Consider NOT partying in the Mariscal of Quito, Ecuador

Alright, send the hate mail in. I’m ready. Friends. Readers. People I’ve never met. When I did research about Quito, and when I meet foreigners visiting Quito, all I hear about is one thing – the Mariscal. “Yeah, we heard you should check out the Mariscal,” “The Mariscal is so dangerous,” “The Mariscal is where…

Confidence: fake it until you make it

Alright, sista. Get your mean face on. I used to laugh when I would realize how differently I walk down the street in Quito, Ecuador, a city of three million people where I stick out like a sore thumb versus how I am in the town I grew up in. I look rude. I’m not…

Beware of the street food

Street food at your own risk. There’s something about those people who try everything, never worry, and never get sick. You know what I mean? They take every risk in the books and nothing happens so it only emboldens them to take more risks. They’re gonna eat the street food, love it, and be fine….

Please dress up for birthday parties

I was running a little late, but excited because me and my girlfriends were having a birthday brunch for one of my favorite friends! We picked a cute restaurant downtown and all chose to start the day at 8 a.m. I walked in, my black ankle boots clicking, hair curled, lipstick on, earrings in place,…

La Basílica – A Quito, Ecuador must-see

When it comes to Quito classics, this is probably my number one pick. Gotta do the Basílica. For about 3 bucks and a janky ladder climb to the top of the steeples, this combines sightseeing with a a little bit of adventure and a great view sure to give memories. There’s a cute little cafe,…

Panecillo – a Quito, Ecuador landmark

Aaah, the Panecillo. It’s one of the trademark views of Quito — and yet personally, one of my least favorite things to actually see. A weird statue of some version of Mary stomping on a dragon with a chain, it always struck a more creepy chord for me than beautiful. However, if you want to…

Safe taxi tips in Ecuador

Here are a few tips of how to take steps to make riding taxis more safe: Only ride legal vehicles, ones with the registration number (you can also use the Uber app.) Don’t get into unmarked vehicles. Send someone your taxi number and about when you should arrive, and that you’ll text them when you…