8:52 PM
Adam and I could hardly sleep Friday night; we were going to the Galapagos!!
Our journey today started in Great Neck, NY and ended in Quito, Ecuador via two flights (New York to Miami & Miami to Quito) and a taxi. Upon landing in Quito, we went through the usual customs which was then followed up by an interesting screening that only makes sense for the past few months...
As we cleared customs we were directed to a line where two workers were screening passengers for swine flu by aiming a thermal camera at the face of each person. I'm assuming that if your temperature was too high, you'd be pulled aside for further screening but luckily, we didn't have to find out. Then it was off to collect our luggage and look for a taxi.
After gathering our two bags, we walked into the lobby where there were numerous windows where you could get a taxi. We ended up paying $10 for a ride to the Hotel Eugenia. I knew from the guidebooks that you could get there for $5 or less if you took a taxi outside on the street but when it's already dark out, you're exhausted from your flight, and you don't speak Spanish very well...that's when you pay an extra $5 for the convenience.
The Hotel Eugenia was very cozy and nicely decorated, the rooms were comfortably sized, and the staff was extremely friendly and helpful. We arrived at the hotel right around 7pm and Adam couldn't help but mention his stomach was telling him it was past his dinnertime. Although Adam can find an excuse to eat any time of day, we decided to head back downstairs to get dinner in the hotel.
We sat down in the quaint restaurant right behind the lobby. We had two sandwiches and three beers (Pilsener - a light Ecuadorian beer) all for under $20, including tax & tip. I can get used to Ecuador, all that gets me in NYC is one drink, maybe 2 if it's Happy Hour!
After dinner, I was excited to go out and see the city, but seeing as the sun sets just after 6pm and we had arrived on a Saturday, most shops and markets were already closed. We ended up deciding to retire early so the next day would come that much quicker.
I spoke with at least a half dozen other travel companies, looking for a Galapagos cruise that fit our schedule and budget. Some companies could manage one or the other, but Erin was the only one who could do both. She found us the perfect cruise, at a fantastic price! And she has been quick and patient with responses to my many questions. So far, Adventure Life has been a fantastic company to work with!
Sandi T
3 weeks ago
Erin was patient, thorough, responsive, knowledgeable.
Karen Bukolt
3 weeks ago
Erin was responsive, knowledgeable, helpful, and ran through a few different choices with us. She got us a fabulous price on a trip, and made everything easy to do. And QUICK!!
Tina
1 month ago
From the initial meeting and planning process with our trip planner Jess, through to the finalizing of our itinerary, trip details and questions, I was very impressed with the professionalism, thoroughness, organization and attention to details. I would highly recommend Adventure Life to anyone looking to plan a unique travelling experience, knowing that the expertise and experience provided will result in a seamless trip of a lifetime.
Lynn Farquharson
1 month ago
Excellent suggestions I line with my desires on a Galapagos very last minute cruise.
Swift and professional guidance and assistance in booking the trip. Helped me realising a substantial saving.