Tag 1: Quito

Surprisingly, despite the considerable lack of sleep during the journey, we didn't experience any major jet lag. The high altitude also doesn't pose any significant problems.

Our hostel is very basic, but nice and clean, and the owners are extremely friendly. It's also relatively centrally located so we walked into the city today.

There, we first visited the Basílica del Sagrado Voto Nacional, a huge neo-gothic building with numerous gargoyles in the form of various Ecuadorian animals (pelicans, llamas, crocodiles, etc.), which is located on one of the many hills in this city. Through narrow and dizzyingly steep iron stairs, we climbed up to the top of the tower, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city.

At the cafe 'Dios no muere', we had an excellent late lunch. They serve a mix of Ecuadorian and Creole cuisine there (the owner is from Louisiana).

In the late afternoon, we visited, among other things, the 'Plaza de la Independencia' in the heart of the city and then took a stroll through the city. As the city is extremely hilly, it's quite strenuous!

The noise here takes some getting used to. Quito is a very noisy city, with street vendors selling their goods on every corner and drivers honking their horns at every possible opportunity. On the other hand, the food and admission fees to the sights are very cheap here, and the Ecuadorians are extremely helpful and friendly.