Quito, Ecuador

• Quito sits at 2,850 meters elevation - the second-highest capital city in the world. The altitude will hit you immediately. Expect to be winded just walking up stairs for the first few days. The city sprawls across a valley surrounded by volcanic peaks, with neighborhoods ranging from colonial cobblestone streets to modern business districts.
• Eating alone is normal in cafes around La Floresta and González Suárez, though you'll get more stares in working-class areas. Tourist zones and upscale places have English speakers, but you'll struggle elsewhere without basic Spanish.
• Petty crime is the main issue - pickpocketing on crowded buses, phone grabs, bag slashing. Keep everything hidden and don't wear jewelry.
• The new metro runs north-south and works fine during the day, but after dark stick to Uber or registered taxis. Some neighborhoods (La Floresta, La Carolina, González Suárez) stay lit and active at night. Others empty out fast after sunset and aren't safe to walk around.

Spanish is the main language. You'll find English speakers at tourist police, big hotels, and upscale restaurants in La Floresta, La Carolina, and La Mariscal. The 911 emergency service has some English-speaking operators. Outside those areas, almost no one speaks English. Basic Spanish phrases are essential.

• Dress more conservatively here than you would in North America or Europe. Locals don't wear shorts in the city - you'll immediately look like a tourist. Jeans and a light sweater work for the cool climate. Tank tops and revealing clothes get unwanted attention.
• Almost no one speaks English outside tourist zones and expensive restaurants. Learn basic Spanish: hola, gracias, por favor, disculpe, la cuenta (the bill). Download Google Translate offline before you arrive.
• Say hello when you enter shops, hotels, or taxis. Ecuadorians are formal, especially in the highlands - keep polite manners with police and officials. If someone invites you to their home, showing up exactly on time is considered eager. Arrive 30-45 minutes late.
• Churches require modest dress - no shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing. Bring a scarf to cover your shoulders. You can haggle in markets but don't be aggressive about it.

• The metro opened in 2023 - one line running north to south with 15 stations. Costs $0.45 per ride and gets you around quickly. It's fine during the day but don't use it after dark. Take Uber or a registered taxi instead.
• The bus system (MetrobusQ) costs $0.25 and covers most areas, but gets packed during rush hour. Pickpockets work the crowded buses, so keep your bag in front and your phone out of sight. Combined metro + bus fare is $0.60.
• Uber works here and is safer than flagging random taxis, especially at night. Official yellow taxis are okay if your hotel calls one or you use a registered service. Don't get in unmarked cars or unofficial taxis on the street.
• You can walk around safe neighborhoods during the day, but the altitude will hit you hard. You'll be gasping going up hills or stairs until you adjust. Take it slow the first few days. La Carolina and La Floresta are walkable and reasonably safe after dark, but most other areas aren't.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

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