WHERE TO STAY.. AND WHAT TO DO
While staying in the Ecuadorian capital of
Quito, I was a guest of Casa Gangotena, a refurbished mansion with 31 rooms overlooking Plaza San Francisco. It's the perfect place to explore from and neighbours one of the old town's most fantastic sights, the San Francisco church and monastery. Tourists can even head to the rooftop for views across the city.
The same goes for the nearby La Compania Church, said to be the best example of Baroque architecture in the Americas. Tourists can head to the roof and walk inside the dome to get a view of the gold-leaf altar below. I discovered this thanks to my fantastic local guide from Metropolitan Touring, Raquel, who had endless knowledge about the city.
While exploring the historical centre, go to ChezTiff to learn about Ecuadorian chocolate (try the dark chocolate passion fruit cream truffle) and head to the San Francisco market to see Ms Rosa Correa for a herbal energy cleanse – it really perks you up for the day.
■ Metropolitan Touring offers an 11-night Ecuador and Galapagos itinerary incorporating stays at Casa Gangotena, Mashpi Lodge, Finch Bay and a four-night cruise aboard the La Pinta from €8,690PP based on two sharing, including accommodation. See metropolitan-touring.com