From Seattle to Quito: A Travel Adventure
On our latest adventure of "Traveling While Black," we went from Seattle to the vibrant city of Quito, Ecuador. Of course the episode was not just about the destination but also the journey, which was an experience in itself.
"The Journey from Seattle to Quito: An Adventure in Ecuador"
On our latest adventure of "Traveling While Black," we went from Seattle to the vibrant city of Quito, Ecuador. Of course the episode was not just about the destination but also the journey, which was an experience in itself.
Traveling from Seattle to Quito was no easy feat. Our journey began with an early morning flight, followed by a layover in Atlanta, and finally, a six-hour flight to Quito. Upon arriving, we were greeted with an hour-long taxi ride to our hotel in Old Town Quito. The return trip, especially from the Galápagos, was even more challenging, highlighting the need for strategic planning when traveling to this part of the world.
Despite the lengthy travel time, the allure of Quito made every moment worthwhile. We recommend breaking up the trip if possible, especially on the return journey, to ease the travel fatigue.
Once in Quito, we were mesmerized by the city's blend of colonial charm and modern vibrancy. Our exploration with Metropolitan Touring took us through the heart of the city's cultural and historical landmarks, offering a glimpse into Ecuador's diverse heritage.
Our accommodation at Casa Gangotena, a boutique hotel with a rich colonial history, added to the charm of our stay. The hotel's location in the Old Town provided easy access to local attractions and a stunning view of the city's historical landscape.
The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the Old Town Quito walking tour. Guided by local residents, we immersed ourselves in the city's culture, meeting local artisans and experiencing traditional cuisines.
Our journey from Seattle to Quito, while challenging, was a testament to the wonders that await those who venture beyond their comfort zones. Our overall travel grade for this trip is a 2 out of 5, considering the complexities of the journey.
However, the experiences and memories we gained in Quito are invaluable, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and adventure.
Discovering the Rich Cultural Tapestry of Quito, Ecuador
Welcome to the latest entry in our "Traveling While Black" series, where we take you through the heart of Ecuador, exploring its vibrant capital, Quito. As seasoned Seattle travel guides, we were thrilled to embark on this journey, discovering the city's rich cultural tapestry and historic charm.
"Exploring Quito: A Seattle Travel Guide to Ecuador's Historic Capital"
Welcome to the latest entry in our "Traveling While Black" series, where we take you through the heart of Ecuador, exploring its vibrant capital, Quito. As seasoned Seattle travel guides, we were thrilled to embark on this journey, discovering the city's rich cultural tapestry and historic charm.
Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a city where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern living. This metropolis, nestled in the Andean highlands, boasts some of the best-preserved historic centers in the Americas. Its cobbled streets, lined with colonial mansions, churches, and plazas, are a testament to the city's Spanish and indigenous past.
During our visit, we partnered with Metropolitan Touring, a company with 70 years of experience in showcasing Ecuador's wonders. Our stay at the luxurious Casa Gangotena, a restored historic mansion, was nothing short of magical. The hotel's architecture, overlooking Plaza San Francisco, gave us a glimpse into the city's fascinating history.
Our exploration took us on an Old Town Quito walking tour, guided by local residents. This immersive experience, arranged by Metropolitan Touring, allowed us to connect with artisans, shopkeepers, and traditional healers. We savored local cuisines, participated in a chocolate workshop, and marveled at churches dating back to the 16th century.
Quito’s culinary scene, reflecting the country’s diverse ecosystems, was a delightful surprise. From traditional Ecuadorian lunches to sampling the world's largest exporter of chocolate, our taste buds were on a journey of their own.
While our travel from Seattle to Quito was a bit of a trek, involving connecting flights and layovers, the destination's allure made every minute worth it. Our experience in Quito gets a resounding 5 out of 5 for the level of fun and cultural enrichment.
Stay tuned for more adventures as we continue to explore Ecuador, a country rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage. And for fellow travelers from Seattle or anywhere else, Quito is a must-visit destination on your travel list!
Navigating the Streets of Quito - A Black Traveler's Perspective
In this installment of "Traveling While Black," we delve into our recent travel vlog experience in Quito, Ecuador's enchanting capital. As Black travelers, our journey through this historically rich city was filled with eye-opening discoveries and valuable insights.
“Traveling While Black: Our Experience in Quito, Ecuador’s Enchanting Capital”
In this installment of "Traveling While Black," we delve into our recent travel vlog experience in Quito, Ecuador's enchanting capital. As Black travelers, our journey through this historically rich city was filled with eye-opening discoveries and valuable insights.
Our adventure began with a walking tour through Quito's Old Town, guided by locals. This initiative, designed to support grassroots organizations, allowed us to delve deep into the heart of Ecuadorian culture.
We navigated through vibrant markets, met local artisans, and even indulged in a chocolate-making experience that included tasting.
One striking aspect of Quito is its Roman Catholic influence, visible in its majestic churches that have stood since the 16th century. These architectural marvels are not just religious landmarks but also symbols of the city's deep-rooted history.
The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco Square, Quito, Ecuador
As Black travelers, our interactions in Quito were overwhelmingly positive. The warmth and hospitality of the locals were evident in every smiling face and welcoming gesture. Whether it was shopkeepers, tour guides, or fellow diners, we felt an immediate sense of belonging.
However, our experience wasn't without its challenges. During our stay, we encountered a moment of unease with the local police at the Quito airport, highlighting the complexities of traveling while Black. Despite this, our overall experience in Quito was incredibly fulfilling.
