Best In Travel Magazine Issue 74 // 2018 // Discover Ecuador by Best in Travel Magazine

BESTINTRAVELMAGAZINE.COM DISCOVER | EXPLORE | VISIT ECUADOR

DISCOVER

ECUADOR

IntroducIng Ecuador Andean mountains, Amazonian forest, Idyllic islands and coastline, postcard-prey colonial centres, Kichwa villages…

Ecuador may be one of the the smallest countries in South America but don’t be fooled by its size for there is plenty to see, do and experience in Luz de América (the light of America).

Planning a visit to this Andean country? Let Best in Travel be your guide…

Publisher Kevin Rolfe

Special Features Editor Kaye Holland

Editor Siddharth Thaker

Production team Rasha Akar Nadeem George Denis Halilaj Tracy Rolfe

designers Mike Gibas Mark Askam Editorial team Ana Strack Christopher O’Toole Rebecca Cohen Phil Blizzard Photography Mark Hakansson Ben Roberts Anjjelo San Buenaventura Business development Chris Frost Sion Rapson Gina Reynolds Mike Sawicki

content management Marfee Ybañez Laarni Mendoza Suguitan Heizel Amora Juvilyn Camello Virendra Singh Bhanu Roel Christian Yambao Ai Ling Foong Trishia Delas Alas Kaycee Melon Jel Varca Athena Davadilla online George Cooke

Best In Travel is published by World Media and Events Ltd 2nd Floor, Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square, London W1J 6BD, United Kingdom T: +44 (0) 207 887 1410 E: advertising@bestintravelmagazine.com www.bestintravelmagazine.com The use of our Website and Digital Magazine are all subject to the following: All rights reserved. No part of www.bestintravelmagazine.com may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmied, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from world luxury daily. Whilst every eﬀort has been made to check the information contained in this issue of world luxury daily magazine, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of world luxury daily publishing. Unless otherwise stated, the copyright of the individual contribution is that of the contributors. Every eﬀort has been made to trace the copyright holders of images. We apologise in advance for any unintentional omissions and would be pleased to insert the appropriate acknowledgment in any subsequent publication.

Postcard-pretty colonial centers, waves splashing white-sand beaches, Kichwa villages, Amazonian rainforest and the breathtaking Andes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a dazzling array of wonders is squeezed into this compact country. The historic centers of Quito and Cuenca are lined with photogenic plazas, 17th-century churches and monasteries, and beautifully restored mansions. Wandering the cobblestone streets amid architectural treasures from Spanish colonial days is a fine way to delve into the past. Beyond the cities, the Ecuadorian landscape unfolds in all its startling variety. There are Andean villages renowned for their colorful textiles and sprawling markets, Afro-Ecuadorian towns where days end with meals of fresh seafood and memorable sunsets, and remote settlements in the Amazon where shamans still harvest the traditional rainforest medicines of their ancestors.

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Discover Ecuador

facebook.com/Discover-the-Republic-of-Ecuador-555531661465486/ twitter.com/discecuador

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ECUADOR TRAVEL TIPS

ECUADOR

TIPS AND ADVICE TO HELP TRAVELLERS GET THE VERY BEST TRAVEL EXPERIENCE OUT OF ECUADOR ARRIVING TO ECUADOR

WHAT TO WEAR

DOCUMENTS No visas are required to visit Ecuador for a period of 90 days per year.

ANDES Warm clothing. Sunhats.

MONEY Currency: American dollar. ATM network in all cities. Many locals accept Visa, Master Card, American Express, Diners Club. INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS Quito Guayaquil PLUS/VOLTAGES 110v and 60Hz Outlets are single phase two wire. You can get adapters in any hardware store. ACCOMMODATION Accommodation in Ecuador spans the spectrum from backpacker to luxury hotels. MEDICAL ADVICE Travellers are advised to carry around any medicines they may be taking, in addition to a basic first aid kit and a personal hygiene kit.

GALAPAGOS Comfortable shoes. Swimwear. PACIFIC COAST Fresh linen fabrics. Swimwear. Raincoats for rainy season. Bug spray. AMAZON Long sleeves. Rain gear. Bugs spray.

GETTING AROUND TAXI CAB Only use those with the seal of Secure Taxi. Ask your hotel to get you a taxi. Ask for a reliable app for cab via mobile. BUS Ideal for journeys between provinces. Urban: USD 0.25 ticket. BICYCLE Free bikes in Quito. RENTAL CAR Operators at airports and major cities: Avis - Budget rent a car Locate - Simon Car Rental Hertz NATIONAL AIRPORT Andes: Quito, Cuenca, Latacunga, Loja Pacific Coast: Manta, Guayaquil Amazon: Tena, Coca Galapagos Islands: Baltra

Find us on Twiî&#x2026;&#x;er: @DiscEcuador

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GoinG to Ecuad EiGht thinGs travEllErs sho know first

get ready to gorge on guinea pigs Cuy asado (roasted guinea pigs) is one of the country’s most famous dishes that reportedly dates back to Inca times and is said to be high in protein and low in cholesterol. Ecuadoreans traditionally eat cuy either on holidays or special occasions as these lile furry creatures don’t come cheap (a whole roasted guinea will set you back around $US25). Cuy are typically skewered with a thick

rod before being rotated over a ﬁre during roasting, and taste like gamey chicken. However the furry rodent isn’t just for dinner in Ecuador. Cuy are used to warm the house and keep rats away, in addition to being used for medicinal purposes. Folk doctors called curanderos will rub guinea pig over a patient’s sick body, with the furry creature set to squeak when it passes over an aﬄicted area. Consuming cuy may seem controversial given that in the western world, guinea pig are cherished as cuddly companions for children, but when in Rome…right?

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lEt’s facE it: if wE’rE talkinG about which south amErican country to visit, you probably wouldn’t put Ecuador at thE top of thE list. but wE’d bE wronG for thE small south amErican nation, homE of thE first unEsco world hEr-itaGE sitEs, has tonnEs GoinG for it plus is much manaGEablE than thE likEs of its Giant nEiGhbours (takE a bow brazil and arGEntina). hErE arE EiGht thinGs you should know bEforE you Go.

Middle monument is in the wrong place Ecuador is named aer the equator that runs through the country and, as such, standing on the thin yellow line that marks the middle of the world tops most travellers’ to-do lists. One caveat: make sure you select the right spot. Built in 1979, the Mitad del Mundo monument and complex dedicated to

the equator is the most visited site in Ecuador but it’s not actually on the equator. If you want to genuinely stand with one foot in each hemisphere, you’ll need to head 240m down the road to the real equator - a site that was discovered only a few years back thanks to Global Positioning Services (GPS) devices. The true spot is called the Intiñan Solar Museum and aims to answer all your equator related science queries including “Can you balance an egg on a nail?” and “Does water really change direction in diﬀerent hemispheres?”

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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coca leaves can help cure altitude sickness Head spinning? Having trouble sleeping? Or perhaps the hotel stairs are making you breathless? If you answered yes to any of the aforementioned questions, chances are you’re suﬀering from altitude sickness which isn’t surprising given that most visitors arrive in Quito, the Spanish colonial stunner that has an elevation of about 3000m. Symptoms typically dissipate within a day or two but you can help minimise them by avoiding alcohol and caﬀeine and drinking plenty of water and tea de coca (coca leaf tea). Aer a couple of sips pf the laer, you’ll notice that the throbbing in your head has begun to subside and you can breathe again. Just don’t even think about bringing a stash of coca – the plant that is used in the manufacture of cocaine – leaves back to the UK, where they are banned.

ECUADOR

roses are ridiculously cheap You might think of Ecuador as the ultimate “banana republic” – the small South American country is the world’s biggest exporter of bananas – but in recent years Ecuador has become famous for its ﬂower industry. Ecuador is the world’s third-largest exporter of cut ﬂowers, 73 per cent of

which are roses thanks to the country’s volcanic soil, perfect temperatures and abundant sunlight. And no one beats the equatorial sun in terms of rose variety. Even beer? Visitors can discover unparalleled colour, radiance and aroma - for a piance. You read right: it costs as lile as US$2.50 for 25 long stemmed red roses in Ecuador meaning even cash poor travellers can play Romeo.

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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dress like an onion when in Quito Visiting Ecuador’s enchanting capital, Quito? Don’t forget to pack layers - and lots of them. The weather in Quito is unpredictable – Quitenos claims that they experience all four seasons in one day – so it’s essential to dress in layers. Be ready to take your coat and sweater oﬀ and put them back on again, in a maer of hours.

ECUADOR

Look to a limpiadora Suffering from insomnia, angst, nervous tension or depression? Forget visiting a traditional doctor when in Ecuador and look to a limpiadora (herb healer) who can cure virtually any ailment using candles herbs, neles and egg yolks. While limpiadoras have been performing limpia (spiritual cleansing rituals) for centuries, in recent years, the Ecuadorean folk medicine has become increasingly popular. This sudden surge of interest in a medicine that has been around for thousands of years can be aributed, in part, to the twenty first century wellness mantra of illness prevention over the modern approach of cure. For while western medicine is high cost and high tech, something that in this age of austerity feels uncomfortably wrong, limpias cost on average US$8 meaning they are affordable – in addition to being a safe and natural form of medicine.

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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Panama hats are made inâ&#x20AC;Ś Ecuador The toquilla straw hat that most of the world knows as the Panama hat was actually invented in Ecuador. The mistake dates back to the 18th century when Spanish entrepreneurs in South America recognised the quality of the brimmed straw hats and began exporting them via Panama. During the 19th century, workers on the Panama Canal wore these hats to protect their heads from the tropical sun. On a visit to the Panama Canal construction site in 1906, US President Theodore Roosevelt was photographed wearing a Panama hat. The picture went on to appear in The New York Times and ever since then, the headwear has been misleadingly known as Panama hats. The best Panama hats are made in and around Montecristi, a village some 90 miles from the coastal city of Guayaquil.

ECUADOR

Ecuador uses the uS dollar Ecuadoreans waved goodbye to their national currency, the 116-year-old sucre, during a severe economic crisis in 2000 and has been using U.S. dollars ever since like nearby Panama (where the US dollar is called a balboa) in order to stabilise its economy.

Nearly 18 years later, dollarisation remains highly popular, with 85 percent of Ecuadorean supporting the continued dollarisation of the economy. However although on an emotional level, not everyone is happy that U.S. historical ďŹ gures like Abraham Lincoln and George Washington have replaced Ecuadorian national heroes on their currency.

Find us on Twiî&#x2026;&#x;er: @DiscEcuador

AEROFLOT WELCOMES THE WORLD WITH RUSSIAN HOSPITALITY Aeroflot is working to dispel outdated myths about Russian aviation. We find out more about this leading carrier. Celebrating its 95th birthday in 2018, Aeroflot is the world’s third oldest airline and operates one of the youngest aircraft fleets over an extensive network dominating Europe-Asia transit routes. The carrier – recognised as the World’s Leading Airline Brand by the World Travel Awards – provides internationally

recognised best-in-class service on many routes. Aeroflot is the face of Russia, and its most recognisable company both at home and abroad. For tens of millions of people around the world Aeroflot is synonymous with excellent customer

service infusing Russian hospitality and leading international standards. Since its foundation in 1923 in the early days of aviation, the long-path to excellence has not always been a turbulence-free experience. In the latest zigzag, the dramatic transformation of the ailing airline begun in 2009 and allowed Aeroflot to reinvent the iconic brand. A new management mindset, with a relentless focus on customer service and high-tech solutions, has turned the ailing post-Soviet carrier into a modern European airline. In a breakthrough for Russian aviation, Aeroflot was recognised world’s strongest airline brand, as well the strongest brand in Russia as a whole, by leading valuation and strategy consultancy Brand Finance in 2017. Long-term investments in the fleet

and digital capabilities played a role. Aeroflot has leveraged Moscow’s geographic position to gain a leading role in providing seamless Asia-Europe connectivity via the Sheremetyevo hub. Throughout its long history Aeroflot has always shown resilience. Driven by the new customer focus central to all operations in the last decade and worldwide industry recognition, the carrier is destined to soar to new heights.

FLEET NEWS

Aeroflot is Russia’s largest airline and a major European airline group, operating one of the youngest fleets globally. The extensive route network embraces 146 destinations in 52 countries, as of Summer 2018. This ensures an excellent Europe-Asia transit service with journey times reduced

by quick connections through Sheremetyevo International Airport. The 236-strong fleet with an average age of 4.1 years - comprises modern Airbus, Boeing, and Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft. In a breakthrough for Russian aviation, Aeroflot was recognised world’s strongest airline brand, as well the strongest brand in Russia as a whole, by leading valuation and strategy consultancy Brand Finance in 2017. Long-term investments in the fleet and digital capabilities played a role. The global ranking

has been reconfirmed in 2018. The business class offering maintains a true premium-class standard, even on short- and medium-haul intra-European flights, featuring wide seats, spacious aisles, and exclusive catering. At the same time, Aeroflot’s economy class offering features lucrative fares and value for money - as certified by global rankings and passenger reviews. The economy cabin is designed with ergonomic principles in mind, featuring reclining seats with an up to 32inch pitch (depending on

aircraft type) and providing adequate legroom and reasonable privacy. Catering is a pillar of Aeroflot’s top-notch service. All dishes are cooked using fresh ingredients in line with health-consciousness

considerations. Aeroflot offers 17 special menus, including vegetarian, diet, and Russian options. Aeroflot also scores highly on service offerings to tech-savvy customers, with a Wi-Fi-enabled long-

FLEET NEWS

considerations. Aeroflot offers 17 special menus, including vegetarian, diet, and Russian options. Aeroflot also scores highly on service offerings to tech-savvy customers, with a Wi-Fi-enabled long-

haul fleet, multiple mobile apps, and advanced online ticketing services and digital communication channels. Aeroflot’s cabin crew, whose expertise has been boosted with international training, create a psychologically comfortable and friendly atmosphere. The carrier has garnered numerous awards and citations for its attractive and stylish cabin crew.

FINE DINING

Keen to showcase its heritage, Aeroflot recently introduced a new Russian menu on its flights. The decision to introduce this special on-board menu took account of the popularity of Russian cuisine around the world, with special emphasis on its wide variety of flavours. Passengers can order the special menu at no additional cost up to 36 hours prior to departure. The new menu is available on Aeroflot direct flights departing from Moscow. For business class passengers, it is available on flights of any duration, for economy class passen-

gers, on flights lasting more than three hours. Commenting on the introduction of the new menu, chief executive of Aeroflot, Vitaly Saveliev, said: “Aeroflot emphasises the quality and range

of its on-board catering, supplementing and improving it in accordance with customer requests. In our new menu, focus has moved towards the national component, revealing the rich variety of our national cuisine.”

He added: “We hope Aeroflot’s Russian menu will be a calling card for foreign guests and a pleasant reminder to homesick Russians travelling.”

include several vegetarian choices, as well as options to suit a variety of age, medical, and religious requirements.

Passengers ordering the special menu in business class will be able to taste assorted Siberian fish or Chekhov’s mushrooms for starters, followed by slice of sturgeon with potatoes in mustard sauce or Smolensk porridge with stewed beef in a port wine jus. Depending on the duration of the flight and the class of travel, for dessert passengers will enjoy a choice of Tula honey-cake, ice cream, or baked apples with cranberries.

Aeroflot is Russia’s flagship carrier and a proud member of the SkyTeam global airline alliance. Aeroflot and its partners serve 1,062 destinations in 177 countries worldwide.

The 17 special meal options currently available on-board Aeroflot flights

MORE INFORMATION

Find out more about the carrier at www.aeroflot.ru

FINE DINING

gers, on flights lasting more than three hours. Commenting on the introduction of the new menu, chief executive of Aeroflot, Vitaly Saveliev, said: “Aeroflot emphasises the quality and range

He added: “We hope Aeroflot’s Russian menu will be a calling card for foreign guests and a pleasant reminder to homesick Russians travelling.”

include several vegetarian choices, as well as options to suit a variety of age, medical, and religious requirements.

Aeroflot is Russia’s flagship carrier and a proud member of the SkyTeam global airline alliance. Aeroflot and its partners serve 1,062 destinations in 177 countries worldwide.

The 17 special meal options currently available on-board Aeroflot flights

MORE INFORMATION

Find out more about the carrier at www.aeroflot.ru

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SPOTLIGHT ON

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS laTI Welcome to World Travel Awards (WTA) Latin America Ceremony 2018 – your chance to reward the destinations and companies that have made your trips unforgeable. This is the 10th time WTA has organised the Latin America awards and, they’re more coveted by the industry than ever because votes are cast by both travel industry insiders AND by you, the readers: the most important people. The category winners will be revealed at a gliering ceremony in Guayaquil. The most visited city in Ecuador, Guayaquil is bursting with energy and optimism. Thanks to a massive regeneration project of public squares, parks and urban areas, the city is evolving into one of Latin America’s most talked-about tourism destinations. The waterfront Malecón ‘Simón Bolivar’ is a magnificent riverfront town square, which defines Guayaquil’s identity, and serves as the hub of its thriving cultural and gastronomy scene. Aractions range from historical monuments, artisan markets and botanical gardens to a new ferris wheel and a plethora of world class museums. The harbour and promenade of Puerto Santa Ana is the latest addition to the waterfront. Just across the river, caiman, monkeys and parakeets can be observed in the Parque Histórico which is set in mangroves. Located on the western bank of the Guayas River, Guayaquil also serves as the perfect gateway for both the Pacific Ocean beaches and the Galapagos Islands.

In addition, Guayaquil is an ideal events and congress destination boasting, as it does, a world-class international airport, the largest convention centre in Ecuador, some 2,500 beds across a range of hotel categories, plus a new convention and visitors bureau. World Travel Awards’ red carpet ceremony will take place on 15 September at Palacio de Cristal. Located on the banks of the Guayas River, the historic Palacio de Cristal is an architectural masterpiece, designed and built by the engineers Francisco Manrique and Carlos Van Ischot, on behalf of Gustave Eiﬀel (designer of the Eiﬀel Tower, Paris). Originally serving as a market, the palace is completely transparent and features a wrought iron structure. It underwent extensive renovation as part of Guayaquil’s Urban Regeneration project, and reopened in 2002 as an exhibition and culture centre, hosting artworks by such greats as Rembrandt, Picasso and Rendón Seminario. The evening will mark fourth leg of the WTA Grand Tour 2018 – a series of regional events to acknowledge the world’s outstanding travel brands. The tour began in April with WTA’s Middle East Gala Ceremony in Ras al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, followed by events in Athens (Greece) and Hong Kong. WTA is also staging ceremonies in Montego Bay (Jamaica), Durban (South Africa) and Lisbon (Portugal). World Travel Awards (WTA) was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrated excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. Today it is a brand globally recognised as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners seing the benchmark to which all others aspire.

ECUADOR

WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS LATIN AMERICA CEREMONY 2018

N aMERIcaN cEREMoNY 2018

www.worldtravelawards.com

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ECUADOR

ARASHÁ

TROPICAL FOREST RESORT & SPA Arashá has been voted the best resort in Ecuador (2004-2014) and the best resort in South America (2013-2014) by the World Travel Awards. Located just two and half hours from Quito, amid the most biodiverse ‘hot spot’ in the world. With its ecologically sensitive bungalows, Arashá oﬀers guests the possibility of being immersed in the richness and tranquility of this fragile region combined simultaneously with luxury and comfort in the middle of the rainforest.

From enjoying an aromatic anti-stress massage, participating in one of our eco-workshops, to prepare a delicious chocolate fondue, Arashá is an experience that will delight all of your senses. Arashá has been recognized for its impeccable personalized service, exquisite dining and luxurious accommodations. Once guests arrive, they will recognize why in Arashá it’s possible to ﬁnd the poetry of life in every corner of this enchanting paradise. www.arasharesort.com/en/

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ECUADOR

Balandra Hotel

“Flavors with Passion”, it’s the best way to describe “El Faro” Bar & Restaurant, in Balandra Hotel. For many years, it has been chosen by its clients as one of the top restaurants in the city, and has been known for its acclaimed gastronomy. The elegant decoration of its dishes, the unmatched ﬂavor and aroma of its local and international dishes, and the breathtaking ocean view from its terrace, are among others, some of the various aributes that distinguish this place. These qualities have always delighted its visitors, as witnesses of living unforgeable experiences, feeling at is best the ﬂavor with passion, and the excellence in service. www.balandrahotel.com/index.php/en/

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a talE of thrEE citiEs

a finE trio of city dEstinations to visit in Ecuador

ECUADOR

guayaquil (Paciﬁc coast) Guayaquil is the largest and most populated city in Ecuador and an important trade centre, located in the Gulf of Guayaquil, the largest geographical feature of South America. It is a vibrant city, with multiple activities and beautiful aractions such as the Barrio de las Peñas, Cerro Santa Ana, Historical Park and Malecón 2000 among others.

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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cuenca (andes) The complete name of the city is ‘Santa Ana de los Cuatro Ríos de Cuenca’ (Saint Ana of the Four Rivers of Cuenca) in honour of Cuenca city in Spain, place of birth of the Spanish Viceroy Andrés Hurtado de Mendoza. This city was declared as a cultural heritage of humanity by UNESCO on 1 December 1999. In downtown Cuenca, you’ll find prominent historical remains such as old churches, museums, cobbled streets and houses that have a Republican style façade which demonstrate the influence of European architecture, especially Spanish and French influences.

ECUADOR

Quito (andes) Quito, Ecuador’s capital, is a city where the colonial nuances of its historical zone contrast with its modern buildings of the current era. The culture of its miscegenation helped it become, in 1978, the ﬁrst city to be classiﬁed as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity, which has the colonial architecture zone with the largest perimeter in Latin America.

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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Barcelรณ Sa

ECUADOR

The Barceló Salinas five-star hotel (belonging to the Barceló Hotel Group and formerly known as the Barceló Colón Miramar) is located right on the seafront of Playa Salinas, one of the most aractive coastal areas in Ecuador. Thanks to the Barceló All Inclusive programme, the Barceló Salinas hotel offers everything you need to enjoy a marvellous stay without having to worry about anything. This 5 star hotel has first class facilities and services, as well as spacious, comfortable and modern rooms, making it one of the best holiday hotels in South America. Its culinary offer is found in its 3 restaurants and 2 snack bars: a buffet restaurant (included in All Inclusive) and 2 à la carte restaurants with additional charge (Mediterranean and Sushi Bar), as well as 2 snack bars and a bar where you can enjoy exotic cocktails. www.barcelo.com/en-gb/barcelohotels/hotels/ecuador/beachsalinas/barcelo-salinas/

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ECUADOR

Boutique Hotel cultura Manor Boutique Hotel Cultura Manor in Quito is a delightful mix of European traditions and contemporary trend. We consider ourselves an inner-city retreat, with an out-going personality and inspirational food. In 1933 the house won the architectural price of Quito, given yearly to the most exceptionally beautiful building in town. The Manor was home of Ecuador's most prestigious elite club, where the upper class congregated to discuss business, hunting trips and the future of the country. Aî&#x2026;&#x161;er ďŹ ve glorious decades, it slowly fell into oblivion and later on closed for two more decades, until Seven years ago, when followed by an abundance of legal procedures, three ulcers and rigorous paper work we acquire the property and face the challenging regulations to obtain the National Patrimony permits. www.culturamanor.com/

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thE bEst thinGs to buy in Ecuador

most wantEd chocolate

Is Ecuador home to the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best chocolate? Best in Travel thinks so. Cacao, the biî&#x2026;&#x;er seed that is the root ingredient for chocolate, originated in the Amazon basin of Ecuador. Home grown brands to bring back home with you, include Kallari and Pacari.

Panama hat If you have a penchant for a Panama hat, go to Ecuador. Yes you read right: despite their name, the tightly woven hats originated in Ecuador. The best Panama hats are made in and around Montecristi, a village some 90 miles from the coastal city of Guayaquil.

ECUADOR

Ponchos Talented artisans in Ecuador combine so acrylic yarn with genuine leather to create beautiful, hand-crocheted ponchos – and the best place to pick up a poncho is in Otavalo at the famous Otavalo market. Visit on a Saturday to see the legendary market come alive with vendors selling woollen goods, such as rugs, tapestries, blankets, sweaters, scarves, gloves, hats and, of course, ponchos.

Leather goods and is the top notch choice when it comes to shopping for leather goods. Whether you’re looking to buy a bag, belt, shoes or jacket, rest assured that the leather here is excellent quality and sold at a reasonable price.

HoW to HaggLE

BESt In travEL’S toP tIPS:

Unlike in the UK and USA, bargaining is expected in Ecuador. Here’s Best in Travel’s guide on how to haggle like a pro.

• The closer it gets to closing time, the more merchants will be open to haggling.

• Select the item you want and determine the maximum price you are willing to pay for it. • Start by offering 30-40 per cent less than your maximum price. • Make sure to flinch. The most common tactical mistake that consumers make is to remain calm in the face of a proposal. It’s beer to flinch and appear shocked and surprised by an ‘outrageous offer’ even if it’s not really unreasonable. You might think that a stoic demeanour looks professional but in the haggling business it will cost you… • Keep your eyes on the vendor. His or her reaction will tell you how much room to manoeuvre there might be. You’ll get a beer idea of price if you buy more than one item so try to buy in bulk. • Respond to counter offers from the merchant by increasing your offer in small increments until you reach your maximum price.

• Make sure you know the item’s fair market value before you start your negotiations or you could end up paying more than it’s actually worth. • If the merchant won’t come down to your maximum price, don’t hesitate to walk away from the deal. Chances are if you’re anywhere in the ballpark of what he or she wants for the item, they won’t let you – or your dollars – get away. • Don’t take big dollar denominations – you may ﬁnd that you won’t be given change. • Try not to let the excitement of haggling overpower your beer judgement and lead you to exceed your maximum price.

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

amazing experiential journeys

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Creative Travel Pvt. Ltd. Creative Plaza, 283 Udyog Vihar Phase 2, Gurugram, Haryana - 122016, India T +91-124 4567777 E engage@creative.travel W www.creative.travel

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amazing experiential journeys

41 years of o

it ent

assion

65 awards international

national

6 countries ne of the region s Manage ent Co ountries

ost ro inent res e ted and inde endent Destination anies -

ith a history of e

ellen e sin e

s anning

international and national a ards and a net or all over

the Indian su - ontinent. We are proud to be the purveyors of the finest experiences, cultural immersions and natural wonders all over India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Tibet

the

aldives,

and are today India s largest family-owned destination management company.

INDIA

•

NEPAL

•

SRI LANKA

Creative Travel Pvt. Ltd. Creative Plaza, 283 Udyog Vihar Phase 2, Gurugram, Haryana - 122016, India T +91-124 4567777 E engage@creative.travel W www.creative.travel

•

BHUTAN

•

TIBET

•

MALDIVES

WWW.DDBC.PT DUNAS DOURADAS, SÍTIO DO GARRÃO, 8125–170 ALMANCIL, PORTUGAL

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CARLOTA

ECUADOR

Carlota is a boutique hotel in a renovated historical house within the Historic district of Quito. The house was built at the turn of the century circa 1905. In 1966 Doña Carlota Echeverría de Moreno acquired this house, which would be her home and her family’s for over 40 years. Carlota began in 2011, with the intent of preserving a historical landmark of great value to the city and to Doña Carlota. At the same time the hotel aims to contribute to the city with an intimate, exclusive and innovative hospitality proposal that will enrich what the historic district has to oﬀer. hp://carlota.ec/en/#

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Cuenca, Patrimonio Cultural de la Humanidad, seduce por su bella arquitectura y maravillosos paisajes. La calidez y la amabilidad de su gente, siempre amante de sus tradiciones y mantenedora de fascinantes costumbres que perduran en el tiempo, han hecho de esta ciudad un destino realmente único. Descubrir Cuenca, ciudad llena de mágicos rincones y encantadores espacios, es una experiencia que sin duda se queda en el alma.

Mejor Destino de Vacaciones Cortas en Sudamérica

Encuentra más información turística en: www.cuenca.com.ec @VisitCuencaEc

@Visit_CuencaEc

@visit_cuencaec

Mejor Destino de Vacaciones Cortas en Sudamérica

Encuentra más información turística en: www.cuenca.com.ec @VisitCuencaEc

@Visit_CuencaEc

@visit_cuencaec

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ECUADOR

CASA GANGoTENA Step into the elegance and luxury of a bygone era at our Boutique Hotel in Quito, Casa Gangotena. Situated in the heart of Quitoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Old Town, our beautifully and eclectically-appointed mansion sings with the history of the city. Whether it be the rooms, suites, restaurant, terrace or gardens, each is a space for you to unwind, discover and dream. www.casagangotena.com/en/

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FINCH BAY GALA

ECUADOR

APAGOS HOTEL The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, a proud member of National Geographic Unique Lodges of the WorldTM, is your Galapagos exploration headquarters, a beachfront base from which to discover the wildlife of the islands aboard our private yacht, and create your own adventures on land and on sea. The perfect complement to a Galapagos cruise, or a destination on its own, a stay at the Finch Bay allows you to feel the islandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; essence. www.ďŹ nchbayhotel.com/

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whErE to Go i Ecuador

GalapaGos islands The Enchanted Islands, one of the most renowned destinations in the world oﬀer a one of a kind nature experience. Picture yourself walking amongst giant turtles, sea lions and exotic birds or swimming alongside whale sharks and giant manta rays who have no fear of man and are just as curious about you as

you are about them. This unique opportunity is only possible in the Galapagos Islands. Located 1.000km off the Ecuadorian Pacific Coast, the islands are a living museum and showcase of evolution. Declared a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979, the Galapagos have also been recognised as the first destination to visit before you die by the readers of USA TODAY.

ECUADOR

owinG to its compact sizE, travEllinG around Ecuador is a doddlE - particularly whEn comparEd with larGEr south amErican countriEs such as brazil, chilE and arGEntina, with thE country’s contrastinG rEGions and hiGhliGhts within Easy rEach of Each othEr. hErE wE hiGhliGht thE top arEas to visit.

pacific coast The Ecuadorian Coast welcomes travellers looking for outdoor entertaining all year, with more than 1,600 km from endless beaches of tropical climate. From beaches covered with palm trees and giant cliﬀs that rise above deep caverns, to the green mangrove forests or tropical dry forests, Ecuador’s Paciﬁc Coast is characterised by its changing landscape.

Paciﬁc coast in Ecuador is renowned for nature lovers, fans of water sports and particularly for surfers and beach lovers. In the depth of territory away from the beaches, are quaint villages and cities known for its local cuisine and handicras, the eﬀervescent city of Guayaquil, historical sites and kilometres of cocoa plantations, bananas, palms and rice.

Bathed by the waters of the Paciﬁc Ocean and a warm tropical climate throughout the year, the

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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whErE to Go in Ecuador

andEs The Andes in Ecuador reach heights of 1,500m and 6,310m of the summit of Chimborazo, the highest snow-covered volcano in the country. The Ecuadorian Andes are one of the emblematic icons of the country. In this region, you can enjoy vast landscapes ďŹ lled with crops of potatoes, beans, corn and volcanic turquoise lagoons, lakes, hundreds of species of

orchids and birds, inca ruins and natural hot springs that adorn this andean landscape. In this region of Ecuador are the Cities Patrimony of Humanity: Quito and Cuenca, the Avenue of the Volcanoes, indigenous towns with colourful markets, the historic train crossing the whole Callejon de los Andes and descends to the coast: The Cruise Train.

ECUADOR

thE amazon The Amazon, located in the eastern region, is one of the most wonderful reserves of biodiversity on the planet. It has a tropical forest, crystal clear rivers and waterfalls descending to the deep jungle, home to unique ﬂora and fauna species. It is a region in which several indigenous nationalities live: here’s looking at Huaorani, Zápara, Secoya, Cofan, Shuar, Achuar, Kichwa, Andoa, among the main ones. Indigenous nationalities have large areas of territory in the Amazon.

The tropical jungle has invaluable biological wealth, such as: the Yasuni National Park, the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, the Sangay National Park and the Podocarpus National Park. The Amazon is easily reached thanks to the diverse access that exist: land, air and ﬂuvial.

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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GalapaGoS Safari c SANTA CRUz ISLAND

caMp

ECUADOR

At Galapagos Safari Camp we invite you to enjoy an authentic and fulďŹ lling experience during your Galapagos Island vacation, surrounded by breathtaking views and memorable encounters with wildlife, all in discreet luxury. www.galapagossafaricamp.com/

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HACIENDA SAN AGUSTIN DE CA

ECUADOR

N ALLO

The varied and inďŹ&#x201A;uential inhabitants of San AgustĂn de Callo have contributed to the unique blend of architecture which creates the individual character of the house. In the main courtyard it is possible to see three distinct styles, Inca (Imperial style 15th century, construction style which the Incas used for their temples and palaces), Spanish Colonial (18th century) and Republican (19th century). www.incahacienda.com/index.php

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W O

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World Luxury News, has one aim, to bring you the latest luxury news from around the globe from the world's leading brands and luxury service providers.

R L D

L U X U R Y

N E W S

Working across a multitude of social media platforms, delivering content in an easily digestible image lead format in English, Arabic, Hindi, Chinese and Russian, we engage with those that live and experience a luxury lifestyle each and every day.

Delivering the best news on this exciting and ever changing market and working in conjunction with the leading world luxury events.

www.luxnews.co

BEST IN TRAVEL

amazon advEntur

lookinG to ExplorE thE Ecuadorian amazon basin in stylE? anakonda amazon cruisEs could bE thE answEr

rEs

ECUADOR

On an Anakonda Amazon Cruise guests get to visit some of the remotest parts of the Amazon while enjoying the comforts and service of a five star river boutique hotel. Named aer the anaconda, some of the largest snakes in the world that are known for their swimming ability, the Anakonda Amazon River Cruiser is the only luxury ship in the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest. Although to call the Anaconda a ship is a serious understatement: the vessel offers 18 suites each boasting large comfortable beds, full-frame panoramic windows, ensuite bathrooms complete with jacuzzis, private balconies from which to watch the sun rise over the canopy of the rainforest and hear the forest come to life as dawn breaks and, astoundingly, Wifi. The Anakonda Amazon River Cruiser also employs an army of smiling staff who will whip you up Canelazo cocktails – a mixture of boiled water, sugarcane alcohol, lemon, sugar, and cinnamon typical of the Andean region – before you even realised you wanted one. Of course all that drinking will make you hungry: happily the food elates too. Expect an impressive mix of Ecuadorian dishes such as as empanadas (super South American pies), cuy (roasted guinea pig) and ceviche, as well as simpler seafood dishes, soups and salads for the less adventurous. With so much on offer onboard the Anakonda it would be easy to stay on the ship, but that would be just be wrong. There are canoe trips downstream to the remote and pristine Pañayacu River Delta in search of squirrel monkeys, pink river dolphins, piranhas, water monkey fish (arawana) and white caiman, and hikes through the Panacocha Protected Forest with experienced guides which reveal all manner of extraordinary flowers, plants and creatures. Guests can also rowed to shore to meet the local Kichwa tribe – who continue to resist contact with the outside world – and tour their traditional village in order to learn a lile about Kichwa culture, customs, cuisine and everyday life. Other highlights include travelling upstream on a tributary of the Amazon to the Yasuni National Park – one of the most biodiverse places on earth – to gawp at hundreds of parrots, parakeets and amazons. (Ecuador happens to possess the highest density of bird species anywhere, with over 1,670 species in an astoundingly-reduced geographical area). Yet the standout is sure to be sailing through the Amazon – a place that still shows its best self from the water – on the Anakonda, which makes for a magical equation: immersion in the thrill of the wilderness, followed by a retreat to cosseted comforts. On board the Anakonda Amazon River Cruiser, you won’t be an intruder in the Ecuadorian Amazon Basin, but part of it. And this is the magic of arriving by water.

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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saMPlE INTINERaRY A four day/three night itinerary on board the MV Anaconda Cruise runs as follows:

Day one: Quito – coca – Napo River

Day Two: Panacocha Biological corridor

The adventure begins in the city of Quito, Capital of Ecuador. Aer taking a short 30- minute ﬂight from Quito to the Amazon city of Coca, located in the Province of San Francisco de Orellana, guests will transfer to the dock and board Anakonda’s motorised canoe to begin the journey down the river for approximately an hour and a half, taking in the ﬁrst sights and sounds of the Amazon. Soon, you will reach the M/V Anakonda Amazon Cruises and re-ceive a warm welcome aboard.

The M/V Anakonda Amazon Cruise continues to travel downstream to the Pañayacu River delta, where guests will take a canoe trip to experience the sights of this fascinating water reserve. Pañacocha Lake is an ecosystem ﬂooded by blackwaters. Pañacocha means ‘Piranha Lake’ in the native Quechua language. The surrounding protected Rainforest is home to nine species of primates, 500 species of birds and more than 100 ﬁsh species. This is the perfect habitat for Piranhas, the Water Monkey Fish (Arawana) and the White Caiman.

Once you have seled into the M/V Anakonda Amazon Cruises, expect to be joined by expert local naturalist guides who will provide passengers with a brief and informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon, aer which guests will have their ﬁrst opportunity to discover the exciting features of the cruise ship: spacious social areas, comfortable suites, and the observation deck that allows guests to admire the changing rainforest landscape as the ship glides down the Napo River. Aer dinner, plunge straight into the Amazon by going for a nighime forest walk to observe the forest’s nocturnal activity and experience the thrill of the vivid noises and aromas that come from so much biodiversity.

In this lile piece of paradise,participate in nature walks led by local naturalist guides, and relax at a nearby campsite where you can enjoy a delicious Amazon-style BBQ and refreshing beverages. Aer lunch, do some kayaking and, if you’re feeling brave, enjoy a nice refreshing swim in the Piranha Lake! We promise it’s not as dangerous as it sounds. Back on board the M/V Anakonda Amazon Cruises, guests will have the opportunity to aend a lecture given by the concierge and watch an educa-tional documentary about the region.

ECUADOR

Day Three: Parrot cay licks – amazonian communities & observation Tower This morning, guests will set out on canoes to observe one of the most incredible sights on this side of the Western Amazon – the Parrot Clay Licks. This unique place is rich in minerals and aracts hundreds of colourful parrots, parakeets and amazon birds, every day.

Day Four: Return This is where your adventure ends! Enjoy the last part of your return journey onboard and then disembark the M/V Anakonda Amazon Cruises to take the motorised canoe back to Coca (one-and-a-half-hour ride). anakondaamazoncruises.com

Later, visit a Quechua Cultural Centre to learn about Amazon communities and their ancestral culture, traditions, and cuisine. Members of the local community will teach aendees about indigenous lifestyles along the Napo River and there’s the opportunity to support the local community by purchasing handicras, local products, and souvenirs. Before sunset, visit an observation tower in the rainforest canopy, which oﬀers an astonishing 360-degree view of the Amazon basin and is the perfect photo opportunity! Birdwatchers and bird-lovers alike will especially enjoy this outing.

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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Hacienda Zuleta

ECUADOR

We welcome you to the stunning 17th century hotel and working-farm of former Ecuador President Galo Plaza Lasso and his family. Created with his natural warmth, hospitality and community ties, Hacienda zuleta is blessed with beautiful antique rooms, delicious home-grown Andean cuisine and a wealth of activities to choose from. Visit mountain lakes and vistas on our own breed of horses, ﬁnd hidden trails with centuries of history by foot or bike, see and learn about endangered species at our Condor Huasi facilities or take up a cookery or local embroidery class – all this and more is on oﬀer to you at Hacienda zuleta! hps://zuleta.com/

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Hillary NATURE RESORT & SPA

ECUADOR

Hillary Nature Resort & Spa in its 360 hectares will delight you with its kaleidoscope of colors and flavors, you will be enveloped by the magic of its sunrises with the birth of the sun between its mountains or its sunsets where the hills are painted orange and violet by the sunset of Sun. We are located in a natural paradise in the megadiverse province of El Oro that has 3 of the 4 regions of Ecuador, here you will find páramos up to 3766 masl, an archipelago with more than 17 islands, mangroves, virgin beaches, the only petrified forest in the country of more than 60 million years, unique endemic birds in the world, more than 136 varieties of orchids and one of the oldest cities, zaruma; where history and its exquisite coffee will transport you in time and will awaken your senses. Each of these places is between 15 and 60 minutes from our facilities and aer visiting them, you will surely want to return. It's time to get the best out of life. www.hillaryresort.com/

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ECUATOR’S

LEADING

HOTELS Five star hotels are many... but exceptional hotels are few. We’ve hand picked our favourite hotels in Ecuador. All oﬀer something extraordinary – be it location, service, style, soul or design – because, after all, life should be better when you check in.

ECUADOR

HILTON COLON GUAYAQUIL Combining excellent service and a laid-back resort feel, Hilton Colon Guayaquil is conveniently located only a few minutes from José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport. This Guayaquil hotel is the perfect retreat for those travelling to and from the Galápagos Islands. Unwind in a relaxing guest room or suite and take advantage of delightful dining, leisure and event facilities including an outdoor pool, fully equipped health club and spa. www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/ecuador/hiltoncolon-guayaquil-GYEHIHF/index.html

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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HOTEL NH COLLECTION QUITO ROYAL Nestled in the heart of Quito, just steps away from Ecuador’s World Trade Centre, NH Collection Quito Royal oﬀers exquisite comfort and style in the hub of the business district with Quito’s historic downtown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just 15 minutes away. Each of the rooms oﬀers a spacious and bright retreat from the bustling city, with many boasting views over the mountains.

Beyond the bedroom, the gym oﬀers complimentary access for guests and includes cardio machines and weights equipment, along with complimentary water and towels. Guests are also invited to unwind in the sauna and steam room free of charge. To help you make the most out of your stay, the hotel’s Guest Relations team are delighted to share their recommendations and favourite places. nh-collection.com/hotel/nh-collection-quito-royal

ECUADOR

HOTEL ORO VERDE GUAYAQUIL Welcome to the Hotel Oro Verde in Guayaquil, Ecuador, where elegant service is guaranteed. This boutique downtown hotel oﬀers the ultimate in sophistication and comfort for business and leisure travellers alike. Your comfort is the property’s number one priority. To make your stay truly memorable, all of the hotel’s 230 guest room accommodations feature luxurious bedding, ﬂat-screen TVs with premium cable

stations, direct-dial telephones, clock radios, mini bar, in-room safe, individual climate control with remote control, and reading lights over the bed. With the executive business traveller in mind, this boutique hotel also features an Executive Club Floor with ﬁve business suites and 11 business rooms where guests can enjoy an even higher level of services and amenities. oroverdeguayaquil.com

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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JW MARRIOTT HOTEL QUITO Experience ultimate luxury when you stay at JW Marrio Hotel Quito. Providing easy access to popular nearby aractions such as the Galapagos Islands and Santo Domingo's Church, this upscale hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Ecuador. Wake up to breathtaking views of the city in your renovated room or suite. Enjoy the deluxe amenities provided such as high-speed Wi-Fi, luxury bedding and ﬂat-panel TVs with international channels. When you get hungry, visit one of the four on-site restaurants for a wide selection of delicious cuisine. Spend a day enjoying massages and treatments

from the spa at Zumay Health Club, or maintain your exercise routine at the well-equipped ﬁtness centre. Hosting a business or social gathering? Book one of the 29 sophisticated event rooms with plenty of space, AV equipment, on-site catering and a suave atmosphere. Whether you're hosting a corporate conference or exploring one of South America's most metropolitan cities, have a rich adventure at JW Marrio Hotel Quito. www.marrio.com/hotels/travel/uiodt-jwmarrio-hotel-quito

ECUADOR

LE PARC HOTEL Allow comfort and elegance to become the standard during your time in Quito, Ecuador’s charming capital. The fantastic facilities at the Le Parc Hotel are beautifully decorated in a fresh and modern style that makes it enticing for guests. Make the most of the full range of services such as a spa, sophisticated restaurant, ﬁtness centre, rooop bar and 24 hour reception to name but a few, which make it ideal for both business travellers and holidaymakers. leparc.com.ec

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

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ROYAL PALM HOTEL GALAPAGOS A secluded hide-a-way nestling in the lush Miconia highland forests of Santa Cruz in the heart of the Galapagos, The Royal Palm is a spacious and exclusive 195 hectare private estate, only 20 minutes-drive from the bustling port town of Puerto Ayora. With just eight casitas and 13 exclusive villas, guests can enjoy privacy, space and quiet seclusion. Designed and craî&#x2026;&#x161;ed to complement the natural environment, this is as close to nature as you can get! The native ferns and ďŹ&#x201A;ora create a carpet of

contrast and colour that cover the gently sloping hills down to the coast and beyond. Resident birds include owls, Darwin Short Beak Finches, Garrapatero birds and Egrets and for more active guests, the longest lava tunnel on the Island is a few steps from reception. royalpalmgalapagos.com/royal-palm-hotel

ECUADOR

SWISSÔTEL QUITO Swissotel Quito is one of the capital's top ﬁve-star luxury hotel, conveniently located in the Floresta neighbourhood of Quito – both a commercial and residential area that’s only 45 minutes away from Mariscal Sucre International Airport. Each of Swissotel Quito's 232 elegant guest rooms and 43 executive apartments are air-conditioned and feature modern design.

Two excellent restaurants oﬀer a wide variety of international cuisine, while the Amrita spa oﬀers revitalising treatments, a fully equipped gym and a wellness area in which to relax aer a busy day. Further facilities at Swissotel Quito include 17 versatile rooms that are suitable for all kinds of social and business events. swissotel.com/hotels/quito

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to unwind Escape the stress of everyday life and embrace the simple joys of living. Here time slows down and there are no distractions. Reconnect with the one you love while attentive staff cater to your every need. Relax on a private white sand beach. Savor gourmet cuisine. Retreat to one of 53 suites and cottages overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it time you go beyond relaxation and truly

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unwind? 876.974.2514

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RESERVÉMOS LES UNA HABITACIÓN CON VISTAS ¡ A sus huéspedes les encanta descubrir el mundo, ofrézcales lo mejor de la cultura francófona !

travel.tv5monde.com TV5_HOT_AP_View_A4_x3.indd 1

14/06/16 11:42

inﬂuencers M A G A Z I N E

Influencer marketing is quickly becoming a major part of the social marketing strategies for many marketers and agencies a like. With digital marketing spend increasing every year, more and more dollars are being devoted to influencer marketing programs due to their potential for significant ROI yields with often less resources. The value of influencer marketing is undeniable and no matter the size, resources, or sophistication, of a marketer or agency, all should be considering integrating an influencer marketing strategy into their social plans, even if their just beginning. The prospect of being able to reach consumers, inside and outside your traditional audience, in engaging ways, and through trusted voices is value that can’t be found through many if any other forms of social media marketing.

www.theinﬂuencersmagazine.com

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BEST IN TRAVEL

HILTON COLO GUAYAQUIL

ECUADOR

Combining excellent service and a laid-back resort feel, Hilton Colon Guayaquil is conveniently located only a few minutes from José Joaquín de olmedo International Airport. our Guayaquil hotel is the perfect retreat for those traveling to and from the

Galápagos Islands. Unwind in a relaxing guest room or suite and take advantage of delightful dining, leisure and event facilities. www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/ecuador/hilto n-colon-guayaquil-GyeHiHf/index.html

worldsleadinghotelsandresorts.com

BEST IN TRAVEL

ECUADOR

HILTON COLON QUITO

Just 15 minutes from the ﬁnancial center and World Heritage old Town, Hilton Colón Quito is the perfect base for business or pleasure. Visit our nationally acclaimed dining options and our modern gym, heated pool and spa plus ﬂexible meeting spaces. Experience for yourself our claim to the best views in the city, from where you can appreciate Quito's privileged location in the heart of the majestic Andes. www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/ecuado r/hilton-colon-quitoquiHiHf/index.html

worldsleadinghotelsandresorts.com

undiscovered stories of the wild waiting to be told

Jungle [juhng-guhl] - Forest | Sutra [soo-truh] - Story | JungleSutra - Stories of the Wild

INDIA

•

NEPAL

•

SRI LANKA

The Indian Subcontinent, comprising of India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan, is home to about 10% of the world’s

Creative Travel Pvt. Ltd.

wildlife. JungleSutra Wildlife Journeys by Creative Travel, showcases the region’s most sought-after wildlife

Creative Plaza, 283 Udyog Vihar Phase 2, Gurugram, Haryana - 122016, India T +91-124 4567777 E engage@www.junglesutra.com W www.junglesutra.com

as well as the breath-taking variety of its lesser-known indigenous species. Our exclusive journeys are specially curated by wildlife experts and enthusiasts.

•

BHUTAN

•

TIBET

•

MALDIVES

undiscovered stories of the wild waiting to be told

Jungle [juhng-guhl] - Forest | Sutra [soo-truh] - Story | JungleSutra - Stories of the Wild

INDIA

•

NEPAL

•

SRI LANKA

The Indian Subcontinent, comprising of India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan, is home to about 10% of the world’s

Creative Travel Pvt. Ltd.

wildlife. JungleSutra Wildlife Journeys by Creative Travel, showcases the region’s most sought-after wildlife

Creative Plaza, 283 Udyog Vihar Phase 2, Gurugram, Haryana - 122016, India T +91-124 4567777 E engage@www.junglesutra.com W www.junglesutra.com

as well as the breath-taking variety of its lesser-known indigenous species. Our exclusive journeys are specially curated by wildlife experts and enthusiasts.

•

BHUTAN

•

TIBET

•

MALDIVES

BEST IN TRAVEL

HOTEL DE

ECUADOR

EL PARQUE Just 15 minutes from the ﬁnancial center and World Heritage old Town, Hilton Colón Quito is the perfect base for business or pleasure. Visit our nationally acclaimed dining options and our modern gym, heated pool and spa plus ﬂexible meeting spaces. Experience for yourself our claim to the best views in the city, from where you can appreciate Quito's privileged location in the heart of the majestic Andes. www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/ecuador/hiltoncolon-quito-quiHiHf/index.html

worldsleadinghotelsandresorts.com

BEST IN TRAVEL

lifE is suitE

hErE’s our pick of Ecuador’s bEst hotEl suitEs

prEsidEntial suitE at hilton colon Guayaquil Spoil yourself in this exquisite suite with one kingsized bed. This 2,195 sq suite boasts a private entrance for its guests, two living rooms, a dining room, bureau connected to the bedroom and a hydro-massage bathtub.

Browse online with the complimentary WiFi or watch an on-demand movie on one of two TVs, a 40-inch LED TV in the bedroom and a 46-inch LED TV in the living room. Special touches include a plush bathrobe and slippers. www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/ecuador/hiltoncolon-guayaquil-GYEHIHF/index.html

ECUADOR

prEsidEntial suitE at Jw marriott hotEl quito The JW Marrio Quito’s Presidential Suite is a three bedroom suite that is equipped with king and queen sized beds and oﬀers guests stunning city views from the private terrace. This suite also features a separate living/siing area, dining area

and study, as well as a walk-in closet. Guests will feel right at home with a marble bathroom that includes a shower/bathtub combination, hair dryer and robes. Other room features include amenities such as television with premium movie channels and cable, telephone and iPod docking system. marrio.com/hotels/hotel-rooms/uiodt-jwmarrio-hotel-quito

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prEsidEntial suitE at swissôtEl quito The Presidential Suite oﬀers a breathtaking view of the city and state-of-the-art technology in all its appliances. Its exquisite interior design gives a sense of elegance and sophistication, while the big living room oﬀers modern elegance with a piano, a dining room, electronically controlled blinds & white designer furniture.

Elsewhere the office room has an oversized desk with everything you need to conduct business, while the bedroom boasts a king-size bed covered with the finest fabrics, a flat-screen TV and a walk-in closet. Last but not least, the luxurious bathroom has two showers, its own steam bath, sauna and jacuzzi. Indulge yourself in the fantastic architecture of this amazingly conceived presidential suite where every detail has been taken care of. swissotel.com/hotels/quito

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royal suitE at hotEl nh collEction quito royal The elegant and spacious Royal Suite at Hotel NH Collection Quito Royal is the ﬁrst and last word in luxury and most of those in between. Boasting unparalleled views of the World Trade Centre, facilities and amenities include a bathtub, cable TV, complimentary WiFi, refrigerator, mIni bar, siing are and sofa bed to name but a few. All told, if you’re looking for luxury you wont leave the Royal Suite at Hotel NH Collection Quito Royal disappointed. www.nh-collection.com/hotel/nh-collection-quito-royal/rooms

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Tel. +34 968 17 5577 reservas@lamangaclub.com lamangaclub.com

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HOTEL NH COLLECTION QUITo RoYAL

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Nestled in the heart of Quito, just steps away from Ecuador’s World Trade Center, NH Collection Quito Royal offers exquisite comfort and style in the hub of the business district. It is neighbor to over 35 excellent restaurants and bars, offering you the best of Quito’s gastronomic culture. Within the hotel, you’ll find high-end facilities and unparalleled service from our dedicated and welcoming staff. www.nh-collection.com/hotel/nh-collection-quito-royal

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✶

GOING GREEN ECO-HOTELS These days, going on a green break doesn’t mean sacriﬁcing the comforts which you’ve come to expect. Fancy a guilt-free holiday? Check into one of these eco-friendly yet luxurious hotels

ECUADOR

✶ CASA CEIBO BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA Make yourself at home in one of the 18 air-conditioned rooms equipped with refrigerators and DVD players. Complimentary wired and wireless Internet access keeps you connected, while cable programming provides entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature deep soaking bathtubs and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include safes and desks, and housekeeping is provided daily.

Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which oﬀers massages, body treatments, and facials. Alternatively take advantage of recreational amenities such as an outdoor pool, a spa tub, and an outdoor tennis court. This hotel also features complimentary wireless Internet access, babysiing/childcare and tour/ticket assistance. casaceibo.com

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✶ FINCH BAY GALAPAGOS HOTEL The only beachfront hotel on Santa Cruz Island, Finch Bay both embraces and reflects its surroundings, with contemporary, clean lines and an artful design that incorporates natural elements. Here, ducks might join you in the swimming pool, herons meander through the gardens, and Darwin’s finches dart from tree to table. This island retreat offers the best of all worlds, with abundant opportunities to explore Santa Cruz’s diverse ecosystems and stunning beaches with naturalists, as

well as easy access to the rich biodiversity of other islands within Galápagos National Park. The recently refurbished rooms and suites offer a peaceful seing and modern amenities. The Finch Bay Rooms have shared porches or balconies with their own hammocks while Finch Bay Suites offer direct ocean views and a private balcony with hammock. finchbayhotel.com

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✶ HACIENDA EL PORVENIR, TIERRA DEL VOLCAN El Porvenir is the ideal spot from which to explore Cotopaxi, get to know the Andean way of life at ﬁrst hand and have thrilling adventures. The property is just one and a half hours by car from Quito and 4km from the northern entrance to Cotopaxi National Park. The farmhouse is located in a very scenic spot, at an altitude of 3,600m, surrounded by four volcanoes, one of which is Cotopaxi. Guests can enjoy their stay in a comfortable,

functional seing. The farmhouse is made from local building material, keeping the spirit and essence of Andean construction. Faithful to its traditional design and in line with its needs, the buildings of Hacienda El Porvenir are set out around a large courtyard. These include the Casa de Hacienda, la Casa Chica, la Casa del Establo. The stables, saddle room and corrals add the touches of a real working farm. tierradelvolcan.com

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â&#x153;ś HACIENDA MANTELES Manteles. Surrounded by nature, the entire atmosphere is energised with peace and ďŹ&#x201A;owers of many kinds including orchids, making the Hacienda a hummingbird haven.

Due to its small size, the Hacienda can give personalised service. The idea is to make you feel at home, and for the farm to be your luxury home away from home.

Hacienda is a traditional Latin American farm or ranch that usually has a big family house. Manteles gives you the opportunity to experience what it is like to live in your own Hacienda.

Hacienda Manteles owns and protects about 100 hectares of virgin cloud forest. When you are a guest at the Hacienda, you are contributing to care for it and the environment.

In Hacienda Manteles every guest receives special treatment. The care and aî&#x2026;&#x;ention lavished on you makes the stay so exclusive.

haciendamanteles.com

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✶ MASHPI LODGE Nature meets luxury at Mashpi, a breathtaking creation of steel and glass deep in the cloud forests of Ecuadorian Chocó, one of the planet’s biodiversity hotspots. With ﬂoor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall windows throughout, nothing competes with nature here. You might catch sight of a howler monkey while soaking in the indoor Jacuzzi, or wake up to the ﬂiing of a velvetpurple coronet just outside your room. Though only three hours from downtown Quito, Mashpi is a true wilderness retreat, set on 3,200 acres of cloud forest of which 80 per cent is primary growth. Its 22 guest rooms are simple, stylish, and spacious, and the dining room soars two stories, so that guests can watch life play out in the trees as they dine on world-class cuisine that incorporates the fruits of the jungle.

Mashpi oﬀers a close-up experience of some of the most pristine forests in the world with the help of a team of naturalists and scientists. Not only do they lead hikes and give talks, they are involved in continuing studies of the local wildlife at the hotel’s research centre. From guided nature walks to the innovative Sky Bike, the lodge provides an array of ways to get out into the forest. Guests don boots and get muddy exploring by day, and then return in the evening to a relaxing and sophisticated seing, surrounded yet removed from the life of the jungle. www.mashpilodge.com/the-lodge

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✶ NAPO WILDLIFE CENTER LUXURY ECO-LODGE The Napo Wildlife Center is a comfortable, luxury, eco-lodge in Yasuni National Park in Ecuador’s Amazon Basin where you get the best of amazing the Amazon wildlife, including hundreds of parrots at the two parrot clay licks, Giant Oers in the lake and streams, 11 species of monkeys in the trees, and hundreds of species of birds in the forest. As the only lodge in the enormous reserve, you will have the place virtually to yourself. When your day is done, take a hot shower, sit on your private porch overlooking the lake, have a cold beer from the bar, before

enjoying a healthy international dinner in the dining room. In addition to being one of the best lodges in Ecuador’s Amazon, the Napo Wildlife Center is also one of the ﬁnest examples of community-based eco-tourism in the country: the Napo Wildlife Center actively protects 82 square miles of pristine rainforest in its private reserve, based on a true conservation partnership with the local community. www.napowildlifecenter.com

ECUADOR

✶ PIKAIA LODGE In a unique seing on the crater of an extinct volcano, eco-friendly Pikaia Lodge provides guests with the unique opportunity to explore the fascinating natural heritage of the Galapagos Islands while staying in sheer comfort. The hotel operates daily land and sea tours on their private yacht, has its own giant tortoise reserve as well as a beautiful pool, a gourmet restaurant, a bar and a relaxing spa. The rooms and villas at Pikaia Lodge are nestled on top of the small plateau of the main crate, between the savannah and the tropical misty forest of the volcanic highlands. As such they provide one of the most spectacular views on the Galapagos incorporating mountains, forests, volcanoes and the sea.

Go on a land exploration programme and discover the endemic wildlife. Visit the Charles Darwin Scientiﬁc Research Centre. Or, take a trip on the hotel yacht and enjoy hiking or snorkelling followed by sunbathing on the deck or watching out for dolphins. The next day, head to Santa Fe on Pikaia Lodge’s yacht to watch sea lions, iguanas, lava lizards, Darwin’s ﬁnches, swallow-tail gulls and petrels. At the end of the day, relax in Evolution restaurant and enjoy the sophisticated menu inspired by a unique fusion of Peruvian and Ecuadorian cuisine. www.pikaialodge.com

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ECUADOR

HOTEL ORO VERDE GUAYAQUIL Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil was born from a perfect combination of the European hotel experience and authentic Ecuadorian service. For more than 30 years, it has been regarded as an icon of Ecuadorian hospitality. hî&#x2026;&#x;p://www.oroverdeguayaquil.com/

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Hotel patio andaluZ

ECUADOR

El Patio Andaluz Quito, elegant boutique hotel located just 150 meters (490 feet) from the Plaza Grande or Plaza de la Independencia, oﬀers a particular seing in the colonial center of Quito, the ﬁrst city to be declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCo in 1978. Located in a colonial style house at the end of the 16th century, this hotel with large arches and interior courtyards is 7 minutes walk from the renowned Church and Plaza de San Francisco; 5 minutes from the famous Church of the Company and its impressive interior in gold bread; 6 minutes from the Teatro Sucre, scene of important events; and many other sites of great interest to Colonial Quito such as museums, churches and historical sites. www.hotelpatioandaluz.com/page1.html

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From Africa, airlines, Dubai, China and cruise, to Europe, luxury, safari, ski and spa, World TV covers the globe. Each channel is curated by a dedicated editorial team featuring hundreds of the latest and most popular travel and tourism video content. To advertise on World TV, or create your own rich and engaging content for your own dedicated World TV Channel, call us on +44 (0) 20 7925 0000 or email info@worldtv.group. www.worldtv.group

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what to Eat in Ecuador

wondErinG what to Eat in Ecuador? hErE arE somE traditional foods you must try

bolon dE vErdE

canElazo

These green plantain dumplings stuďŹ&#x20AC;ed with cheese or chorizo and fried until crispy, are typically served in Ecuadorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coastal region where green plantains abound. Bolones can be eaten for breakfast or brunch but they also make a great side dish or good appetiser.

Canelazo is a spicy hot drink traditionally made and consumed in the highlands of Ecuador. The original canelazo recipe is made by boiling water with cinnamon and sugar or panela, and then it is mixed with a local sugar cane alcohol called punta or aguardiente.

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cEvichE This seafood dish is synonymous with Peru but is also popular in Ecuador, where it becomes an immediate obsession for nearly all who try it. Ceviche is a chilled concoction of ﬁsh, shrimp or other seafood marinated in lime juice onions, cilantro and chill peppers that’s typically served with sweet potato and a wedge of boiled corn.

chocolatE Ecuadorian chocolate has been rated as the best in the world with local brand Pacari emerging triumphant at the International Chocolate Awards on more than one occasion. Be sure to try unique ﬂavours like lemongrass, chile, coﬀee, rose and Guayusa. The laer is a chocolate bar that mixes cacao with a famous Amazonian tea.

coca tEa Travelling to Quito or another high-elevation destination in Ecuador? Chances are you’ll quickly be introduced to Coca tea, a herbal tea made by steeping raw leaves from the coca plant. The leaves of the coca plant contain a tiny amount of alkaloids, which are the source of cocaine. However, the amount of coca alkaloid in the raw leaves is small. It is oen used as a way for travellers to recover from altitude sickness.

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cuy Cuy asado (roasted guinea pigs) is one of the country’s most famous dishes that reportedly dates back to Inca times and is said to be high in protein and low in cholesterol.

Empanada dE viEnto Empanadas – super South American pies – abound all over the continent but Best in Travel has a so spot for Ecuador’s Empanada de viento. These empanadas are stuffed with mild white melting cheese mixed with sliced scallions, enclosed in classic flour dough, sealed, fried and commonly sprinkled with sugar before eating. As you bite into the tasty treat, you’ll notice a big gap of air between the filling and dough, hence the name Empanadas de Viento, or ‘air’ empanadas. .

ECUADOR

fanEsca This soup is traditionally prepared and eaten by households and communities in Ecuador during Holy Week. The main ingredients are grains, squash and salted cod fish. A total of 12 different grains are used (which represent Jesus’ disciples) and salted cod, the fish symbolising Jesus.

hElado dE paila All visitors to Ecuador should try the wonderfully smooth and ﬂavoursome helados de paila, an intriguing Ecuadorian twist on sorbet. Helado de paila is made manually by stirring a mixture of fruit juice, sugar, water (and sometimes milk) in a huge copper bowl over a wooden basin ﬁlled with straw, ice and salt. .

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llapinGachos Llapingachos (pronounced yahpeen-GAH-chos) are an Ecuadorean dish of fried potato paies that are usually stuﬀed with cheese, cooked on a hot griddle until crispy brown and then served with a peanut sauce. The dish is similar to Colombian arepas.

locro dE papa This classic Ecuadorian potato and cheese soup that is served with avocado and cooked with garlic, onions, achiote (annao) powder and cilantro and forms part of almost every meal

quinoa brEakfast A common way for Peruvians to start their day is with a mug of quinoa, cooked down to a thin porridge. In Lima, street vendors sell breakfast quinoa in the mornings, mixed with fruit and served hot or cold, depending on the weather.

ECUADOR

pataconEs Patacones, also referred to as fried plantain, are made from green plantains peeled and cut cross-wise before being fried twice. Like anything deep fried, Patacones are delicious.

sEco dE chivo Secos are thick Ecuadorian stews, usually served with yellow rice and fried plantains. Seco de chivo is a goat stew thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seasoned with onions, garlic, and cumin and served with rice and a slice of ripe avocado. This dish is typical fare in the southern region of Ecuador, the province of Loja.

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2018 Europe's Leading Airline to South America

2018 Europe's Leading Airline to Africa

2018 Europe's Leading Inflight Magazine

flytap.com

Contact Centre: 0345 601 0932

2018 Europe's Leading Airline to South America

2018 Europe's Leading Airline to Africa

2018 Europe's Leading Inflight Magazine

flytap.com

Contact Centre: 0345 601 0932

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GEttinG

hirinG a car on holiday makEs it much EasiEr to ExplorE at your own pacE, but bEst in travEl always hEars from rEadErs who havE bEEn takEn for a ridE ovEr holiday car hirE. put thE panic on hold: hErE’s our GuidE to thE Ecuadorian car rEntal companiEs you can trust.

Mareauto SA, a company of Corporación Maresa Holding, has more than 20 years of extensive experience in the short and long-term fleet rental business. In 2009, Mareauto took the Avis license for Ecuador, strengthening its position as a top vehicle rental company. Avis offers a modern fleet of units made up of more than 2,000 vehicles, a national presence with 10 agencies in eight cities. Avis also has qualified workshops for technical maintenance in Quito and Guayaquil, as well as on-site operation points in the Amazon to serve fleet customers. avis.com.ec/avis/

ECUADOR

around

While you can find Hertz at over 8,000 locations around the world, you will also find Hertz across Ecuador. Rent with Hertz in Ecuador and you’ll be supported by the world’s leading car rental company with over 90 years of technical innovation and leading quality vehicles. Hertz has branches across the country. Whether you want to check out Cuenca, explore the buzzy market at Otavalo, the company will help you get your bearings and get onto the road. What’s more, if your heart is set on a road trip, you can pick up a car at one branch and drop it off at another.

Thriy was founded in 1958 in the USA. In 1987, the company went public before being acquired together with Dollar Rent A Car, two years later, by Chrysler Corporation. In November 2012, Hertz Global Holdings bought the two companies through its subsidiary Hertz Corporation, which oﬀers car rental services through the brands of Hertz, Thriy and Dollar, in more than 10,000 locations all over the world. In Ecuador, Thriy has oﬃces in all the big cities. hp://thriy.com.ec

hertzecuador.com.ec

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UNIQUE ATTRACTIO AND FACILITIES IN CHANGI AIRPORT

SUNFLOWER GARDEN ROOFTOP SWIMMING POOL

Home to 500 sunflowers that are grown in the airport’s in-house nursery, the Sunflower Garden is the place to be to catch a healthy dose of Vitamin D in between your flights.

Located in Terminal 1, a rooop swimming pool, jacuzzi, and ﬁtness centre make for an unusual area to watch planes take oﬀ and land.

Admire the majestic view of the runway and aircra parking bays from this rooop haven.

It’s the perfect place to sunbathe or take a refreshing dip while waiting for a connecting ﬂight.

• Free of Charge • Location: Terminal 2 – Departure Transit Lounge, Level 3

• Cost per person: SGD17* • Location: Terminal 1 – Aerotel Airport Transit Hotel, Level 3 * Guests of Aerotel Airport Transit Hotel can enjoy these facilities on a complimentary basis.

BUTTERFLY GARDEN Stroll through the world’s first airport Buerfly Garden and let the buerflies fluer around you. This two-storey enclosed garden is home to more than 1,000 buerflies from as many as 40 species, and a 6 metre groowaterfall. You can also observe the life cycle of buerflies at close range at the Emergence Case, which houses about 500 pupae. • Free of Charge • Location: Terminal 3 – Departure Transit Lounge, Level 2&3

ONS

HERITAGE ZONE The Heritage Zone showcases Singapore’s traditional retail and dining brands alongside the evolution of the city-state’s distinctive Peranakan shophouse facades. A giant LED screen here transforms two shophouse bays into a digital theatre stage, presenting a 6 minute cultural minitheatre show, the Peranakan Love Story. • Free of Charge • Location: Terminal 4, Departure Transit Lounge, Level 2

24-HR MOVIE THEATRES Looking for some entertainment to pass time between your ﬂights? Catch some of the latest blockbusters for free at the 24-hour movie theatres. Die-hard movie fans will ﬁnd the Movie Theatres in Terminals 2 & 3 the best place to spend their time when transiting at Changi Airport. • Free of Charge • Location: Terminal 2 – Departure Transit Lounge, Level 3 Terminal 3 – Departure Transit Lounge North, Level 3

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HOTEL PLAZ Engalanando Plaza de la Independencia is the Hotel Plaza Grande. With more than five centuries of history. During the Spanish foundation of Quito, the site where the house is located was awarded to the famous conquistador Francisco Pizarro. It was the first house built during the founding of the city in the sixteenth century, later it was inhabited by the most affluent and well-known families in the city. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was the first luxury hotel in the city. www.plazagrandequito.com/

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JW MARRIOTT HOTEL QUITO

ECUADOR

Experience ultimate luxury when you stay at JW Marrio Hotel Quito. Providing easy access to popular nearby aractions such as the Galapagos Islands and Santo Domingo's Church, our upscale hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Ecuador. Wake up to breathtaking views of the city in your renovated room or suite. Enjoy the deluxe amenities provided such as high-speed Wi-Fi, luxury bedding and ﬂat-panel TVs with international channels. When you get hungry, visit one of our four on-site restaurants for a wide selection of delicious cuisine. Spend a day enjoying massages and treatments

from our spa, zumay Health Club, or maintain your exercise routine at our well-equipped ﬁtness center. Hosting a business or social gathering? Book one of our 29 sophisticated event rooms with plenty of space, AV equipment, on-site catering and a suave atmosphere. Whether you're hosting a corporate conference or exploring one of South America's most metropolitan cities, have a rich adventure at JW Marrio Hotel Quito. www.marrio.com/hotels/travel/uiodt-jwmarrio-hotel-quito/

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Ka ecol

apawi lodGe

ECUADOR

Kapawi Ecolodge is an award-winning community ecotourism enterprise in the Amazon Rainforest of Ecuador that oﬀers conscious and responsible travelers the opportunity to engage in unique and authentic cultural experiences in an unspoiled natural seing, while directly supporting the sustainable development of the Achuar indigenous nation. hp://kapawi.com/

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WELCOME TO THE RICHEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD

Taquile Island, Puno

WWW.PERUTHERICHESTCOUNTRY.COM

WELCOME TO THE RICHEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD

Taquile Island, Puno

WWW.PERUTHERICHESTCOUNTRY.COM

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la MiraGe GARDEN HOTEL & SPA

ECUADOR

Perched on a hillside, less than three hours from Quito, you will find the hidden secret of Ecuador: a hotel mixed with the native flavor of the Andes. Most of our accommodations, with fireplace and siing area, have a beautiful view of the mountains and gardens. This former hacienda is a paradise of plant life filled with a thousand fragrances from its bougainvilleas, hibiscus, roses and orchids that you will also find in freshly cut bouquets in your room or suite. The sumptuous Spa offers many treatments, including the healing powers of a female shaman. La Mirage is distinctive for its elegant fusion of traditions, cuisines, decor and services from Ecuador and further afield. www.mirage.com.ec/

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ECUADOR

le parc HOTEL An intimate and stylish West Hollywood retreat well known to rising stars, musicians on tour, and trendseing celebrities in search of a few days off the grid, Le Parc Suite Hotel blends quiet comfort with easy access to the city’s most glamorous shopping, dining and entertainment. Its 154 suites are spacious enough for extended stays with four-legged friends, while its Skydeck whispers “It’s time to relax.” At Knoll, farm-fresh flavors and elevated classics (think Parmesan Truffle Fries and Lobster Ravioli) shine. www.leparcsuites.com/

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MANSIÃ&#x201C;N DEL ANGE

N EL

ECUADOR

An old Mansion built at the turn of the last Century has been completely restored in order to achieve the former splendor of the Ecuadorian Republican era. The Mansion used to be the home of an Ecuadorian Tobacco Tycoon, who entertained his guests and buyers lavishly in the large spaces on the Ground Floor, while he and his family utilized the First Floor as their private residence. The property is part of the Architectural Historic Society of the downtown area of the Capital according to the World Heritage Foundation, which considered Quito to be the ďŹ rst city of the organization according to UNESCO. www.mansiondelangel.com.ec/e n-us/home.aspx

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ECUADOR

MASHPI LODGE A hideaway in the forest only accessible to its privileged guests and located on a scenic plateau, the lodge features breathtaking views of the surrounding forested mountains right up close through its ďŹ&#x201A;oor-to-ceiling panoramic glass

windows. Like a cathedral to the natural world, it protrudes from the verdant hillside, holding unknown comforts and pleasures within. www.leparcsuites.com/

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GEt to know thE GalapaGos islands

all you nEEd to know about travEllinG this stunninG dEstination

A trip to the Galapagos Islands will be the journey of your lifetime. Located 1,000 km from the Ecuadorian mainland, the archipelago consists of 13 major islands, five of which are inhabited. The Island's interesting volcanic geology, as well as its rich flora and fauna have been admired and studied by numerous travellers, scientists, and nature-lovers. Scientists are still faced with the mystery of how such a large diversity of species could develop in a remote location like the Galapagos Islands. The main reason for tourists and nature lovers to visit the Galapagos Islands is the multitude of animals, freely romping about that are known to most people only from the Discovery Channel. If you are interested in who first set foot on the islands -whether it was the Incas, refugees, pirates or seafarers - find out more about the human history of the Islands. Speaking of men on the Islands, Charles Darwin, was one of the first to visit as he was fascinated by the natural history of the archipelago. His fiveweek stay gave him the impetus to develop his famous Theory of Evolution. The Galapagos Islands are blessed with pleasant weather all year round, so there is no “best” time to visit the precious islands.

ECUADOR

TEN FacTs aBouT THE IslaNDs 1 The Galápagos Islands are made up of 20 islands, 42 islets and over 250 rocks. The oldest island, Espanola, is estimated to be 3.5 million years old, while the youngest, Fernandina, is still forming aer one million years. However, you may consider factors such as high season vs. low season and the climate. Whether the trip is for yourself, your group, or your family, check out when to go to the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands will undoubtedly aﬀect you deeply. Travel to the islands and have the journey of your lifetime amidst playful sea lions, elegant albatrosses, ﬁery red Sally Light-foot Crabs, and sneaky Friate birds.

2 Abundant un-fearful wildlife, visitors can get up close and personal to some of the world's rarest animals.

3 The Galapagos was home to the only surviving giant Pinta tortoise, 'Lonesome George' which unfortunately died in June 2012.

4 The convergence of three major oceanic currents brings an incredible mix of marine life to Galapagos.

5 The endemic Galapagos marine iguana is the only lizard to swim in the ocean.

6 Darwin's research in Galapagos led to the groundbreaking theory of The Origin of Species.

7 In 1978 UNESCO designated Galapagos as the ﬁrst World Heritage site.

8 The movie Captain and Commander was ﬁlmed on the islands of Bartholomew and Santiago.

9 The name 'galapagos', an old Spanish word for 'saddle', was originally used by Bishop Tomas and his crew to describe the giant tortoises but the name stuck.

10 Due to the early presence of both Spanish and English inhabitants in Galapagos, the Islands

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royal palM Hot GalapaGoS Welcome to The Royal Palm Hotel - a secluded hide-a-way nestling in the lush Miconia highland forests of Santa Cruz in the heart of the Galapagos. The Royal Palm is a spacious and exclusive 195 hectare (482 acres) private estate, only 20 minutes-drive from the bustling port town of Puerto Ayora. With just 8 Casitas and 13 exclusive villas, our guests can enjoy privacy, space and quiet seclusion. Designed and craî&#x2026;&#x161;ed to complement our natural environment, this is as close to nature as you

can get! The native ferns and ďŹ&#x201A;ora create a carpet of contrast and color that cover the gently sloping hills down to the coast and beyond. Our resident birds include owls, Darwin Short Beak Finches, Garrapatero birds and Egrets and for our more active guests, the longest lava tunnel on the Island is a few steps from reception! www.royalpalmgalapagos.com/royal-palmhotel/

ECUADOR

tel

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SAMARI SPA RESORT

ECUADOR

Located in BaĂąos, Ecuador, Samari Spa Resort is the result of 10 years of work, audacity and creativity, taking into account thousands of details with the aim of providing its guests with a destination of rest, adventure and unique well-being in their authentic and luxury style! Free WIFI, hotel with 37 spectacular rooms, Spa with indoor and tempered pool, convention rooms for 280 people, gourmet restaurant, indoor and outdoor bars, original tavern, variety of activities and unforgeî&#x2026;&#x;able adventures, pleasures that will suggest you stay at Samari Spa Resort forever! www.samarispa.com/en-gb

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BEST IN TRAVEL

ECUADOR

SwiSSôtel quito Swissotel Quito is one of the city's top ﬁve-star luxury hotel, conveniently located in the Floresta neighbourhood of Quito – both a commercial and residential area,only at 45 minutes of Mariscal Sucre International Airport. Each of Swissotel Quito's 232 elegant guest rooms and 43 executive apartments are air-conditioned and feature modern design. Luxurious amenities include state-of-the-art technology and a free internet connection. Executive rooms and the Swiss Executive Club lounge provide additional luxury and exclusivity. www.swissotel.com/hotels/quito/

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The World’s

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ONLY 5 STAR LUXURY INCLUDED RESORTS ®

VOTED

WORLD’S

BEST

YEARS

ROW

UP TO 16 GOURMET RESTAURANTS PER RESORT

LUXURY INCLUDED ®

All Included. All Unlimited.

All the luxuries of a 5-star resort, but even better. Because at Sandals®, the finest of everything is all inclusive, all the time.

5-STAR SERVICE Exclusive Butler Service inTop-Tier Suites

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MASTERS OF EXCELLENCE IN THE CULINARY ARTS

THE MOST EXCLUSIVE SUITES In the Caribbean

Our 5-star accommodations are ranked among the finest and most romantic in the world—from Over-the-Water Villas to Millionaire Suites. We call them Love Nest Suites ®, you will call them amazing!

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✶ ECUADOR’S BEST RESORTS

BEST IN TRAVEL

The top Ecuadorian resorts, recommended by our experts

ECUADOR

✶ ARASHA TROPICAL FOREST RESORT & SPA The Arasha Rainforest Resort and Spa opened in 2002 and has quickly proven itself to be the best option for travellers looking to visit the rainforest while maintaining a high level of accommodation and service. Arasha is surrounded by lush vegetation, tropical fruits, plants and trees, ﬂowers, birds, and local fauna. Two rivers cross the property, which makes swimming an easy option. Facilities include a high-tech spa and a cinema, a restaurant and bar. arasharesort.com

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

BEST IN TRAVEL

✶ BARCELÓ SALINAS Ecuador’s first all inclusive hotel is located right on the seafront of Playa Salinas, one of the most aractive coastal areas in Ecuador. This five star hotel has first class facilities and services, as well as spacious, comfortable and modern rooms, making it one of the best holiday hotels in South America. For visiting gourmands, there’s three restaurants, two snack bars and a bar where you can enjoy exotic cocktails.

Meanwhile sports enthusiasts can enjoy the sports facilities and other marine activities such as a yacht trip or impressive whale watching between July and September. In addition, the magniﬁcent spa at the hotel oﬀers personalised treatments, perfect for relaxing and unwinding. barcelo.com/en-gb/barcelohotels/hotels/ecuador/beachsalinas/barcelo-salinas

ECUADOR

✶ HILLARY NATURE RESORT & SPA Set in 360 hectares, Hillary Nature Resort & Spa features an outdoor swimming pool, a private zoo, a ﬁtness centre, garden, restaurant, spa and complimentary WiFi throughout.

Hillary Nature Resort & Spa is 35km from Bolivar port and 30km from Puyango Petriﬁed Forest, while Santa Rosa airport is 15km from the property. Free private parking is available on site.

Accommodation consists of suites and bungalows, all of which boast private bathrooms, cable TVs, and minibars. If you’re looking to splurge, plump for the superior bungalow which comes complete with a spa bath and a balcony oﬀering panoramic scenic views.

hillaryresort.com

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

BEST IN TRAVEL

✶ ROYAL PALM HOTEL GALAPAGOS A secluded hide-a-way nestling in the lush Miconia highland forests of Santa Cruz in the heart of the Galapagos, The Royal Palm is a spacious and exclusive 195 hectare private estate, only 20 minutes-drive from the bustling port town of Puerto Ayora. With just eight casitas and 13 exclusive villas, guests can enjoy privacy, space and quiet seclusion.

Designed and craed to complement the natural environment, this is as close to nature as you can get! The native ferns and ﬂora create a carpet of contrast and colour that cover the gently sloping hills down to the coast and beyond. Resident birds include owls, Darwin Short Beak Finches, Garrapatero birds and Egrets and for more active guests, the longest lava tunnel on the Island is a few steps from reception. royalpalmgalapagos.com

ECUADOR

✶ SAMARI SPA RESORT Located in Baños, Ecuador, Samari Spa Resort is the result of 10 years of work, audacity and creativity, taking into account thousands of details with the aim of providing its guests with a destination of rest, adventure and unique well-being.

hectare of extraordinary gardens, a gourmet restaurant, indoor and outdoor bars and a tavern in addition to a variety of activities that help make for an unforgeable stay. samarispa.com/en-gb

Samari Spa Resort oﬀers 37 spectacular rooms, a spa, swimming pool, convention rooms for 280 people, more than four

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

BEST IN TRAVEL

✶ TERMAS PAPALLACTA Just 67km from Quito through the Amazon jungle lies the privately owned Termas de Papallacta Spa.

pools. The spa also oﬀers hydro massages using water jets or air bubbles, facials, reﬂexology and aromatherapy.

This hotel spa and resort features thermal baths on the banks of the Papallacta River, which crosses the property. Situated in a unique environment between the Cayambe and Antiisana volcanos, the odourless thermal waters in the nine pools vary between 36C and 40C, providing health beneﬁts in a soothing environment. Enjoy some pampering and relaxation in the hotwater thermal pools or the three cold-water

Alternatively take advantage of self-guided walks on the many nature paths, or opt for the orientation given by native guides, before dining in the resort restaurant where local fresh trout is the specialty, and many ingredients are picked from the organic vegetable garden on-site. termaspapallacta.com

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Make your life more tasteful and spicier with Cebiche

Six times Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Culinary Destination

www.peru.info

Make your life more tasteful and spicier with Cebiche

Six times Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Culinary Destination

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BEST IN TRAVEL

quality quito bEst in travEl’s GuidE to south amErica’s coolEst capital

WHaT To sEE aND Do If you were in Quito for an hour and asked a local what to see, there’s no doubt the magnificent la compania church – which took 160 years to build – would be number one on their list of suggestions. La Compania (hp://fundacioniglesiadelacompania.org.ec) is a knock out on every level – an architectural gem excessively smothered in gold-leaf with glorious shas of light penetrating the interior from the divinely measured skylights. Other churches – a legacy of the city’s Spanish colonisation – worth seeing include san Franciscan Monastery which has wonderful carved and painted wooden saints, while its beautifully tended cloisters are now home to several friendly parakeets rescued by resident monk Father Wilson. Had your fill of churches? Don’t miss the spectacular changing of the guard – in 18th century replica blue, red and gold uniforms – outside the Palacio de Gobierno, the seat of the President, every Monday at 11am. Then take the cable car 12,000 feet to the top of a mountain where superb views of the city and a chain of snow capped peaks await. Best in Travel’s tip? Regardless of your itinerary, don’t forget to layer up as the weather in Quito is extremely unpredictable. Quitenos say that they experience all four seasons in a day so be ready to take your coat and sweater off and put them back on in a maer of hours.

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

BEST IN TRAVEL

ToP sHoPs Shopaholics should wander to la Ronda – a restored colonial barrio (once a hub for bohemians) that has been turned into a place to shop, walk and meet artisans like Gerado Zabala. Monsieur Zabala can make a wooden toy in front of your eyes in minutes. His favourite? The spinning top (including state of the art designs you’ll want to take back home with you). Find him at Casa 925. For a sugar rush, look to luis Banda. The Quitoan's family business has been making and selling colaciones – sensational sugar coated peanuts – using his Grandmother’s 100 year old recipe, since 1915, in Quito's San roque neighbourhood. Ecuador has also become famous for its ﬂower industry. The small South American country is the world’s third-largest exporter of cut ﬂowers, 73 per cent of which are roses thanks to the country’s volcanic soil, perfect temperatures and abundant sunlight. And no one beats the equatorial sun in terms of rose variety. Even beer? Visitors can discover unparalleled colour, radiance and aroma for a snip. It costs as lile as US$2.50 for 25 long stemmed red roses – which can be snapped up on every street – meaning there’s no excuse to not play Romeo.

ECUADOR

BEsT BITEs Lunch time (almuerzo) is sacred in a Quiteno’s home and one dish is simply not enough. Whether you stop at an improvised stand, a humble dive, an upmarket restaurant or have an Ecuadorian homemade meal, the classic locro de papa – a thick and simple soup where the potato is its star ingredient – is a must in your culinary check list. Soup is invariably followed by cuy – roasted guinea pig, hornado (slow roasted pork) or ceviche and a great place to get stuck into the aforementioned delicacies is achiote (www.achiote.com.ec/). For lunch on the run, try a humita – a cornmeal, egg and cheese dumpling like snack that works well when washed down with a locally brewed Pilsner – from a stall at Mercado central (Av Pichincha, Quito 170136, Ecuador).

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

BEST IN TRAVEL

ExcuRsIoNs Just north of Quito, lies the most visited araction in the country -– the Mitad del Mundo monument and complex dedicated to the equator and the fact that Quito lies close to it. A tourist’s favourite will forever be the joy of standing on the thin yellow line painted on the cement that (fictitiously) divides the planet in two. If you want to genuinely stand with one foot in each hemisphere, you’ll need to head 240m down the road to the real equator – a site that was discovered only a few years back thanks to Global Positioning Services (GPS) devices. The true spot is called the Intiñan solar Museum (www.museointinan.com.ec) and aims to answer all your equator related science queries including “Can you balance an egg on a nail?” and “Does water really change direction in different hemispheres?” If you’re in town on a Saturday, seek out the small cra town of otavalo. Thanks to one of Ecuador’s most effective marketing operations (which back in the 1950s involved ponchos at the UN and pan flutes on Times Square) a livelihood was secured for the ever industrious Otavalenos, making their Saturday street fair an every day event flocked to by tourists from around the globe. South America’s largest street fair begins at dawn at the fascinating animal market where locals buy, sell and trade all possible domestic creatures (from guinea pigs to llamas), and continues in the town with the produce market and the arts and cra fair where you can haggle for straw hats, brightly coloured rugs and traditional cras. A true shop till you drop adventure.

ECUADOR

RElaxaTIoN Feeling frazzled? Look to Señora Rosa, a limpiadora – essentially a herb healer – who waits in her corner stall, at Mercado san Francisco, for her patients to arrive to perform her ‘limpia’ spiritual cleansing process. With herbs and ﬂowers, she cures everything from angst to nervous tension, insomnia and depression. Best in Travel’s tip: Tuesdays and Fridays are the most propitious to banish the evil eye.

Find us on Twier: @DiscEcuador

BEST IN TRAVEL

Gourmets start packing: Tanusas Retreat & Spa – an eco-friendly beach retreat in Ecuador – is run by Alain Ducasse-trained chef Rodrigo Pacheco. His buzz-generating kitchen is a hothouse of culinary creativity (ask nicely to bag a cooking class); however, the hotel’s Paciﬁc coast seing, tropically toned decor, and palm-tree-crowded grounds allure too. Set

in unspoilt Manabí Province, this teeny 10-room resort cosies up against sweeping nature reserves, fauna-ﬁlled forests and Isla de la Plata – a booby-roamed beauty spot that's like a Galápagos apéritif. www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxuryhotels/tanusas-retreat-and-spa

ECUADOR

TANUSAS RETREAT & SPA

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BEST IN TRAVEL

ECUADOR

TERMAS PAPALLACTA Termas Papallacta is a Hot Springs Spa and Resort located in a magical High Andes landscape. More than a destination, it is an integral holistic experience that will awake all your senses. www.termaspapallacta.com/?lang=en

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BEST IN TRAVEL

ECUADOR

Situated just steps from the historic Santa Ana Hill and its famous Lighthouse, and minutes to the vibrant Malecon 2000, our 100% nonsmoking high-rise hotel offers an ideal location near Guayaquilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many attractions and offices, and convenient extras that both business and leisure travelers love. Enjoy easy access to Las PeĂąas, the World Trade Center, the Simon Bolivar Convention Center, and Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport. After a long day of travel, sightseeing or business, unwind at our rooftop pool, spa, and fitness center. www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/guayaquil-guayasecuador/wyndham-guayaquil/overview

WyNDHAM GUAyAQUIL

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BEST IN TRAVEL

ECUADOR

ZAHIR 360 HOTEL Located in the most modern part of the city a few meters from the historic center and with breathtaking views of the city, we oďŹ&#x20AC;er a wonderful mix of style and comfort, with a restaurant that promises thrilling sensations and exclusivity. www.hotelzahir360.com/

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CUENCA - ECUADOR //

Reservations: + 593 74105000 Email: info@hotelzahir360.com Address: Av. del Estadio y Florencia Astudillo

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