Las Peñas district.
This hill was set up with cannons previously to defend the city against
pirates. Now the steps do a great
job against middle-aged tourists with heavy camera gear.
More to follow very soon- internet is very spotty!
