Discovering the Breathtaking Ecuador Mainland and Enchanting Wonders of Galapagos' Central East and Southern Islands
On our recent trip to Ecuador's mainland and the Galapagos Islands, we had a jam-packed itinerary with lots of high-octane engagement (and a few plot twists) - which, at times, felt like an out-of-body experience in a parallel dimension. Join me as I discuss some of the highlights of our educational vacation!
My travel buddy, Marie and I met at the entrance of Manila airport's NAIA Terminal 3 in the afternoon of Dec 4th, 2022 to catch our flight in the evening to Quito via Amsterdam. We made sure all our documents are in place, started our trip with a hearty dinner and started documenting our adventure.
Photo by Jemimah Caringal-Duran
Here we go!
Photo by Jemimah Caringal-Duran
This is us relaxing in Amsterdam after a long trip from Manila. We took advantage of the KLM lounge, where we stayed connected with our loved ones and ate a variety of meals inspired by different cultures.
Photo by Jemimah Caringal-Duran
Photo by Jemimah Caringal-Duran
In Amsterdam, while waiting for our flight to Quito.
Photo by Jemimah Caringal-Duran
We finally arrived in Quito at 5 p.m. on December 5, and as soon as we passed immigration, customs, and duty free, our guide was waiting for us - holding an Adventure Life sign on the right side of the arrivals hall with our names on it. We were surprised to discover how easy it was to find our guide at the airport! Can you spot him on the picture below?
Photo by Jemimah Caringal-Duran
It was late afternoon, almost evening. What should we be expecting? We did some research and anticipated a warmer climate given their proximity to the equator. However, for someone who grew up in a tropical region, Quito's climate is significantly more comfortable - it's windy and has a cool breeze! Fortunately, we both have lightweight jackets!
Photo by Jemimah Caringal-Duran
Despite our exhaustion from the long trip, we are eager to explore the city. On our way to our hotel, Hotel Patio Andaluz, in Quito's historic neighborhood, we noticed vendors selling their local drink (Ecuadorian drink, which they call "canelazo") - just in time for the cold weather! You can have it with or without liquor; of course, I took one with liquor! We are supposed to roam the city at night but because it was Quito's Foundation day on that date, the plaza was closed and not open to the public. Although we didn't see the historic city at night by foot, it did not disappoint us - it was a perfect time for us to refuel and recharge for the next day.
Here are a few photos of Hotel Patio Andaluz where we stayed for the night.
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Erin was wonderful! Informative, friendly, knowledgeable. She gave us several options, listened to our concerns and requests and came up with a great itinerary.
Beth Hutter
4 months ago
The travel was seamless and the experiences were fantastic. Naturalists on all of the trips who were great teachers/guides. I would definitely use Adventure Life again. Very organized and efficient
Bonnie Diessner
4 months ago
Franny found a trip that was customized to our needs. she is now stepping through the process and has maintained close communication at every step.
Rebecca
4 months ago
I reached out with a wish and a limited window of opportunity - Kevin made it happen. Everything about this experience exceeded my ecxpectations.
MV
6 months ago
My husband and I spent 3 days in the Amazon and a week in the Andes. Both our Amazon guide, Luis, and our Andes guide, Leo, were the best you could ask for. They were both extremely knowledgeable and professional, but also fun! They both seemed to genuinely enjoy sharing their country, culture, food and energy with us. Their enthusiasm and obvious pride in their country were infectious. We would not have had such an enjoyable experience without them. They really made us feel like we were traveling with friends, not hired guides. Highly recommend!
