The Epic Adventures of Steve and Sheri: Epic In Ecuador

After a few delays and great visits with family and friends it's off to Quito by way of Vancouver/ Houston. By coincidence our nephew Cody and his girlfriend Lindsay, not sister Lindsay. Flights were easy, arrived around midnight, hopped in a taxi and checked into the hotel Inca Imperial. The room was a bit warm but well supplied with thick, heavy comforters and woolen blankets. No wonder we have an eskimo type image in hot / hotter countries. Woke up to a sprawling Quito, 45 miles long, population of 2.2 million, 2'nd highest capital city at an elevation of 9,300' Sasl. Better known as San Francisco de Quito. The mountain valley cityscape has a blend of skyscaper, churches, low rises, and shanties. We couldn't help notice the effects of altitude while on our hilly walk about to old town, a unesco world heritage sight. The 17'th century buildings and cobblestone streets were impressive. Meanwhile art nuevo graffiti is everywhere, even a funky part of town is dedicated to the art.

With typical canadian culture one may witness the odd pubic display of affection better known as pda. These Latin Americans have taken the language of love in publico to a level which could only be described as super caliente! Not necessarily a bad thing. Now we are hungry, to the local diner for
traditional soup with avacado and potato, and the typical rice, fried plantain, and chicken dish. Later we hooked up with Cody and Lindsay for cervesas and vino tinto at the hip and happening Foch Plaza in the Mariscal district. Heavy rain barely dampened the mood of locals, tourists, or hustlers. Next day more
urban trekking and a ride up to the statue of virgin mary know as . A great 360 degree view of the city
with the andes mountains in the backround. The following day Cody joined us for a gondola ride to telerico which is another 4,000' above the city. This too was breathtaking!

Quickly, their version of 7/11 is Oki Doki, McDonalds, Subway, and KFC, no Starbucks and the coffee most served is instant Nescafe. Sheri, Cody, and Lindsay head off to 000 Latitude while Steve goes into time zone adjustment mode. The tradition line and new official line made for a fun game of hemisphere hopscotch. Next stop Banos.