Originally published 06 August 2012

Quito, Ecuador

"We contrasted the street now with 39 years ago back in 1973"

Flying into Quito in March this year contrasted greatly with our arrival by bus in July 1973. Back then we had travelled from Cuzco on local buses packed with indigenous people and in some cases an assortment of livestock and produce. Travelling from Cuzco to Lima and then following the coastal road north, we entered Ecuador just beyond Tumbes. The road through Cuenca, Riobamba and Ambato finally brought us to Quito.

Driving from the airport through the suburbs this time highlighted the huge expansion of the city over the years. Once we entered the centre of Quito the squares and elaborate churches of the old town were familiar, but overlooked from the Panacillo Hill by the huge winged virgin constructed since our previous visit.

Quito in 2012 (left) and back in 1973 (right)

There were more cars, more people, but few wearing the traditional dress. It is a shame that some of the old traditions have disappeared. The lovely squares, buildings and churches, now declared as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO, are beautifully preserved and cleaner than we remember. Staying in a hotel in La Ronda we contrasted the street now with 39 years ago and although cleaner and well maintained it has perhaps lost some of the old charm. The experience of visiting earlier was perhaps more memorable as the differences between the societies have since slowly eroded away.

Find out more about tailor-made trips to Ecuador

Ecuador

Visit Ecuador and embark on a cruise to the Galapagos Islands or discover the beautiful city of Quito, Ecuador's capital. Stay in Guayaquil in the coastal lowlands or visit the Amazon region inland.

Read more about Ecuador »

Send us your comments on this article...