Post 76: Quito Day Uno

Fellow adventurers,

This morning we explored the Old Ctiy and the main square, Plaza Grande, which is very similar to Plaza de Armas in Lima. It was beautiful and full of people. The class difference could really be seen in this nations main plaza, as children strolled by with ice cream in hand while their peers, as young as 7, worked hard to make a few cents shining shoes. Ours were not leather, but they asked non the less.

After roaming for a while, we went to Heladeria San Augustin, an 150 plus year old ice cream shop a block off the main square. The ice cream here is made in giant copper bowls. We both unknowingly ordered more than we could handle and a massive sugar rush ensued. I ordered a cone of Mora (a local fruit similar to blackberry) and Leche (milk with cinnamon), and June had Mora and Maracuya (Passionfruit). The ice cream was more akin to sorbet than anything, but very delicious none the less. As we sat enjoying our mid day snack, a familiar face strolled by on the street below, Helen, who sat next to us on the plane to Quito from Bogota. She and her boyfriend came up to see us and we decided to meet later in tonight for some drinks and local festivities. The more the merrier. They may also be joining us for the football game tomorrow.

Our next stop was a random but awesome one. We wandered into the Basillica del Voto Nacional and paid 2 bucks to be able to explore the beautiful Neogothic Catholic Church. The climb to the top was a bit harrowing and full of extremely steep stairs which could almost be considered ladders. The church had beautiful 360 views overlooking the city and surrounding mountains. Fortunately for us we made it up right before the rain started. We were unable to do the cable cars today due to the cloudiness and weather, but had fun regardless.

We are now back at the Inn and ready to find some food before meeting with our new friends tonight. More to come soon.

Gavin (y June)

Mas fotos: